Electrician fined following electric shocks to homeowner 

A recent incident in Western Australia has put the spotlight back on electrical safety. An electrician was fined after a job gone wrong led to a homeowner being shocked. This event is a crucial wake-up call to revisit the safety practices that keep everyone safe. 

A case of negligence 

A homeowner narrowly escaped serious injury after receiving multiple electric shocks due to a wiring error by an electrician, who failed to detect the mistake. The licensed electrical worker with NTE Contracting Pty Ltd, was fined $5,000 by the Manjimup Magistrates Court for breaching electricity licensing regulations. The incident occurred when the worker and an apprentice replaced a private power pole at the homeowner’s property but did not properly inspect the wiring work, leading to transposed active and neutral conductors. This oversight made earthed metal objects in the house live with electricity. The magistrate highlighted the gravity of the offense, considering the potential for life-threatening consequences, despite the worker’s early guilty plea and remorse. 

WA’s Director of Energy Safety, Saj Abdoolakhan, commented on the incident, stating, “A simple visual check of the work would have immediately revealed the wiring error instead of putting someone’s life at risk. This case is a clear example of why checks and tests of all electrical installing work are mandatory. There is no place for complacency when the stakes are so high.” Abdoolakhan also used this opportunity to remind electrical contractors and supervising workers of their critical responsibilities, particularly in overseeing apprentices, concluding with a commendation for the homeowner’s prompt action in contacting Western Power after experiencing the shock. 

Legal requirements and responsibilities  

In Western Australia, electricians and property owners must comply with stringent legal requirements to ensure electrical safety. Electricians are obligated to conduct thorough inspections and testing before completing any job. Property owners, on the other hand, must ensure that any electrical work is carried out by licensed professionals and that their private power infrastructure is regularly maintained. 

 The document “Safe Working Guidelines and Assessment for Electrical Apprentices” issued by the Director of Energy Safety in Western Australia provides comprehensive guidelines for ensuring the safety of electrical apprentices. It covers the responsibilities of both employers and apprentices, the dangers of working with electricity, and the importance of electrical isolation and de-energisation of equipment. It also details the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), general safety tips, and the levels of supervision required for apprentices. 

Here’s a summary of the detailed safety advice: 

• Responsibilities: Employers must provide a safe working environment, proper training, and effective supervision. Apprentices are responsible for following safe work procedures and instructions from supervising electrical workers. 
• Dangers of electricity: The guide highlights the risks associated with electric shocks, burns, falls, poisoning from toxic gases, and fires caused by electrical faults. It insists on the avoidance of all electric shocks, as even minor ones can be fatal under certain conditions. 
• De-energisation and isolation: Before any electrical work begins, it is crucial to ensure that equipment is de-energised and isolated to prevent accidental re-energisation. 
• PPE: The document outlines the basic PPE required for electrical work, including non-conductive safety footwear, safety glasses, work gloves, and helmets. It also discusses the limitations of PPE and stresses that it should be used in conjunction with other safety measures. 
• General safety tips: It advises against wearing metallic jewellery during electrical work and highlights the importance of using RCD protection with electric tools. 
• Supervision: Effective supervision is crucial for the safety and training of apprentices. The document defines levels of supervision and the competencies required by supervising electrical workers. 

Access the full guide. 

Preventing electric shocks: Reporting and action 

Electric shocks can be life-threatening and require immediate action. If an incident occurs, it’s crucial to: 

• Turn off the power source immediately. 
• Seek medical attention for the affected individual. 
• Report the incident to the appropriate safety authorities. 

Private power poles and lines 

Property owners must be vigilant in the maintenance of private power poles and lines. Regular inspections can identify potential hazards before they escalate into serious issues. A simple checklist for property owners could include: 

• Visual inspections for signs of wear and damage. 
• Scheduling professional inspections at recommended intervals. 
• Immediate repairs to damaged components by licensed electricians. 

Guidelines for apprentice supervision 

The supervision of electrical apprentices is not just about teaching them the trade but also ensuring their safety. Experienced electricians must: 

• Provide clear instructions and safety training. 
• Supervise all work closely, especially tasks involving live circuits. 
• Encourage a culture of safety and learning. 

Safety should always be our top priority. By sticking to the rules, looking after our gear, and supporting each other, we can avoid accidents and keep everyone safe. 

Remember, a safe day is a good day on the job. Let’s keep it that way. 

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