TL;DR
- Test & tag per AS/NZS 3760: 3-60 month intervals depending on environment.
- Monthly RCD push-button test (staff) + 2-yearly full trip-time test (licensed).
- Annual thermal imaging on commercial switchboards saves fires and insurance claims.
- Compliance documentation is a WH&S defence — keep records for 7 years.
The four pillars of commercial electrical compliance
1. Test & tag (AS/NZS 3760)
All plug-in equipment must be inspected and tested at set intervals. In Mackay's humid climate, we recommend tightening intervals one step from the default.
| Environment | Interval |
|---|---|
| Construction, demo, wet | 3 months |
| Factory, workshop, kitchen | 6-12 months |
| Office, retail (mostly) | 12-60 months |
| Laboratory, hospital | 6-12 months |
2. RCD testing (AS/NZS 3760 + AS/NZS 3000)
Two levels: staff push-button tests monthly; licensed trip-time tests every 2 years (commercial) or as per site risk assessment.
3. Thermal imaging
Annual infrared scan of switchboards spots hot-spot faults before they become fires. Particularly important in Mackay due to humidity, salt-air and heat accelerating insulation degradation.
4. Switchboard periodic inspection (AS/NZS 3019)
Full detailed inspection every 5 years for commercial premises. Covers torque checks, arc-flash risk, labelling, RCD protection of final circuits.
What we deliver
- Asset register with barcodes/RFID for each tagged item.
- Online portal with test history, next-due dates, failed-item tracking.
- PDF compliance report for insurer/WH&S audit.
- Corrective action quotes where items fail.
Penalties for non-compliance
QLD WH&S Act 2011 imposes duties on PCBU (person conducting a business or undertaking). Non-compliance following an incident can result in significant fines and personal liability for directors. Documented compliance is the single best defence.
FAQs
Can our staff do test & tag themselves?
Staff can do visual inspections but electrical testing and tagging must be performed by a "competent person" (licensed electrician or trained T&T technician under supervision).
How do you minimise disruption?
We typically work after-hours or in agreed windows. For large sites we split into zones to avoid full shutdowns.
Compliance package quote
Flat-fee annual compliance plans for Mackay businesses. Includes test & tag, RCDs, thermal imaging.
Request quote