SafeWork NSW issues safety warning regarding electrical work following rise in fatalities

SafeWork NSW is urging both employers and employees to be aware of the dangers associated with working with or in proximity to electricity, in light of a troubling increase in fatalities and severe injuries.

Electrocution ranks as the second primary cause of traumatic deaths in construction within New South Wales, while incidents of electric shock may lead to significant long-term recovery injuries for those who survive, according to data from SafeWork.

In the year 2023, there were 60 fatalities reported in workplaces across New South Wales, of which five were associated with electrical contact. In the last fortnight, two individuals have lost their lives on worksites in the State due to electrocutions.

Head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin said two fatalities within a fortnight is a profound tragedy.

“Electricity risks are well known. SafeWork NSW Inspectors will continue to take a zero-tolerance response where they come across serious electrical risks such as working live and will issue penalty notices to businesses and, where necessary, to workers," he said.

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