Electrical death prompts calls for greater vigilance

NECA is calling on government to adopt its policy relating to Home Safety Electrical Audits, following the recent death of a young man in Sydney.

Although it is unclear whether the 25-year-old was an electrician, he was working in the roof space of a residence when he was electrocuted. SafeWork NSW is investigating the incident and NECA says as the sixth such fatality over the last year, vigilance when it comes to working in or on roof spaces is now a priority.

NECA CEO Suresh Manickam said, “At this point in time we are unsure as to whether this young man was an electrician. But with six electrical industry-related fatalities in or on roof spaces in little over a year, we must become more vigilant in how this type of work is managed.”

The association points out that most roof spaces are generally dirty, hot, restricted environments that can be full of hazards. The nature of the physical volume to operate in such an environment can also have a psychological impact on decision-making, meaning greater vigilance is needed.

Adopting the Home Safety Electrical Audits policy and undertaking routine electrical safety checks in residential or commercial property will provide a clear signal to property owners with respect to safety standard adequacy. Such a signal should then give rise to property owners who will act to improve the wiring (and safety) standards of their property.

“We urge business operators, managers and tradespeople to work together to put in place more effective health and safety measures, and to ensure appropriate staff training is conducted to minimise the risk of serious injuries or possible fatalities. Collectively, we can work to eliminate such tragedies. We extend our condolences to this young man’s family,” Manickam said.