Overview
Check testing refers to activities undertaken to ensure that GEMS products meet the relevant determination’s GEMS level, labelling, and other requirements.
Further information may be obtained from the GEMS Check Testing Policy.
Check testing program
The GEMS Compliance Monitoring Program outlines the GEMS Regulator’s check testing focus:
The number of models and products check tested during the compliance monitoring program depends on a range of factors including the product type; the availability of models; the availability of an appropriate accredited body to conduct the check test; the accredited body’s schedule; and, the time and resources required to analyse the check test results if applicable.
Check testing results
Results of Check Tests conducted under the Compliance Monitoring Program:
GEMS product selection process
Models of GEMS products are selected for check testing using an intelligence led, risk based approach.
Check testing process
Check tests are conducted on behalf of the GEMS Regulator by National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accredited or affiliated bodies based either in Australia or overseas. These bodies must meet certain requirements in order to be able to test a GEMS product.
Check tests are performed in two stages:
Stage (1) Check Test
Usually, a single GEMS product is tested in a Stage (1) check test and must not fail to meet the requirements of the relevant GEMS determination. If the product fails, a further two or three products are tested at the registrant’s expense during Stage (2).
Stage (2) Check Tests
Where the Stage (1) check test fail relates to GEMS level requirements, specifically MEPS:
- Initially, two further GEMS products must be tested.
- If both products fail, the product model fails; if both products pass, the product model passes.
- If one product fails and one product passes, a third product is tested.
- If two of the three products fail, the product model fails.
- If two of the three products pass, the product model passes.
Where the Stage (1) check test fail relates to GEMS labelling requirements:
- Three further products must be tested.
- If two of the three products fail, the product model fails.
- If two of the three products pass, the product model passes.
However, for some products, for example, lamps, a single product/two or three products are not considered representative of the model. In these situations, alternative arrangements are made.
More information about compliance
Compliance Policy
The GEMS Compliance Policy outlines the principles adopted by the GEMS Regulator to maximise compliance with the GEMS Act
Market Surveillance
Market surveillance refers to activities undertaken by GEMS inspectors to ensure that models of GEMS products meet GEMS registration and labelling requirements once in the marketplace.
Legislation
The specific requirements for each product regulated under the GEMS Act — including Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and Energy Rating Labelling (ERL) requirements — are set out in a further legislative instrument specific to that product type called a GEMS Determination.
Report non-compliance
If you would like to contact the GEMS Regulator with information about suspected non-compliance please contact us.