Queenslanders are being asked to have their say on plans to introduce new licence classes for commercial air-conditioning or medical gas systems.
Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said the proposed new mechanical services licensing framework would help enhance public safety at hospitals, aged care facilities, large office buildings and shopping centres.
“This Queensland Day, there’s a lot to celebrate about our state and one of those things is high standards of protection for citizens in the buildings in which they live and work. Today’s step is about enhancing that even further.
“We are proposing changes to the system to ensure people working on commercial air-conditioning or medical systems are appropriately qualified to do the job,” said Mr de Brenni.
“This reform is about strengthening the high standards of Queensland’s plumbing and drainage industry and recognising the specialist skills required for those who deliver mechanical service works” he said.
“This consultation is about making sure we have the technical elements of the licensing model right; ensuring it is fit for purpose and that it will provide a seamless transition for industry.
“Any changes will include transitional arrangements so there will be sufficient time for everyone to move to the new licensing regime as it takes effect.”
Mr de Brenni said a four-week consultation period commences from 6 June.
“We invite everyone working in the industry to let us know if the licence classes, scope of work and technical qualifications are all adequate and workable,” he said.
“These reforms will save lives by ensuring the right people with the right qualifications are installing our medical gas and commercial air-conditioning systems.
“We certainly do not want any families to suffer through the loss of a loved one, which tragically occurred in a New South Wales hospital in 2016 when an infant died and another suffered permanent brain damage after being mistakenly administered nitrous oxide.
“These new laws will ensure Queensland is a safer place for everyone.”
Mr de Brenni said the mechanical services licensing reforms will build on other Queensland Building Plan reforms designed to create a safer, fairer and more sustainable construction industry.
“Under the new framework, people already performing mechanical services work may need to undertake some additional training or have their skills assessed, to be eligible to obtain the new licence,” he said.
To provide feedback on the mechanical services licensing framework, please complete the survey at www.yoursayhpw.engagementhq.com/mechanical-services-licensing by 5 July 2019.
