When it comes to the general safety and performance of appliances, their manufacturers are required to have them tested and inspected numerous times before selling them to clients and customers. From visual inspections to the general operations of these appliances, all types of tests possible must be conducted to avoid harming people, affecting businesses, and other unpleasant effects.
But apart from manufacturer, appliances and other devices can likewise be tested and tagged by a competent person. A competent person is a person who has the needed skills and competencies in performing the required tasks for testing and tagging operations.
Basic Overview of Testing and Tagging
Test and tag is the general process of checking the safety of appliances by an authorised or competent person. The whole process is done by inspecting the appliance for any damage and subsequently subjecting the electrical parts under different types of tests. Once the assessment is done, the said appliance will be placed with a tag, which confirms the authenticity of the testing. The tag likewise shows the person who has conducted the test, the date of testing, and the schedule of the next test.
The purpose of testing and tagging is to ensure that the appliances will be deemed safe for the people who will be using them. It also makes sure that the same appliances will not pose any risk of electrical hazards whenever they are being used by the people around them. The guidelines and regulations regarding the whole testing and tagging procedure, which includes the test and tag intervals, the set of people recommended to do the process, and general guidelines, are regulated by the AS/NZS 3760.
Testing and Tagging Refrigeration Units
One of the appliances that must be tested and tagged regularly is the refrigeration units. Most of these appliances are classified into Class I electrical appliances as they are generally earthed.
When conducting testing and tagging, the very first thing that will be done with refrigeration units is to disconnect them from the power outlet. Afterwards, a visual inspection of their power cords will be conducted to see if there are any visible damages. Once the inspection is done, the competent person will then find a metal touchpoint since most refrigeration units are earthed. This metal point will be used to conduct earth continuity test, which is conducted to assess the resistance of the protective earth of the refrigeration and the supply lead. This test is measured between earthed parts and the plug’s earth pin.
Another test that will be conducted is the insulation resistance test. This test identifies the effectiveness of the present insulation in resisting the electrical current flow. Performing the leakage current test is only optional. However, it is highly recommended by professionals, especially for units with motorised compressors. This test imitates the effect of a person touching the metal parts of the refrigeration units and detects if the leakage current that flows through the person’s body will remain safe.
All these tests must be done with the door of the refrigeration units kept open. If you want to know more about the said procedure, feel free to contact us at P&R Commercial Refrigeration.
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