A SafeWork SA video highlighting a recent surge in electrical shock notifications has been launched as part of National Safe Work Month initiatives.
The video is part of SafeWork SA’s Electrical Inspection and Tagging Campaign that launched this month in response to a rise in electric shock incidents in 2021-22.
Regular testing can detect electrical faults and deterioration that cannot be detected by visual inspection alone.
The nature and frequency of inspection and testing will vary depending on the nature of the workplace, its environment and the risks associated with the electrical equipment.
SafeWork SA is concerned with the continued rise in electric shock notifications.
In response, inspectors are targeting unsafe electrical equipment in a state-wide crackdown.
Electric shocks can result in burns, serious injuries or even death.
Regular visual inspection of electrical equipment can identify obvious damage and wear.
Although regular testing can detect electrical faults and deterioration that cannot be found by visual inspection alone.
The nature and frequency of inspection and testing
will vary depending on the workplace
its environment and the risks associated with the electrical equipment.
Safety switches must be used and regularly tested to protect workers using 'plug in' electrical equipment.
See the SafeWork SA website for further information on the frequency of inspection and testing and the associated fines.
In 2021-22, SafeWork SA issued 239 statutory notices associated with electrical risks across all industries, up 26 per cent on the previous year.
Nearly three in four statutory notices issued related to a failure by an employer to regularly inspect and test their electrical equipment.
SafeWork SA Executive Director Martyn Campbell said the agency aims to proactively drive change across all industries to ensure the risks associated with electrical equipment were managed.
‘Our inspectors will be turning up on sites across the state to make sure businesses are complying with their obligations,’ he said.
‘To help eradicate serious and potentially fatal injuries, my Inspectors will take a stronger approach to compliance by issuing expiation notices. We have had too many serious injuries caused by electric shocks that were entirely preventable.’
SafeWork SA has also developed an Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment information sheet, containing information on the frequency of inspection and testing of electrical equipment and associated fines. Additionally, anyone who needs advice on how to comply with electrical safety duties can call our Help Centre on 1300 365 255.
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