Queensland seeks input on electrical safety laws

The Queensland Government is seeking business and community views on proposed changes to electrical safety laws that it says would reduce costs to business. The government is seeking feedback on three alternative regulatory proposals to replace the Electrical Safety Regulation 2002 which is due to expire this year, said Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Jarrod Bleijie.

Bleijie urged businesses and the community to have a say on the three options contained in a Regulatory Assessment Statement (RAS) currently out for consultation. The public comment period closes on Friday 26 April 2013.

“The government is committed to supporting Queensland business to improve productivity and reduce red tape,” Bleijie said.

The government believed that the test and tag requirements of the current regulation were outdated, he added. “The massive number of safety switches now installed in workplaces and homes mean that only equipment with a rating above 20 amps needs a test and tag regime,” he said.

“It is pointless to have outdated regulations that don’t improve safety but add to the cost to the consumer, which only serves as a deterrent.

Bleijie said business and community input would be vital in determining the final alternative to the current Electrical Safety Regulation 2002.

To have your say, visit www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au or call the Electrical Safety Office on 1300 650 662.