SafeWork NSW Inspectors are jump-starting 2023 with an electrical compliance operation to increase the safety and awareness of electrical hazards on worksites.
Head of SafeWork NSW, Natasha Mann said contact with overhead and underground powerlines, unsafe or non-compliant wiring and faulty or damaged equipment continue to seriously harm workers.
“Tragically a 35-year-old man was killed in Earlwood last year when he handled energised wires while completing work on an electrical circuit beneath a house,” Ms Mann said.
“A 24-year-old man also recently suffered serious burns when he touched a live electrical circuit and caused an arc flash explosion at a construction site in Sydney’s north-west.
“Between June 2020 and October 2021, compensation claims show contact with electricity resulted in two fatalities, 569 serious injuries and more than 400 dangerous incidents.”
Ms Mann said working with and around electricity can have fatal consequences and Inspectors will be engaging with businesses and employees to educate on risk and enforce compliance.
“Five additional penalties for things such as failing to conduct a risk assessment or follow overhead/underground power line controls have recently been introduced. These breaches attract on-the-spot fines of up to $3,600 for businesses and $720 for individuals,” Ms Mann said.
“On-site electrical work should only ever be conducted by a licenced person and if they are young or inexperienced, they always need to be supervised.
“Electric shock is the second leading cause of death in the construction industry. During these compliance visits we will be taking a zero-tolerance approach toward anyone not adequately protecting themselves or others against electrical risks at their workplace.”
Read more information on electrical safety.
Business owners, machinery operators, and others working near powerlines should utilise the Look up and Live application and Before You Dig Australia tools to check the location of infrastructure assets and powerlines.
Small businesses can take advantage of SafeWork’s free online safety workshops for site supervisors, $1,000 small business safety rebate, and access the many safety podcasts, checklists and toolbox talks on the SafeWork NSW website.