Queensland Government seeks input into electrical safety laws

The Government is seeking business and community views on proposed changes to electrical safety laws that would reduce costs to business while ensuring Queensland’s maintains its high standards of electrical safety.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Jarrod Bleijie said the Government was seeking feedback on three alternative regulatory proposals to replace the Electrical Safety Regulation 2002 which is due to expire this year.

Mr Bleijie urged businesses and the community to have a say on the three options contained in a Regulatory Assessment Statement (RAS) currently out for consultation.

"The Government is committed to supporting Queensland business to improve productivity and reduce red tape," Mr Bleijie said.

"We think the community will support changes to the regulation that cut back on the red tape that stifles industry and productivity, while in turn bringing huge savings for our economy.”

Mr Bleijie said business and community input would be vital in determining the final alternative to the current Electrical Safety Regulation 2002.

“The Government wants to hear the views of Queenslanders on this important safety issue,” he said.

Mr Bleijie said the Government believed that the test and tag requirements of the current regulation were out-dated.

"The massive number of safety switches now installed in workplaces and homes mean that only equipment with a rating above 20 amps needs a test and tag regime,” he said.

“It is pointless to have outdated regulations that don’t improve safety, but add to the cost to the consumer, which only serves as a deterrent.”

To have your say, visit www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au or call the Electrical Safety Office on 1300 650 662. The comment period closes on Friday 26 April.

[ENDS] 9 April 2013

Media Contact: Katherine Hornbuckle 0402 862 351