Young tradesman dies after an electric shock in roof space

The electrical industry is shocked to hear of another tragic death of a tradesman working in a roof space of a Carlton NSW home this week.  Emergency services were called to the house near the corner of Short Street and Bent Street just before 3pm after reports the man, 25, had been electrocuted. Paramedics tried to revive the man but he later died. SafeWork NSW is investigating the incident.

“At this point in time we are unsure as to whether this young man was an electrician,” said Mr Suresh Manickam.  ”But with six electrical industry-related fatalities in, or on, roof spaces in little over a year we must become more vigilant in how this type of work is managed,” he added.

We are reminded that most roof spaces are generally dirty, hot, restricted environments that can be full of hazards. The nature of the physical volume to operate in such an environment can also have a psychological impact on decision making, so we urge greater vigilance in roof spaces.

Whilst all the details are not yet known, NECA calls on governments to adopt NECA’s policy relating to Home Safety Electrical Audits. NECA argues that routine/regular electrical safety checks in residential or commercial property will provide a clear signal to property owners with respect to safety/standard adequacy. Such a signal should then give rise to property owners who will act to improve the wiring (and safety) standards of their property.

“We urge business operators, managers and tradespeople to work together to put in place more effective health and safety measures, and to ensure appropriate staff training is conducted to minimise the risk of serious injuries or possible fatalities.  Collectively, we can work to eliminate such tragedies.  We extend our condolences to this young man’s family,” Mr Manickam concluded.