From January 1, 2025: New Electrical Safety Regulations Will Impact Work in Domestic Roof Spaces In Queensland

What the New Electrical Safety Regulations Effective January 1, 2025, Mean for Compliance in Queensland

As of January 1, 2025, new electrical safety laws have been implemented in Queensland, significantly enhancing protections for workers and the community. These regulations aim to better mitigate electrical risks when performing work near energised electrical equipment and when entering domestic roof spaces. Additionally, starting April 1, 2025, water equipment will be classified as ‘prescribed electrical equipment,’ further ensuring safety standards.

Key Changes to Electrical Safety Regulations

1. De-energising Electrical Installations
   

   • From January 1, 2025, all persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) and workers must de-energise relevant electrical installations before entering the roof space of a domestic building. This requirement applies across various industries, including gas fitting, plumbing, pest control, insulation activities, roof repairs, and electrical work (including air-conditioning installation). These new requirements reinforce established safe practices of switching off the power before accessing a roof space.
     

   • Action Item: Ensure that your team is trained to safely turn off power at the main switchboard before entering any domestic roof space.
     

2. Working Near Energised Equipment
   

   • The regulations will extend existing requirements for performing electrical work on energised equipment to include work conducted within three meters of exposed energised parts. This change addresses the risk of arc flash incidents.
     

   • Action Item: Implement strict safety measures for workers operating near energised equipment, including conducting risk assessments and ensuring proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is used.
     

3. Water Equipment Regulations
   

   • Effective April 1, 2025, water equipment will be defined as prescribed electrical equipment. This classification acknowledges the risks posed by extra low voltage equipment in water that can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
     

   • Action Item: Review your supply chain practices to ensure that all water equipment used in homes and workplaces complies with safety standards. Only licensed electrical workers should perform electrical work on water-related equipment.

What is Water Equipment?

Water equipment refers to any apparatus, appliance, cable, conductor, fitting, insulator, material, meter, or wire that:

• Operates or is used for controlling, generating, supplying, transforming, or transmitting electricity at extra low voltage.

• Can only be operated when connected to an external source of electricity.

• Is designed for use in the interior of containers such as swimming pools, paddling pools, spas, or bathtubs. Examples include pool pumps, pool lights, and pool heaters. However, it does not include battery-powered devices like waterproof phones or battery-operated pool cleaners.

Recommendations for Businesses

To comply with these new regulations and ensure the safety of your workers and the community, consider the following recommendations:

1. Conduct Training Sessions: Provide training for all employees on the new regulations and safe practices related to de-energising installations and working near energised equipment.
   

2. Update Safety Procedures: Revise your existing safety management systems to incorporate the new requirements. Ensure that Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) reflect these changes.
   

3. Perform Regular Risk Assessments: Establish a routine for conducting risk assessments related to electrical work. Identify potential hazards associated with working near energised equipment and develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
   

4. Ensure Proper Licensing: Verify that all contractors and employees involved in electrical work hold the necessary licenses and qualifications to perform their tasks safely.
   

5. Communicate Changes: Keep open lines of communication with your team regarding these regulatory changes. Encourage feedback and discussions about safety concerns.
   

Conclusion

Understanding the implications of the new electrical safety regulations is essential for businesses operating in Queensland. By taking proactive steps to ensure compliance—such as training employees, updating documentation, conducting risk assessments, and fostering a strong safety culture — companies can safeguard their operations and promote a culture of safety.

For further information on these new regulations and how they may affect your business, please visit WorkSafe QLD and the Electrical Safety Office.