Working Live Kills
Building and Energy's latest education campaign, Working Live Kills, is continuing its important work in educating the industry and community about the dangers of working 'live'.
This campaign aims to change the behaviours and habits of those who have been in the industry for a long time, and to educate and to empower younger workers to enforce the rules and turn the power off before any work is performed.
Working live is the leading cause of burns, shocks, serious accidents and fatalities for electricians. To help keep workers safe, the law was changed in 2017 to ban live work on or near an exposed, energised part of an installation that can be de-energised.
While electricians are at the greatest risk of injury or death from working live, the danger is very real for anyone working around the home. We urge home owners and occupiers to respect that workers must turn off the power and follow their lead in doing the same thing. There are a number of possible risks to anyone when entering a roof space.
Remember, make the safe call – turn off the power off while you work – because Working Live Kills.
Damaged electrical appliances
Damaged electrical cords and appliances are dangerous and should never be used. Switch off the power and unplug the cord immediately. Never attempt your own repairs.
View more safety information on the Safe use of electricity at home section of the website.
Don't DIY electrical and gas
Even if you’re a handy renovator, never carry out electrical or gas fitting work yourself. DIY kills.
Check your gas fitter or electrical contractor is licensed here: Online Licence Search
Testing your RCD safety switches
Residual current devices (RCDs) are the single most effective measure to prevent electrocutions, serious electrical injuries and fires. To ensure yours in working and ready to you and your property perform this test.
Read more about RCD safety switch requirements.
Buying safe electrical appliances
Not all electrical appliances meet Australian safety standards. How do we know what's safe? Look for the RCM.
View more safety information on the Safe use of electricity at home section of the website.
Use a registered painter
Don't paint yourself into a corner, always use a registered painter.
Before hiring a professional painter, make sure they are registered. Only registered painting contractors can enter into contracts over $1,000.
Protect yourself and ensure quality work by choosing a registered painting professional. Find a registered painting professional or check if your painter is registered: Online Licence Search
For further information please see the Building and Energy painting and decorating flyer.
Print this page
