- Launch of the updated Safe Working and Supervision Guide for Electrical Apprentices
- The guide is designed to help electrical apprentices, their employers and supervisors understand the key practices for electrical safety
- Ensuring Queensland sparkies have adequate protections and are safe at work is a priority for the Crisafulli Government
An updated guide designed to help electrical apprentices remain safe on the job has commenced in Queensland.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie launched the updated guide from Queensland's Electrical Safety Office that outlines essential safety procedures for electrical apprentices, employers and supervisors.
It provides essential information to ensure that apprentices are well-prepared with basic safety knowledge before starting their apprenticeship and during their training.
Mr Bleijie said it's crucial for every apprentice to recognise and understand the risks of working with electricity and learn safe working practices as they begin their careers.
"We have updated this important guide to help keep our electrical apprentices safe," Mr Bleijie said.
"Tragically, four electrical apprentices have lost their lives while working 'live' in domestic roof spaces in Queensland since 2010. "These deaths were tragic and preventable. "The Crisafulli LNP Government backs our workers and apprentices and we will continue to introduce measures to ensure they are safe on the job site. "Every Queensland worker deserves to get home after a safe shift at work."
Dan and Debbie Kennedy are remarkable Queenslanders who are now advocating for safer worksites, after their son Dale died from an electric shock while working in a ceiling space.
He was only 20 years old and nearing the end of his apprenticeship. The Kennedy's have shared their story to encourage young workers to voice their concerns if they see something that is unsafe at work.
"If you have been asked to do something unsafe just say no, it's not worth it," Mr Kennedy said. "We want young Queensland workers to get home at the end of the day to their loved ones."
The Electrical Safety and Other Legislation Amendment (ESOLA) Regulation 2024 commenced on 1 January 2025 and supports Queenslanders to stay safer when carrying out work in or entering a roof space of a domestic building.
Under the Regulation, if you are carrying out work in or entering a roof space of a domestic building, you must de-energise the relevant electrical installations for the building. Commissioner for Electrical Safety Keith McKenzie said apprentices are the future of the electrical industry, and ensuring they start their careers with a strong understanding of safety is crucial.
"To assist an electrical apprentice on their journey, it is extremely important to provide them with the appropriate resources and tools for what they will encounter," Mr McKenzie said.
"This guide is just one resource developed through collaboration by the Electrical Safety Board and Committee members, as well as industry stakeholders to set the apprentice up for success.
"The guide also offers guidance for the supervising tradesperson to understand what is expected from them and what they should be teaching and mentoring the apprentice.
"It's critically important to support the next generation of Queensland apprentices."
