MegaTest Blog Series: Understanding BPA & Electrical Safety in GP Practices

Blog 3: Test & Tag vs Medical Testing — Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Quick summary:

• Test & tag supports general workplace safety

• Medical equipment requires additional testing beyond electrical safety

• Different standards apply to different risks

• Understanding this avoids over- or under-testing

• Understanding BPA & Electrical Safety in GP Practices

Many practices tell us, “We already do test and tag.” That’s a good start — but it’s only part of the picture.

AS/NZS 3760 (Test & Tag) applies to non-medical electrical equipment such as computers, monitors, printers, phone chargers, and kitchen appliances. It focuses on electrical safety and helps business owners meet their responsibilities as a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) to provide a safe workplace.

AS/NZS 3551 applies to both electrical and non-electrical medical equipment used on patients for diagnosis, monitoring, or treatment. It looks at whether equipment is safe, accurate, functional, and fit for clinical purpose.

This includes:

• ECG, SpO₂, and NIBP devices (including cuffs)

• Vital signs monitors

• Examination beds and powered chairs

• Scales and stadiometers

• Thermoscans and infrared thermometers

• Examination lamps and light output

• Nebulisers, AEDs, and other clinical devices

Some manufacturers recommend more frequent checks than annual testing. For example, certain thermoscans require six-monthly accuracy verification.

Test and tag alone does not assess these clinical risks.

Questions about Test & Tag vs Medical Testing — Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All and Understanding BPA & Electrical Safety in GP Practices

If you’d like help understanding which standard applies to which equipment in your practice, MegaTest Solutions Ltd is happy to assist.

Call us

027 22 33 446

info@megatest.co.nz

Coming up next:

In the final article, we’ll look at how practices can plan BPA and medical safety changes calmly and without urgency.