Category: Latest News

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How does Portable Appliance Testing save lives and money?

 

Any business owner has an obligation to take care of their representatives and clients in their workplaces. They must have a healthy and safe place for those who work for their business and support them. Many owners consider this a burden rather than an obligation, thinking it’s a waste of money when it’s one of the best ways to save them from a considerable cost when electrical faults suddenly occur.

To better understand how this can help not just save the cost of money and ensure all lives are safe inside your establishment, continue reading.

Potable Appliance Testing involves checking all the electrical products on-site to make sure they are functioning well and safe to use. If not, general repairs should be carried out by professionals. If any products fail, the establishment should take them out of the service. While performing a PAT, electricians may encounter faulty appliances that can be repaired instead of removing them from the place.

All electricians that should do this must have extensive knowledge of PAT to replace faulty or damaged plugs, fuses, or cables. Some service providers often need to find defective parts that are causing a massive problem for some establishments. This may cost you a ton of money, plus the stress you didn’t imagine you’d have from not taking it seriously. Choosing a PAT testing company with a good reputation saves you money and lives on what matters to your business.

If you are someone who wants to learn about PAT, check out our test and tag courses

If you are a business owner that wants to book a test and tag with Metrotest, contact us now. And if you are a professional looking for the best PAT Tester, visit our shop.

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Choosing the proper Test and Tag courses

Choosing the proper Test and Tag courses becomes easier with Metrotest. We offer courses that will allow you to be competent with Testing and Tagging.

These are the courses and what you need to know about their differences before choosing a system:

    1. AS/NZS3760 Courses Test and Tag Training – This is where you learn how to test and tag electrical products correctly and safely. You don’t have to be a licensed electrician to test and tag appliances, but you have to be a competent person to do so, which is the aim of this course. This course also teaches people how to operate a PAT tester and regulatory requirements.

 

    1. AS/NZS3551 Courses Medical Test and Tag – This course focuses on testing and tagging medical electrical products or equipment often found in hospitals, Doctor’s clinics, and many more. There are requirements for this course that you need to meet before you can enrol: attending the AS/NZS3760 course and proof of actual testing time.

 

    1. EWRB Refresher Course – We are authorised to provide Electrical Workers Registration Board Refresher Course to all registered electrical workers who must complete an approved refresher course before renewing their practising licence. You must provide your Electrical Registration number to be eligible for this course.

 

    1. Online AS/NZS3760 Test and Tag Competency Training – This training will help you learn about testing procedures and understand the requirements to meet AS/NZS3760. Metrotest made it easier for people who want to be competent to test and tag with our interactive online training. Our online Test and Tag competency training includes Bronze, Silver, and Gold courses. We offer the Bronze course free.

 

  1. Product Training Courses – This course will teach you how to use new testers or electrical equipment such as Label Printers, Portable Appliance Testers, Software and Accessories, RCD Testers, Loop Testers, Clamps and Digital Multimeters, Insulation Testers, Multifunction Installation Testers, Power Quality Analysers, High Voltage Insulation Testers, and Cable Location Equipment.

Either of the courses will allow you to perform testing and tagging. For most people who want to be competent and perform outside a high-risk environment or want to test and tag their appliances, we recommend that you choose the online competency course. For those who wish to advance, choose the standard AS/NZS3760 Courses Test and Tag Training and AS/NZS3551 Courses Medical Test and Tag for those who plan to focus on medical equipment.
Our staff would be happy to take and answer more of your questions about our test and tag courses. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!

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Testing and Tagging Made Easy

Metrotest is your one stop shop when it comes to Testing and Tagging.

We are New Zealand’s first and most long standing test and tag business. If there is any application that relates to testing and tagging, Metrotest is the only professional you need.
The experience we have gathered over the last 60 years has enabled us to:

    • Setup training systems that help business owners and businesses not only educate themselves but to be certified in Test and Tag applications.
    • Develop software and better technology with our international Test and Tag PAT manufacturers.
    • Create seamless P2P and Online training courses for a verity of knowledge levels right through to training certified electricians.
    • Repair and Calibration of industry hardware such as PAT testers and Test and Tag appliances.

What is Test and Tag?

Test and Tag is a process by means a certified individual checks an appliance (could be a tool or anything electrical that is portable plugs into an electrical socket) for safety.
The test process will check for several faults including:

    • Visual Inspection
    • Electrical testing
    • Insulation testing
    • Operational testing

Once the appliance is tested. The induvial testing the appliance will “Tag” the cable with a sticker that show the technicians name, date and when the next test needs to be performed.
This is a legal requirement for work spaces and businesses and is recommended for the personal household. Best find the fault before the fault finds you!
For more in depth information, please visit our How and Why Test and Tag section and more information on our Test and Tag legislation section.

What’s the best Test and Tag tester?

When you Google for Test and Tag tester you will find a variety of appliances that tell you what you need and don’t need. We from Metrotest believe that your tester should be suitable to your industry and the purpose of your business.

We support a variety of clientele including:

  1. Test and Tag businesses
  2. Trades
  3. Commercial building maintenance teams
  4. Professional industries
  5. Retail Clients

Each and every client needs a different appliance tested, this can range from tools to printers. As such, one needs to contemplate which tester could cover a variety of applications.
We have summarised some facts for you here in out How And Why Buy The Right Tester section.

One Stop Shop

Whether you are a Test and Tag professional or a start-up, Metrotest is the right industry partner for all your Testing and tagging requirements.
We can assist you with training, test and tag tester repairs and new appliance applications.

Give us a call and get started today.

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Ensuring Safety in the Workplace: Test and Tag Your Power Tools

No matter what type of tradesman you are, power tools are an essential part of the job. But when it comes to using power tools, safety should always be your top priority. That’s why it’s important to make sure your power tools are regularly tested and tagged to ensure they are safe to use. In this blog article, we’ll explore the benefits of testing and tagging for power tools, the legal requirements, and how to find a quality service provider.

 

Introduction to Test and Tag

Test and tagging of power tools is an important safety measure that helps to protect both the user and anyone else that may come into contact with the tool. It’s a process that involves testing the power tool to make sure it is safe to use, and then tagging it with a label that informs anyone using it of the results of the testing.

Test and tag of power tools is not a legal requirement for most tradespeople in New Zealand, however, it is required that the power tools are safe. This blog article will provide an overview of the benefits of test and tag, the legal requirements, and how to find a quality service provider.

The Benefits of Test and Tag for Power Tools

Test and tag of power tools can provide numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved safety: Test and tag ensure that the power tools are safe to use. This helps to protect the user, as well as anyone else that may come into contact with the tool.
  • Enhanced efficiency: Regularly testing and tagging power tools helps to ensure they are working as efficiently as possible, which can help to increase productivity.
  • Compliance: Test and tag is a sure way to deem the power tools as safe at the time of testing.
  • Peace of mind: Knowing that your power tools are safe to use can provide you with peace of mind, and ensure that you can focus on the job at hand.

What is Power Tool Testing?

Power tool testing is a process that involves testing the power tool to make sure it is safe to use. This is done by using specialized equipment to test the electrical safety of the tool, and to make sure it complies with the relevant safety regulations. The testing process can vary depending on the type of power tool, so it’s important to make sure you are using the right equipment for the job.

 

What is Tag & Label Testing?

Tag and label testing is a process that involves tagging the power tool with a label that informs anyone using it of the results of the testing. This label includes information such as the date of the testing and the name of the test and tag service provider.

Tag and label testing is an important part of the test and tag process, as it provides a visible reminder of when the power tool was tested and that it is safe to use. It’s important to make sure you are using the right type of label for the job, as some labels may not be suitable for certain types of power tools.

 

How to Ensure Your Power Tools are Safe

Ensuring that your power tools are safe to use is an important part of any tradesperson’s job. To ensure your power tools are safe, it’s important to:

  • Regularly inspect your power tools: Make sure to regularly inspect your power tools and check for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
  • Have a preventative maintenance schedule: Establish a preventative maintenance schedule and stick to it. This will help to ensure that any issues with your power tools are identified and addressed before they become a safety concern.
  • Test and tag regularly: Test and tag your power tools regularly to make sure they are safe to use.

 

Recommended Test and Tag Frequency

The recommended test and tag frequency for power tools depending on the type of tool and the environment in which it is used. Generally, it is recommended that power tools are tested and tagged at least every three months. However, some tools may need to be tested more frequently.

The Risks of Not Test and Tagging Power Tools

Not testing and tagging your power tools can lead to a number of risks, including:

  • Injury: Not testing and tagging your power tools can put the user and anyone else that may come into contact with the tool at risk of injury.
  • Damage to property: Not testing and tagging your power tools can cause damage to property and the power tool itself.
  • Non-compliance with legal safety requirements: Not testing and tagging your power tools can result in non-compliance with the relevant legal requirements, which can lead to fines and other penalties.
  • Loss of productivity: Not testing and tagging your power tools can lead to a loss of productivity, as the tools may not be working as efficiently as possible or may be unsafe to use.

 

How to Find a Test and Tag Service Provider

When looking for a test and tag service provider, it’s important to make sure they are accredited and have the necessary experience and expertise to do the job properly. You should also make sure they are familiar with the relevant regulations, as this will help to ensure your power tools are compliant.

It’s also important to make sure the service provider is reliable and can provide a quality service. You can check online reviews to get an idea of the quality of the service provided.

 

Conclusion

Test and tagging of power tools is an important safety measure that can help to protect both the user and anyone else that may come into contact with the tool. It’s a legal requirement in most states and territories in Australia, so it’s important to make sure you are compliant with the relevant regulations.

Regularly testing and tagging your power tools can provide numerous benefits, including improved safety, enhanced efficiency, and peace of mind. It’s important to make sure you are using the right test and tag service provider and to test and tag your power tools at least every three months.

Get Metro Test to test and tag your power tools so you can be safe and make the most of your power tools. Our team of experienced and accredited technicians can provide high-quality test and tag services and make sure your power tools are safe to use. Contact us today to get started!

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Testing Your Commercial Workspace: The Essential Guide

Are you looking for an effective way to test and tag your commercial workspace? Test and tag are critical aspects of workplace safety. It is essential to ensure that all electrical equipment is regularly tested and tagged to comply with safety regulations. In this blog article, we will discuss the essential requirements for commercial workspace testing, the types of tests required, and the safety precautions to take when testing and tagging your workspace.

What is Test and Tag?

Test and tag is a process that involves testing and tagging all electrical equipment in a commercial workspace to ensure that it is safe to use. This process is done by a qualified electrician or a technician who has been trained to carry out the necessary tests. The electrician will inspect all electrical equipment to make sure that it is safe to use and that it is in compliance with safety regulations.

The electrician will then tag the equipment with a label or tag that states that the equipment has been tested and is safe to use. This tag will typically include information such as the date it was tested and the expiry date of the test. Test and tag are critical elements of workplace safety. It is essential to ensure that all electrical equipment is regularly tested and tagged to comply with safety regulations.

Benefits of Test and Tag

There are many benefits of test and tagging your commercial workspace. Firstly, it ensures that all electrical equipment is safe to use and that it is in compliance with safety regulations. This can help to reduce the risk of accidents or injury in the workplace. Secondly, it helps to protect the equipment from damage due to electrical faults or surges. This ensures that the equipment is functioning correctly and that it is not at risk of breaking down. Finally, it can also help to reduce the risk of fires in the workplace due to electrical faults.

Essential Requirements for Commercial Workspace Testing

In order to ensure that all electrical equipment in your commercial workspace is safe to use, there are certain requirements that must be met. Firstly, all equipment must be tested by a qualified electrician or a technician who has been trained to carry out the necessary tests. This ensures that the equipment is safe to use and that it is in compliance with safety regulations.

Secondly, all equipment must be labeled or tagged with a label or tag that states that the equipment has been tested and is safe to use. This label or tag must include information such as the date it was tested and the expiry date of the test. Finally, it is essential to keep a record of all tests and tags carried out so that you can refer back to them if needed.

Types of Tests Required for Commercial Workspace

There are several different types of tests that must be carried out on electrical equipment in a commercial workspace. Firstly, a visual inspection must be carried out to check for any obvious signs of damage or faults. Secondly, an insulation resistance test must be carried out to ensure that the insulation between the live and neutral parts of the equipment is not compromised. Thirdly, a polarity test must be carried out to ensure that the equipment is correctly wired.

Finally, an earth continuity test must be carried out to ensure that the equipment is correctly earthed. Each type of test must be carried out by a qualified electrician or a technician who has been trained to carry out the necessary tests.

Test and Tag Equipment Checklist

When testing and tagging your commercial workspace, it is essential to have a checklist of all the equipment that needs to be tested. This will help to ensure that all equipment is tested and that no equipment is missed. The checklist should include all electrical equipment such as power tools, machines, lighting, and sockets. It should also include any extension leads or cables that are used in the workspace.

The checklist should also include information such as the type of test that needs to be performed on each piece of equipment, the date the equipment was tested, and the expiry date of the test. This information should be recorded in a logbook or on a spreadsheet so that it can be easily referred to.

How to Test Your Commercial Workspace

Once you have a checklist of all the equipment that needs to be tested, it is time to start the test and tag process. Firstly, the electrician or technician must carry out a visual inspection of the equipment to check for any signs of damage or faults. They may also need to use specialized testing equipment such as an insulation resistance tester or a polarity tester.

Once the tests have been carried out, the electrician or technician will then tag the equipment with a label or tag that states that the equipment has been tested and is safe to use. This label or tag will typically include information such as the date it was tested and the expiry date of the test.

Test and Tag Safety Precautions

When testing and tagging your commercial workspace, it is essential to take the necessary safety precautions. Firstly, the electrician or technician must make sure that they are wearing the appropriate safety equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection. Secondly, they must ensure that all equipment is switched off and unplugged before they start testing. Finally, they must ensure that they are not working in wet or damp conditions as this could lead to electric shock.

Test and Tag Record Keeping

It is essential to keep a record of all tests and tags carried out in the commercial workspace. This record should include information such as the type of test that was performed, the date the equipment was tested, and the expiry date of the test. This information should be recorded in a logbook or on a spreadsheet so that it can be easily referred to.

This record should be kept up to date and any changes should be noted. This helps to ensure that all electrical equipment is safe to use and that it is in compliance with safety regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Test and Tag

Q: How often should electrical equipment be tested and tagged? A: Electrical equipment should be tested and tagged at least every 12 months or if there is any change in the equipment.

Q: What type of tests are required for a commercial workspace? A: The types of tests required for commercial workspace include visual inspection, insulation resistance test, polarity test, and earth continuity test.

Q: What safety precautions should be taken when testing and commercial tagging workspace? A: When testing and tagging commercial workspace, it is essential to take the necessary safety precautions such as wearing the appropriate safety equipment, switching off and unplugging the equipment, and avoiding wet or damp conditions.

Q: Do I need to keep a record of all tests and tags that have been carried out? A: Yes, it is essential to keep a record of all tests and tags that have been carried out in order to ensure that all electrical equipment is safe to use and that it is in compliance with safety regulations.

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Conclusion

Test and tag are critical aspects of workplace safety. It is essential to ensure that all electrical equipment is regularly tested and tagged to comply with safety regulations. This blog article has discussed the essential requirements for commercial workspace testing, the types of tests required, the test and tag equipment checklist, how to test your commercial workspace, test and tag safety precautions, and test and tag record keeping.

Call Metro Test today and test and tag your commercial workspace! Test and tagging your commercial workspace is essential to ensure that all electrical equipment is safe to use and that it is in compliance with safety regulations.

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Now is the right time to Test and Tag all your appliances

 

Has your electrical equipment been tested and tagged? The risk of not testing and tagging your equipment could be fatal. Metrotest caters to all test and tag services for your appliances, tools, and machinery to ensure that all electrical items are safe for use.

 

Schools

When was the last time your school had its equipment tested and tagged? If your equipment is new or not, live electrical equipment should always be tested and tagged to ensure its safety for operation. Metro Test owns a range of specialist equipment to certify the safety of all electrical appliances for schools’ peace of mind.

 

Commercial and factories

New Zealand’s official work safety standards require all businesses to ensure that their electrical appliances and equipment are safe. Testing and tagging your equipment are a sure way to safeguard your equipment from injury to others and damage to property in the event of a malfunction.

Testing and labeling your equipment as safe at the time the test was performed will help catch potentially fatal equipment which gives the opportunity to make remedies before any serious harm or damage can be done.

Metro Test offers special pricing for commercial customers, learn how you can assess the safety of your equipment here.

 

Test and tag all appliances

It is an employer’s responsibility to take all practical steps to ensure the safety of their employees whilst they are at work. Employers should test and tag all appliances to ensure their safety.

This includes:
• Checking for obvious damage
• Checking all operation controls are working as intended
• Checking all electrical cords are free from damage or strain
• Checking covers and guards are unobstructed.

Tradespeople’s power tools

Metro Test offers products and services to test trade-designed power tools and machinery. Get your power tools tested to ensure the safety of the tools and machinery. Operating these tools could risk serious harm or damage to property. Some worksites require that all tools and machinery be tested and tagged for safety.

Inspection and testing should be assessed by a competent professional. This person is not required to be licensed but should have great expertise in the field.

Call Metro Test today and discover what appliances and equipment may be defective in your workplace and how they can be prevented.