Master Electricians Australia welcomes NSW safety switch regulations

Master Electricians Australia (MEA) recently endorsed the NSW Government’s decision to mandate electrical safety switches in all workplaces throughout the state.

MEA Chief Executive Malcolm Richards commented that safety switches could detect the loss of power from a circuit associated with a person suffering an electric shock, and cut off the flow of electricity in less than 40 milliseconds.

“A safety switch is a relatively inexpensive device that saves lives across Australia every day,” Richards said. “We know from recent research that around 15 Australians are killed each year in electrical accidents in Australian homes, where a safety switch could have saved a life if fitted. We also know that around 300 people are hospitalised with severe injuries.

“While figures for preventable workplace electrocutions are not as clear, we know there are many people who go to work and simply don’t come home because of electrical accidents.

“Master Electricians congratulates the NSW Government on its determination to make every workplace as safe as possible, and for putting its money where its mouth is by offering rebates to install safety switches.”

Richards further urged business owners to ensure they had a safety switch on all circuits. While some switchboards were fitted with circuit breakers or surge protectors, these were designed to safeguard electrical equipment, rather than save lives.

A safety switch can be distinguished by a test button on the front, which should be used regularly to ensure it is working properly.

Richards encouraged workers to contact a Master Electrician or a licensed electrical contractor if they were unsure of whether their circuits were protected or not, to advise them accordingly.

He added that the NSW Government should also consider making safety switches mandatory for homes, but he also urged homeowners to be proactive in relation to their own safety, stating: “Homeowners should also consider installing a safety switch on every circuit - they shouldn’t wait for it to become a legal requirement.

“Many homes have protection on the power circuits, but not on lighting, air conditioning, stove or hot water.

“A safety switch will save the life of a family member in less time than it takes a heart to beat. It may be the best investment you could ever make.”