Reminder on need for RCDs with hand-held electrical tools

WorkSafe has issued a reminder to workplaces that residual current devices (RCDs) need to be fitted to electrical circuits wherever hand-held electrical tools are to be used.

WorkSafe WA commissioner Nina Lyhne said recent incidents investigated by WorkSafe prompted the reminder: "Over the past few months, inspectors have investigated two instances in regional areas of electric shocks, and in both cases RCDs had not been fitted in commercial premises. Sadly, 12 Western Australians have died in work-related incidents involving electricity over the past five years, and this does not show any signs of improving.

"WA's workplace safety laws require that non-portable RCDs be fitted to electrical circuits where hand-held electrical equipment is used, and building owners, property managers and tenants in commercial buildings all share the responsibility of ensuring they are installed."

The person in control of the workplace has the choice of installing a fixed RCD at the switchboard to provide blanket protection for the building, or installing RCDs at selected fixed socket outlets where hand-held tools are used.

"The bottom line is that people in control of workplaces need to assess all risks associated with electrical power cords, fittings, machinery and tools," Lyhne said. "They then need to assess each hazard for the likelihood of injury and develop and implement safe work procedures that minimise the risk of workers being injured, for example installing RCDs. There are many different causes of electric shock and electrocution, but they all have one thing in common - they can be prevented."