Electrical appliances are an essential part of our daily lives. They make our homes more livable and power up our businesses. However, using electrical devices every single day comes with the risk of potential accidents and injuries, which is why it’s important to test and tag electrical devices regularly.
In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of electrical testing and tagging services inspections, specifically the difference between Class I and Class II devices as well as why it’s important to ensure their safety through electrical testing and tagging.
Electrical Safety in Appliances
Every business is obligated to ensure that the workplace is safe from electrical hazards. This is mandatory under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017.
To comply with these guidelines, it’s essential to know what devices you have and what category they fall under. Electrical devices are divided into two categories: Class I and Class II.
Both categories provide at least two levels of protection to the user. If one layer of protection fails, the second layer will act as a backup.
However, these two are vastly different in terms of their structure, capacities, and test and tag requirements. Below are the differences between the two categories of electrical devices.
Class I Devices
Class I devices are electrical appliances that rely on basic insulation and additional safety precautions. Typically, they are encased in metal that is connected to an earthing conductor in the fixed wiring of the installation.
This earthing conductor, also called an earthed wire, protects the user from electric shock in case of a fault within the appliance. In case the basic insulator malfunctions, the earthing conductor prevents accessible parts from becoming live which may cause an electric shock to the user.
How do you know if an appliance is a Class I device?
● If it is made of metal
● If it has a three-core cable
● If the plug has a metal earth pin
● If this symbol appears on the rating plate:
Examples of Class I devices include home appliances like refrigerators and toasters, as well as workplace equipment like electric concrete mixers and air compressors.
Class II Devices
On the other hand, Class II devices are double-insulated appliances. These are manufactured with non-conductive enclosures, such as plastic, and are usually marked with a double-boxed symbol.
Class II devices do not require an earthing conductor and should not be earthed. These appliances are designed with two layers of insulation to protect users from electrical shock in case there is a fault. Most electrical devices that are subject to movement and the flexing of cords fall under this category.
How do you know if an appliance is a Class II device?
● If the case is plastic
● If this double box symbol appears on the rating plate, signifying double insulation:
Examples of Class II devices include hair dryers, drills, and computers.
Electrical Test and Tag for Class I and II Devices
Regardless of their differences, both Class I and II require regular testing and tagging to ensure that they are safe to use. This involves a visual inspection as well as a series of electrical tests in order to see if there are any faults that may cause electric shock or fire.
The Test and Tag Experts You Can Rely On
For quality testing and tagging services, including electrical safety compliance, regular maintenance, safety checks, and inspections, reach out to our experienced and fully qualified team of experts. Our experts undergo continuous safety training so they can stay up to date with the latest electrical safety requirements and innovations.
We provide the following testing and tagging services to help keep your business safe:
● Reminder Service – We will let you know before your equipment and appliances are due again for retesting so you don’t lose track.
● Data Management Service – We will keep an accurate record of your testing results for you.
● Repairing of Faulty Items – We can repair faulty items for you or coordinate with our partners to ensure that your appliances are well taken care of.
● Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) – Every time we visit your site, we will conduct a risk assessment of your environment and report any hazards to you.
We have everything you need in one team, including a range of services like workplace safety inspections, electrical testing and tagging, RCD testing, and even microwave testing.
This is why Jim’s Test & Tag is the most trusted name for electrical testing and tagging services by businesses all throughout New Zealand. Call us at 0800 454 654 to learn more about our services, or request a free quote via our online form.
