An electrical contractor’s licence was suspended after they failed to implement safe work systems and ensure an electrical worker was competent, leading to the worker receiving arc flash burns.

Queensland’s Electrical Licencing Committee took action against multiple electrical contractors in April and May for failing to implement, or breaching, safe work systems.

Six-month suspension after live cable not identified

An electrical contractor did not have sufficient testing procedures in place while performing a switchboard upgrade.

A live cable was therefore not identified creating a risk of electric shock.

The contractor’s licence was suspended for six months, and he must complete two approved electrical safety system audits from an independent auditor prior to the suspension being lifted. He was also fined $800 which will be listed on the licensing public register for three years.

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Contractor suspended after worker received shock

An electrical contractor’s licence has been suspended for six months after he failed to implement safe systems of work and procedures while working on an electrical installation of a new office space.

The electrical installation did not comply with the Wiring Rules and an unterminated cable was not identified. Another worker contacted the cable and received a shock.

The contractor’s licence was suspended for six months, and he must complete two approved electrical safety systems audits from an independent auditor prior to the suspension being lifted. He was also fined $800 which will be listed on the licensing public search register for three years.

Worker shocked after contractor failed to ensure safe system of work and another worker did not complete testing

An electrical contractor failed to ensure safe systems of work when his worker failed to complete testing, resulting in another worker receiving a shock.

The contractor did not manage risks to account for changing work environments that saw workers complete fit off, commissioning and energising work at the same time, while also managing time constraints.

The contractor’s licence was suspended for six months, and he must complete two approved electrical safety system audits from an independent auditor prior to the suspension being lifted. He was also fined $2000 which will be listed on the licensing public register for three years.

Worker burned after contractor failed to implement safe systems of work or check competency

A worker received arc flash burns after an electrical contractor failed to implement safe systems of work and did not ensure the electrical worker was competent.

The contractor also failed to ensure PPE was worn and electrical test equipment was fit for the purpose of the work.

The contractor’s licence was suspended for six months, and he must complete two approved electrical safety system audits from an independent auditor prior to the suspension being lifted. He was also fined $800 which will be listed on the licensing public register for three years.

Master Electricians have unlimited, direct access to the MEA Technical and Safety teams. Ensure you have the support you need to run your business safely. Call direct on 1800 889 198.