Electrical industry supports new WA RCD regulations

NECA WA welcomed the recent announcement by the Western Australian Minister for Commerce, Troy Buswell, that all homes in WA will be required to fit a minimum of two residual current devices (RCDs) from 9 August 2009.

RCDs have dramatically reduced the incidence of electrocutions in homes in WA since the requirement to install them in all new homes was introduced in 2000. Unfortunately, many homes built prior to 2000 are still without RCD protection and this is the cause of almost all electrocutions that occur in domestic situations.

NECA is disturbed by reports that 29 people died unnecessarily in WA in the last 17 years because of the absence of an RCD, including eight children.

Kyle Kutasi, General Manager of NECA WA, said: “Consumer safety is paramount. That is why we strongly support the government’s stance on this issue. RCDs are a very cheap way to save lives.”

The new WA Regulations, which come into effect on 9 August, require all such homes to be fitted with a minimum of two RCDs at the point of lease or sale by no later than 8 August 2011.

Kutasi added: “Landlords should contact a licensed electrical contractor to inspect their properties and ensure they are compliant with the new regulations. Most will be happy to provide an obligation-free quote.”