Young electrical apprentice injured (19 February 2024)

A 21-year-old first year electrical apprentice was undertaking electrical work at a sewer pump station when he sustained an electric shock and minor burns to his hand. The worker came in contact with live wires, causing him to be thrown back into another worker, who also received an electric shock.

Incident site showing operator control panel that the electrical apprentice was performing work on.
Incident site showing operator control panel that the electrical apprentice was performing work on.
Incident site showing operator control panel that the electrical apprentice was performing work on.
                                                                              

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with undertaking electrical work.

Ensure:

  • only appropriately licensed electricians carry out and/or supervise electrical work
  • a licensed electrician tests electrical equipment to ensure it is de-energised before working on it. Work on live electrical equipment is prohibited in NSW unless one or more of the following exceptions apply:
  • it is necessary in the interests of health and safety that the electrical work is carried out on the equipment while the equipment is energised. For example, it may be necessary that life-saving equipment remain energised and operating while electrical work is carried out on the equipment, or
  • it is necessary that the electrical equipment to be worked on is energised for the work to be carried out properly, or
  • it is necessary for the purposes of testing required under clause 155, or
  • there is no reasonable alternative means of carrying out the work.
  • all energy sources are identified and effectively isolated, such as stand-by systems, generators, photovoltaic systems as well as auxiliary supplies from other switch boards
  • energised conductors are insulated and/or isolated to prevent inadvertent contact or flashovers
  • the power is switched off and the isolation switch is locked out / tagged out  (or metre box itself) to prevent any unexpected startup  or inadvertent contact with live parts
  • electrical work is carried out from a position that minimises the risk of contact with exposed energised parts and the risk of an electric shock path being created
  • a safe work method statement (SWMS) is developed in consultation with relevant workers that outlines the hazards, risks, and control measures and is followed
  • workers have been consulted regarding site specific information/controls, for example toolbox talk
  • adequate training, supervision and assistance are provided to less experienced or young workers
  • a safe system of work is developed and followed by all workers
  • communication is maintained between workers when working in isolation, for example the use of two-way radios
  • appropriate PPE is worn by all workers
  • workers test equipment prior to use
  • an emergency plan is prepared.

Statistics

Electrical work is the second leading cause of traumatic fatalities in construction in NSW. Since 2020, there have been more than 1,000 incidents and nearly 600 injuries recorded by SafeWork NSW.

Related guidance material

Further information

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