Get Ready to Work Well: Workplace Electrical Safety Compliance in Australia

Electrical safety in the workplace is an important topic for both employers and employees alike. In Australia, the management of electrical risks at the workplace is a critical aspect of ensuring a safe and compliant working environment. Today, we want to explore into the essential aspects of workplace electrical safety compliance in Australia, and provide guidance to business owners on how to manage electrical risks effectively.

Understanding Electrical Risks

First and foremost, let’s define what an electrical risk is. In the context of workplace safety, an electrical risk is any risk that poses a threat to a person’s life, such as electric shock or other injuries, directly or indirectly caused by electricity. These risks are associated with several main hazards, including:

• Contact with Exposed Live Parts: This can result in electric shock and burns, such as when exposed leads or electrical equipment come into contact with metal surfaces like flooring or roofs.
• Faults Leading to Fires: Electrical faults can potentially lead to fires within the workplace.
• Fire or Explosion Hazard: Electricity can serve as the ignition source in a flammable or explosive atmosphere, such as in a spray paint booth.

The severity of the risk depends on the conditions and circumstances in which electricity is used. For instance, risks are higher in outdoor or wet environments where equipment may become wet and more susceptible to damage. Additionally, confined spaces with earthed metalwork, like tanks or bins, can increase the likelihood of electrical shock if a fault develops.

General Duty to Manage Electrical Risks

PCBUs bear the responsibility of managing electrical risks at the workplace. The primary objective is to eliminate these risks wherever reasonably practicable. When elimination is not feasible, the focus should be on minimising the risks to an acceptable level. For detailed information on risk management, refer to the Code of Practice: “How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks.”

General Duty in Relation to Electrical Equipment

PCBUs with management or control over electrical equipment, including electrical installations, must ensure that this equipment is safe for use. This duty extends to situations where multiple PCBUs share a workplace. Regardless of ownership, the equipment must be safe.

Common Risk Control Measures

To mitigate electrical risks effectively, consider implementing these common risk control measures:

• Qualified Electricians: Ensure that only appropriately licensed or registered electricians carry out electrical work.
• Safe Equipment Usage: Provide safe and suitable electrical equipment, especially in damp or wet conditions, using equipment designed for such environments.
• Regular Test and Tag: The primary reason behind doing testing and tagging is to ensure the safety of the people in the workplace coming into contact with the appliance, while also minimising the risk of an electrical hazard.
• Adequate Socket Outlets: Provide sufficient socket outlets to prevent overloading, as overloading can lead to fires.
• Fuse Protection: Ensure power circuits are protected by the appropriate rated fuse or circuit breaker to prevent overloading.
• Residual Current Devices (RCDs): Use RCDs, also known as ‘safety switches,’ to protect workers using portable equipment as required by the WHS Regulations.
• RCD Testing: Regularly test RCDs to ensure their effectiveness.

Inspecting and Testing Electrical Equipment

Regular inspection and testing of electrical equipment are crucial for ensuring electrical safety. Visual inspection can identify visible damage, wear, or conditions that might compromise electrical equipment safety. However, some defects may not be detectable through visual inspection alone. Therefore, regular testing is essential to uncover hidden electrical faults and deterioration.

It is important to note that testing and tagging should be performed exclusively by professionals or by trained technicians at the very least. As a leading test & tag and emergency services brand in Australia, Testel’s technicians possess the requisite expertise and experience to accurately identify potential hazards. They are also equipped with the tools and equipment to properly carry out the task safely and effectively.

The nature and frequency of inspections and testing depend on various factors, such as the type of equipment, its usage, and the operating environment. For workplaces classified as ‘hostile operating environments,’ specific requirements from the WHS Regulations apply.

Maintenance and Testing of RCDs

RCDs provided for use in the workplace must be fit for purpose, regularly maintained to ensure effectiveness, and tested as required by regulations.

Stay Compliant and Safe

Maintaining electrical safety compliance in the workplace is essential to protect the well-being of employees and the integrity of the business. PCBUs and workers should be alert in identifying and mitigating electrical risks, adhering to safety measures, and regularly inspecting and testing electrical equipment. By following these guidelines, Australian workplaces can create a safer environment for all.

If you would like to learn more about how Testel can assist you in managing electrical compliance for all your business, please contact us now on 1300 881 116.