Safety Switch Laws Queensland

There’s been little doubt that since Safety Switches have been made mandatory in all Queensland homes built since 1992, there’s been a reduction in the number of electrical injuries and deaths. However, with recent findings from the Queensland Government that recommended safety switches be installed on all circuits, which would have prevented the deaths of those installing ceiling installation, there’s more work to be done.

While many homes are now fitted with safety switches, many homes may have slipped through the cracks. Our Fixzit domestic electricians can install these life saving devices in your property quickly and affordably so there really is no reason for you not to be switched onto safety in your home. We outline the legal responsibilities for property owners when it comes to installing safety switches below.

Do I already have a safety switch?

Safety switches can be identified on your switchboard as an often blue button stamped with the word ‘Test’ or sometimes ‘T.’ Every home that has been built new since 1992 should have a safety switch installed as per government legislation, however it’s important that this is not taken for granted and owners check themselves.

For those that are buying older properties (those built before 1992) it is the responsibility of the buyer to have a safety switch installed within three months from the settlement date. Failure to do this can attract a penalty of up to $1500.00. Additionally those who are making extensions to their homes are also required to install safety switches in line with QLD wiring laws. This will normally be included in the electricians work, but it’s important to check that this has been done.

Responsibilities for Landlords

All investment rental properties covered by Residential Tenancy Agreements in Queensland are required to be fitted with safety switches as the responsibility of the landlord. If this is not the case for your rental home, it’s important to make your property manager aware of the absence of a safety switch.

It’s important to have safety switches fitted by a licensed electrical contractor. Fixzit can install these live saving devices quickly, so if it’s been on the cards for a while, now is the time to stop delaying safety. Dangerous electrical currents are stopped with safety switches and loss of life and injury avoided.

Call the Fixzit team today, and if you haven’t already, get switched on to electrical safety in your home. Phone 1300 726 806.