Changes To Queensland’s Electrical Safety Laws

New Queensland Electrical Safety Laws

In Queensland, electrical safety is taken very seriously. The law requires that anyone conducting work or entering the roof space of a domestic building must ensure the electrical systems are safely de-energised. These safety laws protect workers, homeowners, and anyone involved in the maintenance or inspection of electrical systems.

To learn more about specific safety laws and how they affect workers and homeowners in roof spaces, visit www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au.

Stay Safe in Your Roof Space: A Simple Step to Protect Yourself from Electrical Hazards

Roof spaces are essential in most homes, but they can also be dangerous if you don’t take the right precautions, especially when it comes to electrical safety. Whether you’re a homeowner, a tradie, or anyone entering the roof space, there’s one important thing you can do before heading up there: Turn off all the main power switches at the switchboard. It may seem like a small step, but turning off the power at the switchboard can significantly reduce the risk of electrical shocks. Here’s what you should do before you head up into the roof:

• Know where your switchboard is: Be sure you can quickly access the switchboard and turn off the power.
• Charge your devices: To stay connected, make sure phones and laptops are fully charged before switching the power off.
• Plan ahead: Schedule your work in the roof space at a time that works for your home or business. This way, you can avoid disruptions.
• Place warning stickers: Stickers on the roof space manhole and switchboard can serve as a reminder to turn off the power before anyone enters the roof space.

Additional Steps for Safety

Turning off the power doesn’t eliminate all risks, but it certainly helps reduce them. Once the power is off, take these extra steps to stay safe while working in the roof space:

• Tape or label the switches: Prevent someone from accidentally turning the power back on while you’re working.
• Always inform someone: Let someone else know you’re working in the roof space.
• Avoid touching electrical cables: Even with the power off, some cables may still be live, so be cautious.
• Use cordless tools and torches: Avoid using tools that could potentially cause sparks or short circuits.

Important Reminder: Never Do Electrical Work Yourself
It is illegal to do your own electrical work, and doing so could invalidate your home insurance. All electrical installations and repairs should only be carried out by a licensed electrician. If you require an electrician call us on 1300 388 750.

Other Hazards in the Roof Space
Aside from electrical risks, roof spaces present a variety of other dangers. These can include:

• Solar PV systems: Solar power cables may still carry live DC power during the day.
• Damaged electrical cables: If you notice any issues, call a licensed electrician to repair them.
• Insulation material: Ensure that insulation isn’t covering electrical fittings like down-lights.
• Other hazards: Watch out for heat, working at heights, dangerous vermin, sharp objects, or even asbestos-containing materials.

By being aware of these risks and taking the necessary steps to turn off the power and work safely, you can significantly reduce the chances of accidents in your roof space. Closely follow the Queensland Electrical Safety Laws to ensure everyone in your home and business remain safe.

For more information about electrical safety in roof spaces, visit www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au. Stay safe, and remember: Switch off down here, stay safer up there! Or call Fallon Solutions on 1300 388 750.