Section 3.2 Maintenance and General Compliance

Why We Ask These Questions: 

  • To keep your depot running without hiccups, protect stock and people, and stay on the right side of the law. 
  •  Well-maintained systems stop breakdowns, contamination and compliance issues. 

What It’s Based On: 

  • WHS Regulations – Electrical safety (rr 147–149) and general facilities upkeep (Part 4) 
  • Heavy Vehicle National Law s 111 – Container Weight Declarations for export loads 
  • AS/NZS 3760:2022 – In-service testing and tagging of electrical gear 
  • COP: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities – Pest control (s 5.2), plumbing and amenities (s 5.1) 
  • COP: Managing the Risk of COVID-19 – Outbreak response and communicable-disease policies 

What We’re Looking For: 

Question Why It Matters What You Need to Show 
Electrical items tested and tagged Ensures portable and fixed electrical equipment is safe, preventing shocks and fires. Current Test & Tag certificates (AS/NZS 3760:2022) for all relevant items. 
Pest-control service certificate/invoice Regular pest control keeps goods and premises hygienic and prevents infestations. Latest service certificate or invoice from a licensed pest-control provider. 
Plumbing and drainage systems operational Prevents leaks that can damage goods, create slip hazards or disrupt operations. Maintenance records or service reports confirming plumbing and drainage are in good working order. 
Communicable-disease policy in place Manages infection-control measures and meets health-advice requirements. Policy document, proof of staff communication and any site-specific protocols in place. 
Container Weight Declarations used Mandatory for export containers in participating jurisdictions—avoids penalties and loading accidents. Sample signed Container Weight Declaration forms for relevant consignments. 

TEST AND TAG – ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT SAFETY 

Standard Reference: 

  • AS/NZS 3760:2022 – In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment and RCDs. 

Frequency Guide: 

State/Territory Office (low-risk) Depot & Vehicle Notes 
NSW Every 5 years Every 12 months Follows AS/NZS 3760 intervals via Model WHS Regulations. 
VIC Every 5 years Every 12 months Applies AS/NZS 3760 through Building Regulations 2018 (Schedule 8). 
QLD Every 5 years Every 12 months Mandated by Electrical Safety Regulation 2013, Part 6. 
SA Every 5 years Every 12 months Adopts AS/NZS 3760 intervals under WHS Regulations 2012. 
WA Every 5 years Every 12 months References AS/NZS 3760 in WHS (General) Regulations 2022. 
TAS Every 5 years Every 12 months Uses AS/NZS 3760 under WHS Regulations 2012. 
ACT Every 5 years Every 12 months Follows the Model WHS Regulations adopted in the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. 
NT Every 5 years Every 12 months Applies Model WHS Regulations; intervals recommended but not strictly enforced by law. 

PEST CONTROL SERVICE CERTIFICATE/INVOICE 

When: Per site-specific risk – low‐risk areas (standard offices): annually 
Reference: Model Code of Practice Managing the Work Environment and Facilities s 5.2 (recommends service frequency based on site‐specific hazard assessment) 

PLUMBING AND DRAINING SYSTEM  

When: Perform a full inspection and servicing of plumbing and drainage systems at least once a year. 
Reference: COP Managing the Work Environment and Facilities s 5.1