Testing and Tagging Regulations for Construction Sites

Testing and tagging on construction sites isn’t the same as in other workplaces - it comes with stricter regulations, more frequent testing, and specific compliance rules. What's the reason? Construction sites pose higher safety risks due to its harsh nature, and failing to meet compliance can lead to serious consequences. It follows the AS/NZS 3012 Standard and this is the primary guide to staying compliant.

If you're testing and tagging in other environments outside of the construction space, the regulatory landscape broadens. You will then need to refer to both the AS/NZS 3012 Standard and AS/NZS 3760: 2022 Standard.

Understanding AS/NZS 3012

The AS/NZS 3012 Standard outlines specific guidelines for testing and tagging electrical equipment on construction, mining and demolition sites. Since it's a Standard, not a law, each state's WorkSafe body i.e. WorkSafe Victoria, SafeWork NSW) is responsible for enforcing electrical safety, including test and tag compliance.

The Standard covers topics such as:

• Test and tag frequencies (how often equipment is tested)
• Test and tag colour coding (visual indicators representing the time of year)
• Min. testing requirements

Any electrical appliance used on-site will need to be tested and tagged. This can include items such as:

• Power tools
• Battery charges
• Cleaning equipment
• Extension leads
• Portable RCD boxes

However, domestic-rated tools fail immediately. For example, a side-entry powerboard (a design commonly used in homes) would fail and need to be removed. The exception? If domestic-rated items are being used outside of construction activities, or in other words, not being used in the role of construction - then it can be permitted. An example of this might be a kettle used for boiling water. 

Test & Tag Colour Coding for Construction

The RGBY system is mandatory for construction sites. This test and tag colour coding system rotates quarterly and therefore provides a visual indication of the testing period. If you're not using these colours correctly, it can create problems with compliance. 

Red: December to February
Green: March to May
Blue: June to August
Yellow: September to November

Test & Tag Frequencies

As a minimum, electrical equipment needs to be tested and tagged every three months on construction sites. However, some construction sites are testing even more frequently. This depends entirely on their own individual risk assessment or OHS policies. For example, there are some construction sites that will only allow licensed electricians to conduct their testing and tagging. 

Regardless of the site's specific policies, the 3012 Standard requires quarterly testing at the very minimum.

Choosing the Right Equipment for Construction

Similarly to mining environments, construction sites will require a portable appliance tester with particular testing and compliance features and generally capable of withstanding harsh conditions.

The key features you need to have:

• RCD Testing capabilities
• 3-Phase Testing capabilities
• Built-in record keeping

The majority of entry-level appliance testers will not have these features, or may require you to purchase extra equipment to complete the job.

Record keeping, as an example, is critical because compliance depends on having a clear testing history which shows the proof of compliance. While manual logging is possible, a PAT tester with built-in data recording saves time and reduces errors. 

Two of the most popular appliance testers used in the construction industry is the Metrel DeltaPAT 3309 BT and Seaward Primetest Pro. Both of these models offer the above features, along with a host of others that streamlines the entire process. This makes a huge difference when you're testing and tagging thousands of items. 

Also, you'll want to do everything you can to protect your PAT Tester. We suggest using protective coverings to minimise any dust exposure, as getting small particles into your PAT Tester can caught major headaches. Likewise, scheduling your yearly calibrations is vital. This needs to be done at least once a year to help ensure your test results are accurate and reliable. 

The Best Test Tags for Construction

Durable test tags are an absolute essential for compliance and reliability on construction sites. If your test tag can't withstand wear and tear or is able to fall off, you risk becoming not compliant.

• Heavy Duty Test Tags: these are generally the most popular option. Why? It comes with a self-laminating protective film to shield written information from damage and smudging, making them ideal for outdoor and rough environments.
• Industrial Test Tags: this is another option, with the main difference being it features an extra-strong adhesive and utilises thicker materials. However, it does lack the self-laminating seal of Heavy Duty Tags.
• Thermal Transfer Tags: these are the perfect tags for people using test and tag printers, as they can withstand extreme conditions and will last longer than Direct Thermal Tags.

OHS Regulations for Construction Sites

While WorkSafe Australia is the regulator responsible for OHS relating to construction sites, each state and territory has its own WorkSafe regulator that handles enforcement.

• VIC- WorkSafe Victoria
• NSW - SafeWork NSW
• QLD - WorkSafe QLD
• SA - SafeWork SA
• WA - WorkSafe WA
• TAS- WorkSafe Tasmania
• NT - NT WorkSafe
• ACT - WorkSafe ACT

Since Codes of Practice differ slightly by each state, always check with Safe Work Australia for the latest updates. 

Learning to Test & Tag on Construction Sites

Because construction is more regulated than other environments, it's important you're adhering to the 3012 Standard and aware that WorkSafe are the regulators. 

Here the main considerations you need to be thinking about if actively on construction sites:

• Keep track of test and tag intervals with the RGBY system to ensure you're compliant.
• Due to the high level of dust, mud and moisture, you need to ensure you look after your PAT Tester by being proactive with calibrations and protective gear.
• Using the right test tags is critical - if they fade or fall off you're not compliant
• Constructions sites are particularly dangerous, and so remember If you're a sub-contractor, you're responsible for your personal safety.
• All constructions sites must have RCD protection, but it's highly advised you have your own portable RCD protection.

Still unsure? By doing a Test & Tag Course and learning all of the Do's and Don'ts, you're putting yourself in the strongest position to ensure you're compliant within this specific environment.