This Test & Tag of Electrical Equipment SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) gives competent testers a clear method for the periodic in-service inspection and testing of portable electrical equipment and leads with a Portable Appliance Tester, in line with AS/NZS 3760. It covers checking the tester and register, visual inspection, the test sequence, tagging passes and failures, setting retest intervals and updating records. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Test and tag businesses
Electricians and electrical contractors
Building and construction companies
Hire businesses with portable tools and equipment
Facility and maintenance teams in workplaces and schools
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Electric shock from testing faulty, damaged or incorrectly earthed equipment
Contact with live parts during inspection or connecting test leads
Arc flash or burns from hidden internal damage or wiring faults
Cuts from damaged casings, cracked plugs or exposed conductors
Trips on test leads, cords and equipment left across walkways
Manual handling when moving equipment to and from the test area
Unsafe equipment returned to service after an incomplete test or false pass
What's included
6 pre-operational checks, from tester competency and PAT calibration to environment classification and existing tags
A 9-step operating procedure covering visual inspection, testing, tagging passes and failures, retest intervals and the register
Isolation and energy control for disconnecting equipment before inspection and following the correct test sequence
5 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for electric shock, live or faulty equipment and a person in contact with electricity
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Hire Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Professional & Business Services SOP Bundle and Ultimate Property Maintenance SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it follow AS/NZS 3760?
Yes. The procedure is written around in-service testing and tagging in line with AS/NZS 3760, including setting retest intervals by operating environment.
Does it cover isolating equipment for maintenance?
No. It covers the test and tag task itself. Isolating plant, circuits or hardwired equipment so others can work on it is a separate procedure.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
