What You Need to Know About Electrical Test and Tag Colour Codes

Ensuring electrical safety in the workplace is a crucial responsibility for all business owners, particularly in high-risk industries in Western Australia such as construction, demolition, mining, and industrial properties. Electrical equipment must be regularly inspected and tested to prevent hazards like electric shocks, fires, and other workplace accidents.

A key component of compliance with Australian electrical safety standards is the test and tag colour coding system, which helps businesses track inspections and maintain safe operations. At Testel, we follow this system to ensure all businesses meet the necessary safety requirements.

 Understanding the Test and Tag Colour System

The test and tag colour system provides a clear and visible way to track the last inspection date of electrical equipment. In Western Australia, industries that operate in harsh environments and require testing every three months must follow a specific colour rotation to remain compliant with AS/NZS 3760:2022 safety standards.

 Quarterly Test and Tag Colour Schedule in WA

For high-risk industries, the colour-coded system is used to indicate when an electrical item was last tested:

• Red– December, January, February
• Green– March, April, May
• Blue– June, July, August
• Yellow– September, October, November

Each quarter, the old tags are removed, and new tags of the appropriate colour are applied. This allows safety officers, inspectors, and employees to quickly identify whether equipment has been tested within the required timeframe.

Who Needs to Follow the Test and Tag Colour System?

Not all businesses in Western Australia are legally required to follow the RGBY colour system. However, for high-risk workplaces where electrical safety is paramount, this system is mandatory.

 Industries That Must Follow the RGBY System

• Construction Sites– Electrical tools and equipment are frequently used, increasing the risk of faults.
• Demolition Sites– Workers rely on various electrical devices, requiring strict safety measures.
• Mining Industry– High-voltage equipment demands rigorous and regular safety checks.
• Industrial Properties– Factories and warehouses with extensive electrical setups require frequent monitoring.

In these environments, failure to follow the three-monthly test and tag schedule can result in penalties, safety breaches, and workplace accidents.

 Businesses That Have More Flexibility

For offices, retail stores, and other lower-risk environments, test and tag inspections are still necessary but do not require the RGBY system. Instead, businesses can choose different tag colours while ensuring compliance with safety standards. Regardless of the colour used, the last test date is always printed on the tag for easy reference.

 Why Test and Tag Compliance Matters

Ignoring test and tag requirements can have severe consequences, both legally and financially. Businesses that fail to meet compliance standards risk:

• Workplace Injuries– Faulty equipment is a leading cause of electrical shocks and fires.
• Legal Penalties– Non-compliance can result in significant fines and legal action.
• Operational Disruptions– Electrical failures lead to costly downtime.
• Reputational Damage– A workplace safety incident can harm your business’s credibility.

By implementing regular electrical safety testing, businesses not only protect their employees but also avoid legal repercussions and maintain productivity.

Partnering with a Trusted Test and Tag Provider

To ensure compliance with Western Australian electrical safety laws, businesses should engage a qualified and experienced test and tag provider like Testel. Our technicians are fully trained to perform inspections, apply correct colour-coded tags, and maintain compliance records in accordance with AS/NZS 3760:2022.

 Why Choose Testel?

• Industry Experts– Over 25 years of experience in electrical safety testing.
• Qualified Technicians– All testing is conducted by trained professionals.
• Comprehensive Reports– Detailed compliance records for easy reference.
• Nationwide Service– Reliable testing services across Australia, including Western Australia.

 Schedule Your Test and Tag Inspection Today

Don’t leave workplace safety to chance. Whether you operate a construction site, industrial facility, or office, ensuring regular test and tag inspections is the key to compliance and safety.

 Contact Testel today to book your test and tag service. Our expert team will help you stay compliant and protect your workplace from electrical hazards.

www.testel.com.au | 1300 881 116