New requirements for working in switchboards and roof spaces
New electrical laws are now in effect
Queensland has implemented new electrical safety regulations from January 1st 2025, aiming to enhance protections for workers and the community. These changes, introduced through the Electrical Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Regulation 2024 (ESOLA Regulation), are based on recommendations from the Review of Queensland’s Electrical Safety Act 2002.
Key Changes Effective from 1 January 2025
- Mandatory De-energisation in Domestic Roof Spaces:
- Persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) and workers must de-energise electrical installations before entering or working in the roof space of domestic buildings.
- This requirement applies across all industries, including gas fitting, plumbing, pest control, insulation activities, roof and ceiling repair, and electrical work (such as air-conditioning installation).
- Domestic buildings covered include houses, apartments, townhouses, sheds, guest houses, small hostels, and boarding houses.
- These measures formalise existing safe practices of turning off power before accessing roof spaces
- Mandatory De-energisation in Domestic Roof Spaces:
- Safety measures previously applicable to work on energised electrical equipment will now extend to work near (within three meters of an exposed energised part of) such equipment.
- This change addresses the risk of arc flash incidents when working in proximity to energised electrical equipment.
Whe entering roof spaces or working in your switchboard, electricity must be switched off.
More info
These regulatory updates underscore Queensland’s commitment to maintaining contemporary electrical safety laws that address new and emerging technologies, ensuring the well-being of both workers and the broader community.
For more detailed information, refer to the official announcement by WorkSafe Queensland.
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