Test & Tag on Mining Sites: Full Guide

Testing and tagging on mining sites? Wondering if you're fully prepared? Here's what you need to know.

Testing and tagging in mining is a whole different game. With strict compliance rules, tough conditions, and short testing intervals, there’s a lot to get your head around. But don’t stress – we’ve broken it all down for you. From must-know tips to practical advice, this guide covers everything you need to handle on mining sites with confidence. 

The mining industry in New Zealand is unique as its one of the few industries mandated to test and tag electrical equipment periodically. While the Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760 still applies to general industries, mining sites adhere to AS/NZS 3012 which requires testing and tagging every three months. However, testing intervals can be even more frequent, depending on their own risk assessment and conditions. Three months would be seen as the minimum for any mining site.  

Choosing the Right Equipment for Mining Sites

Harsh mining conditions will mostly demand durable and more advanced test and tag equipment. This is crucial, as the effectiveness of your testing and tagging depends heavily on the features and functionality of your tester.

While basic PAT Testers can be used, they often struggle to meet the industry and compliance requirements for mining. For example, when it comes to OHS monitoring, all test data must be collected and logged - a capability that can only be achieved with certain appliance testers. Additionally, using the wrong tester model may require you to invest in additional gear to access essential functionality. 

The key features to look for in a PAT Tester for mining:

• RCD testing capabilities 
• 3-Phase functionality
• Built-in recording keeping

PAT Tester Recommedations for Mining

Metrel and Seaward PAT Testers consistently stand out as top performers in difficult conditions and are among the most commonly used in New Zealand for mining sites. These appliance testers tick off all the essential features, including 3 Phase testing, RCD testing and integrated record keeping. Beyond those must-have features, certain Seaward and Metrel testers are built to last, adapt to tough conditions and grow with you as testing evolves.

Top PAT Tester models for mining:

Metrel DeltaPAT 3309 BT is known for being an extremely reliable and durable tester. It is voted as being extremely user-friendly and can easily be upgraded and grow with your testing needs. Most importantly, they have 3 Phase functionality, RCD testing and integrated record keeping, making it an excellent choice for mining sites.

Seaward Primetest Pro is ideal for advanced testing. This model is a high performer in mining environments, as it provides comprehensive data logging and other advanced features to help streamline operations. Similarly to the DeltaPAT, you'll be able to upgrade your equipment down the track and is compatible with printers and scanners. If you're needing to test, tag and record data for a large amount of appliances on-site, the Primetest Pro is known for being very dependable and efficient. 

Avoiding Compatibility Issues

A feature not all appliance testers are compatible with is 3 Phase testing. Some people do in fact need to purchase an additional tester just for 3 phase capabilities. 

• Metrel 3 Phase Upgrade Kit is used for Metrel users
• PAC 3P is a reliable add-on if you already own a PAT Tester
• Wavecom users, be aware they are not compatible with 3 phase equipment

Another common compatibility problem involves data recording. Without a data logging feature, staying compliant becomes incredibly difficult, especially if you're testing a lot of appliances. This is a must-have feature that you can't escape and a huge reason people go towards the Primetest Pro and DeltaPAT 3309 BT models.

Dust and Dirt Challenges

There are other practical challenges, as mines are notorious for dust (especially red dust). This can pose serious challenges for your PAT Tester as fine particles will get inside and this can lead to innacurate results (this is a very common problem).

To help protect your test and tag equipment:

• Ensure you schedule your PAT Tester calibrations yearly to ensure it maintains accuracy. This is essential if you’re PAT testing on mining sites.
• You can use protective coverings to minimise dust exposure and extend the lifespan of the tester

The Best Test Tags for Mining

Using the right test tags on a mining site is absolutely crucial, as they'll need to be durable enough for the harsh conditions. This means ensuring the tag stays on and that the written information on the tag is protected. 

Thermal Transfer Tags (for Printable Tags)

• Highly durable and resistant to UV rays and extreme temperatures
• Have a longer lifespan compared to Direct Thermal Tags
• They do cost more and require a ribbon for printing (which adds to the costs)

Heavy Duty Test Tags (Standard Tags)

• This is a very popular choice and a go-to option, mainly for its durable design
• Contains a self-laminating protective film that shields written information from damage
• They can be used both indoors and outdoors
• Features superior tear resistance which is crucial

Industrial Test Tags (Standard Tags)

• An alternative option to Heavy Duty Test Tags
• These are thicker test tags that you can actually feel the difference by touch
• Features an extra strong adhesive
• Slightly more expensive than the Heavy Duty Tags and lack the protective seal

Test and Tag Colours for Mining

To comply with New Zealand Standards, mining sites must use specific test and tag colours for certain periods of the year. Often referred as the RGBY system, the colour effectively rotates every quarter.

• December to February – Red
• March to May – Green
• June to August – Blue
• September to November - Yellow

Final Tips for Test & Tag in Mining Sites

To ensure you're compliant in harsh environments and doing the right thing, it does require being prepared and understanding the unique challenges it presents. 

Here are top tips to help you stay prepared:

1. Choose the Right Equipment

Use PAT Testers that have more advanced features, such as RCD testing, 3 Phase testing and record keeping. Durability is also extremely important - entry-level testers can perform basic tasks, but they often lack the durability, robustness and functionality needed for mining sites.

2. Select the Right Test Tags

Heavy-Duty Test Tags are perfect for these conditions due to durability and ability to protect the written information. They are probably the most common type of test tag used and for good reason. For people using a printer, Thermal Transfer Tags is certainly the best option to choose as they can withstand extreme conditions. 

3. Track Test and Tag Intervals

As mining sites require testing every 3 months as a minimum, make sure you have the necassary software or a calendar to keep track of dates. In addition to this, making sure you have the right test and tag colours on-hand will ensure you remain compliant and not arrive with the wrong colour. 

4. Protect your PAT Tester

If you're not looking after your appliance tester, it will inevitbly lead to breakdowns and delays - this is something we have seen many times over the years.

Luckily, there are some simple ways to keep your tester healthy.

We highly advise you protect your tester from dust with coverings, especially in regions prone to red dust. Dust ingress is one of the main drivers for PAT Tester problems.  

It is for this reason as well that you should prioritise your PAT Tester calibrations once a year. This will ensure your results stay accurate and reliable - possibly the most important factor in testing and tagging.