Winter 2009 issue
Welcome to the sixth edition of the Electrical Safety Outlook newsletter
Electrical Safety Outlook is a publication produced for electrical licence holders and others involved in the industry. It provides news and practical information about our industry on a range of topics from policy development to dealing with asbestos on the job.
Electrical Safety Outlook is published four times a year, and can be delivered directed to your email address.
We welcome your comments and input.
Peter Lamont
Executive Director
Electrical Safety Office
In this issue
Is your electrical work licence due for renewal this year?
Around half of Queensland's 40,000 five year electrical work licences are due for renewal in the next 12 months. To make it easier you can now pay your licence fee online with a credit card.
Contractors - have you maintained eligibility?
Your electrical contractor licence eligibility must be maintained at all times.
Electrical safety inspector numbers increase as population surges
The Electrical Safety Office (ESO) is currently training 11 new electrical safety inspectors bringing the total number in Queensland to more than 40.
Damien's plea to all electricians: Never work "live"
25-year-old A grade electrician Damien is living proof of the dangers of working live.
New Compliance and Enforcement Policy
Harmonising occupational health and safety legislation throughout Australia is a step closer.
Get involved in Safe Work Australia Week
Staying safe at work and coming home to family, friends and loved ones for Queensland's Safe Work Australia Week 2009.
Wiring Rules amended from 1 July 2009
The Electrical Safety Office will be using the new amendments to the Wiring Rules AS/NZS 3000:2007 as a basis for ensuring compliance with the electrical safety legislation.
National trades licensing system on the way
A national licensing system for priority occupations including the electrical industry has now been agreed to by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG).
Design and test parameters for Portable Socket Outlet Assemblies
Workers on construction and demolition sites should be aware of the requirements of AS/NZS 3012:2003 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites when purchasing Portable Socket Outlet Assemblies (PSOAs) for use on their worksites.
Audit update
Findings from the 20 different audit projects undertaken around Queensland last financial year as part of a state-wide compliance campaign will be available soon.
Mandatory signage proposed for the retail sale of electrical equipment
The Electrical Safety Board has proposed compulsory retail signage to inform consumers that DIY (‘do it yourself’) electrical work is both illegal and dangerous.