How do you test electrical equipment?

Other Common electrical testing procedures

Protective Conductor Continuity

A protective conductor continuity test is a simple, yet important, electrical test that can be used to ensure the safety of an electrical installation. The purpose of this test is to verify that there is no break in the circuit between the point of protection and the point of use. This type of test is often used when verifying the installation of arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs).

To perform a protective conductor continuity test, you will need to use a voltmeter. First, disconnect the power to the circuit you are testing. Next, use the voltmeter to measure the voltage between the point of protection and the point of use. If there is no break in the circuit, the voltage reading should be the same at both points. If there is a break in the circuit, the voltage reading will be different at each point.

It is important to note that this type of test should only be used as a preliminary check. For a more accurate assessment, you should also test the impedance of the protective conductor.

Circuit Breaker Functionality Test

A circuit breaker is an electrical device that is used to protect your home from overloads and shorts. By tripping the breaker, it prevents any further electrical current from flowing through the circuits. This can save your home from a potential fire.

It is important to ensure that your circuit breaker is functioning properly. To do this, a qualified electrician will need to test the circuit breaker by opening and closing it several times. An electrician may use the following steps to check the circuit breakers functionality.

1. Open the circuit breaker box and locate the circuit breaker that you want to test.
2. Turn off the power to the circuit breaker by flipping the switch to the “off” position.
3. Close the circuit breaker by flipping the switch to the “on” position.
4. Wait a few seconds and then open the circuit breaker by flipping the switch to the “off” position.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 several times to test the circuit breaker’s functionality.

Ring Circuit Testing

There are a few different types of electrical installation tests that can be performed in order to ensure the safety and proper function of an electrical installation. One common type of test is the ring circuit test.

A ring circuit, also known as a loop circuit, is a type of electrical wiring configuration in which all the sockets in a room or building are connected in a loop. This type of circuit is typically used in homes and small businesses, and is considered to be safer than other wiring configurations because it helps to prevent the build-up of electrical sparks that can lead to fires.

In order to test a ring circuit, you will need to use a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the “resistance” setting, and then touch the probes to the two terminals on each socket. The multimeter should read infinity if the circuit is open, or zero if the circuit is closed. If you get a reading somewhere in between, then there is a problem with the circuit.

Polarity Testing

Another common type of electrical installation test is the polarity test. This test is used to verify that the voltage in a circuit is flowing in the correct direction. In order to perform this test, you will need a multimeter set to the “voltage” setting. Touch the probes to two terminals on a socket, and then look at the reading on the multimeter. If the voltage is flowing in the correct direction, the reading will be positive. If the voltage is flowing in the wrong direction, the reading will be negative.

Benefits of Testing and Tagging

• The testing will ensure that the items work correctly and that there are no electrical problems, allowing them to function as efficiently as possible.
• The tags inform employees how to use the items safely and correctly.
• The process ensures the business complies with current safety protocols, preventing any issues with regulations.
• Testing and tagging can detect minor issues before they become costly, making your electrical equipment maintenance more efficient.
• Testing and tagging promote safety for everyone working near electrical devices, appliances, and other equipment, avoiding fines and potential lawsuits.

How Frequently Should You Conduct the Test and Tag Process?

The Australian Standards and regulations require specific maintenance and management frequencies for appliances, which depend on their location and use. The AS 3760 Standard’s Table 4 further outlines the baseline safety requirements, although they may vary based on a workplace’s specific risk assessment.
Below are the different intervals for testing and tagging:

• Conduct inspections every 3 months for construction, building, and demolition industries.
• Perform an inspection every 6 months in warehouses, factories, and production facilities.
• Places such as schools, offices, and office kitchens, where equipment or cords could be flexed or abused, should be checked every 12 months.
• All equipment and cord sets should be checked in server rooms at least once every 5 years to ensure they are not prone to flexing or being damaged.

Use SafetyCulture When Testing and Tagging Electrical Equipment

Eliminate manual tasks and streamline your operations.

Which Industries Need to Test and Tag?

The harsh environment in industries like construction, demolition, and mining necessitates testing and tagging appliances every 3 months. The test tag colors change every three months, helping identify different testing periods over a year.

While testing and tagging are mandatory in these industries, it’s ultimately the employer’s responsibility to ensure their employees are safe for other sectors. Therefore, they should have all portable electrical appliances tested, even if it isn’t a legislative requirement. Otherwise, they may be liable if someone gets hurt by an unsafe appliance.

For those in the rental business, specific standards need to be met. It’s necessary for the hirer to inspect the appliances visually before every lease and to test them every 3 months while they are under their care.

Who Can Test and Tag Electrical Equipment?

Contrary to popular belief, an electrician is not the only one who can test and tag as per AS/NZS 3760:2010. Completing a test and tag course, any ‘Competent Person’ will gain all the necessary knowledge to use a Portable Appliance Tester (PAT) tester.

After you’re qualified, you can’t obtain a new certificate or take more courses. You will, however, need to maintain your current knowledge and skills per the AS 3760 Standard by keeping up with any changes.

What Types of Equipment are Tested and Tagged?

Any electrical equipment with a voltage of less than 50V and a detachable plug is considered portable. Plugged appliances must meet the inspection, testing, and tagging requirements. It includes extension cords or harnesses up to 2.5 m high in any work or industry area.

Electrical appliances are classified either as Class I or Class II.

• Class I – Common household appliances like kettles, washing machines, and toasters provide two-level protection using an earth wire and basic insulation.
• Class II – These include appliances with a double wall of insulation and are named double-insulated machines. These are typically represented with a double square image (a square within another square) near the voltage and energy gauges. Examples include clothes dryers, lawnmowers, and drills.