Building and Energy – summer safety reminder

As WA settles in for a season of Christmas lights, barbecues, new outdoor equipment and DIY projects, Building and Energy is sharing its top tips for a safe summer when using gas, electricity, roof spaces and items attached to building structures.

Festive lights

Building and Energy A/Executive Director Saj Abdoolakhan is encouraging people to ensure their interior and exterior festive lights are safe, in good working order and compliant with Australian standards.

“Damaged or incorrectly used lights can cause electric shocks and fires,” he said.

“Like all electrical equipment and appliances, Christmas lights must meet safety standards and require Australian certification. Look for authentic regulatory compliance symbols and be wary about purchasing lights from overseas as they may not comply.”

Key advice for Christmas lights

  • Check that the lights, cords and plugs are undamaged, untangled and working well, particularly if they have been in storage.
  • Ensure lights, extension leads and power boards are suitable for the intended use, including indoor or outdoor placement. Additional safety standards apply to outdoor lights, which should have an ingress protection (IP) weatherproof rating.
  • Check that the plug has insulated pins, which have a protective cover at the base of the pin below the metal tip. The insulation is designed to prevent contact with live pins when a plug is only partially inserted into an outlet.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not alter or modify the lights.
  • Turn off power points or light switches before replacing bulbs.
  • Switch off the Christmas lights before going to bed or leaving your house.
  • Test your home’s residual current devices (RCDs) to make sure they are working.

Barbecue safety

Mr Abdoolakhan said incorrectly maintained gas barbecues could cause fires, injuries and property damage – but simple checks could help to reduce the risks.

“Check the hose for cracks, kinks or flaws that could result in a gas leak,” he said.

“We also suggest spraying a solution of household detergent and water on all the exposed joints and connections. If bubbles appear, there is a gas leak.”

Look for a label on the barbecue showing its Australian safety certification and a stamp on the gas cylinder indicating when it was last tested – if this was more than 10 years ago it should be replaced or retested.

“Regular cleaning also reduces fire risks from built-up grease and oil,” Mr Abdoolakhan added.

“If there are any concerns with your barbecue, turn off the gas immediately and arrange for the faulty component to be replaced or repaired by a licensed gas fitter.”

/Public Release. View in full here.