An electrician has been fined $4,000 after leaving live cables exposed at an East Perth home, putting residents at risk of electric shock.

The licenced electrical contractor and electrical worker pleaded guilty at Perth Magistrates Court to breaching WA’s electricity licensing regulations by carrying out non-compliant work.

The court heard the man was contracted in July 2020 to carry out electrical installing work in the bathroom and laundry. This included installing several 240-volt cables, which were left hanging from the ceiling and walls for later connection to lights and socket outlets.

A subsequent inspection revealed the cables were left energised at a potentially lethal voltage level, with the “live” unterminated ends only covered in tape.

This was in breach of the regulations, which require energised and accessible components to be left with adequate protection against direct contact with live parts, such as robust insulation and appropriate enclosures.

Safety at the workplace is an essential for every business. Master Electricians have unlimited access to the Technical and Safety hotlines. Speak to the experts and make sure your business is operating safely. Phone 1300 889 198.

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