Do you need to test and tag phone chargers?
At Jim’s Test & Tag, we have a saying: If it plugs in, you need to test it.
Whether you run an office, a restaurant, a theatre, or a food van, you need to make sure your staff are safe. You can do this by regulating personal electronics and supplying chargers on-site. Maintaining electrical safety is easy when you’re organised.
In NZ any electrial shock in the workplace is a notifiable event and Work-safe must be informed (other than static shocks).
Low Voltage Appliances
According to New Zealand standards, you don’t need to test anything that produces under 50V of electricity. So, does this mean you need to test and tag phone chargers?
The adaptor part of your charger (the part that plugs into the wall) needs to undergo a Class II Leakage Test or a Class II Insulation Resistance Test. As it does not produce more than 50V of electricity, the USB lead does not require a test but should undergo a visual inspection.
Continue to check your charger for damage. If you see any gaps in the rubber insulation on your USB cord or frayed wires, ditch your charger and buy a new one. If you notice sparks, overheating, or noises coming from your cords, it is time to upgrade.
Why do we test and tag phone chargers?
Our technicians learn how to pat test a phone charger as part of their induction and training. It is one of our most popular requests.
Electric Shock Incidents
Damaged or faulty chargers can overheat and start fires as well as cause electric shocks.
Workplace Safety
If a member of your staff sustains an injury at work, you will be liable. All appliances in your building need to be tested and tagged to maintain safety. You can boost safety by supplying chargers that are regularly tested and tagged and asking staff members to declare any electronic devices that they have brought from home.
Product Recalls
Chargers are one of the most frequent items recalled by the government. Too often there are faults that lead to fire and electric shock. Unfortunately, incidents do occur before products are recalled. You can stay one step ahead by testing and tagging all of your appliances.
Go to the product recall website to make sure your charger isn’t on the list.
Signs you Have a Faulty Charger
- high pitched noises coming from cords
- crackling noises at power point
- overheating cords and phone
- vibrating/static electricity on surface of phone during charging
- frayed cords and visible wiring
- sparks
Signs you Have a Counterfeit Charger
Counterfeit chargers have a high risk of being dangerous. They are not made to the standard of the phone manufacturer. If you’ve ordered a charger online and you’re not sure if it is fake, you can check for these signs.
- price – if the price is too low it is very likely a fake
- no warranty
- compare the packaging
- rough finishing
If you think you may have a fake Apple charger, you can spot the differences with this helpful guide.
Contact Jim’s Test & Tag Today
Need to test and tag phone chargers? Call us now.
We have a range of services designed to keep your business safe. Our technicians work all around New Zealand checking chargers, Pat testing computers, tagging microwaves, and more.
No matter what appliances you have in store, we’ll service your business and make it as safe as possible.
Call us now or fill in the online form for a free quote. Your safety is our business.
