Workplace safety is of paramount importance in the electrical industry. Unfortunately, a recent incident in Nollamara, Western Australia, serves as a tragic reminder of the hazards electrical contractors can face while working in roof spaces. The incident, which led to the fatality of an electrical worker, underscores the critical need for ensuring a safe workspace and adhering to best practises in the industry.

The Western Australian Government, through Building and Energy, has been investigating the unfortunate fatality of an electrical worker in a roof space over the weekend. This tragic event has prompted us to raise awareness about the potential dangers faced by electrical contractors and the measures that can prevent such accidents from occurring.

Related Articles

• Electrical safety regulator investigating Nollamara death
• Guidance note – Working in roof spaces

Understanding the risks

Roof spaces, be it in residential or commercial premises, can pose significant electrical hazards. The potential for electric shocks is alarmingly high, making it essential for all tradespersons entering a roof space to prioritise safety above all else. Some of the hazards include:

• Exposed live electrical conductors or wiring: Electrical contractors may encounter live wires or conductors while working in roof spaces, leading to fatal consequences if proper precautions are not taken.
• Unenclosed joints in conductors: Inadequately protected joints in conductors increase the risk of electrical accidents and potential electrocution.
• Deteriorated electrical cabling: Older buildings might have degraded electrical cabling, which can pose serious risks if disturbed during work.
• Substandard and unsafe past electrical work: Previous shoddy electrical work, can become a hidden danger for those entering the roof space.
• Damaged cables: Cables chewed by rodents, geckos, or other factors may expose electrical conductors, creating a hazardous situation.
• Metallised foil insulation: If not installed correctly, metallised foil insulation can become energized and lead to severe electrical accidents.

The Importance of Turning Off Mains Power

Safety is paramount for electrical contractors. One vital safety measure that applies nationwide is the need to switch off the power at the main switchboard/meter box before entering a roof space. While this practice is legally required in Western Australia, it is strongly advised for all electrical contractors working in residential and commercial roof spaces, no matter where they operate. This simple yet crucial step significantly reduces the risk of electrocution and other electrical accidents, safeguarding both contractors and those around them.

Roof Space Safety Tips

Emphasizing the utmost importance of safety when working in roof spaces, one crucial safety measure that we strongly advocate for is to switch-off the electricity at the main switchboard/meter box before commencing any work. To ensure the well-being of electrical contractors we recommend the following safety practises:

• Perform a thorough risk assessment: Before entering a roof space, conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential hazards and plan accordingly.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): Always wear the necessary PPE, such as insulated gloves and footwear, to minimize the risk of electric shock.
• Stay updated with safety guidelines: Keep abreast of the latest safety guidelines and recommendations from relevant authorities to ensure your practices align with the best safety standards.
• Continuous training and education: Regularly train and educate your team members to instil a safety-first culture within your organization.

The recent tragedy in Nollamara serves as a stark reminder that electrical contractors must never compromise on safety. Master Electricians Australia extends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased worker. We urge all electrical contractors to prioritise workplace safety, particularly when working in roof spaces, and to always adhere to the guidelines set forth by relevant authorities. Let us collectively strive to create a safer working environment for everyone in the electrical industry and prevent such tragic and avoidable incidents from occurring in the future.