Electrical safety

In an emergency

  • Do not touch anyone who is receiving an electric shock
  • Turn off the power or try to separate the victim from the power source using a non-conductive item (like a wooden-handled broom). Do not use metal items
  • Always call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.

Electrical safety switches

Safety switches are designed to prevent an electric shock.

A safety switch will automatically shut off the electricity when current is detected leaking from faulty switches, wiring or appliances. This stops the current flowing to earth through a person and electrocuting them.

How do I get a safety switch?

Contact a licensed electrician to install your safety switch.

Electrical work is never a do-it-yourself job—it's dangerous and illegal.

How do I know if I have a safety switch?

Electrical safety in a storm

  • Make sure your home is fitted with surge protectors and lightning conductors
  • Before the storm arrives, disconnect
    • external aerials and power leads to radios and televisions
    • computers, modems and their power leads.
  • Keep a torch handy in case you lose power
  • If power is lost, turn off and unplug electrical items
  • Listen to your local radio station for power restoration updates
  • Avoid using fixed (land-line) telephones
  • Be aware of fallen powerlines
  • Do not use wet or damp electrical items.

Report a problem

Report a fallen powerline or outage.

Electrical safety at home

Appliances

  • If the appliance is for indoor use only, do not use outdoors
  • Do not immerse the appliance in water unless it was designed to be
  • Do not use electrical appliances in the rain
  • Make sure you have dry hands when operating an electrical appliance
  • Do not use a damaged appliance
  • Remove from the socket-outlet before any cleaning or maintenance is done
  • Do not use if the power cord or plug is damaged
  • Do not use damaged extension cords, power boards or plugs.

Around water

Take extreme care when using electrical equipment near water.

  • Make sure your home has a safety switch
  • If equipment is not designed to operate in water, make sure it cannot fall or slide in
  • Install mains-operated equipment, like pumps, lights and appliances, according to the manufacturer's instructions
  • Submersible pumps must be the earthed type or 12 volts
  • Keep extension leads, cords or electrical appliances out of the water.

Contact the Electrical Safety Infoline on 13 00 65 06 62 for more information.