How Often Should Electrical Equipment Be Tested in Aged Care?

Most aged care providers assume: "12 months = compliant = done."

That's not always correct.

The Critical Distinction: Maximums vs. Defaults

AS/NZS 3760 sets maximum testing intervals — not recommended intervals for every environment. These maximums apply to standard office-type settings with normal use patterns.

Aged care facilities are not standard office settings.

Residents rely on staff to identify and manage risks. If equipment fails, the consequences can be more severe than in a typical workplace. This means:

• Equipment is in continuous daily use
• Wear and tear happens faster than in occasional-use environments
• Hidden faults can affect vulnerable people

Real-World Testing Intervals in Aged Care

The Blanket 12-Month Problem

If your current provider is applying blanket 12-month intervals across the entire site, you may be compliant on paper — but exposed in practice.

What Should You Do?

Ask your test and tag provider to explain why they're recommending specific intervals. If they can't provide reasoning beyond "that's the standard," you may need a more thorough assessment.

A proper risk-based approach considers:

• Equipment type and usage frequency
• Environment (wet areas, kitchens, resident rooms)
• History of failures or faults
• Regulatory guidance for your specific facility type