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Queensland regulation
What this regulation does (mechanically)
Sets detailed rules for electrical safety across work, products and electricity network works. It sits under the Electrical Safety Act and tells people exactly what they must do to reduce electrical risk: how to do live/near-live work, how to test and certify work and equipment, how lines and substations must be designed and maintained, and how to report incidents. (See notably Part 3 on electrical work; Parts 6–10 on installations, lines and connections; Part 7 on in‑scope electrical equipment.)
Creates a product‑safety scheme for “in‑scope electrical equipment”: classifies items into levels 1–3, requires responsible suppliers to register, keep compliance folders or certificates, mark goods with the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM), and makes selling unmarked or unsafe goods an offence (Parts 7, secs 121–171; marking and sale rules secs 145,151–153; evidence and record duties secs 147–149).
Regulates licensing for people and businesses performing electrical work: classes of worker licences (mechanic, linesperson, fitter, jointer, restricted, training permit); electrical contractor licences with qualified technical/business persons endorsed; insurance and renewal rules; register of licences (Part 4, secs 33–66).
Prescribes safe work rules for working on or near energized equipment (risk assessment, safe work method statements, tools, protective equipment, safety observers), testing and record‑keeping after work, and strict limits on when live work may be done (Part 3, secs 14–26, 19–23, 25–26).
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Direct links to the current provisions in Electrical Safety Regulation 2013.
This regulation may be cited as the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 .
This regulation commences on 1 January 2014.
The purposes of this regulation include the following— ensuring the electrical safety of licensed electrical workers, other workers, licensed electrical contractors, consumers and the general public; enhancing consumer protection for electrical work; stopping cathodic protection systems from damaging or interfering with the property of others; ensuring a safe supply of electricity; ensuring electrical equipment hired or sold is electrically safe.
The ways adopted by this regulation for the achievement of its purposes include the following— prescribing matters in support of the electrical licensing arrangements established under the Act ; prescribing requirements for working around exposed parts and energised electrical equipment; prescribing requirements for electrical installations; prescribing matters about electrical equipment, including— requirements for electrical equipment; and requirements relating to the registration and certification of particular electrical equipment; and requirements about the hiring, selling, testing and using of electrical equipment; and requiring particular electrical equipment to be marked for compliance with relevant standards; and requirements for the testing of electrical equipment; prescribing requirements and procedures for the design, building and maintenance of electric lines and the works of electricity entities; prescribing requirements for the performance of electrical work; prescribing requirements for safety management systems for prescribed electricity entities; prescribing requirements for the operation of cathodic protection systems and requirements for particular systems to be registered by the regulator; prescribing notification and reporting requirements for serious electrical incidents and dangerous electrical events.
The dictionary in schedule 9 defines particular words used in this regulation. If a word used in this regulation is not defined in the dictionary, and is not defined in the Act , but is used in the wiring rules, it must, to the greatest practicable extent, be taken to have the same meaning in this regulation as it has in the wiring rules. (sec.5-ssec.1) The dictionary in schedule 9 defines particular words used in this regulation. (sec.5-ssec.2) If a word used in this regulation is not defined in the dictionary, and is not defined in the Act , but is used in the wiring rules, it must, to the greatest practicable extent, be taken to have the same meaning in this regulation as it has in the wiring rules.
In this regulation, unless otherwise stated— a reference to a standard using the designation made up of ‘AS’ and a number is a reference to the standard as in force from time to time under that designation; and ‘AS 1319’ is a reference to the standard that is currently in force under that designation. a reference to a joint standard using the designation made up of ‘AS/NZS’ and a number is a reference to the joint standard as in force from time to time under that designation. ‘AS/NZS 3012’ is a reference to the joint standard that is currently in force under that designation. Subsection (1) applies regardless of the edition or year of the standard or joint standard. In this regulation, a reference to AS/NZS 3000 is a reference to that standard as amended from time to time, and as remade from time to time. Bracketed words appearing after a standard’s designation are included for information purposes only. (sec.6-ssec.1) In this regulation, unless otherwise stated— a reference to a standard using the designation made up of ‘AS’ and a number is a reference to the standard as in force from time to time under that designation; and ‘AS 1319’ is a reference to the standard that is currently in force under that designation. a reference to a joint standard using the designation made up of ‘AS/NZS’ and a number is a reference to the joint standard as in force from time to time under that designation. ‘AS/NZS 3012’ is a reference to the joint standard that is currently in force under that designation. (sec.6-ssec.2) Subsection (1) applies regardless of the edition or year of the standard or joint standard. In this regulation, a reference to AS/NZS 3000 is a reference to that standard as amended from time to time, and as remade from time to time. (sec.6-ssec.3) Bracketed words appearing after a standard’s designation are included for information purposes only.
A qualified business person , for an applicant or a licensed electrical contractor, is an individual who satisfies the regulator that he or she— is a fit and proper person; and is competent to perform the business aspects of performing electrical work as, or for, a licensed electrical contractor; and has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on business aspects of performing electrical work; and is someone who— has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on business aspects of performing electrical work in addition to a course or examination mentioned in paragraph (c) ; or holds a qualification in business approved by the regulator and published on the department’s website; or has been operating a business for a period of, or periods totalling, 5 years. A qualified technical person , for an applicant or a licensed electrical contractor, is an individual who satisfies the regulator that he or she— is a fit and proper person; and either— if the electrical work to be performed by the applicant or licensed electrical contractor may be performed only by the holder of an electrical work licence—has held for at least 2 years, or a shorter period considered acceptable by the regulator, and still holds, an electrical work licence; or has held for at least 2 years, or a shorter period considered acceptable by the regulator, and still holds, an external contracting authority; and is competent to perform electrical work as, or for, a licensed electrical contractor; and has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on technical aspects of performing electrical work. Despite subsections (1) and (2) , for a person who is an individual to be a qualified business person or qualified technical person— for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor who is an individual, the person must also be, or be an employee of, that individual; or for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor that is a partnership, the person must also be a member or an employee of that partnership; or for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor that is a corporation, the person must also be an executive officer, a member or an employee of that corporation. In deciding whether a person who is an individual is a fit and proper person, the regulator may consider only— the standard of honesty and integrity demonstrated by the person in commercial and other activities in which the person has been involved; and any failure by the person to perform commercial or statutory obligations and the reasons for the failure. Despite subsection (4) , a person who is an individual is not a fit and proper person to be a qualified technical person if the individual is disqualified from being a qualified technical person for the holder of an electrical contractor licence, because of disciplinary action taken by the licensing committee. In this section— applicant means an individual, partnership or corporation that has applied for the issue of an electrical contractor licence. s 7 amd 2018 SL No. 216 s 4 (sec.7-ssec.1) A qualified business person , for an applicant or a licensed electrical contractor, is an individual who satisfies the regulator that he or she— is a fit and proper person; and is competent to perform the business aspects of performing electrical work as, or for, a licensed electrical contractor; and has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on business aspects of performing electrical work; and is someone who— has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on business aspects of performing electrical work in addition to a course or examination mentioned in paragraph (c) ; or holds a qualification in business approved by the regulator and published on the department’s website; or has been operating a business for a period of, or periods totalling, 5 years. (sec.7-ssec.2) A qualified technical person , for an applicant or a licensed electrical contractor, is an individual who satisfies the regulator that he or she— is a fit and proper person; and either— if the electrical work to be performed by the applicant or licensed electrical contractor may be performed only by the holder of an electrical work licence—has held for at least 2 years, or a shorter period considered acceptable by the regulator, and still holds, an electrical work licence; or has held for at least 2 years, or a shorter period considered acceptable by the regulator, and still holds, an external contracting authority; and is competent to perform electrical work as, or for, a licensed electrical contractor; and has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on technical aspects of performing electrical work. (sec.7-ssec.3) Despite subsections (1) and (2) , for a person who is an individual to be a qualified business person or qualified technical person— for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor who is an individual, the person must also be, or be an employee of, that individual; or for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor that is a partnership, the person must also be a member or an employee of that partnership; or for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor that is a corporation, the person must also be an executive officer, a member or an employee of that corporation. (sec.7-ssec.4) In deciding whether a person who is an individual is a fit and proper person, the regulator may consider only— the standard of honesty and integrity demonstrated by the person in commercial and other activities in which the person has been involved; and any failure by the person to perform commercial or statutory obligations and the reasons for the failure. (sec.7-ssec.5) Despite subsection (4) , a person who is an individual is not a fit and proper person to be a qualified technical person if the individual is disqualified from being a qualified technical person for the holder of an electrical contractor licence, because of disciplinary action taken by the licensing committee. (sec.7-ssec.6) In this section— applicant means an individual, partnership or corporation that has applied for the issue of an electrical contractor licence.
If a note at the foot of a provision of this regulation states ‘ES Act’ followed by a reference to a section number, the provision sets out the way in which a person’s duty under that section of the Act is to be performed in relation to the matters and to the extent set out in the provision. A failure to comply with a duty under a section of the Act mentioned in an ‘ES Act’ note is an offence to which a penalty applies.
A duty imposed on a person under a provision of this regulation in relation to electrical safety does not limit or affect any duty the person has under the Act or, unless otherwise expressly provided, any other provision of this regulation.
If this regulation requires an assessment of risks to electrical safety associated with a hazard, task, thing or circumstance, an assessment of risks associated with a class of hazards, tasks, things or circumstances may be conducted if— all hazards, tasks, things or circumstances in the class are the same; and the assessment of risks for the class does not result in any worker or other person being exposed to a greater, additional or different risk to electrical safety than if the risk assessment were carried out in relation to each individual hazard, task, thing or circumstance.
A person conducting a business or undertaking at a workplace must manage risks to health and safety associated with electrical risks at the workplace in accordance with the WHS Regulation , chapter 3 , part 3.1 . electrical risks associated with the design, construction, installation, protection, maintenance and testing of electrical equipment and electrical installations at a workplace ES Act — section 30 (see section 8 )
In this division— electrical work does not include high voltage live line work. near , in relation to electrical equipment, means within 3m of an exposed energised part of the equipment. s 12 def near ins 2024 SL No. 241 s 32 safe work method statement , in relation to electrical work on energised electrical equipment, means a safe work method statement prepared under section 22 . s 12 amd 2024 SL No. 241 s 52 sch 1
In this division, other than sections 16 , 20 and 21 , a reference to a person conducting a business or undertaking in relation to electrical work is a reference to the person conducting the business or undertaking who is carrying out the electrical work.
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that electrical work on or near energised electrical equipment is not carried out unless— it is necessary in the interests of health and safety that the electrical work is carried out on or near the electrical equipment while the equipment is energised; or It may be necessary that life-saving equipment remain energised and operating while electrical work is carried out on or near the equipment. it is necessary that the electrical equipment is energised in order for the work to be carried out properly; or it is necessary for testing the electrical equipment under section 15 (1) ; or there is no reasonable alternative means of carrying out the work. It may be necessary, to avoid widespread outages, that works of an electricity entity remain energised and operating while electrical work is carried out on or near the works. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. The electrical work that may be carried out under subsection (1) (a) , (b) and (d) may include testing of the energised electrical equipment. detecting a fault or defect in electrical equipment locating a fault or defect in electrical equipment measuring the performance of electrical equipment verifying compliance with the wiring rules s 14 amd 2014 SL No. 60 s 4 sub 2024 SL No. 241 s 4 amd 2024 SL No. 241 s 33 (sec.14-ssec.1) A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that electrical work on or near energised electrical equipment is not carried out unless— it is necessary in the interests of health and safety that the electrical work is carried out on or near the electrical equipment while the equipment is energised; or It may be necessary that life-saving equipment remain energised and operating while electrical work is carried out on or near the equipment. it is necessary that the electrical equipment is energised in order for the work to be carried out properly; or it is necessary for testing the electrical equipment under section 15 (1) ; or there is no reasonable alternative means of carrying out the work. It may be necessary, to avoid widespread outages, that works of an electricity entity remain energised and operating while electrical work is carried out on or near the works. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. (sec.14-ssec.2) The electrical work that may be carried out under subsection (1) (a) , (b) and (d) may include testing of the energised electrical equipment. detecting a fault or defect in electrical equipment locating a fault or defect in electrical equipment measuring the performance of electrical equipment verifying compliance with the wiring rules
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that, before electrical work is carried out on or near electrical equipment, the equipment is tested by a competent person to decide whether or not it is energised. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. Section 14 allows testing to be carried out on electrical equipment for this section. Section 22 sets out how the testing is to be carried out. The person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that— each exposed part is treated as energised until it is isolated and found not to be energised; and each high-voltage exposed part is earthed after being de-energised. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. s 15 amd 2014 SL No. 60 s 5 ; 2024 SL No. 241 ss 5 , 34 (sec.15-ssec.1) A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that, before electrical work is carried out on or near electrical equipment, the equipment is tested by a competent person to decide whether or not it is energised. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. Section 14 allows testing to be carried out on electrical equipment for this section. Section 22 sets out how the testing is to be carried out. (sec.15-ssec.2) The person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that— each exposed part is treated as energised until it is isolated and found not to be energised; and each high-voltage exposed part is earthed after being de-energised. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units.
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that electrical equipment that has been de-energised to allow electrical work to be carried out on or near the equipment is not inadvertently re-energised while the work is being carried out. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. s 16 amd 2014 SL No. 60 s 6 ; 2024 SL No. 241 s 35
This section applies if— a licensed electrical worker is performing electrical work; and to perform the work, the worker has de-energised, or otherwise isolated from electricity, an item of electrical equipment that is the subject of the electrical work or that is near where the electrical work is being performed; and to de-energise, or otherwise isolate, the item of electrical equipment, the licensed electrical worker has operated a device; and while the worker is performing the work, the worker does not have the device under the worker’s sole effective control. The licensed electrical worker must ensure both of the following— there is attached to the device, in a prominent position, a warning sign that is suitable in the circumstances, having regard to AS 1319 (Safety signs for the occupational environment); the device— when in the open position, is locked; or using a personal lock to lock an air-conditioner isolator in the open position using a locking device that stops a miniature circuit breaker from being closed placing a lockable shroud on the male inlet plug of electrical equipment is prevented from being accidentally closed. disengaging a circuit breaker so that the circuit breaker is separated from the busbars removing circuit cables from the fuse or circuit breaker insertion of a mechanical restriction Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. In this section— device means a circuit breaker, disconnection point, fuse or switch. (sec.17-ssec.1) This section applies if— a licensed electrical worker is performing electrical work; and to perform the work, the worker has de-energised, or otherwise isolated from electricity, an item of electrical equipment that is the subject of the electrical work or that is near where the electrical work is being performed; and to de-energise, or otherwise isolate, the item of electrical equipment, the licensed electrical worker has operated a device; and while the worker is performing the work, the worker does not have the device under the worker’s sole effective control. (sec.17-ssec.2) The licensed electrical worker must ensure both of the following— there is attached to the device, in a prominent position, a warning sign that is suitable in the circumstances, having regard to AS 1319 (Safety signs for the occupational environment); the device— when in the open position, is locked; or using a personal lock to lock an air-conditioner isolator in the open position using a locking device that stops a miniature circuit breaker from being closed placing a lockable shroud on the male inlet plug of electrical equipment is prevented from being accidentally closed. disengaging a circuit breaker so that the circuit breaker is separated from the busbars removing circuit cables from the fuse or circuit breaker insertion of a mechanical restriction Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.17-ssec.3) In this section— device means a circuit breaker, disconnection point, fuse or switch.
s 18 amd 2014 SL No. 60 s 7 om 2024 SL No. 241 s 6
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure the following before electrical work on or near energised electrical equipment commences at a workplace— a competent person conducts a risk assessment in relation to the proposed electrical work and records the results of the risk assessment; Section 10 permits risk assessments to be conducted, in particular circumstances, in relation to a class of hazards, tasks, things or circumstances. the area where the electrical work is to be carried out is clear of obstructions so as to allow for easy access and exit; the point at which the electrical equipment can be disconnected or isolated from its electricity supply is— clearly marked or labelled; and clear of obstructions so as to allow for easy access and exit by the worker who is to carry out the electrical work or any other competent person; and capable of being operated quickly; the person authorises the electrical work after consulting with the person with management or control of the workplace. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. Subsection (1) (c) does not apply to— electrical work on or near electrical equipment if— the work is to be carried out on the supply side of the main switch on the main switchboard for the equipment; and the point at which the equipment can be disconnected from its electricity supply is not reasonably accessible from the work location; or electric line work. s 19 amd 2014 SL No. 60 s 8 ; 2024 SL No. 241 s 36 (sec.19-ssec.1) A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure the following before electrical work on or near energised electrical equipment commences at a workplace— a competent person conducts a risk assessment in relation to the proposed electrical work and records the results of the risk assessment; Section 10 permits risk assessments to be conducted, in particular circumstances, in relation to a class of hazards, tasks, things or circumstances. the area where the electrical work is to be carried out is clear of obstructions so as to allow for easy access and exit; the point at which the electrical equipment can be disconnected or isolated from its electricity supply is— clearly marked or labelled; and clear of obstructions so as to allow for easy access and exit by the worker who is to carry out the electrical work or any other competent person; and capable of being operated quickly; the person authorises the electrical work after consulting with the person with management or control of the workplace. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. (sec.19-ssec.2) Subsection (1) (c) does not apply to— electrical work on or near electrical equipment if— the work is to be carried out on the supply side of the main switch on the main switchboard for the equipment; and the point at which the equipment can be disconnected from its electricity supply is not reasonably accessible from the work location; or electric line work.
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that only persons authorised by the person conducting the business or undertaking enter the immediate area in which electrical work on or near energised electrical equipment is being carried out. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. s 20 amd 2014 SL No. 60 s 9 ; 2024 SL No. 241 s 37
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that, while electrical work is being carried out on or near energised electrical equipment, all persons are prevented from creating an electrical risk by inadvertently making contact with an exposed energised part of the equipment. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. s 21 amd 2014 SL No. 60 s 10 ; 2024 SL No. 241 s 38
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that electrical work on or near energised electrical equipment is carried out— by a competent person who has tools, testing equipment and personal protective equipment that— are suitable for the work; and have been properly tested; and are maintained in good working order; and in accordance with a safe work method statement prepared for the work; and subject to subsection (4) , with a safety observer. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. The person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the person who carries out the electrical work uses the tools, testing equipment and personal protective equipment properly. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. For subsection (1) (b) , the safe work method statement must— identify the electrical work; and specify hazards associated with the electrical work and risks associated with those hazards; and describe the measures to be implemented to control the risks; and preventing persons from accessing an area where electrical work is being carried out on or near energised electrical equipment if the persons are not needed for the performance of the work describe how the measures mentioned in paragraph (c) are to be implemented, monitored and reviewed. A safety observer is not required if— the work consists only of testing; and the person conducting the business or undertaking has conducted a risk assessment under section 19 (1) (a) that shows that there is no serious risk associated with the proposed work. A safety observer is not required to observe the testing of the polarity of an installed outlet if a risk assessment does not show there is a serious risk in performing the work. s 22 amd 2014 SL No. 60 s 11; 2024 SL No. 241 s 39 (sec.22-ssec.1) A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that electrical work on or near energised electrical equipment is carried out— by a competent person who has tools, testing equipment and personal protective equipment that— are suitable for the work; and have been properly tested; and are maintained in good working order; and in accordance with a safe work method statement prepared for the work; and subject to subsection (4) , with a safety observer. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. (sec.22-ssec.2) The person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the person who carries out the electrical work uses the tools, testing equipment and personal protective equipment properly. Maximum penalty—60 penalty units. (sec.22-ssec.3) For subsection (1) (b) , the safe work method statement must— identify the electrical work; and specify hazards associated with the electrical work and risks associated with those hazards; and describe the measures to be implemented to control the risks; and preventing persons from accessing an area where electrical work is being carried out on or near energised electrical equipment if the persons are not needed for the performance of the work describe how the measures mentioned in paragraph (c) are to be implemented, monitored and reviewed. (sec.22-ssec.4) A safety observer is not required if— the work consists only of testing; and the person conducting the business or undertaking has conducted a risk assessment under section 19 (1) (a) that shows that there is no serious risk associated with the proposed work. A safety observer is not required to observe the testing of the polarity of an installed outlet if a risk assessment does not show there is a serious risk in performing the work.
This section applies if a person conducting a business or undertaking— is responsible for ensuring a risk assessment is conducted under section 19 ; or prepares a safe work method statement under section 22 . Subject to subsection (3) , the person must keep— a copy of the risk assessment until at least 28 days after the work to which it relates is completed; and a copy of the safe work method statement until the work to which it relates is completed. Maximum penalty— for an individual—12 1 / 2 penalty units; or for a body corporate—60 penalty units. If a serious electrical incident or dangerous electrical event occurs in connection with the work to which the assessment or statement relates, the person must keep the assessment or statement for at least 2 years after the incident occurs. Maximum penalty— for an individual—12 1 / 2 penalty units; or for a body corporate—60 penalty units. The person must ensure that, for the period for which the assessment or statement must be kept under this section, a copy is readily accessible to any worker engaged by the person to carry out electrical work to which the assessment or statement relates. Maximum penalty—36 penalty units. The person must ensure that, for the period for which the assessment or statement must be kept under this section, a copy is available for inspection under the Act . Maximum penalty— for an individual—12 1 / 2 penalty units; or for a body corporate—60 penalty units. s 23 amd 2014 SL No. 60 s 12 (sec.23-ssec.1) This section applies if a person conducting a business or undertaking— is responsible for ensuring a risk assessment is conducted under section 19 ; or prepares a safe work method statement under section 22 . (sec.23-ssec.2) Subject to subsection (3) , the person must keep— a copy of the risk assessment until at least 28 days after the work to which it relates is completed; and a copy of the safe work method statement until the work to which it relates is completed. Maximum penalty— for an individual—12 1 / 2 penalty units; or for a body corporate—60 penalty units. (sec.23-ssec.3) If a serious electrical incident or dangerous electrical event occurs in connection with the work to which the assessment or statement relates, the person must keep the assessment or statement for at least 2 years after the incident occurs. Maximum penalty— for an individual—12 1 / 2 penalty units; or for a body corporate—60 penalty units. (sec.23-ssec.4) The person must ensure that, for the period for which the assessment or statement must be kept under this section, a copy is readily accessible to any worker engaged by the person to carry out electrical work to which the assessment or statement relates. Maximum penalty—36 penalty units. (sec.23-ssec.5) The person must ensure that, for the period for which the assessment or statement must be kept under this section, a copy is available for inspection under the Act . Maximum penalty— for an individual—12 1 / 2 penalty units; or for a body corporate—60 penalty units.
A person must not perform high voltage live line work unless the person’s performance of the work— is authorised in writing by the person in control of the electrical equipment the subject of the work; and is under a high voltage live line work management plan. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. A person in control of electrical equipment may authorise a person’s performance of high voltage live line work in relation to the electrical equipment only if— the person in control is satisfied the person— has successfully finished an appropriate course of training; and has been assessed by the provider of the course as competent to perform the work; and the written authorisation states the voltages of the electrical equipment on which the high voltage live line work may be performed. If the written authorisation provides for the performance of work on more than 1 occasion, the entity that gives the authorisation must, while the authorisation is in force, cause the person authorised to perform the high voltage live line work to be regularly assessed to ensure the person remains competent to perform the work. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. In this section— high voltage live line work management plan means a plan for the performance of high voltage live line work that— includes procedures developed in accordance with each of the following standards— AS 5804.1 (High-voltage live working—General); AS 5804.2 (High-voltage live working—Glove and barrier work); AS 5804.3 (High-voltage live working—Stick work); AS 5804.4 (High-voltage live working—Barehand work); and is developed in conjunction with each of the following— representatives of workers who are to perform high voltage live line work under the plan; if the high voltage live line work involves the works of an electricity entity—the electricity entity; other persons who might reasonably be expected to have an interest in the performance of the high voltage live line work; and has been approved by a person who— is an electrical engineer who has expertise as a professional engineer in the performance of high voltage live line work; or has expertise the person in control of the electrical equipment the subject of the high voltage live line work decides is equivalent to the expertise mentioned in subparagraph (i) . s 24 amd 2016 SL No. 229 s 3 (sec.24-ssec.1) A person must not perform high voltage live line work unless the person’s performance of the work— is authorised in writing by the person in control of the electrical equipment the subject of the work; and is under a high voltage live line work management plan. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.24-ssec.2) A person in control of electrical equipment may authorise a person’s performance of high voltage live line work in relation to the electrical equipment only if— the person in control is satisfied the person— has successfully finished an appropriate course of training; and has been assessed by the provider of the course as competent to perform the work; and the written authorisation states the voltages of the electrical equipment on which the high voltage live line work may be performed. (sec.24-ssec.3) If the written authorisation provides for the performance of work on more than 1 occasion, the entity that gives the authorisation must, while the authorisation is in force, cause the person authorised to perform the high voltage live line work to be regularly assessed to ensure the person remains competent to perform the work. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.24-ssec.4) In this section— high voltage live line work management plan means a plan for the performance of high voltage live line work that— includes procedures developed in accordance with each of the following standards— AS 5804.1 (High-voltage live working—General); AS 5804.2 (High-voltage live working—Glove and barrier work); AS 5804.3 (High-voltage live working—Stick work); AS 5804.4 (High-voltage live working—Barehand work); and is developed in conjunction with each of the following— representatives of workers who are to perform high voltage live line work under the plan; if the high voltage live line work involves the works of an electricity entity—the electricity entity; other persons who might reasonably be expected to have an interest in the performance of the high voltage live line work; and has been approved by a person who— is an electrical engineer who has expertise as a professional engineer in the performance of high voltage live line work; or has expertise the person in control of the electrical equipment the subject of the high voltage live line work decides is equivalent to the expertise mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
This section applies if electrical work is performed on electrical equipment. A person who performs part or all of the electrical work, and is responsible for making the electrical equipment ready to connect to a source of electricity for use for its intended purpose, must ensure the electrical equipment is tested as required under subsections (6) and (7) . Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. If a training person performs the work mentioned in subsection (2) under the supervision of a licensed electrical worker, subsection (2) applies to the licensed electrical worker and not the training person as if the licensed electrical worker were performing the work. A licensed electrical contractor or electricity entity who performs the electrical work of connecting the electrical equipment to a source of electricity for use for its intended purpose must ensure the electrical equipment is tested as required under subsections (6) and (7) . Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. Subsection (4) does not require a distribution entity to ensure the testing of the electrical equipment if— the electrical work is, or is part of, electrical work performed on an electrical installation; and a licensed electrical contractor has given the distribution entity a notice under section 226 about the testing of the electrical work performed on the electrical installation. The testing of the electrical equipment must be directed at ensuring that the electrical equipment, to the extent it is affected by the electrical work, is electrically safe. If the electrical equipment is energised for testing, the person who performs the test must ensure persons not necessary for the testing are electrically safe. s 25 amd 2016 SL No. 229 s 4 (sec.25-ssec.1) This section applies if electrical work is performed on electrical equipment. (sec.25-ssec.2) A person who performs part or all of the electrical work, and is responsible for making the electrical equipment ready to connect to a source of electricity for use for its intended purpose, must ensure the electrical equipment is tested as required under subsections (6) and (7) . Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.25-ssec.3) If a training person performs the work mentioned in subsection (2) under the supervision of a licensed electrical worker, subsection (2) applies to the licensed electrical worker and not the training person as if the licensed electrical worker were performing the work. (sec.25-ssec.4) A licensed electrical contractor or electricity entity who performs the electrical work of connecting the electrical equipment to a source of electricity for use for its intended purpose must ensure the electrical equipment is tested as required under subsections (6) and (7) . Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.25-ssec.5) Subsection (4) does not require a distribution entity to ensure the testing of the electrical equipment if— the electrical work is, or is part of, electrical work performed on an electrical installation; and a licensed electrical contractor has given the distribution entity a notice under section 226 about the testing of the electrical work performed on the electrical installation. (sec.25-ssec.6) The testing of the electrical equipment must be directed at ensuring that the electrical equipment, to the extent it is affected by the electrical work, is electrically safe. (sec.25-ssec.7) If the electrical equipment is energised for testing, the person who performs the test must ensure persons not necessary for the testing are electrically safe.
This section applies if a licensed electrical contractor performs electrical work that must be tested under this division. The contractor must, as soon as practicable after testing the electrical work, ensure that the person for whom the electrical work was performed is given a certificate complying with this section. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. The certificate must state the following— the name and address of the person for whom the work was performed; the electrical equipment tested; the day the electrical equipment was tested; the number of the electrical contractor licence under which the electrical equipment was tested. The certificate must certify that the electrical equipment, to the extent it is affected by the electrical work, is electrically safe. A licensed electrical contractor must keep a copy of a certificate given under this section for at least 5 years after the certificate is given. Maximum penalty for subsection (5) —20 penalty units. (sec.26-ssec.1) This section applies if a licensed electrical contractor performs electrical work that must be tested under this division. (sec.26-ssec.2) The contractor must, as soon as practicable after testing the electrical work, ensure that the person for whom the electrical work was performed is given a certificate complying with this section. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.26-ssec.3) The certificate must state the following— the name and address of the person for whom the work was performed; the electrical equipment tested; the day the electrical equipment was tested; the number of the electrical contractor licence under which the electrical equipment was tested. (sec.26-ssec.4) The certificate must certify that the electrical equipment, to the extent it is affected by the electrical work, is electrically safe. (sec.26-ssec.5) A licensed electrical contractor must keep a copy of a certificate given under this section for at least 5 years after the certificate is given. Maximum penalty for subsection (5) —20 penalty units.
For section 19 (1) (b) of the Act , the following circumstances are prescribed— the similar appliance has— a voltage rating that is the same as the voltage rating of the appliance included in the electrical installation (the old appliance ); and a current rating that is not greater than the current rating of the old appliance; and a power rating that is not greater than the power rating of the old appliance; and the same way of performing the function as the old appliance; and electrical characteristics that are the same as or better than the electrical characteristics of the old appliance; ingress protection rating, insulation, earthing, operating temperature the electrical installation is not located in a hazardous area. In this section— current rating , for an appliance, means the current stated on the appliance as the current the appliance will consume when operating under normal circumstances. power rating , for an appliance, means the power stated on the appliance as the power the appliance will consume when operating under normal circumstances. voltage rating , for an appliance, means the voltage stated on the appliance as the voltage the appliance is designed to be supplied with to operate under normal conditions. s 26A ins 2024 Act No. 44 s 33 (sec.26A-ssec.1) For section 19 (1) (b) of the Act , the following circumstances are prescribed— the similar appliance has— a voltage rating that is the same as the voltage rating of the appliance included in the electrical installation (the old appliance ); and a current rating that is not greater than the current rating of the old appliance; and a power rating that is not greater than the power rating of the old appliance; and the same way of performing the function as the old appliance; and electrical characteristics that are the same as or better than the electrical characteristics of the old appliance; ingress protection rating, insulation, earthing, operating temperature the electrical installation is not located in a hazardous area. (sec.26A-ssec.2) In this section— current rating , for an appliance, means the current stated on the appliance as the current the appliance will consume when operating under normal circumstances. power rating , for an appliance, means the power stated on the appliance as the power the appliance will consume when operating under normal circumstances. voltage rating , for an appliance, means the voltage stated on the appliance as the voltage the appliance is designed to be supplied with to operate under normal conditions.
If an item of electrical equipment has a serious defect, a licensed electrical worker must not connect the equipment to a source of electricity for use for its intended purpose. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure workers who are required to perform, or help in performing, electrical work are competent in rescue and resuscitation in accordance with recognised practices in the electricity industry. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. Subsection (1) does not apply in relation to a worker if it is a condition of the worker’s electrical work licence that the person must not act in a role for which it is a requirement that the worker be competent in rescue and resuscitation, including as a safety observer. (sec.28-ssec.1) A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure workers who are required to perform, or help in performing, electrical work are competent in rescue and resuscitation in accordance with recognised practices in the electricity industry. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.28-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply in relation to a worker if it is a condition of the worker’s electrical work licence that the person must not act in a role for which it is a requirement that the worker be competent in rescue and resuscitation, including as a safety observer.
This division applies to the performance of electrical work as part of the business or undertaking conducted by a licensed electrical contractor. s 29 amd 2024 SL No. 241 s 52 sch 1
A person must not sign a document required under the Act , or by an electricity entity, about the performance of electrical work unless the person is— if the electrical work was performed as part of the business or undertaking conducted by a licensed electrical contractor who is an individual—a qualified technical person for the individual; or if the electrical work was performed as part of the business or undertaking conducted by a licensed electrical contractor that is a partnership—a qualified technical person for the partnership; or if the electrical work was performed as part of the business or undertaking conducted by a licensed electrical contractor that is a corporation—a qualified technical person for the corporation. Maximum penalty—20 penalty units.
A person must not, in trade or commerce, represent that someone who is not a licensed electrical worker may lawfully— connect to a source of electricity an item of electrical equipment that may only be connected to a source of electricity by a licensed electrical worker; or do electrical work that may be done only by a licensed electrical worker. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. A person conducting a business or undertaking must take all reasonable steps to ensure the person’s workers do not contravene subsection (1) . Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.31-ssec.1) A person must not, in trade or commerce, represent that someone who is not a licensed electrical worker may lawfully— connect to a source of electricity an item of electrical equipment that may only be connected to a source of electricity by a licensed electrical worker; or do electrical work that may be done only by a licensed electrical worker. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.31-ssec.2) A person conducting a business or undertaking must take all reasonable steps to ensure the person’s workers do not contravene subsection (1) . Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
A person must not, in trade or commerce, represent that another person who is not a licensed electrical contractor may lawfully contract for the performance of electrical work the other person may not otherwise perform under the Act . minor emergency repairs to make electrical equipment electrically safe that are performed by a licensed electrical mechanic Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. A person conducting a business or undertaking must take all reasonable steps to ensure the person’s workers do not contravene subsection (1) . Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.32-ssec.1) A person must not, in trade or commerce, represent that another person who is not a licensed electrical contractor may lawfully contract for the performance of electrical work the other person may not otherwise perform under the Act . minor emergency repairs to make electrical equipment electrically safe that are performed by a licensed electrical mechanic Maximum penalty—40 penalty units. (sec.32-ssec.2) A person conducting a business or undertaking must take all reasonable steps to ensure the person’s workers do not contravene subsection (1) . Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
The following classes of electrical work licences may be issued— electrical mechanic licence; electrical linesperson licence; electrical fitter licence; electrical jointer licence; restricted electrical work licence; electrical work training permit.
Nothing in this division authorises a holder of an electrical work licence to contravene a current condition or restriction included in the licence. For the inclusion of conditions or restrictions in electrical licences, see section 63 of the Act .
An electrical mechanic licence authorises the holder to perform all electrical work. installing or changing an electrical installation or electric line maintaining, repairing, or connecting to a source of electricity, an item of electrical equipment
An electrical linesperson licence authorises the holder to perform all electric line work. electrical work in the building or maintenance of an overhead electric line electrical work in the building or maintenance of street lighting connected to an overhead or underground electric line tests to ensure overhead electric lines are correctly connected
An electrical fitter licence authorises the holder to perform all electrical equipment work. electrical work, whether in a workshop or on site, of building, manufacturing, fitting, assembling, erecting, operating, testing or repairing electrical equipment
An electrical jointer licence authorises the holder to perform electrical work to the extent of the following— installing, jointing and terminating cables to the extent the work requires specialised knowledge or skill; electrical equipment work necessary for the work mentioned in paragraph (a) .
A restricted electrical work licence authorises the holder to perform electrical work only of a particular type stated in the licence. A restricted electrical work licence may restrict the holder to the performance of electrical work incidental or special to a particular calling. A restricted electrical work licence— does not entitle the holder to another electrical licence; and must not be taken into account in deciding whether the holder is qualified to obtain or hold another electrical licence. (sec.39-ssec.1) A restricted electrical work licence authorises the holder to perform electrical work only of a particular type stated in the licence. A restricted electrical work licence may restrict the holder to the performance of electrical work incidental or special to a particular calling. (sec.39-ssec.2) A restricted electrical work licence— does not entitle the holder to another electrical licence; and must not be taken into account in deciding whether the holder is qualified to obtain or hold another electrical licence.
An electrical work training permit authorises the holder to perform electrical work stated in the permit in accordance with the conditions about training stated in the permit. An electrical work training permit— does not entitle the holder to another electrical licence; and must not be taken into account in deciding whether the holder is qualified to obtain or hold another electrical licence. (sec.40-ssec.1) An electrical work training permit authorises the holder to perform electrical work stated in the permit in accordance with the conditions about training stated in the permit. (sec.40-ssec.2) An electrical work training permit— does not entitle the holder to another electrical licence; and must not be taken into account in deciding whether the holder is qualified to obtain or hold another electrical licence.
An external licence mentioned in schedule 1 is equivalent to the electrical work licence stated in the schedule for the external licence.
This section states requirements that apply generally for the issue of an electrical work licence, other than an electrical work training permit, to an applicant for the licence. The regulator must be satisfied that— the applicant satisfies the eligibility requirements for the licence; and the applicant is adequately able to understand, and read and write in, the English language without the aid of an interpreter. The regulator may consider the following about the applicant’s activities, whether before or after the commencement of this section, as a licensed electrical worker— disciplinary action taken against the applicant under a law regulating the activities of licensed electrical workers; the applicant’s non-performance of a duty under a law about electrical work and the reasons for the non-performance. The regulator must be satisfied the applicant has been trained in, and is competent to carry out, resuscitation on an individual who has stopped breathing or is unconscious because of electric shock. For an application for an electrical linesperson licence, the regulator must also be satisfied the applicant has been trained in, and is competent to carry out, resuscitation and rescue at a pole top or transmission tower on an individual who has stopped breathing or is unconscious because of electric shock. In this section— eligibility requirements , for an electrical work licence, means the requirements that apply to the licence under sections 43 to 45 . (sec.42-ssec.1) This section states requirements that apply generally for the issue of an electrical work licence, other than an electrical work training permit, to an applicant for the licence. (sec.42-ssec.2) The regulator must be satisfied that— the applicant satisfies the eligibility requirements for the licence; and the applicant is adequately able to understand, and read and write in, the English language without the aid of an interpreter. (sec.42-ssec.3) The regulator may consider the following about the applicant’s activities, whether before or after the commencement of this section, as a licensed electrical worker— disciplinary action taken against the applicant under a law regulating the activities of licensed electrical workers; the applicant’s non-performance of a duty under a law about electrical work and the reasons for the non-performance. (sec.42-ssec.4) The regulator must be satisfied the applicant has been trained in, and is competent to carry out, resuscitation on an individual who has stopped breathing or is unconscious because of electric shock. (sec.42-ssec.5) For an application for an electrical linesperson licence, the regulator must also be satisfied the applicant has been trained in, and is competent to carry out, resuscitation and rescue at a pole top or transmission tower on an individual who has stopped breathing or is unconscious because of electric shock. (sec.42-ssec.6) In this section— eligibility requirements , for an electrical work licence, means the requirements that apply to the licence under sections 43 to 45 .
This section prescribes eligibility requirements for the issue of the following classes of electrical work licence— an electrical mechanic licence; an electrical linesperson licence; an electrical fitter licence; an electrical jointer licence. To be issued a licence, an applicant must comply with subsection (3) , (4) or (5) . The applicant must have— satisfactorily finished an apprenticeship under the Further Education and Training Act 2014 to achieve competence in the trade work of the relevant trade; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction decided by the regulator; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade; and is verified by the registered training organisation that issues a qualification or statement of attainment for training delivered to the applicant under the apprenticeship; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered under the training plan or training plans for the apprenticeship; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking who is a party to the training plan under which the applicant finished the apprenticeship; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade. The applicant must have— satisfactorily finished an apprenticeship outside Queensland that is, in the regulator’s opinion, at least equivalent to an apprenticeship mentioned in subsection (3) (a) ; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction related to the apprenticeship that is, in the regulator’s opinion, at least equivalent to the course of instruction mentioned in subsection (3) (b) ; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade; and is verified by the equivalent non-Queensland training organisation that issues a qualification or statement of attainment for training delivered to the applicant under the apprenticeship; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered to the applicant under the apprenticeship; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking under whom the applicant finished the apprenticeship; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade. The applicant must satisfy the regulator that the applicant— has a relevant qualification; and has complied with the regulator’s examination requirements; and is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade. In this section— relevant expired licence means— for the issue of an electrical mechanic licence—an expired electrical mechanic licence; or for the issue of an electrical linesperson licence—an expired electrical linesperson licence; or for the issue of an electrical fitter licence—an expired electrical fitter licence; or for the issue of an electrical jointer licence—an expired electrical jointer licence. relevant qualification , for an applicant, means that the applicant— is the holder of— for the issue of an electrical mechanic licence—a current electrical fitter licence; or for the issue of an electrical linesperson licence, an electrical fitter licence or an electrical jointer licence—a current electrical mechanic licence; or was the holder of a relevant expired licence that was issued under the Act ; or has served an apprenticeship to the calling of the relevant trade under the Further Education and Training Act 2014 , but has not satisfactorily finished the course of instruction mentioned in subsection (3) (b) ; or for the issue of an electrical mechanic licence or an electrical fitter licence—is the holder of a tradesman’s certificate within the meaning of the Tradespersons’ Rights Regulation Act 1946 (Cwlth) in the classification of the relevant trade; or is the holder of a certificate or other document issued by a relevant assessing authority stating that the holder’s skills are suitable for the occupation of the relevant trade. relevant trade means— for the issue of an electrical mechanic licence—electrical mechanic; or for the issue of an electrical linesperson licence—electrical linesperson; or for the issue of an electrical fitter licence—electrical fitter; or for the issue of an electrical jointer licence—electrical jointer. s 43 amd 2014 SL No. 103 s 11 (sec.43-ssec.1) This section prescribes eligibility requirements for the issue of the following classes of electrical work licence— an electrical mechanic licence; an electrical linesperson licence; an electrical fitter licence; an electrical jointer licence. (sec.43-ssec.2) To be issued a licence, an applicant must comply with subsection (3) , (4) or (5) . (sec.43-ssec.3) The applicant must have— satisfactorily finished an apprenticeship under the Further Education and Training Act 2014 to achieve competence in the trade work of the relevant trade; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction decided by the regulator; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade; and is verified by the registered training organisation that issues a qualification or statement of attainment for training delivered to the applicant under the apprenticeship; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered under the training plan or training plans for the apprenticeship; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking who is a party to the training plan under which the applicant finished the apprenticeship; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade. (sec.43-ssec.4) The applicant must have— satisfactorily finished an apprenticeship outside Queensland that is, in the regulator’s opinion, at least equivalent to an apprenticeship mentioned in subsection (3) (a) ; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction related to the apprenticeship that is, in the regulator’s opinion, at least equivalent to the course of instruction mentioned in subsection (3) (b) ; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade; and is verified by the equivalent non-Queensland training organisation that issues a qualification or statement of attainment for training delivered to the applicant under the apprenticeship; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered to the applicant under the apprenticeship; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking under whom the applicant finished the apprenticeship; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade. (sec.43-ssec.5) The applicant must satisfy the regulator that the applicant— has a relevant qualification; and has complied with the regulator’s examination requirements; and is competent in the trade work of the relevant trade. (sec.43-ssec.6) In this section— relevant expired licence means— for the issue of an electrical mechanic licence—an expired electrical mechanic licence; or for the issue of an electrical linesperson licence—an expired electrical linesperson licence; or for the issue of an electrical fitter licence—an expired electrical fitter licence; or for the issue of an electrical jointer licence—an expired electrical jointer licence. relevant qualification , for an applicant, means that the applicant— is the holder of— for the issue of an electrical mechanic licence—a current electrical fitter licence; or for the issue of an electrical linesperson licence, an electrical fitter licence or an electrical jointer licence—a current electrical mechanic licence; or was the holder of a relevant expired licence that was issued under the Act ; or has served an apprenticeship to the calling of the relevant trade under the Further Education and Training Act 2014 , but has not satisfactorily finished the course of instruction mentioned in subsection (3) (b) ; or for the issue of an electrical mechanic licence or an electrical fitter licence—is the holder of a tradesman’s certificate within the meaning of the Tradespersons’ Rights Regulation Act 1946 (Cwlth) in the classification of the relevant trade; or is the holder of a certificate or other document issued by a relevant assessing authority stating that the holder’s skills are suitable for the occupation of the relevant trade. relevant trade means— for the issue of an electrical mechanic licence—electrical mechanic; or for the issue of an electrical linesperson licence—electrical linesperson; or for the issue of an electrical fitter licence—electrical fitter; or for the issue of an electrical jointer licence—electrical jointer.
To be issued a restricted electrical work licence, an applicant must comply with subsection (2) , (3) , (4) or (5) . The applicant must have— satisfactorily finished a course of training, conducted by a registered training organisation, that the regulator considers to be appropriate; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction decided by the regulator; and given the regulator a written statement that— the applicant is competent in performing electrical work the subject of the application; and is verified by the registered training organisation; and if the course is training delivered to the applicant under a training plan—given the regulator a written statement that— the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered under the training plan; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking who is a party to the training plan; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent to perform electrical work the subject of the licence. The applicant must have— satisfactorily finished a course of training outside Queensland that is, in the regulator’s opinion, at least equivalent to the course of training mentioned in subsection (2) (a) ; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction that is, in the regulator’s opinion, at least equivalent to the course of instruction mentioned in subsection (2) (b) ; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant is competent in performing electrical work the subject of the application; and is verified by the equivalent non-Queensland training organisation that issues a qualification or statement of attainment for the course; and if the course is training delivered to the applicant under an apprenticeship or traineeship—given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered to the applicant under the apprenticeship or traineeship; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking under whom the applicant finished the apprenticeship or traineeship; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent to perform electrical work the subject of the licence. The applicant must be the holder of a current licence, permit, certificate or other authority issued under a law of the Commonwealth, another State or New Zealand that the regulator decides is equivalent to the restricted electrical work licence. The applicant must have— satisfied the regulator that the applicant has a relevant qualification; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, decided by the regulator, that is conducted by a registered training organisation; and given the regulator a written statement— that the applicant is competent in performing electrical work the subject of the application; and is verified by the registered training organisation; and if the course is training delivered to the applicant under a training plan—given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered under the training plan; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking who is a party to the training plan; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent to perform electrical work the subject of the licence. An applicant who satisfies the regulator that the applicant held a restricted electrical work licence that was issued under the Act and has expired is taken to have a relevant qualification for subsection (5) (a) . In this section— corresponding training department means a department of government of another State in which a law corresponding to the Further Education and Training Act 2014 is administered. relevant qualification , for an applicant, means that the applicant— is the holder of a tradesperson’s certificate within the meaning of the Tradespersons’ Rights Regulation Act 1946 (Cwlth) in a calling that the regulator has decided requires the tradesperson to perform electrical work; or is the holder of a tradesperson’s certificate issued by a corresponding training department in a calling that the regulator has decided requires the tradesperson to perform electrical work; or is the holder of a certificate or other document issued by a relevant assessing authority stating that the holder’s skills are suitable for an occupation that is or includes a calling that the regulator has decided requires the holder to perform electrical work; or has equivalent qualifications or experience in a calling that the regulator decides requires the person to perform electrical work. s 44 amd 2014 SL No. 103 s 12 ; 2017 Act No. 27 s 41 sch 1 (sec.44-ssec.1) To be issued a restricted electrical work licence, an applicant must comply with subsection (2) , (3) , (4) or (5) . (sec.44-ssec.2) The applicant must have— satisfactorily finished a course of training, conducted by a registered training organisation, that the regulator considers to be appropriate; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction decided by the regulator; and given the regulator a written statement that— the applicant is competent in performing electrical work the subject of the application; and is verified by the registered training organisation; and if the course is training delivered to the applicant under a training plan—given the regulator a written statement that— the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered under the training plan; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking who is a party to the training plan; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent to perform electrical work the subject of the licence. (sec.44-ssec.3) The applicant must have— satisfactorily finished a course of training outside Queensland that is, in the regulator’s opinion, at least equivalent to the course of training mentioned in subsection (2) (a) ; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction that is, in the regulator’s opinion, at least equivalent to the course of instruction mentioned in subsection (2) (b) ; and given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant is competent in performing electrical work the subject of the application; and is verified by the equivalent non-Queensland training organisation that issues a qualification or statement of attainment for the course; and if the course is training delivered to the applicant under an apprenticeship or traineeship—given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered to the applicant under the apprenticeship or traineeship; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking under whom the applicant finished the apprenticeship or traineeship; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent to perform electrical work the subject of the licence. (sec.44-ssec.4) The applicant must be the holder of a current licence, permit, certificate or other authority issued under a law of the Commonwealth, another State or New Zealand that the regulator decides is equivalent to the restricted electrical work licence. (sec.44-ssec.5) The applicant must have— satisfied the regulator that the applicant has a relevant qualification; and satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, decided by the regulator, that is conducted by a registered training organisation; and given the regulator a written statement— that the applicant is competent in performing electrical work the subject of the application; and is verified by the registered training organisation; and if the course is training delivered to the applicant under a training plan—given the regulator a written statement that— states that the applicant has satisfactorily finished the training to be delivered under the training plan; and is verified by a person conducting a business or undertaking who is a party to the training plan; and satisfied the regulator the applicant is competent to perform electrical work the subject of the licence. (sec.44-ssec.6) An applicant who satisfies the regulator that the applicant held a restricted electrical work licence that was issued under the Act and has expired is taken to have a relevant qualification for subsection (5) (a) . (sec.44-ssec.7) In this section— corresponding training department means a department of government of another State in which a law corresponding to the Further Education and Training Act 2014 is administered. relevant qualification , for an applicant, means that the applicant— is the holder of a tradesperson’s certificate within the meaning of the Tradespersons’ Rights Regulation Act 1946 (Cwlth) in a calling that the regulator has decided requires the tradesperson to perform electrical work; or is the holder of a tradesperson’s certificate issued by a corresponding training department in a calling that the regulator has decided requires the tradesperson to perform electrical work; or is the holder of a certificate or other document issued by a relevant assessing authority stating that the holder’s skills are suitable for an occupation that is or includes a calling that the regulator has decided requires the holder to perform electrical work; or has equivalent qualifications or experience in a calling that the regulator decides requires the person to perform electrical work.
To be issued an electrical work training permit to perform electrical work stated in the permit, an applicant must satisfy the regulator that the applicant has a relevant qualification under section 43 (6) , definition relevant qualification or 44 (7) , definition relevant qualification for the stated electrical work. A person applies for an electrical mechanic licence. The person does not satisfy the eligibility requirements for an electrical mechanic licence under section 43 (3) , (4) or (5) . The person may be issued an electrical work training permit if the person has a relevant qualification under section 43 (6) , definition relevant qualification . The regulator may also consider the following about the applicant’s activities, whether before or after the commencement of this section— disciplinary action taken against the applicant under a law regulating the activities of licensed electrical workers; the applicant’s non-performance of a duty under a law about electrical work and the reasons for the non-performance. (sec.45-ssec.1) To be issued an electrical work training permit to perform electrical work stated in the permit, an applicant must satisfy the regulator that the applicant has a relevant qualification under section 43 (6) , definition relevant qualification or 44 (7) , definition relevant qualification for the stated electrical work. A person applies for an electrical mechanic licence. The person does not satisfy the eligibility requirements for an electrical mechanic licence under section 43 (3) , (4) or (5) . The person may be issued an electrical work training permit if the person has a relevant qualification under section 43 (6) , definition relevant qualification . (sec.45-ssec.2) The regulator may also consider the following about the applicant’s activities, whether before or after the commencement of this section— disciplinary action taken against the applicant under a law regulating the activities of licensed electrical workers; the applicant’s non-performance of a duty under a law about electrical work and the reasons for the non-performance.
Each of the following may be issued, renewed or reinstated for a maximum of 5 years— electrical mechanic licence; electrical linesperson licence; electrical fitter licence; electrical jointer licence; restricted electrical work licence. An electrical work training permit may be issued, renewed or reinstated for a maximum of 1 year. (sec.46-ssec.1) Each of the following may be issued, renewed or reinstated for a maximum of 5 years— electrical mechanic licence; electrical linesperson licence; electrical fitter licence; electrical jointer licence; restricted electrical work licence. (sec.46-ssec.2) An electrical work training permit may be issued, renewed or reinstated for a maximum of 1 year.
This division prescribes requirements for an electrical contractor licence applied for by, or issued to— an individual; or a partnership; or a corporation. s 47 amd 2024 SL No. 241 s 52 sch 1
To be issued an electrical contractor licence, the applicant for the licence must— have at least 1 qualified business person and 1 qualified technical person to perform electrical work; and satisfy the insurance requirements under section 51 ; and satisfy the regulator that electrical work to be performed by the applicant as a licensed electrical contractor is proposed to be— performed by a qualified technical person for the applicant under the person’s electrical work licence; or supervised by a qualified technical person for the applicant who is authorised to perform the work under the person’s electrical work licence. The regulator must endorse the electrical contractor licence with the name of at least 1 qualified business person and 1 qualified technical person for the applicant. The applicant may, before the issue of the electrical contractor licence, or at any time after its issue but while the electrical contractor licence is in force, apply to the regulator to have other names endorsed on the electrical contractor licence as the names of qualified business persons or qualified technical persons for the applicant. The regulator must endorse a person’s name in accordance with the application if the regulator is satisfied the person is a qualified business person or qualified technical person for the applicant. (sec.48-ssec.1) To be issued an electrical contractor licence, the applicant for the licence must— have at least 1 qualified business person and 1 qualified technical person to perform electrical work; and satisfy the insurance requirements under section 51 ; and satisfy the regulator that electrical work to be performed by the applicant as a licensed electrical contractor is proposed to be— performed by a qualified technical person for the applicant under the person’s electrical work licence; or supervised by a qualified technical person for the applicant who is authorised to perform the work under the person’s electrical work licence. (sec.48-ssec.2) The regulator must endorse the electrical contractor licence with the name of at least 1 qualified business person and 1 qualified technical person for the applicant. (sec.48-ssec.3) The applicant may, before the issue of the electrical contractor licence, or at any time after its issue but while the electrical contractor licence is in force, apply to the regulator to have other names endorsed on the electrical contractor licence as the names of qualified business persons or qualified technical persons for the applicant. (sec.48-ssec.4) The regulator must endorse a person’s name in accordance with the application if the regulator is satisfied the person is a qualified business person or qualified technical person for the applicant.
If a person whose name is endorsed on an electrical contractor licence as a qualified technical person is no longer the holder of an electrical work licence or external contracting authority, or is no longer an employee of the licensed electrical contractor under the licence— the licensed electrical contractor must advise the regulator of the fact within 10 business days after the person stops being— the holder of the licence or authority; or an employee of the licensed electrical contractor; and the regulator must, on receiving the advice, remove the endorsement from the electrical contractor licence. If a person whose name is endorsed on an electrical contractor licence as a qualified business person is no longer a qualified business person or is no longer an employee of the licensed electrical contractor under the licence— the licensed electrical contractor must advise the regulator of the fact within 10 business days after the person stops being— an employee of the licensed electrical contractor; or a qualified business person; and the regulator must, on receiving the advice, remove the endorsement from the licence. s 49 amd 2024 SL No. 241 s 40 (sec.49-ssec.1) If a person whose name is endorsed on an electrical contractor licence as a qualified technical person is no longer the holder of an electrical work licence or external contracting authority, or is no longer an employee of the licensed electrical contractor under the licence— the licensed electrical contractor must advise the regulator of the fact within 10 business days after the person stops being— the holder of the licence or authority; or an employee of the licensed electrical contractor; and the regulator must, on receiving the advice, remove the endorsement from the electrical contractor licence. (sec.49-ssec.2) If a person whose name is endorsed on an electrical contractor licence as a qualified business person is no longer a qualified business person or is no longer an employee of the licensed electrical contractor under the licence— the licensed electrical contractor must advise the regulator of the fact within 10 business days after the person stops being— an employee of the licensed electrical contractor; or a qualified business person; and the regulator must, on receiving the advice, remove the endorsement from the licence.
An electrical contractor licence is automatically suspended if, for a period of 30 days, there is no person— who is a qualified business person for the licensed electrical contractor and whose name is endorsed on the electrical contractor licence as a qualified business person for the licensed electrical contractor under the licence; or who is a qualified technical person for the licence holder and whose name is endorsed on the electrical contractor licence as a qualified technical person for the licensed electrical contractor under the licence. If, before the end of 30 days after a licence is automatically suspended under subsection (1) , there is still no person whose name is endorsed on the electrical contractor licence, as mentioned in subsection (1) (a) or (b) , the licence is automatically cancelled. s 50 amd 2024 SL No. 241 s 41 (sec.50-ssec.1) An electrical contractor licence is automatically suspended if, for a period of 30 days, there is no person— who is a qualified business person for the licensed electrical contractor and whose name is endorsed on the electrical contractor licence as a qualified business person for the licensed electrical contractor under the licence; or who is a qualified technical person for the licence holder and whose name is endorsed on the electrical contractor licence as a qualified technical person for the licensed electrical contractor under the licence. (sec.50-ssec.2) If, before the end of 30 days after a licence is automatically suspended under subsection (1) , there is still no person whose name is endorsed on the electrical contractor licence, as mentioned in subsection (1) (a) or (b) , the licence is automatically cancelled.
An applicant for an electrical contractor licence must give the regulator— evidence that the applicant has public and products liability insurance for at least $5,000,000 under a contract of insurance approved by the regulator; and evidence that the applicant has consumer protection insurance for at least $50,000 under a contract of insurance approved by the regulator.
This section applies if, for a corporation or partnership that is the holder of an electrical contractor licence, there is a change in— the name of the corporation or partnership; or if the corporation or partnership carries on business under a name other than its name—the name ( business name ) under which it carries on business. The corporation or partnership must, within 1 month after the change of name or business name, give the regulator written notice of the change that complies with subsection (3) . Maximum penalty—20 penalty units. The notice must be accompanied by the electrical contractor licence, and may be accompanied by an application about how the regulator is to act under subsection (4) . After receiving the notice and considering any accompanying application, the regulator must— endorse the licence with information about the change of name or business name and reissue it to the corporation or partnership; or cancel the licence and issue a new licence; or cancel the licence. A licence reissued by the regulator with an endorsement of the change of the name or business name of the corporation or partnership has, subject to the endorsement, continuing effect as the original electrical contractor licence. A new licence issued by the regulator under this section must be endorsed with a memorandum stating the reasons for the issue of the new licence. If the regulator acts under subsection (4) (c) to cancel the licence, the regulator must give the corporation or partnership an information notice for the decision to cancel. (sec.52-ssec.1) This section applies if, for a corporation or partnership that is the holder of an electrical contractor licence, there is a change in— the name of the corporation or partnership; or if the corporation or partnership carries on business under a name other than its name—the name ( business name ) under which it carries on business. (sec.52-ssec.2) The corporation or partnership must, within 1 month after the change of name or business name, give the regulator written notice of the change that complies with subsection (3) . Maximum penalty—20 penalty units. (sec.52-ssec.3) The notice must be accompanied by the electrical contractor licence, and may be accompanied by an application about how the regulator is to act under subsection (4) . (sec.52-ssec.4) After receiving the notice and considering any accompanying application, the regulator must— endorse the licence with information about the change of name or business name and reissue it to the corporation or partnership; or cancel the licence and issue a new licence; or cancel the licence. (sec.52-ssec.5) A licence reissued by the regulator with an endorsement of the change of the name or business name of the corporation or partnership has, subject to the endorsement, continuing effect as the original electrical contractor licence. (sec.52-ssec.6) A new licence issued by the regulator under this section must be endorsed with a memorandum stating the reasons for the issue of the new licence. (sec.52-ssec.7) If the regulator acts under subsection (4) (c) to cancel the licence, the regulator must give the corporation or partnership an information notice for the decision to cancel.
This section applies if— a partnership is the holder of an electrical contractor licence; and there is a change in the membership of the partnership, whether by the death or retirement of a member or the admission of a new member. The partnership must, within 1 month after the membership change, give the regulator written notice of the change that complies with subsection (3) and (4) . Maximum penalty—20 penalty units. The notice must give full information and particulars of the change. The notice must be accompanied by the electrical contractor licence, and may be accompanied by an application about how the regulator is to act under subsection (5) . After receiving the notice and considering any accompanying application, the regulator must— endorse the licence with information about the membership change and reissue it to the partnership; or cancel the licence and issue a new licence; or cancel the licence. A licence reissued by the regulator with an endorsement of the change of the membership of the partnership has, subject to the endorsement, continuing effect as the original electrical contractor licence. A new licence issued by the regulator must be endorsed with a memorandum stating the reasons for its issue. The regulator may issue a new licence to the partnership only if the regulator is satisfied that— the entire business of electrical contracting work carried on by the partnership in Queensland before the membership change is to be carried on by the partnership after the new licence is issued; and the partnership complies with the eligibility requirements for the issue of the licence. If the regulator acts under subsection (5) (c) to cancel the licence, the regulator must give the partnership an information notice for the decision to cancel. Nothing in this section affects the requirement under this division for the endorsement of an electrical contractor licence issued to a partnership. (sec.53-ssec.1) This section applies if— a partnership is the holder of an electrical contractor licence; and there is a change in the membership of the partnership, whether by the death or retirement of a member or the admission of a new member. (sec.53-ssec.2) The partnership must, within 1 month after the membership change, give the regulator written notice of the change that complies with subsection (3) and (4) . Maximum penalty—20 penalty units. (sec.53-ssec.3) The notice must give full information and particulars of the change. (sec.53-ssec.4) The notice must be accompanied by the electrical contractor licence, and may be accompanied by an application about how the regulator is to act under subsection (5) . (sec.53-ssec.5) After receiving the notice and considering any accompanying application, the regulator must— endorse the licence with information about the membership change and reissue it to the partnership; or cancel the licence and issue a new licence; or cancel the licence. (sec.53-ssec.6) A licence reissued by the regulator with an endorsement of the change of the membership of the partnership has, subject to the endorsement, continuing effect as the original electrical contractor licence. (sec.53-ssec.7) A new licence issued by the regulator must be endorsed with a memorandum stating the reasons for its issue. (sec.53-ssec.8) The regulator may issue a new licence to the partnership only if the regulator is satisfied that— the entire business of electrical contracting work carried on by the partnership in Queensland before the membership change is to be carried on by the partnership after the new licence is issued; and the partnership complies with the eligibility requirements for the issue of the licence. (sec.53-ssec.9) If the regulator acts under subsection (5) (c) to cancel the licence, the regulator must give the partnership an information notice for the decision to cancel. (sec.53-ssec.10) Nothing in this section affects the requirement under this division for the endorsement of an electrical contractor licence issued to a partnership.
An electrical contractor licence may be issued, renewed or reinstated for a maximum of 1 year.
To renew or reinstate an electrical licence, the regulator must be satisfied the applicant for the renewal or reinstatement continues to satisfy the eligibility requirements for the licence. However— the application of section 42 (4) as an eligibility requirement for subsection (1) does not prevent the regulator renewing or reinstating an electrical work licence if the regulator is satisfied— the applicant has a medical condition that prevents the applicant carrying out the resuscitation but does not otherwise affect the applicant’s ability to perform electrical work under the licence; and in the particular circumstances, it is reasonable to allow the applicant to carry out electrical work under the licence subject to a condition that the applicant must not act in a role for which it is a requirement that the applicant be competent in resuscitation, including as a safety observer; and the application of section 42 (5) as an eligibility requirement for subsection (1) does not prevent the regulator renewing or reinstating an electrical linesperson licence if the regulator is satisfied— the applicant has a medical condition that prevents the applicant carrying out the resuscitation but does not otherwise affect the applicant’s ability to perform electrical work under the licence; and in the particular circumstances, it is reasonable to allow the applicant to carry out electrical work under the licence subject to a condition that the applicant must not act in a role for which it is a requirement that the applicant be competent in rescue at a pole top or transmission tower and in resuscitation, including as a safety observer. In this section— eligibility requirements , for an electrical licence, means— the requirements under sections 42 (2) (b) and (3) to (5) , 43 to 45 and 48 that apply to the issue of the licence; and if, for the issue of the licence, the applicant was required, under section 51 , to provide evidence that the applicant satisfied the criteria, mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) of that section, relating to insurance—those criteria. (sec.55-ssec.1) To renew or reinstate an electrical licence, the regulator must be satisfied the applicant for the renewal or reinstatement continues to satisfy the eligibility requirements for the licence. (sec.55-ssec.2) However— the application of section 42 (4) as an eligibility requirement for subsection (1) does not prevent the regulator renewing or reinstating an electrical work licence if the regulator is satisfied— the applicant has a medical condition that prevents the applicant carrying out the resuscitation but does not otherwise affect the applicant’s ability to perform electrical work under the licence; and in the particular circumstances, it is reasonable to allow the applicant to carry out electrical work under the licence subject to a condition that the applicant must not act in a role for which it is a requirement that the applicant be competent in resuscitation, including as a safety observer; and the application of section 42 (5) as an eligibility requirement for subsection (1) does not prevent the regulator renewing or reinstating an electrical linesperson licence if the regulator is satisfied— the applicant has a medical condition that prevents the applicant carrying out the resuscitation but does not otherwise affect the applicant’s ability to perform electrical work under the licence; and in the particular circumstances, it is reasonable to allow the applicant to carry out electrical work under the licence subject to a condition that the applicant must not act in a role for which it is a requirement that the applicant be competent in rescue at a pole top or transmission tower and in resuscitation, including as a safety observer. (sec.55-ssec.3) In this section— eligibility requirements , for an electrical licence, means— the requirements under sections 42 (2) (b) and (3) to (5) , 43 to 45 and 48 that apply to the issue of the licence; and if, for the issue of the licence, the applicant was required, under section 51 , to provide evidence that the applicant satisfied the criteria, mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) of that section, relating to insurance—those criteria.
An electrical licence application under part 4 , division 2 of the Act must be accompanied by the fee for the application. An application under this part about an electrical licence must be accompanied by the fee for the application. (sec.56-ssec.1) An electrical licence application under part 4 , division 2 of the Act must be accompanied by the fee for the application. (sec.56-ssec.2) An application under this part about an electrical licence must be accompanied by the fee for the application.
Sourced from Queensland Legislation (legislation.qld.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
This regulation may be cited as the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 .
This regulation commences on 1 January 2014.
The purposes of this regulation include the following— ensuring the electrical safety of licensed electrical workers, other workers, licensed electrical contractors, consumers and the general public; enhancing consumer protection for electrical work; stopping cathodic protection systems from damaging or interfering with the property of others; ensuring a safe supply of electricity; ensuring electrical equipment hired or sold is electrically safe.
The ways adopted by this regulation for the achievement of its purposes include the following— prescribing matters in support of the electrical licensing arrangements established under the Act ; prescribing requirements for working around exposed parts and energised electrical equipment; prescribing requirements for electrical installations; prescribing matters about electrical equipment, including— requirements for electrical equipment; and requirements relating to the registration and certification of particular electrical equipment; and requirements about the hiring, selling, testing and using of electrical equipment; and requiring particular electrical equipment to be marked for compliance with relevant standards; and requirements for the testing of electrical equipment; prescribing requirements and procedures for the design, building and maintenance of electric lines and the works of electricity entities; prescribing requirements for the performance of electrical work; prescribing requirements for safety management systems for prescribed electricity entities; prescribing requirements for the operation of cathodic protection systems and requirements for particular systems to be registered by the regulator; prescribing notification and reporting requirements for serious electrical incidents and dangerous electrical events.
Requires safety measures for workplaces and workplaces categories (construction, manufacturing, office, rural, amusement), including periodic inspection, tagging and testing of portable equipment, safety switches, and bans on double adaptors (Part 6, secs 97–120; Parts 6 divs 3–6).
Imposes technical and operational standards on electricity entities’ works (earthing, clearances, substations, service lines and maintenance) and requires prescribed electricity entities to have audited safety management systems (Part 9, secs 196–215; Part 11, sec 234).
Introduces duties for cathodic protection systems (design/test/registration obligations to avoid interference with buried/submerged assets) and a registration scheme for larger impressed‑current systems (Part 13, secs 238–261).
Sets out incident notification and site preservation rules for serious electrical incidents and dangerous electrical events; distribution entities and businesses must report quickly and keep records (Part 14, secs 263–271).
Adds several consumer‑facing obligations: sellers must display a DIY warning sign on household‑type electrical items (sec 190); on transfer of residential land sellers/owners must notify about approved safety switches and, in many cases, ensure safety switches are installed within a 90‑day window (secs 82–86).
Provides transitional, administrative and enforcement detail: fees, registers, accreditation of external certification schemes, auditor appointment rules, and various repeal/transitional provisions (Parts 15–16 and schedules).
Who it affects
Why it matters (intended purpose, and practical trade‑offs)
The regulation aims to reduce electric shock, fire and other hazards by prescribing who may do what work (licensing), how energized work must be planned and supervised (risk assessments, SWMS, safety observers), and by controlling product safety (RCM, registers, compliance folders) so unsafe equipment doesn’t enter the market (purposes stated in s3; achieve by Parts 3, 4 and 7).
Implementation shifts costs and decision‑rights: businesses and suppliers pay for more testing, certification, registration, record keeping, insurance and audits (e.g. electrical contractor insurance $5m and consumer protection insurance $50k — s51; supplier registration and compliance folder duties ss 128, 148). These are direct compliance costs and recurring administrative burdens (annual audits, registers, record retention). Small suppliers and second‑hand sellers face particular friction (e.g. must disclose untested second‑hand items — s186).
Incentive structure: the rules concentrate obligations and penalties on firms and licensed practitioners (who pay and decide operationally) and give the regulator broad discretion (accept standards, grant/condition/cancel registrations and certifications, impose auditor conditions — e.g. ss 127, 132–136, 167–175). That creates trade‑offs: tighter safety control in exchange for greater regulatory discretion and compliance costs.
Market effects: the product‑safety and registration regimes favour suppliers that can fund testing and maintain compliance folders (concentrated benefit), while retail resellers, especially small/second‑hand traders, face added transaction costs and possible barriers to resale. Where certification is internationally recognised (declared schemes, ss 167–175), the rules permit mutual recognition—but suppliers relying on non‑recognised schemes will need local registration or approvals.
Implementation risks and operational detail: the regulation frequently delegates technical detail to external standards (wiring rules, AS/NZS standards) and to regulator determinations (which standards are accepted; see s6, ss 126–127). That reduces legislative detail but increases reliance on up‑to‑date technical standards and the regulator’s choices (opportunity cost: faster technical updates vs regulator discretion uncertainty).
Who pays, who decides, and what behaviour changes (plain statements)
Who pays: licensed contractors, responsible suppliers/importers, electricity entities, and owners who must install safety switches or comply with registration/testing (see ss 51, 128, 148, 84). Distribution entities or owners sometimes bear testing/inspection costs but may recover costs by arrangement (ss 219–220).
Who decides: the regulator (appointment, registration, acceptance of standards, audits, and enforcement; see ss 123, 132, 135, 167, 171, 234). Electricity entities also decide operational clearances and some approvals for live work on their assets (see ss 14, 24, 206).
Behaviour changes required: more testing and tagging of equipment; mandatory safe work method statements for live/near‑live work; formal registration and record‑keeping for suppliers and cathodic protection owners; annual audits by accredited auditors for prescribed electricity entities; more conservative practice around energised work and roof‑space entries (new rules ss 120A–120F).
Key enforcement levers and penalties
Implementation and operational risks to watch
Heavy reliance on external technical standards and regulator discretion for acceptance/conditions (ss 6, 127, 167). That requires well‑resourced, technically capable regulator processes to avoid delay or inconsistent outcomes.
Administrative burden and cash flow impact for small suppliers and contractors from testing, record retention and registration fees (ss 147–149, 128–136).
Potentially overlapping national and state registers, and cross‑jurisdictional recognition for New Zealand and other schemes—opportunity for complexity but also for mutual recognition (see ss 138, 143–144, 167).
Enforcement of product marking and second‑hand trade rules may shift risk onto downstream sellers and consumers unless compliance monitoring is proportionate and clear.
(Selected sections cited above are examples only: see Parts 3–11 and Part 7 for the full product‑safety regime.)
The dictionary in schedule 9 defines particular words used in this regulation. If a word used in this regulation is not defined in the dictionary, and is not defined in the Act , but is used in the wiring rules, it must, to the greatest practicable extent, be taken to have the same meaning in this regulation as it has in the wiring rules. (sec.5-ssec.1) The dictionary in schedule 9 defines particular words used in this regulation. (sec.5-ssec.2) If a word used in this regulation is not defined in the dictionary, and is not defined in the Act , but is used in the wiring rules, it must, to the greatest practicable extent, be taken to have the same meaning in this regulation as it has in the wiring rules.
In this regulation, unless otherwise stated— a reference to a standard using the designation made up of ‘AS’ and a number is a reference to the standard as in force from time to time under that designation; and ‘AS 1319’ is a reference to the standard that is currently in force under that designation. a reference to a joint standard using the designation made up of ‘AS/NZS’ and a number is a reference to the joint standard as in force from time to time under that designation. ‘AS/NZS 3012’ is a reference to the joint standard that is currently in force under that designation. Subsection (1) applies regardless of the edition or year of the standard or joint standard. In this regulation, a reference to AS/NZS 3000 is a reference to that standard as amended from time to time, and as remade from time to time. Bracketed words appearing after a standard’s designation are included for information purposes only. (sec.6-ssec.1) In this regulation, unless otherwise stated— a reference to a standard using the designation made up of ‘AS’ and a number is a reference to the standard as in force from time to time under that designation; and ‘AS 1319’ is a reference to the standard that is currently in force under that designation. a reference to a joint standard using the designation made up of ‘AS/NZS’ and a number is a reference to the joint standard as in force from time to time under that designation. ‘AS/NZS 3012’ is a reference to the joint standard that is currently in force under that designation. (sec.6-ssec.2) Subsection (1) applies regardless of the edition or year of the standard or joint standard. In this regulation, a reference to AS/NZS 3000 is a reference to that standard as amended from time to time, and as remade from time to time. (sec.6-ssec.3) Bracketed words appearing after a standard’s designation are included for information purposes only.
A qualified business person , for an applicant or a licensed electrical contractor, is an individual who satisfies the regulator that he or she— is a fit and proper person; and is competent to perform the business aspects of performing electrical work as, or for, a licensed electrical contractor; and has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on business aspects of performing electrical work; and is someone who— has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on business aspects of performing electrical work in addition to a course or examination mentioned in paragraph (c) ; or holds a qualification in business approved by the regulator and published on the department’s website; or has been operating a business for a period of, or periods totalling, 5 years. A qualified technical person , for an applicant or a licensed electrical contractor, is an individual who satisfies the regulator that he or she— is a fit and proper person; and either— if the electrical work to be performed by the applicant or licensed electrical contractor may be performed only by the holder of an electrical work licence—has held for at least 2 years, or a shorter period considered acceptable by the regulator, and still holds, an electrical work licence; or has held for at least 2 years, or a shorter period considered acceptable by the regulator, and still holds, an external contracting authority; and is competent to perform electrical work as, or for, a licensed electrical contractor; and has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on technical aspects of performing electrical work. Despite subsections (1) and (2) , for a person who is an individual to be a qualified business person or qualified technical person— for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor who is an individual, the person must also be, or be an employee of, that individual; or for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor that is a partnership, the person must also be a member or an employee of that partnership; or for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor that is a corporation, the person must also be an executive officer, a member or an employee of that corporation. In deciding whether a person who is an individual is a fit and proper person, the regulator may consider only— the standard of honesty and integrity demonstrated by the person in commercial and other activities in which the person has been involved; and any failure by the person to perform commercial or statutory obligations and the reasons for the failure. Despite subsection (4) , a person who is an individual is not a fit and proper person to be a qualified technical person if the individual is disqualified from being a qualified technical person for the holder of an electrical contractor licence, because of disciplinary action taken by the licensing committee. In this section— applicant means an individual, partnership or corporation that has applied for the issue of an electrical contractor licence. s 7 amd 2018 SL No. 216 s 4 (sec.7-ssec.1) A qualified business person , for an applicant or a licensed electrical contractor, is an individual who satisfies the regulator that he or she— is a fit and proper person; and is competent to perform the business aspects of performing electrical work as, or for, a licensed electrical contractor; and has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on business aspects of performing electrical work; and is someone who— has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on business aspects of performing electrical work in addition to a course or examination mentioned in paragraph (c) ; or holds a qualification in business approved by the regulator and published on the department’s website; or has been operating a business for a period of, or periods totalling, 5 years. (sec.7-ssec.2) A qualified technical person , for an applicant or a licensed electrical contractor, is an individual who satisfies the regulator that he or she— is a fit and proper person; and either— if the electrical work to be performed by the applicant or licensed electrical contractor may be performed only by the holder of an electrical work licence—has held for at least 2 years, or a shorter period considered acceptable by the regulator, and still holds, an electrical work licence; or has held for at least 2 years, or a shorter period considered acceptable by the regulator, and still holds, an external contracting authority; and is competent to perform electrical work as, or for, a licensed electrical contractor; and has satisfactorily finished a course of instruction, or an examination required by the regulator, on technical aspects of performing electrical work. (sec.7-ssec.3) Despite subsections (1) and (2) , for a person who is an individual to be a qualified business person or qualified technical person— for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor who is an individual, the person must also be, or be an employee of, that individual; or for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor that is a partnership, the person must also be a member or an employee of that partnership; or for an applicant or licensed electrical contractor that is a corporation, the person must also be an executive officer, a member or an employee of that corporation. (sec.7-ssec.4) In deciding whether a person who is an individual is a fit and proper person, the regulator may consider only— the standard of honesty and integrity demonstrated by the person in commercial and other activities in which the person has been involved; and any failure by the person to perform commercial or statutory obligations and the reasons for the failure. (sec.7-ssec.5) Despite subsection (4) , a person who is an individual is not a fit and proper person to be a qualified technical person if the individual is disqualified from being a qualified technical person for the holder of an electrical contractor licence, because of disciplinary action taken by the licensing committee. (sec.7-ssec.6) In this section— applicant means an individual, partnership or corporation that has applied for the issue of an electrical contractor licence.
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