If you work on a construction or demolition site in Victoria, you have likely seen electrical tags in different colours. Understanding the Test and Tag Colours in Victoria is crucial because you might even have been told off by a site safety officer for having the “wrong colour” on your drill. This understanding is especially important when you’re working with Test and Tag Colours Victoria regulations.
But what do these colours actually mean? And why do they change?
At Safety First Test and Tag, we specialize in construction compliance. Here is your simple guide to the “RGBY” system mandated by AS/NZS 3012, which forms a part of the Test and Tag Colours Victoria guidelines.
Why Construction Sites Are Different
Unlike a standard office where a computer might sit safely on a desk for years, construction sites are classified as “Hostile Operating Environments.” Tools are dragged through mud, dropped, and exposed to the elements, making Test and Tag Colours Victoria regulations even more essential.
Because the risk of damage is so high, WorkSafe Victoria and AS/NZS 3012 require all portable electrical equipment on construction sites to be tested every 3 months.
To make it easy for site supervisors to spot non-compliant tools, we use a colour-coding system that changes with the seasons.
The RGBY Colour Codes Explained
The colour of the tag tells you when the item was tested. If you are using a Red tag in Spring, you are non-compliant with Test and Tag Colours Victoria standards.
Here is the schedule every Victorian tradie needs to know:
- 🔴 RED Tag: December, January, February (Summer)
- 🟢 GREEN Tag: March, April, May (Autumn)
- 🔵 BLUE Tag: June, July, August (Winter)
- 🟡 YELLOW Tag: September, October, November (Spring)
Tip to remember: “RGBY” (Red, Green, Blue, Yellow) matches the start of the year to the end.
What Happens if I Have the Wrong Colour?
Using a tool with an expired tag (e.g., a Green tag in July) is a breach of site safety rules according to Test and Tag Colours Victoria.
- Site Shutdown: Safety officers can immediately ban the tool from the site.
- Fines: WorkSafe can issue fines to both the contractor and the site manager for failing to maintain electrical safety.
- Liability: If an accident occurs with an untagged tool, your insurance may not cover you.
Do I Need to Test My Own Tools?
Many tradies ask if they can buy a tester and do it themselves. Under the regulations, testing must be performed by a Competent Person. This means you must have successfully completed a recognized training course and have the correct, calibrated testing equipment, as outlined by Test and Tag Colours Victoria compliance standards.
A simple visual check is not enough. You need to verify earth continuity and insulation resistance with a proper PAT tester.
Get Your Site Compliant Today
Don’t get kicked off-site for a $5 tag. Safety First Test and Tag provides mobile service to construction sites across Geelong, Sunshine, Surf Coast and Melbourne. We manage the 3-month cycle for you, so you never miss a colour change according to the Test and Tag Colours Victoria system.
Call 1300 710 873 or Get a Construction Quote today.
