Labelling requirements by industry

What the Australian standards require to be labelled, with the clause each requirement comes from. Wording in capitals is the wording the standard gives. See also the list of standards, or order the labels for your state from the compliance label kits.

Switchboards and distribution boardsSolar and inverter systemsBattery storageGenerators and alternative suppliesOther energy sources and electric vehiclesState differences

Switchboards and distribution boards

Homes, shops, offices and industrial sites (AS/NZS 3000).

MAIN SWITCH
Each main switch, readily distinguishable from other switchgear by grouping or contrasting colour. With more than one, say which installation or part each controls.
3000 cl 2.3.3.5 · Switchboard labels
MAIN SWITCHBOARD
The main switchboard, permanently marked. A room door and building entries also need a notice if the board is in a room.
3000 cl 2.10.2.4 · Custom label
Circuit identification
Every circuit protective device, so each circuit and the equipment it supplies can be identified.
3000 cl 2.10.5.2 · Switchboard labels
Active, neutral and earth bars
Bars identified as active, neutral or earth (unless the conductor colours show it).
3000 cl 2.10.5.3 · Panel strips
MEN connection and main neutral terminals
Legibly and indelibly marked at the main neutral bar (for example MAINS NEUTRAL).
3000 cl 2.10.5.4 · Switchboard labels
Common neutral
Where one neutral serves two or more circuits, marked to show which actives it belongs to.
3000 cl 2.10.5.5 · Custom label
Switch for an appliance (for example a cooking surface)
Marked to identify the appliance it controls.
3000 cl 4.18 · Switchboard labels
Other supplies in the building
A prominent notice at each main switchboard showing other supplies and where the other main switchboards are.
3000 cl 2.3.3.5(d) · Custom label
Labels in English, permanent, indelible and legible
All labels. Victoria's guide is laminate with lettering at least 6 mm high.
VSIR 2022, Labelling

Solar and inverter systems

Grid-connected inverter energy systems (AS/NZS 4777.1:2024) and PV arrays (AS/NZS 5033:2021).

MAIN SWITCH (INVERTER)
Main switch for the solar supply. The energy source may be added, for example MAIN SWITCH (SOLAR INVERTER). Number or name several inverters.
4777.1 cl 6.3(a); 3000 cl 2.3.3.5(e) · Switchboard labels
MAIN SWITCH (GRID)
Grid supply main switch, where the inverter is connected to the main switchboard. "Mains" or "normal" may replace "grid".
4777.1 cl 6.3(b) · Switchboard labels
MAIN ISOLATOR (GRID)
Main isolator of a distribution board that the inverter is connected to.
4777.1 cl 6.3(c) · Switchboard labels
INVERTER A.C. ISOLATOR
Isolators next to the inverter, with a name or number that matches the shutdown procedure.
4777.1 cl 6.6 · Switchboard labels
WARNING / MULTIPLE SUPPLIES / ISOLATE ALL SUPPLIES BEFORE WORKING ON THIS SWITCHBOARD
Prominent, on the switchboard the inverter connects to.
4777.1 cl 6.3(g) · Custom label
WARNING / MULTIPLE SUPPLIES / ISOLATE INVERTER SUPPLY AT DISTRIBUTION SWITCHBOARD / [LOCATION]
On the main switchboard and each board between it and the board the inverter connects to.
4777.1 cl 6.4 · Custom label
MULTIPLE SUPPLIES (and where the shutdown procedure is)
At the fire panel, where the building has one.
4777.1 cl 6.2 · Custom label
Shutdown procedure
Next to the equipment to be operated, using the same names as the device labels.
4777.1 cl 6.2; 5033 cl 5.7 · Custom label
WARNING: MULTIPLE MODE INVERTER CONNECTED / NEUTRAL AND EARTH CIRCUITS MAY BE LIVE UNDER NORMAL AND FAULT CONDITIONS
Main switchboard and boards between it and the inverter board (multiple-mode inverters).
4777.1 cl 6.8 · Custom label
Warning: all energy sources must be turned off to isolate
Next to the inverter, where more than one energy source is connected.
4777.1 cl 6.11.1 · Custom label
PV ARRAY d.c. ISOLATOR
Each load-break DC isolator, in a prominent place.
5033 cl 5.5.2.1 · Switchboard labels
WARNING: MULTIPLE d.c. SOURCES / TURN OFF ALL d.c. ISOLATORS TO ISOLATE EQUIPMENT
Next to the inverter, when isolators are not ganged.
5033 cl 5.5.2.1 · Custom label
WARNING: HAZARDOUS d.c. VOLTAGE
Junction boxes with PV DC terminations; ceiling and floor spaces with solar cable (text at least 10 mm high).
5033 cl 5.3.1.2, 5.3.2 · Custom label
SOLAR
On conduit, trunking or cable, at intervals of 2 m or less, visible after installation.
5033 cl 5.3.1.1 · Custom label
WARNING: PV STRING DISCONNECTION POINT
On the module or structure within 300 mm of a string disconnection point. Another warning goes within 100 mm on both cables.
5033 cl 5.5.2.2 · Custom label
WARNING: PV ARRAY d.c. ISOLATORS DO NOT DE-ENERGIZE THE PV ARRAY AND PV CABLES.
On the shutdown procedure.
5033 cl 5.7 · Custom label
Green reflector sign, 100 mm or larger, with PV (and AC, DP or SW below)
On or next to the meter panel and main switchboard.
5033 cl 5.4
PV (Solar) site information plan
At the main switchboard, meter box or fire panel. White lettering on a red background.
5033 cl 5.6
Fuse holders: do not withdraw the fuse under load
A warning label on fuse holders.
5033 cl 5.8 · Custom label

Battery storage

Battery systems and battery energy storage systems (AS/NZS 5139:2019, with 4777.1 for the inverter side).

MAIN SWITCH (ALTERNATIVE)
Main switch for the battery (alternative) supply. If one switch serves both solar and battery, use this wording. The source may be added, for example - BATTERY.
4777.1 cl 6.3(d); 3000 cl 2.3.3.5(e) · Switchboard labels
BATTERY SYSTEM D.C. ISOLATOR
The battery isolation device, including a circuit breaker used as the main battery isolator. Number them if there are several.
5139 cl 7.12.2, 7.13.1 · Switchboard labels
WARNING -- MULTIPLE BATTERY SYSTEMS / TURN OFF ALL BATTERY SYSTEM ISOLATORS TO ISOLATE EQUIPMENT
Next to the power conversion equipment, where batteries are in parallel with several isolators.
5139 cl 7.12.3 · Custom label
WARNING -- DO NOT DISCONNECT UNDER LOAD
Next to each disconnector in DVC-B and DVC-C systems.
5139 cl 7.12.4 · Custom label
BATTERY
Coloured labels on battery cabling every 2 m or less, or on conduit.
5139 cl 7.14 · Custom label
Green reflector sign, 100 mm or larger, with ES and the UN number (for example UN 3480)
On or next to the main metering panel and main switchboard.
5139 cl 7.3
DANGER, restricted access
Next to the battery enclosure or on the room doors. PPE and arc flash signs go next to it.
5139 cl 7.5 · Custom label
Battery System, short-circuit current (A), maximum d.c. voltage (V), and Hazardous d.c. voltage above DVC-A
Next to the enclosure or on the room doors.
5139 cl 7.6 · Custom label
Danger, Risk of Battery Explosion (sign at least 175 mm x 175 mm)
On the approach to explosive-gas battery types.
5139 cl 7.8
Danger, toxic fumes / chemical hazard / arc flash
Next to the enclosure or on the room doors, where the battery type carries that hazard.
5139 cl 7.9 to 7.11 · Custom label
Identification name or number on each disconnection and overcurrent device
Readable from 1 m, and matching the wiring diagram and shutdown procedure.
5139 cl 7.12.1, 7.13.1 · Switchboard labels

Generators and alternative supplies

Alternative supply: generating sets (AS/NZS 3010:2017), changeover devices and battery or multiple-mode inverters (AS/NZS 3000:2018, 4777.1:2024).

MAIN SWITCH (ALTERNATIVE)
Main switch for an alternative supply from an inverter, in the switchboard it supplies. The energy source may be added, for example - BATTERY. AS/NZS 3000 cl 2.3.3.5(e) asks for the energy source.
4777.1 cl 5.3.6.2, 5.7.5.2, 6.3(d); 3000 cl 2.3.3.5(e) · Switchboard labels
Notice showing where the alternative supply main switch is
At the main switchboard, where opening a main switch brings an alternative supply into operation or isolates it.
3000 cl 2.3.3.5(c) · Custom label
Purpose of the changeover device and its switching positions
Permanently marked in English on the device. Its terminals are marked with the sources of supply. Where it automatically brings an alternative supply into service, the purpose is marked accordingly.
3010 cl 2.7.8; 3000 cl 2.3.4.4 and 7.3.8.1.2; 4777.1 cl 5.7 · Custom label
ISOLATED output generating set only. RCD protected and centre tapped generating sets shall not be connected.
On any inlet connection fitting provided for a generating set, permanently marked to show its purpose.
3010 cl 4.2.6 · Metal label
GENERATING SET POWER ONLY
On the appliance inlet, the overcurrent device and all socket outlets of a dedicated portable-generator wiring system.
3010 App. C2(b)(ii) · Switchboard labels
CAUTION: NEUTRAL-EARTH CONNECTIONS ARE LOCATED AT THE GENERATING SETS
On each switchboard supplied by the generators, where the neutral-earth connection stays in the generating sets (upgrades of 35% or less). A similar CAUTION: INSTALLATION NEUTRAL-EARTH CONNECTION LOCATED WITHIN GENERATING SETS applies in the other case.
3010 cl 2.8.2 · Custom label
For generating set connections only
On the neutral and earth busbars used for system-of-supply conversion.
3010 Section 2 (earthing arrangements, Figure notes) · Custom label
Generating set rating plate and warnings
Marked on the set: maker, model, fuel, rating, NOT WEATHERPROOF or the IP rating, and the warning that the output is potentially lethal and must not be connected by fixed wiring except by a licensed person.
3010 App. D8 · Metal label
Alternative supply from a multiple-mode inverter (battery)
See Battery storage and Solar. Also the WARNING / MULTIPLE MODE INVERTER CONNECTED sign on the main switchboard and boards in between.
4777.1 cl 6.8 · Custom label

Other energy sources and electric vehicles

Wind turbines, EV reverse power transfer and anything without its own standard (AS/NZS 4777.1:2024).

<ENERGY SOURCE, TYPE> ISOLATOR (for example WIND TURBINE, A.C. ISOLATOR)
Each local isolator, with a name or number matching the shutdown procedure.
4777.1 cl 6.11.3.1(c) · Switchboard labels
Green reflector sign, 100 mm or larger, with ENERGY SOURCE
On or next to the meter box and main switchboard.
4777.1 cl 6.11.3.1(b)
Green reflector sign, 100 mm or larger, with EV
On or next to the meter box and main switchboard, where an EV can feed power back.
4777.1 cl 6.11.2
Energy source cable and conduit identification (for example WIND)
At intervals of 2 m or less, with the type of energy source.
4777.1 cl 6.11.3.2 · Custom label
ISOLATED OUTPUT INVERTER ONLY / RCD PROTECTED AND EQUIPOTENTIALLY BONDED INVERTERS SHALL NOT BE CONNECTED.
On the inlet plug of a portable inverter energy system.
4777.1 cl 6.10 · Metal label
LIMITED POWER OUTPUT / ONLY AVAILABLE WHEN GRID POWER IS INTERRUPTED
Next to the substitute-supply socket outlet of a multiple-mode inverter.
4777.1 cl 6.9 · Custom label
WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE IPSD SENSING DEVICES
On the switchboard panel hiding the sensors.
4777.1 cl 6.12.2 · Custom label

Differences between states and territories

The standards above apply everywhere. Each distributor then adds its own labelling rules in its Service and Installation Rules. Where a state does not appear to add anything, it follows the national standards.

South Australia

SA Power Networks Service and Installation Rules, May 2025 (cl 5.17, 7.4.1, 9.2)
  • Main switches are numbered. A single home is MAIN SWITCH 1 of 1. A home with solar and a back-up is MAIN SWITCH 1 of 3 GRID, MAIN SWITCH 2 of 3 SOLAR and MAIN SWITCH 3 of 3 BACK-UP SUPPLY. This differs from the national wording (MAIN SWITCH (GRID), (INVERTER), (ALTERNATIVE)).
  • The installer who adds solar, a battery or a generator must update the main switch labels.
  • All main switches must also be listed permanently at the main switchboard, for example inside the door.
  • Panel and meter isolators have set names: MAIN SWITCH 1-1 with PANEL ISOLATOR, PANEL - A - ISOLATOR, and METER ISOLATOR.
  • Labels must be block lettering at least 6 mm high, permanent and legible. Other labels named: SAPN LOAD LIMITING DEVICE, and Unprotected mains bonding conductor.
  • A prominent label is needed at the consumer terminals and main switchboard where an alternative supply exists.

New South Wales

Service and Installation Rules of NSW, April 2026 (cl 1.17.9, 4.9, 4.10, 4.12.3, 4.16)
  • Warning labels on the main switchboard must be white lettering at least 6 mm high, permanently engraved on a red background.
  • Main switch labels must be readily distinguishable from other labels. Different colours may be used. For boards rated 100 A or less, main switch labels may be the same colour as the others.
  • Main switches for lifts and fire services are white on red. Abbreviations such as DB 7 or MCC2 are not acceptable.
  • Each main switchboard needs a permanently engraved label with the 1-second fault rating, manufacturer, identification and IP rating.
  • Labels are required for the service active link, the service neutral link, and the location of the MEN connection. A schedule is required for each distribution section.
  • Alternative supplies (generators): a prominent warning on the main switchboard, for example "WARNING: Private generating plant will automatically be connected to this switchboard on loss of electricity distributor supply." and where to isolate it.
  • Several services: a diagram on each main switchboard, and every distribution board labelled with the service it is supplied from.

Victoria

Victorian Service and Installation Rules, Amendment 3, October 2022 (cl 5.4, 6.5.1, 6.8, 7.10, 8.10)
  • Labels must be English, permanent, indelible and legible. The guide is laminate with lettering at least 6 mm high.
  • A label reading "Supply Protection Device" at or next to the SPD enclosure.
  • The nominated supply capacity in amps on switchboards over 125 A per phase.
  • "UN-METERED SWITCH" on switches on the line side of grouped metering. "Occupancy Disconnection Device, TO BE OPERATED BY AUTHORISED PERSONS ONLY" on an ODD controlling CT metering.
  • Meter panels labelled with the street address, and consumer terminals labelled where several sets share a supply point.
  • A standby generator that switches with a break before make is an alternative supply. An embedded generator, or a make-before-break backup, is a supplementary supply.

Western Australia

Western Australian Service and Installation Requirements, sixth edition 2023 Revision 3, April 2023 (cl 11.4.9, 15.17)
  • Labels follow the WA Electrical Requirements, AS/NZS 61439, AS/NZS 3000, 4777 and 5033. The neutral link is labelled "Neutral Reference Neutral Link" and the active links "Service Active Links".
  • Every single dwelling board must show its point of supply. Labels must not be written on meters or meter covers.
  • Generation systems: all isolation and control devices labelled, and all switchboards upstream of a sub board connection also labelled.
  • Several generation sources need prominent labels at the source and at the point of supply showing each source, its type, isolation points, the type and location of switching, and the shutdown sequence.
  • PV cables: coloured SOLAR labels at 2 m intervals or less, and conduit labelled SOLAR at each end and at each change of direction.
  • The completion notice confirms labels on all main switches, sub-main protection and distribution boards. WA Government guidance also asks for a drawing of remote battery bank locations at the main switchboard.

ACT

Evoenergy Service and Installation Rules, 2025 version 12 (cl 5.7.8)
  • Warning labels on the main switchboard follow AS/NZS 3000 and other standards. Evoenergy may require more where needed.
  • Labels at each main switchboard define the area or equipment it supplies and show the presence and location of other supplies. Each distribution board is labelled with the main switchboard it is supplied from.
  • Service neutral link and meter neutral link labels. Multiple-occupancy meter panels labelled for occupancy.

Tasmania

TasNetworks Service and Installation Rules, version 8.4 (September 2023)
  • Labelling follows AS/NZS 3000. The main protective device is called the Installation Protection Device (IPD), or Main Switch on multiple-tenancy sites.
  • Underground consumer mains are labelled with the property address using indelible, legible tags such as engraved laminate.
  • Labelling and signage at multiple points of supply and the main switchboards, and a schedule or label on unmetered supplies (load, description, install date).
  • No Tasmanian wording for solar or alternative supply labels was found beyond the national standards.

Queensland

Energex and Ergon Energy Network STNW3510 Dynamic Standard for Small IES Connections, release 3, 21 February 2025 (cl 4.1)
  • Clause 4.1 says the labels and signs on the IES, including cables, must meet AS/NZS 4777.1, AS/NZS 3000, AS/NZS 5033 and AS/NZS 5139. It adds no Queensland-only wording, sizes or colours.
  • So the national labels apply as they stand: MAIN SWITCH (GRID), (INVERTER) and (ALTERNATIVE), the isolator labels, the multiple supplies warnings and the SOLAR and BATTERY cable markers.
  • Only this Dynamic Standard was read. The main Standard for Small IES Connections (STNW1170) was not, but it is understood to point to the same standards.

Northern Territory

Power and Water Service and Installation Rules 2024 (NP018), July 2024 (cl 3.22.3, 3.23, 5.4, 7.5 and the generator connection rule)
  • A notice on the main switchboard must show that an alternative supply exists (a generator or similar), its point of control and the conditions under which it may be operated (cl 7.5(b)). The wording is not fixed, so it is written for each site.
  • Where there is more than one point of supply, each is clearly marked at the main switch and the metering point to show that other points of supply exist (cl 3.22.3(a)). On commercial sites a diagram is fixed next to each main switch, or a notice says where the diagrams are kept.
  • Labels at each main switchboard define the areas or equipment it supplies and show the presence and location of other supplies. Each distribution board is labelled with the main switchboard it is supplied from (cl 5.4(b) and (c)).
  • A main switchboard with more than one incoming supply must be labelled to explain the steps needed to close the bus tie (cl 3.23(b)).
  • Portable generator connection: the earthing conductor from the generator to the main earth bar is labelled "Generator Earth", and the neutral conductor at the main neutral bar, next to the MEN point, is labelled "Generator Neutral".
  • A changeover switch with an off position between the two on positions may serve as the main switch if it is labelled correctly. Switchboards need a logical identification system, with every circuit marked with the board it is supplied from (cl 3.22.3(d)).
  • NP018 does not give wording for solar, inverter or battery main switch labels, so AS/NZS 4777.1, 5033 and 5139 apply for those. It still refers to AS/NZS 3000-2000 and AS/NZS 3010:2017 in places.

How signs should look

Please note

This is a guide, not a substitute for the standards. Standards are amended and replaced, and state regulators add their own rules. The installer remains responsible for the right labels and wording for the installation and for following the current edition of each standard.