The Electrical Safety Office took disciplinary action against two Queensland electrical contractors in the final months of 2020. They were two of five licenced electrical workers the ESO took disciplinary action against in November and December.

One electrical contractor failed to implement a safe systems of work, including non-compliant solar installation that resulted in a house fire. The lack of safety systems resulted in a risk of electric shock to workers and the public as well as the risk of fire.

The contractor and their qualified technical person (QTP) were involved in multiple non-compliant grid-connect solar installations which resulted in house fire and significant property damage.

• The contractor’s licence was cancelled at the time of the hearing and he was disqualified from holding an electrical contractor licence for two years.
• He must ensure the QTP undertakes units of competency within six months and additional business competency units within 12 months.
• He was fined $2,000 and was issued with a reprimand, both of which will be listed on the licensing public register for three years.

The second contractor failed to implement a safe system of work, resulting in an apprentice receiving an electric shock.

ESO investigation found there was insufficient on-going training of tag and lock out procedures, insufficient inspection and test procedures and auditing of employee’s work, which resulted in an unterminated cable being left exposed.

• The contractor’s licence was suspended for six months. In that time he must ensure competency of all QTPs and qualified business persons that are in the business.
• He must complete two approved electrical safety system audits from an independent auditor before the suspension will be lifted.
• He reprimanded and fined $1,000 which will be listed on the licensing public register for three years.

Regulators across Australia are actively checking safe work systems.  Make sure you stay compliant.  Embed safe work practices into your business and use a high-quality safety system like ME Safety Essential or Pro.  If you need help setting up a safety system or need on advice on a safety matter call Master Electricians Australia on 1300 889 198.