Q: Do air conditioners that have a visible power cord need to be tagged and tested every 5 years?

Do air conditioners that have internal electrical wiring (i.e. you can’t see the power cord) need to be tagged and tested? If so, will they need to be dismantled by the electrician?

A: The requirements to test and tag electrical equipment depends on the nature of your work environment. Tagging is not essential, but does help to keep a record of testing and any maintenance performed.

Air conditioners will need to be tested every 12 months if:

• the power cord is visible; or
• they are used in a hostile environment, e.g. an environment where equipment is exposed to moisture, heat, vibration, mechanical damage, corrosive chemicals or dust.

Air conditioners that have internal wiring and are not in a hostile environment do not need to be tagged; however, testing of the air conditioner is required every 5 years.

The testing must be conducted by a competent person who is suitably qualified.

We recommend you consult a suitably qualified electrician to confirm how the testing is to be undertaken to ensure compliance with work health and safety legislation.

Please note: The answer is correct at the time of publishing. Be aware that laws may change over time. Refer to Electrical safety for current advice.