Geoff Gallop

Geoff Gallop

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    Warning about working with or near electricity

    14/01/1993 12:00 AM
     
     
    Fuel and Energy Minister Geoff Gallop today urged anyone working with or near electricity to be extremely careful.
     
    The warning came after two people were electrocuted in separate accidents in the past week.
     
    The accidents involved completely different circumstances.  In one case a qualified and licensed electrician was doing normal work in a roof space, in the other a man was pruning a private tree hanging over power lines.
     
    "These tragedies serve as a reminder of the dangers associated with electricity and the need for extreme caution when working with it or near it," Dr Gallop said.
     
    "Safety is the number one consideration.  Western Australia has an enviable electrical safety record which can be protected by vigilance.
     
    "Licensed electricians are not immune from the risks, and need to plan their work carefully.
     
    "Circuits needs to be isolated before work starts, unless special safety precautions are taken.
     
    "Householders with an electrical problem should seek the advice of their electrical contractor.  SECWA's local office can help with information about professional tree-loppers."
     
    Dr Gallop said trees were a frequent source of interference to overhead powerlines.  SECWA urged householders to keep them cut away from the lines.  Professional tree loppers were recommended.
     
    "Nobody should try to cut branches overhanging powerlines.  SECWA's assistance can be requested in such cases," he said.
     
    "It is worth remembering that trees are an excellent conductor of electricity."