Why Events and Pop-Up Installations Carry Higher Electrical Risk

Temporary environments create unique safety challenges. Equipment is frequently transported, set up quickly, and dismantled just as fast. Because of this, electrical items face higher stress and damage risk.

Common risk factors include:

• Frequent plugging and unplugging of equipment

• Extension leads running across public walkways

• Outdoor exposure to weather and moisture

• Shared power sources between multiple vendors

• Short setup times that limit visual checks

• High foot traffic near electrical equipment

As a result, even new or recently used equipment can become unsafe without warning.

What Equipment Needs to Be Tested and Tagged at Events?

Any portable electrical equipment used at an event or pop-up installation should be included in testing. If it plugs into a power point or generator, it should be checked before use.

Common items we test and tag for events

• Extension leads and power boards

• Lighting rigs and portable lights

• Sound systems, speakers, and amplifiers

• DJ equipment and audio controllers

• Food stall appliances such as toasters, fryers, and coffee machines

• Refrigeration units and drink fridges

• EFTPOS machines and charging stations

• Fans, heaters, and portable air equipment

• Display screens and promotional signage

In addition, staff area appliances like kettles and microwaves also matter, especially at multi-day events.

Common Electrical Hazards Found at Events

Because events move quickly, the same hazards appear again and again. Thankfully, test and tag inspections help catch them early.

1. Damaged leads from transport and setup

Cables often get bent, crushed, or twisted during transport. Over time, this damages internal wiring, even when the outside looks fine.

2. Unsafe power boards and overloaded circuits

Multiple vendors may draw power from the same source. Because of that, power boards can overheat, especially when used incorrectly.

3. Outdoor exposure and moisture risk

Outdoor events expose equipment to rain, dew, and humidity. As a result, electrical items can become unsafe very quickly.

4. Trip hazards and strained connections

Leads running across walkways increase trip risks and place strain on plugs. This can loosen connections and cause electrical faults.

How Test and Tag Services Support Event Safety and Compliance

Test and tag services do more than meet requirements. They actively reduce risk and help organisers run smoother events.

Benefits of test and tag services for events

• Reduce the risk of electric shock in public areas

• Protect staff, contractors, and attendees

• Identify unsafe equipment before the event starts

• Support compliance with venue and council requirements

• Provide clear records for organisers and insurers

For event organisers, safety planning builds trust and reduces last-minute issues.

What to Expect During a Test and Tag Service Visit

We understand that events run on tight schedules. Therefore, our process is fast, organised, and flexible.

A standard service includes:

1. Visual inspection of all listed equipment

2. Electrical testing using calibrated instruments

3. Clear pass or fail tags with dates

4. A digital compliance report for your records

If any items fail, we clearly identify them so they can be removed or replaced before the event begins.