Attorney-General and Minister for Industrial Relations
The Honourable Cameron Dick

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Electrical apprentices safety pilot program a success

The Queensland Government is planning to expand a successful pilot training program that raises safety awareness among apprentice electricians.

Industrial Relations Minister Cameron Dick today met with three fourth-year apprentices who had recently completed a 12-week electrical safety pilot program run by the Electrical Safety Office.

“Safety in the workplace is of paramount importance, and this training program highlights the work of the Electrical Safety Office in ensuring that the safety message is delivered to those about to start their career in the electrical industry,” Mr Dick said.

“There have been 28 serious incidents involving electrical workers in Queensland in the last two years, including two fatalities.

“The high number of incidents highlights the importance, of raising safety awareness within the electrical industry,” he said.

Mr Dick said during the 12-week program, the apprentices had been in the field with inspectors assisting with process audits, electrical installation verification and some safety investigations.

“The apprentices have received invaluable experience working alongside electrical safety inspectors,” Mr Dick said.

“When the apprentices return to their workplaces, their experiences will help them to promote a stronger emphasis on electrical safety.

“The program, which has industry support, aims to help improve the apprentices’ knowledge and awareness of electrical safety and promote the role of the Electrical Safety Office, while offering secure work placements,” he said.

Mr Dick said a recent fatality involved an electrical tradesperson who was only nine months out of his apprenticeship.

“The fatality and other serious incidents involving licensed electrical workers prompted the Queensland Government to develop this project targeting those still completing their apprenticeships,” Mr Dick said.

“It is important that safe workplace practices are learnt at the start of a worker’s career.

“The Electrical Safety Office is planning on expanding the program next year, and will host a total of nine fourth-year apprentices for 12 weeks each,” he said.

Media contact: 3239 3487

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