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Testing & tagging in mining Truflo Pumping Systems – Dependable mine dewatering systems Fuelling success with Body Armour McLanahan – Maximum production, unwavering support Flexible online and face to face training with experienced accredited provider Machining and fabrication service since 1980s Optimising mining operations with integrated IT/OT solutions Lighten the load — literally and safely Half-year results glitter for Westgold Miller Made for the Mine Site Broons: the crushing and compaction specialist Welding Industries Australia – Miller – Made for the mine site Fortescue swoops up Red Hawk Growing critical minerals processing power in WA Atlas achieves first production Custom Buckles Australia Crusher Screen Sales & Hire DTN – Lean on us – Gain trusted weather insights and intelligence AUSTLIFT® – Chain Block Series Aussie Pumps – Aussie Extreme Crusader Hose – Experience the innovation in action UQ Start-UP Unlocks Copper Mining matters 100 years strong at Ulan Coal Dartbrook hits the bullseye Aurelia Metals ascends to the peak BHP Yandi – Leading the way in electrification Innovation and safety go green NSR Indigenous: Empowering Australia’s mining industry Innovation and its role in improving ESG outcomes Brooks brings in the big guns Collaborative approach to mining research bears fruit Flood rescue: Aussie gears up New Acland thrives in 2025 Tanami: Newmont’s Tier 1 titan Innovation in the Isaac Region BHP builds up for big finish in FY25 South32’s Worsley receives key approval Pilbara Minerals acquires Latin Resources Australia pours $1b into green iron Engineering mining’s future

Testing & tagging in mining

PAT Tester Durable in Harsh Environment

Are you fully compliant?

Mining is one of the most heavily regulated industries for electrical safety. Unlike other industries, mining sites are legally required to test and tag electrical equipment every three months — and sometimes even more frequently based on risk assessments.

With harsh conditions, constant equipment wear and strict compliance rules, electrical safety can’t be taken lightly. Failure to test properly can lead to equipment failure, compliance fines, or even worksite shutdowns. This applies to all mining operations, from open-pit and underground mines to processing plants and maintenance facilities.

Many mine sites unknowingly fall short of AS/NZS 3012 standards due to:

  • Incorrect test intervals or missing the required test tag colour rotations based on a safety audit
  • Failing to log testing data properly, leaving the site exposed if an electrical incident occurs
  • Failing to use testers capable of performing the required compliance tests
  • Relying on equipment that cannot withstand mining conditions, leading to inaccurate results and safety risks

All industries must follow AS/NZS 3760 for electrical safety, but mining sites operate under AS/NZS 3012, which relates to:

  • Mandatory test and tag every three months (minimum requirement — some sites test more frequently)
  • Strict record-keeping rules for all tested equipment
  • Requires performing specific types of tests i.e. 3 Phase testing, RCD testing

Ignoring these requirements can result in:

  • Compliance fines and legal liability
  • Equipment failures causing serious safety hazards
  • Worksite shutdowns due to electrical safety breaches

Mining environments are high-risk and electrical safety failures can be catastrophic — this is why these regulations are enforced heavily.

Common compliance mistakes on mining sites

Even the most well-run sites can fall into compliance traps. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:

  1. Missing test intervals & colours

Mining sites must follow a rotating quarterly colour system, referred to as the RGBY system. The main idea is to test an item at the beginning of a colour change so that the tag can get the full three months of use. If you test an item just three weeks before the end of a colour period, the very same electrical item will need to be re-tested again when the new tag colour takes effect.

  • Dec – Feb: O Red
  • Mar – May: O Green
  • Jun – Aug: O Blue
  • Sep – Nov: O Yellow

Common mistake: Many sites miss the correct tag colour or test too late, leading to non-compliance risks.

Solution: Use software or tracking systems to manage test dates and ensure correct colour tags are on hand.

  1. Using the wrong PAT tester

Not all PAT testers (the item used to perform tests) are designed for mining environments. Mining sites require advanced PAT Testers that meet strict compliance standards. Without the right features, you may not be able to complete certain tests and risk compliance breaches.

If yours lacks:
3-phase testing
RCD testing
Data logging

…you may not be fully compliant.

All of these features are mandatory in mining environments — yet not all appliance testers are capable of completing these tasks.

Common mistake: Using basic PAT testers that can’t log test results or handle 3-phase equipment.

Solution: Ensure your testers meet mining site standards and always use built-in record-keeping features to simplify audits.

  1. Failing to protect PAT testers in harsh conditions

Mining sites are notorious for dust, moisture, and vibration — all of which can damage PAT testers and cause inaccurate results. This is a very common problem to have and is mainly caused from fine particles getting inside the tester.

Common mistake: Dust builds up inside PAT testers, leading to the tester not working or false readings. This will in turn create downtime and delays.

Solution:

  • Use protective covers to prevent dust ingress.
  • Schedule annual calibrations to keep test results accurate.
  • Store testers in a dust-free case when not in use.

  1. The right test tags for mining

Your test tags (the ones that show the test has been completed) must survive heat, UV exposure and generally harsh conditions. Of course, not all test tags will be capable of surviving this type of environment. Like most things, there is a choice you can make.

Heavy-Duty Test Tags — this is the most commonly used test tag on mining sites.

  • Tough, self-laminating seal protects printed information on the tag
  • Works indoors and outdoors
  • Superior tear resistance to ensure it stays intact

Thermal Transfer Tags — for people using a printer, Thermal Transfer is the way to go.

  • Longer lifespan than direct thermal tags
  • UV and extreme temperature resistant
  • More durable but requires ribbon printing

Common mistake: Using cheap or thin test tags that fade, tear, or fall off – leading to non-compliance issues.

Solution: Always use test tags designed for mining conditions to ensure long-lasting compliance. This would include either Heavy-Duty Test Tags, Industrial Test Tags or Thermal Transfer Tags. Avoid Direct Thermal Tags as they fade quickly, peel off and aren’t durable enough.

Avoiding compliance pitfalls: quick checklist

  • Test every three months (or more frequently, based on risk assessments)
  • Use the correct test tag colour for the current quarter
  • Ensure your PAT tester supports 3-phase, RCD testing & data logging
  • Calibrate PAT testers yearly to maintain accuracy
  • Use heavy-duty test tags that are capable of withstanding mining conditions
  • Track compliance records properly to avoid fines

Take control of your testing & tagging

Testing and tagging isn’t just a checkbox — it’s a mandatory requirement that protects workers, prevents shutdowns and keeps operations running smoothly.

For many mining companies, outsourcing test and tag can become expensive, inefficient, and difficult to manage. With a Nationally Accredited 1 Day Test & Tag Course, your team can perform test and tag in-house — ensuring compliance, improving response times and maintaining full control over site safety.

This will mean:

  • Faster compliance (not waiting for external contractors)
  • Reduced long-term costs
  • Greater control on-site, so equipment is tested on time, every time

If your site wants to take control of its own safety and compliance, getting internal staff trained up to test and tag themselves is the easiest and best place to start.

Test & Tag Training is Australia’s highest-rated provider of nationally recognised Test and Tag courses. With in-person and online training options, they help individuals and businesses meet compliance standards with confidence. Learn more: www.testandtagtraining.com.au