Electrical safety and workplace risks from Queensland’s floods

Queenslanders from the state’s North and Central Coast areas cleaning up after flooding have been warned to have electrical equipment, wiring and appliances which contacted water inspected by a licensed electrician before use.

Employment and Industrial Relations Minister John Mickel said inspectors with the Electrical Safety Office had investigated serious shocks and fires caused by water damaged equipment, wiring and appliances after previous deluges.

“It may be more cost-effective to simply dispose of household items, such as kettles, rather than taking the risk,” he said.

Mr Mickel said people using generators after losing power because of flooding had been warned by the ESO that unless used properly, generators could be extremely dangerous.

“If you are using a generator to power your home it must be installed by a licensed electrician who can ensure the generator is connected safely” he said.

“Because of the risks of electric shock or injury, it is vital that users follow the safety tips and any other information and recommendations made by the generator’s manufacturer.

“Using a generator to supplement domestic electricity during a power cut carries dangers of poisoning from carbon monoxide gasses, fire and electrocution.”

The ESO advises the following safety tips for portable residential or recreational generators:

• always run the generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area - you cannot smell or see carbon monoxide.

·do not operate the generator near combustible materials and before refuelling the generator, allow the engine to cool

• Place generator on dry level ground to operate and protect it from the weather and always use heavy-duty outdoor extension leads
• Do not leave your generator unattended. If you have to leave home or leave it, turn it off.

For further information on electrical safety after wet weather and general electrical safety contact Ergon Energy on 13 10 46, Energex on 13 12 53 or the Electrical Safety Office 3237 0220 or www.deir.qld.gov.au

Mr Mickel also said residents should take great care when using chainsaws, getting up on ladders, or using tractors, trucks and trailers to clear away debris.

“Workplace Health and Safety Queensland advises that chainsaws are dangerous in the hands of the inexperienced.”

Asbestos also posed a problem when cleaning up.

“Any old sheds or buildings built before 1990 are likely to have some asbestos-containing materials in them, so if they’ve been damaged then be very cautious when cleaning them up.

"You can't tell if materials contain asbestos by looking at them. It’s best to assume it is asbestos and treat it as such by wearing protective gear, keeping the material damp and handling it with care as fibres can be released into the air through sawing, drilling or breaking it up.”

Mr Mickel also warned residents to have electrical equipment, wiring and appliances which contacted water inspected by a licensed electrician before use.

“Water damaged equipment, wiring and appliances can give you a serious shock or cause a fire.”

Tips from Workplace Health and Safety Queensland for the safe operation of chainsaws
• Never use a chainsaw if the weather conditions are not suitable, if you are tired, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Chainsaw operators need to be alert to avoid accidents.
• Use a chainsaw with the type of work it is to be used for distinctly in mind – bigger is not always best.
• Wear protective equipment such as cut-resistant pants or chaps, ear muffs, safety glasses or face shield, helmet, boots and close fitting clothing.
• Check the chainsaw thoroughly before use to ensure it is in good condition, the chain is sharpened correctly, and that all safety devices such as a chainbrake, anti-vibration dampers and a chain catcher are fitted and in working condition.
• Obey the safety and operating instructions.
• Always start the chainsaw according to the manufacturer’s instructions. ‘Drop starting’ is a dangerous practice.
• Maintain a firm grip, get a good foothold and keep the saw close to your body.
• Always cut at peak revs to have a better chance of cutting through any obstruction.
• Use the correct methods for felling a tree. Do not cut above shoulder height. Do not stand on the felled tree trunk when climbing.
• Always carry the saw with the cutter bar facing backwards and the guard in position and fit the bar cover when not in use.
• Some operations such as removing branches from standing trees, the removal of trees on wires and cutting trees thicker than the bar guide length, should only be undertaken by a professional.

For advice on staying safe during the clean up, call Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, a division of the Department of Employment and Industrial Relations, on 1300 369 915.

Media contact: Chris Brown (07) 3237 1944 or Shannon Mackay 3237 1125

February 18, 2008