New testing standard

The AS61010 standard, which specifies the minimum design safety and testing requirements for electrical equipment for testing, measurement and control, was introduced last year.

Yet "awareness within the electrical industry is generally low for small companies," commented Nuri Chorvat, Chairman of the Safety of Electrical Equipment for Measurement and Laboratory Use committee that has pioneered the AS61010 standard. Despite this, efforts by the NSW Department of Mineral Resources and industry electrical safety networks such as the Hunter Industries Electrical Safety Network in Newcastle have generated some success with increased awareness within most major manufacturing sites and coal mines.

"There have been a number of incidents over the last few years where poor quality test equipment has exploded in the hands of consumers due to poor design and materials," stated Chorvat, "[the AS61010 Standard] specifies minimum design safety and testing requirements for electrical equipment." He went on to stress the importance of purchasing products that comply with the safety standards.