Electrical Safety Tags on Op Shop Goods: What to Check

An electrical test label records a check at a particular time. It is not a lifetime safety guarantee, a product recall clearance or proof that every function works. Read the label, inspect for damage and ask what the seller has established before buying an appliance.

Do not apply one national tag rule

Queensland guidance says second-hand sellers are not required to test before offering equipment for sale, but must advise a prospective buyer when it has not been tested, subject to stated exceptions. If tested, the seller supplies information about that test.

Victoria’s second-hand goods guidance requires second-hand labelling and distinguishes tested equipment from equipment carrying an untested warning. Workplace inspection schedules under AS/NZS 3760 do not by themselves answer every retail question. Use the regulator for the state where the sale occurs.

Read the record and inspect the appliance

• Check which item the label identifies and who performed the test.
• Read the test information and any next-inspection date without treating it as a warranty expiry.
• Look for damaged plugs, taped leads, scorch marks, cracked housings and missing parts.
• Ask whether the seller has checked recalls and supplied safe-use instructions.

If information is missing, contradictory or the item appears damaged, do not plug it in to settle the question. Seek advice from an appropriately qualified person or choose another item. A powerboard light and a working switch are not electrical safety tests.

Ask about faults and consumer rights

Keep the receipt and any written description of known defects. Ask about change-of-mind terms separately from rights when goods are faulty or not as described. Salvos’ in-store return policy is an example of an operator policy; it does not set another charity’s terms.

Donors should check acceptance before handing over electrical equipment. Our electronics donation guide includes personal-data and accessories checks. Volunteers should follow the organisation’s written procedure and required qualifications, not improvise tests from an online checklist.

By Op Shops Hub Team. About our team. Updated 2 November 2026.