Test and Tag Regulations by State
Test and tag requirements are set nationally through AS/NZS 3760 and AS/NZS 3012, but each Australian state has its own workplace safety laws and regulator. Choose your state below for a plain-English guide to the local rules.
Nationally Recognised.
The Real Deal. Now on Sale.
Test and tag requirements are set nationally through AS/NZS 3760 and AS/NZS 3012, but each Australian state has its own workplace safety laws, regulator, and specific obligations. Who can test and tag, how often, which tag colours apply, and whether a contractor licence is required can all differ depending on where you work.
Choose Your State
What Changes State to State?
While AS/NZS 3760:2022 and AS/NZS 3012:2019 apply nationally, the following varies across Australian states:
Who Can Test and Tag
Most states require a competent person with appropriate training. Queensland also requires a contractor licence if you offer services to other businesses.
Testing Frequencies
Intervals for construction, manufacturing, office and other environments differ by state. Construction sites generally require testing every 3 months under AS/NZS 3012.
Tag Colours
The quarterly red, green, blue, yellow system is widely used on construction sites, but some states treat it as optional. Individual sites and principal contractors may specify their own system.
Licensing Requirements
Queensland is the only state requiring an additional electrical contractor licence for businesses offering test and tag services to third parties. No electrician’s licence is needed anywhere.
The National Standards That Apply Everywhere
Regardless of which state you work in, two Australian Standards underpin test and tag practice across the country:
Covers the in-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment in workplaces generally. This is the primary standard that governs test and tag across all industries.
Applies specifically to electrical installations and equipment used on construction and demolition sites. Requires more frequent testing (typically every 3 months) and mandatory tag colour coding.
Your qualification from our nationally recognised course is valid in every state and territory. You do not need to retrain if you move interstate or work across state borders.
Ready to Get Certified?
Our nationally recognised Test and Tag Training Course is delivered in person across Australia and online. Complete it once and you are qualified to work anywhere in the country.