Test Tag Colours Guide

Test and tag colours are used for particular industries to represent the different months of the year.

Anyone working in construction, mining, marine or demolition must follow the test tag colour requirements stipulated in AS/NZS 3012 guidelines. People outside these specified industries are not required to use those electrical tag colours - they can instead use colours of their own choice.

Test Tag Colours Guide Australia

Test Tag Colours Chart 2026: VIC, NSW, SA, WA, QLD & TAS

Four test tag colours are primarily used across Australia: red, green, blue, and yellow test tags (RGBY system).

While New South Wales previously had its own colour-coding standard, it has since been aligned with the national system. As a result, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland now all follow the same test and tag colour guidelines.

In addition to the standard colours, the Australian Standard allows using other test tag colours, including orange, white, black, burgundy, and grey. Typically, you would use the non-standard colours in specific scenarios, such as annual testing of portable site offices or less frequently inspected equipment.

There is more flexibility for general industries outside of construction, demolition, or mining. You can choose any test tag colour that suits your business as long as it remains consistent. Using a dedicated colour per test cycle makes it easier to visually identify when each item is due for retesting.

Understanding and following the required test and tag intervals for your industry is essential to ensure compliance and safety.

Free printable guide

Download the 2026 Test Tag Colour Chart

Keep the correct test tag colours on hand with our easy-to-print reference chart.

 Download Printable Chart
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Frequently Asked Questions

What test tag colour should I use?

Use the colour that corresponds with the month the equipment is tested:

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

This quarterly colour cycle repeats every year, so the correct test tag colour depends on the testing month.

Which industries must use specific test tag colours?

The quarterly colour system is primarily used on construction, mining and demolition sites operating under AS/NZS 3012.

Marine and other specialised workplaces may also have regulatory, workplace or site-specific colour requirements. Businesses should follow the rules applying to their industry, state and individual worksite rather than assuming the same colour system applies everywhere.

Are test tag colours mandatory in every workplace?

No. The red, green, blue and yellow colour cycle is not mandatory for every Australian workplace.

Businesses outside industries or worksites with prescribed colour requirements can generally choose their own consistent tag colours. However, they must still comply with any applicable electrical safety, inspection, testing and record-keeping obligations.

Are test tag colours the same across Australia?

Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania use the same red, green, blue and yellow quarterly system for construction and demolition work.

However, requirements can vary according to the industry and individual worksite, so any site-specific procedures should also be checked.

Can other test tag colours be used?

Yes. Colours such as orange, white, black, burgundy and grey may be used for annual testing, longer testing intervals or other workplace-specific systems.

A business can choose its own colours provided the system remains clear and consistent.

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