Since 2017, SafeWork NSW has investigated 34 contact with electricity incidents with seven of these being fatalities. 21 of these incidents were in the construction industry including 4 of the fatalities.

The highest risk areas are overhead powerlines and unsafe wiring, including temporary wiring and equipment.

Inspectors will be speaking with principal contractors, site supervisors, and health and safety representatives state-wide to ensure workers are safe when it comes to:

• Overhead and underground power
• Temporary wiring, including distribution cables and boards
• Residual current devices (RCDs)
• Temporary lighting
• Leads and power tools.

Inspectors will also be checking electrical workers licence/qualifications and supervision levels, and making referrals to Fair Trading where required. They’ll be focusing on ensuring workers maintain appropriate distances from overhead powerlines and are implementing the required safety controls in accordance with the energy provider. They will also be checking that temporary wiring meets the correct standards and other electrical tools such as power tools and RCD boards are managed correctly. They will also be checking that those doing electrical work are appropriately licenced, that temporary wiring on construction sites meets the correct standards and electrical tools such as power tools are managed correctly.

What you can do

Employers and site supervisors can ensure:

• all electrical work on-site is conducted by a licenced electrician
• all electrical equipment is tested and tagged and used in conjunction with a residual current device (RCD or safety switch)
• temporary electrical installations and equipment are maintained and tested by a licenced electrician
• before erecting scaffold or using mobile or fixed plant near overhead powerlines (within 4m), the electricity network owner has been contacted and the prescribed control measures in place
• if excavation works are being conducted on-site, ensure a Dial Before You Dig (DBYD) search has been undertaken, pothole to identify the location and depth, and protect the infrastructure before proceeding. Remember: If You Don’t Know – Don’t Dig
• workers are trained and supervised, particularly young or inexperienced workers
• workers work from the ground where possible and use the appropriate falls from heights protection equipment where needed.

Stay Compliant

• Use a comprehensive safety system that is accessible in the field and in the office (app based is ideal)
• Ensure it includes SWMS, safety data sheets, risk assessments and incident reporting
• Plus field, business, policy and office manuals
• Undertake regular toolbox talks and safety meetings
•  Add 1300 889 198 to your phone contacts – direct access to technical and safety support

All Master Electricians have access to an entry-level safety system as part of their membership.

If you need assistance with any of the above Master Electricians Australia is here to help, on 1300 889 198 or email [email protected] 

For additional information on electrical safety on construction sites, see:
– Electrical practices – construction and demolition fact sheet