Top 5 Accessories for Test & Taggers
When you’re out on the job, having the correct accessories on hand can dramatically improve your efficiency, safety, and general client satisfaction. Whether you’re testing electrical appliances on-site or in a workshop, these essential extras will ensure everything runs smoothly. Here are the top 5 must-have accessories for test and tag professionals, along with a bonus recommendation that’s ideal for high-demand environments.
Easy-off Test Tag Remover
The Easy-Off Tag Remover (otherwise known as Test Tag Cutter) is a small yet invaluable tool for removing electrical test tags from appliance leads without causing damage. When it’s time to update or replace test tags, many people resort to scissors, utility knives, or other sharp tools. While these may work, they can easily cut or damage the appliance leads, especially flexible ones. Damaging a lead is not only costly but also a safety hazard.
The Easy-Off Tag Remover offers a safer and faster option. Specifically designed for test tag removal, it helps you quickly remove the tag while preserving the integrity of the leads. This tool is especially valuable for test and taggers dealing with large quantities of electrical test tags, as it minimises the risk of accidental damage. This little $12 gadget is affordable and a must-have for anyone testing and tagging.
IEC Clover Leaf Adaptor
The IEC Clover Leaf Adaptor is vital for test and tag professionals who frequently work with electrical equipment using clover leaf connections, also known as “Mickey Mouse” connectors. These connectors are commonly found on AC adapters and power supplies for laptops, printers, and other electronics. Unfortunately, the unique shape of clover leaf connectors isn’t compatible with the standard IEC socket on most Portable Appliance Testers, making them challenging to test without the right adaptor.
This adaptor allows you to connect the clover leaf lead to your PAT tester, enabling you to run essential safety tests, including Earth Bond, Insulation Resistance, and Polarity checks. Without this adaptor you’d be unable to fully test certain electrical appliances (and potentially missing any faults). This accessory is especially important for professionals who deal with diverse types of equipment, and essentially ensures you can test and tag all types of connections.
Replacement EPOD’s and Extension Leads
This one is specifically for test and tag service providers. Replacement EPODs (Electrical Portable Outlet Devices) and extension leads are critical for test and taggers working in environments where electrical equipment is frequently in use. During your regular testing, you may find EPODs or extension leads that don’t meet safety standards. In these cases, having spare units on hand allows you to provide immediate replacements.
By offering replacement EPODs and extension leads, you add convenience for your customers as they won’t need to organise or buy another one. Clients genuinely appreciate it as it simply saves them time and hassle! Similarly, it genuinely enhances your services and gives your customers peace of mind when you come out to test and tag next.
Hi-Vis Fail Tag
Whenever electrical equipment fails safety tests, they of course get marked with a Fail Tag. And there will always be items that fail a test, that is a guarantee. However, a regular Fail Tag can sometimes be mistakenly used by someone who is unaware of the tag itself, or just simply not notice. Hi-Vis Fail Tags stand out with an extra punch thanks to their brough colours and bold “Out of Service” messaging.
These Hi-Vis Fail Tags are an industry standard accessory for test and taggers. If you’re in a high-traffic or harsh environment, we highly recommend using these particular tags, as they are crucial for clearly communicating equipment status and maintaining safety standards.
New to Service Tags
When new equipment is added to a workplace, it doesn’t require immediate testing, as it’s presumed to be in good working order. New to Service Tags provide a way to tag these items as “new to service,” and are required by the AS/NZS3760 Standard. On top of allowing your customers to identify new equipment, it also gets the equipment on their inventory list and ensures it gets tested in the future.
For companies frequently adding new assets, you will need plenty of these type of test tags on hand. New to Service Tags are also a bare basic essential for anyone testing and tagging. Don't forget, these can't be used in construction as these items need to be tested and tagged in accordance with AS/NZS 3012.
Bonus Accessory: Spare Leads, Fuses & Batteries
For those in demanding work environments, having Spare Leads, Batteries and Fuses on hand is a pretty great idea. A damaged lead or a dead battery can stop you in your tracks, but by carrying spares you ensure there’s no interruption your testing and tagging. This is particularly useful for PAT testers that rely on non-rechargeable batteries (to help prevent downtime and things moving forward). Having a spare fuse is also a solid choice, as they are probably more likely to be needed than spare batteries.
Spare leads are equally valuable, as they wear over time and can become damaged, especially in harsh conditions. By carrying backups you’re prepared for any unexpected issues.