Tradespeople and homeowners are urged to minimise electrical safety risks before they enter ceiling spaces.
Live electrical cables and confined spaces can be extremely hazardous if basic precautions are not taken.
Before entering any ceiling space, turn the power off at the main switchboard and tape or label it to stop it being inadvertently turned back on by someone else while you’re working. Remember to let someone else know that you are going in.
Turning off all the switches and circuit breakers at the main switchboard, including hot water systems and stove circuits vastly reduces the risk of receiving an electric shock. Using torches and cordless power tools avoids the need for power when you are working in the ceiling space.
Other hazards to be aware of:
- Avoid contact with electrical cables and equipment in the ceiling space as some may still be live.
- Solar PV systems have DC supply cables which may be live during daylight hours.
- Damaged electrical cables or equipment will need repair by a licensed electrical contractor.
- Make sure insulation material is not covering any electrical fittings or equipment, especially down lights.
- Other hazards may also need to be addressed, such as excessive heat, working in confined spaces, dangerous vermin, sharp objects or asbestos containing materials.