AS/NZS 3760:2022 Explained
Last updated: October 2026
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In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment and RCDs
AS/NZS 3760:2022 provides a framework for the in-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment and residual current devices (RCDs).
It is one of the key standards used by MegaTest, the appliance electrical testing division of NZ Test Group.
What Does AS/NZS 3760 Cover?
AS/NZS 3760 applies to electrical equipment that is connected to the electrical supply by a flexible cord and plug, along with certain RCDs.
In practice, this can include equipment such as power tools, extension leads, office appliances, kitchen equipment and other portable or plug-in electrical equipment used in workplaces.
The standard provides guidance around visual inspection, electrical testing, test methods, inspection and testing intervals, identification and record keeping.
Is AS/NZS 3760 the Law?
AS/NZS 3760 is a technical standard — it is not itself an Act of Parliament.
New Zealand businesses have duties to manage workplace risks under health and safety and electrical safety legislation. AS/NZS 3760 provides an established framework that can be used when inspection and testing of in-service electrical equipment is appropriate.
This distinction is important because not every electrical appliance in every workplace automatically requires a Test & Tag label simply because AS/NZS 3760 exists.
What Is Test & Tag?
“Test & Tag” is the commonly used term for inspecting and, where appropriate, electrically testing equipment and then attaching a tag to show that the inspection or testing has been completed.
The process begins with a visual inspection. Damage to plugs, leads, cord entry points, enclosures or other components can sometimes identify an unsafe item before electrical testing even begins.
Depending on the equipment and its classification, appropriate electrical tests are then carried out.
How Often Should Equipment Be Tested?
There isn't one inspection or testing interval that applies to every piece of electrical equipment.
The appropriate interval depends on factors such as the type of equipment, how it is used and the environment in which it operates.
Equipment used on a construction site, for example, is exposed to very different conditions from a computer sitting on an office desk.
AS/NZS 3760 includes guidance for determining suitable inspection and testing intervals, while other standards or requirements may apply in particular environments.
What About RCDs?
AS/NZS 3760 also covers the in-service inspection and testing of certain Residual Current Devices (RCDs).
RCDs are an important electrical safety measure designed to disconnect the electricity supply when certain fault conditions are detected.
The type of RCD, where it is installed and how it is used can affect the inspection and testing requirements that apply.
What Happens if Equipment Fails?
Equipment that fails an inspection or electrical safety test should be clearly identified and removed from service so that it cannot continue to be used until it has been appropriately repaired, replaced or disposed of.
A failed item shouldn't simply be given another test label and returned to service.
Why Are Records Important?
The tag attached to an appliance is a useful visual indicator, but it isn't the complete compliance record.
Good equipment records can identify the item tested, its location, inspection or test results, dates and other relevant information.
For businesses with larger numbers of electrical assets, an electronic equipment register can provide a useful history of the equipment and its inspection and testing.
Where Does AS/NZS 3760 Fit With Other Standards?
AS/NZS 3760 is only one part of the electrical safety framework.
Different equipment and environments may be covered by other standards. For example, AS/NZS 3012 applies to construction and demolition sites, AS/NZS 3551 deals with medical equipment management, and AS/NZS 5761 relates to second-hand electrical equipment offered for sale.
Understanding which standard applies is just as important as carrying out the testing itself.
Need Help With AS/NZS 3760?
MegaTest – Appliance Electrical Testing
MegaTest provides electrical equipment inspection, testing and compliance solutions as part of NZ Test Group.
If you're unsure what inspection or testing requirements apply to your workplace or equipment, talk to our team.