AS/NZS 5761 Explained
Last updated: October 2026
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Inspection and testing of second-hand electrical equipment
AS/NZS 5761 provides a framework for the inspection and testing of second-hand electrical equipment before it is offered for sale.
It is one of the key standards used by MegaTest, the appliance electrical testing division of NZ Test Group.
What Does AS/NZS 5761 Cover?
AS/NZS 5761 applies to certain second-hand electrical equipment being offered for sale.
The standard provides a framework for assessing the electrical safety of equipment through visual inspection and, where appropriate, electrical testing.
This can include common second-hand household, office, workshop and commercial electrical appliances and equipment.
Why Is Second-Hand Equipment Different?
Electrical equipment being resold may have an unknown history.
It may have been damaged, repaired, modified, poorly stored or subjected to wear during its previous use. Some defects may be obvious during a visual inspection, while others may require electrical testing to identify.
This is why second-hand equipment offered for sale needs to be considered differently from equipment that simply remains in service within a workplace.
What Happens During an AS/NZS 5761 Inspection?
The process starts with a visual inspection of the equipment.
This can include checking the plug, supply cord, cord entry, enclosure and other accessible components for damage, deterioration or inappropriate modifications.
Where applicable, electrical tests are then carried out according to the equipment type and electrical classification.
Is AS/NZS 5761 the Same as Test & Tag?
No.
AS/NZS 3760 is primarily concerned with the in-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment and RCDs.
AS/NZS 5761 specifically addresses second-hand electrical equipment being offered for sale.
Although some of the inspection and electrical testing methods may be similar, the reason the equipment is being assessed is different.
What Happens if Second-Hand Equipment Fails?
Equipment that does not meet the required safety criteria should not simply be labelled and offered for sale.
Depending on the fault, the equipment may need to be appropriately repaired and reassessed, or removed from sale and disposed of.
The purpose of the inspection is to identify electrical safety problems before the equipment reaches its next user.
Does a Test Mean the Product Meets Every NZ Requirement?
Not necessarily.
Inspection and testing under AS/NZS 5761 assesses electrical safety within the scope of the standard. It does not automatically establish that a product complies with every other requirement that may apply to electrical products in New Zealand.
Product design, plugs, approvals and other regulatory requirements may also need to be considered.
This can be particularly relevant for electrical equipment originally manufactured or imported for another country.
Who Might Use AS/NZS 5761?
The standard can be relevant to businesses and organisations selling or disposing of used electrical equipment, including second-hand retailers, appliance dealers, charities, recyclers and businesses selling surplus electrical equipment.
The important question is not simply whether an appliance still works — but whether it is appropriate and electrically safe to offer to another user.
Where Does AS/NZS 5761 Fit With Other Standards?
AS/NZS 5761 forms part of a wider electrical safety framework.
AS/NZS 3760 deals with electrical equipment already in service, while AS/NZS 3112 addresses plugs and socket-outlets used in Australia and New Zealand.
Depending on the equipment and how it will be used, other standards and regulatory requirements may also apply.
Understanding why the equipment is being inspected and what happens to it next helps determine which requirements are relevant.
Need Help With AS/NZS 5761?
MegaTest – Appliance Electrical Testing
MegaTest provides electrical equipment inspection, testing and compliance solutions as part of NZ Test Group.
If you're unsure what requirements apply before selling or disposing of used electrical equipment, talk to our team.