Is Test and Tag Mandatory in NZ? What WorkSafe Actually Requires

The short answer is that New Zealand law does not create one universal rule saying every electrical item in every workplace must be tested and tagged on one fixed schedule. The core duty is to keep electrical equipment safe and maintained in a safe condition.

What WorkSafe actually focuses on

WorkSafe’s public guidance focuses on electrical safety rather than a sticker by itself. Testing and tagging can be a useful way to check equipment and create records, but a tag does not replace everyday inspection, maintenance or action when damage is found.

Why the workplace environment matters

An office kettle, a portable power tool, an extension lead used on a construction site and a piece of industrial equipment are not exposed to the same conditions. Moisture, movement, flexing, dust, heat and frequent transport can change the risk profile. A sensible program starts with how the equipment is actually used.

What a business should do between formal checks

Staff should know how to report damaged cords, cracked plugs, overheating, loose parts or other obvious problems. Equipment that appears unsafe should be removed from normal use or otherwise controlled until it can be assessed. Waiting for the next scheduled visit is not a good response to visible damage.

Where AS/NZS 3760 fits

AS/NZS 3760 is commonly used in New Zealand for in-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment. The applicable approach and intervals depend on the equipment and environment, so businesses should use current competent advice rather than copying a generic interval from an old chart.

What to keep on file

Useful records identify the asset, test outcome and enough information to support future management. Consistent asset names and locations make repeat visits easier, especially when equipment moves between teams or work areas.

Related service

For booking and service information, see NZ Test & Tag requirements.