The Master Electrician Magazine Winter 2012 by Master Electricians Australia

Registered by Australia Post Publications No. PP424022/2346

inside Lights, heights and concerts How will the Carbon Tax affect you? Brisbane airport link tunnel THE INTERVIEW: Guy Picken

WINTER 12

themaster

table of contents Average Net Distribution 30,756 CAB Audited as of March 2012

the federal budget and your business 04 renewable energy spotlight

general news

the buzz

an apprenticeship program for the future

lights heights and concerts

market outlook

the brisbane airport link tunnel

meet a master electrician

benefit spotlight

news from the distributors

Welcome to the WINTEr edition of The Master Electrician.

regulator wrap up

It seems Australians are

letter of the law

the interview

gadget guide

techno biz

technical talk

workplace relations

sparkies versus customers

all about ME

test drive

events calendar

best or worst story

the last word

General Enquiries Master Electricians Australia PO Box 2438, Fortitude Valley BC Queensland 4006 PHONE 1300 889 198 FAX 1800 622 914 EMAIL magazine@masterelectricians.com.au WEB www.masterelectricians.com.au ABN 31 145 178 203

Editorial Contacts & Contributors EDITOR Malcolm Richards ASSOCIATE EDITOR Angela Anderson ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Janelle MacDonald PHONE 07 3252 4860 EMAIL magazine@masterelectricians.com.au DESIGN AND PRINT POMO 07 3844 3873

www.masterelectricians.com.au or call 1300 889 198

The Master Electrician is printed on environmentally responsible paper sourced from accredited sustainable forestry plantations. The paper is made with Elemental Chlorine Free pulps (ECF)

more likely to complain than customers in other countries. Don’t let your business be one of the many that fails due to poor customer service. Two experts share their tips on service and how to handle run-ins with a customer. Turn to page 52 to find out more. Following Treasurer Wayne Swan’s Federal Budget in May there are a number of changes which came into force from July 1. Turn to page 4 for a guide to the major changes and how they affect business owners in the electrical contracting industry. Don’t forget to register for the electrical industry conference of the year. Go to www.masterelectricians. com.au to book your spot at the Annual Conference in Melbourne this August. Wishing our previous Associate Editor, Kylie Robinson, all the best with her move to WA and the impending arrival of her first baby. Until next time. Angela Anderson Associate Editor

Disclaimer: The statements and opinions expressed in this publication are offered solely in pursuance of the objects of the Electrical Contractors Association and Master Electricians Australia to provide an informative service to contractors in the electrical industry on legal, commercial and other issues and problems related to the industry. The Electrical Contractors Association and Master Electricians Australia are not aware that any person intends to act or rely upon such statements and opinions contained in this publication or the manner in which it might be possible to do so. The Electrical Contractors Association and Master Electricians Australia issues no invitation to any member or other persons to act or rely upon such statements or opinions or any of them and it accepts no responsibility for any of them. It intends by this provision to exclude, to the extent permitted by law, all liability for any such statements and opinions. The Master Electrician Magazine can be viewed online at www.masterelectricians.com.au

The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

feature

The Federal Budget and your business Treasurer Wayne Swan handed down his fifth Federal Budget in May. Here is a guide to the major changes that will affect business owners in the electrical contracting industry. New reporting requirements for the building and construction industry From this financial year, businesses in the building and construction industry will need to report the total payments they make to each contractor for building and construction services each year. If you are operating primarily in the building industry, you will need to file an annual taxable payments report to the ATO. The government says this new measure has been introduced to “improve compliance with tax obligations by those contractors who are currently not doing the right thing”. The information will be used by the ATO’s data matching computers to identify contractors who have not lodged tax returns or who have failed to declare all their income. If you are affected, you may need to speak with your accountant about changing the way you currently record your contractor payment information. You need to lodge these reports if: • In any year more than half your income or half your activity relates to building and construction services; • You make payments to contractors for building and construction services; and • You have an ABN. You will need to record (and report): • The name, ABN, address, and payments for each contractor; and • Whether any GST has been paid. Your first report will not be due until July 2013, but you should begin collecting this information immediately. Tax changes The Government has dropped its previous commitment to lower the company tax rate from 30 per cent to 29 per cent, and ultimately to 28 per cent from next year. So the expected windfall to businesses structured as companies will now not be forthcoming. www.masterelectricians.com.au

From July 1, some income earners will have a higher tax-free threshold, related to the government’s Carbon Tax compensation package. You need to ensure you are using the current tax tables or the most up-to-date version of your accounting software. Similarly, the levy introduced last year to fund the flood and cyclone recovery has also been removed. Again, ensure you are using the most up to date tables and software. Asset write-offs From July 1, the instant asset write-off threshold has been lifted from $1,000 to $6,500. For cars costing $6,500 or more (plus GST), small businesses can claim an immediate deduction of $5,000, plus 15 per cent of the remaining cost. The remainder of the purchase price can be depreciated as part of the asset pool in following years. Consult your accountant for information on how this will affect your asset purchases. Loss carry back scheme From July 1 this year, companies can “carry back” losses. Effectively, this means you can get a refund from tax previously paid if your business is structured as a company, and makes a loss. Companies can carry back losses of up to $1 million, for a tax benefit of $300,000. Tax losses in the 2012-13 year may be carried back one year only, and company tax losses in later years may be carried-back for up to two years. Superannuation Business owners earning in excess of $300,000 in a year will have their personal superannuation contributions taxed at a rate of 30 per cent. Further, voluntary contributions will be capped at $25,000 before the full rate of tax is applied. The Government has already indicated it will gradually increase the superannuation guarantee rate to 12 per cent. The first increase will come 1 July 2013 – when the rate steps up to 9.25 per cent, and the rate will reach 12 per cent on 1 July, 2019.

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feature renewable energy spotlight

Solar-coasting to the future Renewable energy has the potential to power the future, but the high costs and inefficiency associated with energy storage means researchers are frantically trying to develop more reliable and economic renewable energy storage systems. Elise Bentley talks with an Australian scientist who believes he has the answer.

While solar energy can now be produced more cheaply and efficiently than ever before, there remains a black hole in the area of solar energy storage. Currently renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, are limited by intermittency and storage issues. The breeze doesn’t always blow and the sun doesn’t shine 24 hours a day. Researcher at Wollongong’s Institute for Superconducting and Electronic Material, Doctor Shulei Chou, said there had previously been no reliable, safe, environmentally-friendly and economical storage solution to fill the gap. But having conducted research into a new battery and energy storage system, Doctor Chou believes the solar energy storage problems will soon be a thing of the past. “We are currently working on a lithium-ion battery and hybrid lithium-supercapacitor energy storage system which will revolutionise the solar energy industry and the way that electricians conduct their day to day business,” Dr Chou said. “Renewable energy sources are essential to ensure sustainability, but when it comes to storing or utilising that energy at any www.masterelectricians.com.au

time of the day or night, there’s a lot of volatility. “Current storage solutions are simply not cost effective as once you’ve harnessed energy from the sun, it can cost a further 10 cents per kWh to actually store and retrieve it later on using current methods.” Doctor Chou said the renewable energy industry was anxiously trying to keep up with demand and create new methods to bring down the cost of energy production and storage. “All of our research aims to develop ways in which we can generate and store energy at a lower cost, but at a higher production level which will greatly improve the sector,” Dr Chou said. “The hybrid lithium-supercapacitor energy storage system which I am currently working on has the potential to improve the cycle life of batteries and have higher power capabilities. “This energy storage system will improve the energy cycle life to more than 30,000 cycles, meaning the system could be used for at least 15 years for five cycles per day. “If we successfully develop this system, we will be able to use it to store renewable

energy, revolutionising the solar industry.” Doctor Chou admitted Lithium-ion batteries were not a new technology but insisted their use in solar energy was the way of the future. “The use of lithium-ion batteries will definitely have a positive effect on the solar and electrical industry. “Lithium-ion batteries can store up to three times more energy and they have the capacity for more cycles than a traditional lead acid battery, but with their current price and inability to capture renewable sources leaves a lot of room for improvement,” he said. “Renewable energy storage in lithium-ion batteries is one of the hottest topics in the current lithium-ion battery research area. “If we can successfully develop batteries that can store the solar energy and improve the usage efficiency of clean energy, not only will we reduce carbon emissions but renewable energy storage will be a lot more affordable.” With the introduction of the Carbon Tax and an increased awareness of the environment, renewable energy will continue to become more popular.

Dr Chou

Combined, lithium-ion batteries and a hybrid lithium-supercapacitor energy storage system have the ability to dramatically reduce the current costs of solar energy production and increase the amount of energy storage. “A hybrid lithium-supercapacitor energy storage system has great potential for widened industry use for lithium-ion batteries,” Dr Chou said. “At this stage we’ve only carried out small scale tests but we expect our research to be complete by 2014.” Doctor Chou believes this is a future that is close at hand due to the advantages lithium-ion batteries provide. “These batteries show high specific energy, high power capability, and long life,” Dr Chou said. “It can store two to three times more energy than a traditional lead acid battery, with the capacity for a lot more cycles and storage compared to the traditional batteries we are used to.” However, all the benefits of the lithium-ion batteries come with a price, and a high one at that. “One of the problems with Lithium-ion batteries is its high cost,” Dr Chou said. “The batteries main costs come from the Cathode materials which account for 30–40 per cent of the total raw material cost.” Despite the high production cost of these batteries, Dr Chou believes that with

constant investment in this area the costs will come down. “The production cost has been greatly reduced by large quantity production lines, and we can use low cost materials if we are willing to trade off some performance,” Dr Chou said. “The currently used materials such as Cobalt are quite high in terms of cost. If we can use cheaper substitutions such as iron containing materials and produce these materials in a large scale, the cost will be reduced.

“Renewable energy storage in lithium-ion batteries is one of the hottest topics in the current lithium-ion battery research area.” “Furthermore, the lithium-ion battery industry is mature and can keep up with the demand that would be placed on it.” With the renewable energy sector constantly changing and adapting, these lithium-ion batteries and the hybrid lithiumsupercapacitor energy storage system are just two of the initiatives that will change the solar energy industry. Dr Chou believes they are the source of renewable energy for the future, and will have a big impact on the electrical industry. “With the coming era of electric vehicles and renewable energy, electricians have to catch up with the knowledge of the

Lithium-ion batteries to be able to maintain an energy system which run off of lithiumion batteries,” said Dr Chou. “Electricians with knowledge of lithiumion batteries can use the energy storage system to increase their business through the ability to install and maintain this technology. “The large usage of renewable energy and energy storage systems will revolutionise the electrical industry, and electricians have to prepare for this. “It is soon going to be a reality.”

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Winter 2012

general news serving Board member, and to his industry as Managing Director of SEQ Electrical. “This is also demonstrated by his direct involvement in the improvements to our Ashmore facilities.” A firm advocate of electrical apprenticeships, Mr Flanagan also taught the Electrical Contracting course part-time for 17 years at GCIT. Mr Flanagan jokingly said it was mildly embarrassing for people to think they should acknowledge him in such a way, but he did feel honoured nonetheless. “The Ashmore campus is always evolving,” Mr Flanagan said. “Certainly the fact that it has been totally renovated and modernised to suit the requirements we have today can attest to that. “As a Board member I have been lobbying for these improvements to the facilities for a long time.” The Ashmore campus, that played host to the naming ceremony, has recently undergone a new facility upgrade with new equipment, and Mr Devine said the event garnered much interest in the renovated electrical section of the campus. “Guests at the event had a chance to walk through the new and improved facility, as well as speak with the teachers available to answer any questions,” Mr Devine said.

Gold Coast TAFE honours Richard Flanagan The Gold Coast Institute of TAFE honours long-time industry contributor and ECA’s own President Richard Flanagan, naming its new electrotechnology building after him.

The Gold Coast Institute of TAFE (GCIT) has paid tribute to one of the Electrical Contractors Association’s (ECA) own by offering a naming rights title to the improved electrical facilities at its Ashmore campus. ECA President Mr Richard Flanagan was honoured in an official ECA-sponsored event and naming ceremony in mid-June, acknowledging the work he had done for the campus. The event also saw a plaque unveiled in Mr Flanagan’s name. GCIT Chief Executive Officer Aaron Devine said the event was a great way of recognising Mr Flanagan’s long standing association with GCIT, as a member of the Institute’s council, and then as a board member when the training organisation became a Statutory Institute in 2008. “Since 1978, when Mr Flanagan became the Managing Director of the electrical contracting company Richard Flanagan and Co., he has reinvested in his industry directly by employing over 300 apprentices,” Mr Devine said. “Today, Mr Flanagan continues his dedication both to GCIT as a www.masterelectricians.com.au

Mr Flanagan said the new facilities will greatly benefit the learning of GCIT’s electrical students, creating a pleasant learning environment conducive to learning. “The Gold Coast Institute of TAFE now has the latest equipment which will revolutionise the way students learn,” Mr Flanagan said. “We have also revamped curriculum requirements to better suit the needs of todays’ students. “This new facility will meet the requirements of the industry to produce more highly qualified electricians.” GCIT welcomed a range of special guests to the ceremony, including the ECA CEO and members, staff from Energy Skills Queensland, ApprenticeConnect and Sovereign Energy organisations, among others. “The event showcased the high calibre of learning tools now accessible for electrical apprentices and employers with GCIT as their training partner,” GCIT CEO Mr Devine said. “It also demonstrated the Institute’s continued commitment to providing high standards in industry training. “The Institute is dedicated to growing and improving on its wide range of facilities to ensure students are provided with up to date industry standard equipment in their learning and training experiences.” Richard Flanagan is the President of the Electrical Contractors Association Council and the founding shareholder and Managing Director of Richard Flanagan and Company Pty Ltd. He is a member of various groups including the Advisory Committee on Industrial Requirements for Gold Coast TAFE, Director of CIRT, Director of JETCO, past Chairman Regional Vocational Education and Training Roundtable and Advisor to QUSITAB, and Councillor for the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE.

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the buzz Safety Reference Guide Register online for the NHP Safety Reference Guide. The guide includes: • All the technical information on their range of safety products • Whitepapers on installing safety devices • Information documents on International/ Local Safety Standards

Mt Low electric vehicle trial provides glimpse into the future Ergon Energy’s electric vehicle (EV) trial at Mt Low is providing a real life picture of what Townsville could look like if EV sales suddenly took off.

• Example system designs for achieving different safety categories • Glossary of typical safety terminology www.nhp.com.au/products

For the past eight months, five households have each been loaned a Mitsubishi i-MiEV to use just as they would their normal car. Ergon Energy is carrying out the trial to better understand how motorists use and charge EVs to see how their possible large-scale uptake could affect the network. The trial has found each household drives their EV about 360km a week, recharging about two to three hours a night at a total cost of around $13 in electricity a week.

L&H Traders 500 Tradeshows coming to an end

“Our participants love driving the EVs and find them so simple and easy to charge,” said Glenn Walden, Group Manager Emerging Opportunities and Technology Development.

The L&H Traders 500 Tradeshows have been touring the country since May.

“We thought motorists might be put off by them because of their limited range of 100km, but that hasn’t been the case at all.”

Trader’s 500 is the biggest electrical industry trade show in Australia, designed and run by one of the leaders in the electrical wholesale industry, Lawrence & Hanson.

Mr Walden said the trial is giving network planners a real insight into motorists’ charging habits.

iCat goes Android Now Android users too can have the latest Clipsal product information at their fingertips for free! The iCat is the perfect application for the tradesman on the move with all of the information from Clipsal’s Australian Trade Product Guide in the palm of your hand.

With more than 50 suppliers presenting their most current products, this is a great opportunity for you and your employees to: • Purchase products • Stay up-to-date with the latest technologies available

The iCat has been produced to be as close to the well-known Trade Product Guide as possible. The iCat can be browsed like the print catalogue, using familiar coloured categories including lighting and with the additional capacity to search for products and create shopping lists onsite. The app includes all 18,000 of the Trade Product Catalogue’s products and also incorporates extra product information such as colour options and price.

• Speak to leading suppliers and industry contacts

The Android version has been made to replicate the Apple version while also including some clever new features. One exciting new feature is the barcode scanner. This feature allows users to read barcodes on packaging, identify the product, check its trade price and add it to a job.

The last two Tradeshows will be held in Perth on 26 July at Silver Jubilee Pavilion, Claremont Showgrounds and Melbourne on 13 August at the Caulfield Race Course.

The other unique new feature of the iCat is the ability to hide the pricing of a product. Should a contractor or systems integrator wish to show or discuss a particular product and not want to show the price, the app now offers the ability to hide it.

Master Electricians Australia will be taking part in the expo to provide the electrical contractors with one-on-one access to all that we have to offer.

The highly rated Clipsal iCat is now available free to download for Apple and Android phones via iTunes or the Play Store. Visit www.clipsal.com for more information. www.masterelectricians.com.au

• Network with others in your industry • Win great prizes • Earn L&H dollars to be used at the onsite auctions.

For more information visit www.traders500.com.au

Rapstrap Flexible Cable Ties – saving the world a lot of plastic The humble nylon cable tie has been around since the 1950’s and hasn’t changed much during that time. Rapstrap represents the next generation in cable ties… It’s a much more efficient solution that will save our world a lot of plastic. Rapstrap’s innovative design combines a clever shape with a custom polymer to produce an incredibly versatile fastener. When you cut the end off a Rapstrap, you can use it again and again, getting several ties from just one strap. Rapstrap typically replaces up to five standard ties, greatly reducing waste and

lowering costs. For example, one pack of 48 Rapstraps is the equivalent of up to 250 traditional cable ties. Rapstrap affords a softer and more flexible alternative to traditional types of nylon cable ties. It’s soft, flexible and extremely versatile and won’t pinch or crimp like nylon ties do. Suitable for Cat. 5 & 6 cabling, Rapstrap is a much cheaper alternative to Velcro. Available in black, green and transparent, Rapstrap is also available in other colours such as orange, yellow, blue and red, making it ideal for colour-coding cabling work. Visit www.evobuild.com.au for more information.

Enquire about franchising today. Visit platinumelectrical.com.au, click the ‘franchise’ tab and lodge an Expression of Interest form.

The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

the buzz

Laser Group Australia continues rapid growth Laser Group Australia has welcomed Laser Electrical Greenwood as their 100th member company, marking Laser Group’s rapid growth across the country. Laser Group’s newest member, Brad and Rebecca Quinn previously trading as Quinnelect since 1999, is now operating as Laser Electrical Greenwood. Laser Electrical Greenwood is the first electrical member based in Perth. “We are very excited to announce our 100th Laser Australia Member”, Managing Director of Laser Group Australia, Steve Keil said. “This is a huge milestone for us and reflects a phenomenal season of growth for Laser Group in Australia. Brad, Rebecca and their team are excited to be a part of the Laser Network and to help grow the Laser Brand in the WA market. Implementing Laser’s systems to make the office more efficient is also at the top of their agenda.” As a member of Laser Group, Laser Electrical Greenwood is now part of a business system that supports planning and development for all its members.

New App by Brightgreen Australian LED designers Brightgreen have released their first official iPhone App specifically designed for sparkies. Titled Brightgreen, the App offers a calculator for retrofits, lighting design plans, installation tips and product information all in a pocket sized tool that can be accessed any time. The biggest attraction of the App is its lighting design functionality, presenting lighting designs plans for you in less than a minute. Simply input the room type, its size and the amount of reflectivity and the App will determine the amount of lights needed to meet the appropriate lumen count in the room. Now that you know the quantity of lights needed, you can work out the costs savings and estimated payback time from installing LED lights rather than energy wasting halogen bulbs. By comparing the running costs of LED lights with inefficient lighting such as halogen, the benefits of energy efficient technology are very clear to your customer, making the decision to install LED lights a no brainer. To get your hands on Brightgreen’s App register at www. brightgreen.com/masterelectrician. Usually $4.99, Brightgreen’s app is free to all Master Electrician readers who register.

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837 MW of solar PV installed in 2011 The Australian PV Association has launched its new PV in Australia 2011 report, which states that a total of 837 MW of solar PV was installed in Australia during 2011 – more than twice the capacity added during 2010. Other key findings from the report include: • Of the 837 MW of solar PV installed in Australia during 2011, 91 per cent were connected to the electricity grid – taking the cumulative grid-connected portion up to 88 per cent • The total installed capacity of solar PV in Australia is now 1.4 GW • Solar PV power has now reached grid parity in many parts of Australia • Government solar support programs are winding down as Australia reaches grid parity. The report is produced by the Australian PV Association as Australia’s contribution to the International Energy Agency’s annual report on international trends in solar PV.

www.cableloc.com

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take control and save! WorkCover NSW Safety Alert for working on electrical circuits in conduits WorkCover NSW has issued a Safety Alert for working on electrical circuits in conduits, reminding electrical workers of the dangers of cutting electrical conduits that are in service as the conduits may contain multiple circuits. The Safety Alert was released following the death of an electrical contractor who cut through an underground heavy-duty PVC conduit. The contractor struck an energised 415 V three-phase submain circuit that was located in the same underground conduit as the 240 V lighting circuit he was working on and received a fatal electric shock. While investigations are continuing, WorkCover said a number of factors contributed to the incident: insufficient planning and assessment for the job; failure to identify all contents of the underground PVC conduit being worked on; and failure to isolate power to the premises at the main switch.

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The Safety Alert offers recommendations for working on electrical circuits in conduits: • Persons in control of a business or undertaking (PCBUs) must develop and implement safe systems of electrical work and ensure that electrical workers are provided with information, instruction, training and supervision required to reasonably ensure their health and safety • A safe work method statement should be developed for each job • The safe work method statement should consider the use of a safety observer, insulated tools and/or suitable voltage-rated insulating gloves

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• The contents of a conductor enclosure should be identified and isolated before commencing any disassembly, penetration or installation of additional conductors by reviewing available drawings, visual inspection and verification

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• The visual inspection should involve a thorough examination from the start and end points of the conduit to work out what services run through it

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• Conductors must be treated as energised and the procedures for working on energised electrical equipment followed until all conductors have been proven de-energised

Account Management – track orders, reprint invoices and statements.

• Find the main switch for the premises and turn off the power, (if permitted). Attach a danger tag or lock the switchboard to ensure the power remains off until the work is completed • As a final check, use a voltage proximity tester to identify an energised conductor within the enclosure

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• Test Before You Touch safe work procedures should be followed in all steps of the job.

www.rexel.com.au The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

the buzz

Clean energy regulation strengthened A new, independent body to represent businesses and individuals that create and trade in Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) has been established. The REC Agents Association (RAA) has been created to represent and self-regulate the activities of businesses creating and trading RECs, the trading system that underpins Australia’s Renewable Energy Target (RET) and facilitates the installation of solar panels and solar hot water systems. “The RAA will work closely with the Australian government and the new Clean Energy Regulator to monitor and improve compliance by agents with relevant Acts, and to provide advice to the statutory review of the RET,” a statement from RAA said The REC Agents Association will not represent householders, but the ‘registered’ agents to whom RECs have been assigned by the owners of eligible renewable energy systems. “Initially, RAA will focus on the small scale renewable energy market and the creation and trading of small scale technology certificates,” the RAA said.

New workplace regulator for the construction industry The new regulator of workplace laws in the building and construction industry, Fair Work Building and Construction (FWBC), began operations on 1 June 2012. FWBC Acting Chief Executive Leigh Johns said the new agency stands ready to monitor compliance with workplace laws, investigate and, when necessary, commence legal proceedings in relation to breaches of those laws. “We are well resourced with expert staff and have offices in every Australian capital city.” FWBC is open for business and ready to assist all building and construction industry participants. Go to www.fwbc.gov.au or call the FWBC Hotline on 1800 003 338.

APPRENTICE ELECTRICIANS If you are looking for apprentice electricians, Skill Hire can assist. We are a leading group training company in WA. We have a commitment to safety and are working towards AS4801 accreditation. Skill Hire provides ongoing support, induction and mentoring throughout the apprenticeship. Call us today on (08) 9376 2800 to find out more about how we can help you!

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ACMA review of training requirements for registered cabling providers The ACMA has amended the regulatory requirements for cabling providers who install specialised cabling within customer premises. The new requirements that commenced on 1 July 2012 include: • A current open registered cabling provider will be required to attain additional competencies by 30 June 2014 for structured, optical fibre and coaxial cabling if they perform that type of cabling work • A current restricted registered cabling provider will be required to attain an additional competency by 30 June 2014 for Broadband cabling work if they perform that type of cabling work • Cabling providers must attain additional competencies as part of their registration requirements if they wish to perform that type of cabling work, or they can perform that type of cabling work under direct supervision of a registered cabling provider with the appropriate competencies The amendments to the ACMA cabling arrangements have been made to ensure cabling providers have the necessary skills required to perform specialised cabling work for the current and emerging customer cabling environment. Under the new arrangement, cabling providers undertaking broadband structured, optical-fibre or co-axial cabling work must have the training competencies relevant to the specialised cabling work. The new competencies only apply to cabling providers who are undertaking the relevant specialised cabling work within customer premises. If a cabler has previously attained endorsements for Cat 5, Fibre or Co-ax, no additional training is required as they are equivalent to structured, optical fibre and coaxial cabling competencies respectively. For more information on the new arrangements, please contact the ACMA at comply.label@acma.gov.au

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feature

An apprenticeship program for the future Apprentices, get ready! A revolutionary new apprenticeship program by EE-Oz will change the learning curve for apprentices across Australia.

Apprentices can

soon expect a first-of-its-kind system that will test their competency levels to gauge capabilities in their field. EE-Oz Training Standards will launch a pilot competencybased apprenticeship system to revolutionise the way apprentices progress through their apprenticeships. Created in conjunction with the existing program, the new system is tailored to address the issues currently prevailing in the current program. EE-Oz Training Standards Chief Executive Officer Bob Taylor says the system will now test apprentices’ competency based on their abilities and productivity in their chosen field.

with their joining anniversary dates. For example, first year apprentices may advance on to second year based solely on the dates that they joined their apprenticeship. “This means even if their abilities have yet to be cultivated to a sufficient level, they will still be allowed to advance on.” The new system will ensure apprentices progress based solely on their skills and development, and what they have learned during their apprenticeship. This will be established through the testing of apprentices’ skills. “Apprentices will be tested with an on-the-job component,” Mr Taylor says.

“The system is centred around a new model that will test the aptitude level of apprentices based on a number of criteria,” he says.

“This is how they perform in the field. They will also undergo an off-the-job theory exam. The weight percentage for these elements will be determined by the industry panel.

“Based on current systems, apprentices progress in their apprenticeship in conjunction

“It is also designed so that a benchmark is set for apprentices, which they must

www.masterelectricians.com.au

meet before they can gain entry into an apprenticeship program.” The Commonwealth Government-funded pilot competency based system will be launched to a thousand apprentices across Australia in both small and large enterprises in its first year. This will then be expanded to two and a half thousand apprentices. “The thing that is different about the program is that now the industry will control the input of apprentices,” Mr Taylor says. “This way we can always ensure that there is also corresponding quality output.” Mr Taylor says the concept for the new system was cultivated in 1998. However EE-Oz has been developing the system for approximately 18 months. “I am very excited about this new system,” Mr Taylor says. “It is a first of its kind over the past century. It’s a reform.”

Bob Taylor

The launch date for the system is yet to be established, and EE-OZ is waiting for confirmation from the Commonwealth Government. EE-Oz Training Standards is the Australian Government declared Industry Skills Council for the ElectroComms and EnergyUtilities industries. It is the body responsible for developing and maintaining the National Qualifications within the National Training Packages under its coverage, which include the Electrotechnology, Gas, Electricity Supply Industry - Transmission, Distribution and Rail and the Electricity Supply Industry - Generation Training Packages.

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feature

Lights, Heights and Concerts! Lighting up a Lady Gaga concert? That’s right. Stephanie Lim speaks to a lighting technician who spends his work days at concerts. Jealous?

Lighting can make or break a

concert for a superstar. Imagine this. You’re in the pitch black concert floor at the Allphones Arena in Sydney, surrounded by a crowd of screaming fans. Suddenly, a spotlight flashes on, illuminating in perfect clarity … Lady Gaga! The spotlight follows her as she bursts into song, consistently alternating between colours, and transforming into strings of luminescent light. The crowd goes wild! The impact lighting can have on a concert is often underestimated. It is as much a key element as stage props, costumes or audio equipment, and is a determining factor for whether a concert is a stunning success, or a dismal failure. Lighting technicians are the people in charge of ensuring these lights are properly set up and continue to function smoothly throughout the concert. Jared Wilson is a lighting technician at the Allphones Arena, the largest indoor entertainment and sporting arena in Australia. The AU$200 million complex was designed and constructed to set new benchmarks in urban design, seating www.masterelectricians.com.au

21,000 people in the fully enclosed arena. With an area this large, lighting it would be a feat in itself. However, this lighting technician with 6 years’ experience under his belt says with the right training and experience, the job becomes a whole lot of challenging fun! “Some of my job roles include having to climb and work at heights,” Jared says. “With an arena this large that can sometimes be quite a challenge!” Jared works with Production Resource Group Australia (PRG), a company providing integrated services, equipment, and labour including lighting, audio, video, LED, rigging, scenery and automation for events worldwide. He’s gained most of his training in-house and on-the-job. But aside from climbing to great heights, some of Jared’s job roles as a lighting technician include the building and prepping of light systems, cable management, rigging truss structures, and running the local crew. No easy feat, as the Allphones Arena measures 70,420 square metres, or eight rugby union fields, with its entire height

from floor to roof equivalent to 18 seven foot tall basketball players standing on top of each other. Its roof masts stand 42 metres above ground level! Despite this, Jared says lighting up the Allphones Arena isn’t as daunting as it sounds. “The arena has a large loading dock and access from both ends in and out of the arena,” he says. “This gives us plenty of room to work and do repairs, as well as providing a large quantity of available power all through the arena.” Jared says aside from the usual test tagging and basic checking of all equipment and gear, all accessories have to be available and on hand for the lighting fixtures. Rigging attachments on trusses need to be thoroughly checked, and safety chains attached to all fixtures and truss wraps must be correct and straight. “It takes a lot of work prior to a major concert for everything to run smoothly,” Jared says.

“Everything needs to be checked and double checked. You really don’t want a light to come crashing down on a singer’s head!”

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But who decides what lights go where, and when they come on? Jared says that’s the responsibility of the crew’s chief. “The crew chief will have all the paper work sorted before the start of the first show in the arena,” he says.

“The people that work lighting for and during a concert are always the first in, and the last to leave.” “We then plan for empty case storage in the venue. It takes a lot of people to get a concert up and running, and I work with production managers, touring riggers, and stage managers of each specific tour or concert. They inform me of where the trusses will be located in the air.”

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While the job has its exciting moments, Jared concedes there are mundane everyday tasks that just have to be completed. “The ‘less exciting’ tasks consist of basic repairs, and loading and unloading gear from trucks,” Jared says.

But when a concert is done and dusted, what tips does Jared have when it comes to perfecting lighting for a major event? “Surround yourself with other qualified people who know their roles well and what they need to do to get the show up and running on time,” Jared says. “Sometimes the biggest issue when lighting up a concert or event can be the weather. The weather is always unpredictable so it is always important to water-protect your gear. That way when it does rain, and with just 10 minutes to the

start of a show, you’re going to be fine.” Jared says when the hard work is done, it’s sometimes nice to kick back, relax, and enjoy a good concert. “The people that work lighting for and during a concert are always the first in, and the last to leave,” he says. “It’s not all fun and games, and it can be exhausting work. But sometimes it pays off when you get to enjoy a good concert in between.” The Allphones Arena (also known as the Sydney Super Dome) is situated in Sydney Olympic Park in Sydney, Australia. It was officially opened in November 1999, and became one of the major venues for the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It played host to Lady Gaga this past June, with upcoming concerts at the arena including the Beach Boys in August, Pitbull in September and George Michael in November.

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Jared has ‘lit up’ Allphones Arena concerts for some big names, with superstars’ concerts like Ozzy Osbourne, Taylor Swift, Slipknot, Hillsong, Disturbed, Trivium, Machine Head, Prince, and the Pussycat Dolls under his belt. He’s also worked on events such as the Dally M awards, and the ever popular Big Day Out and Soundwave.

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The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

feature

Market Outlook: What on earth is the world coming to? Stephen Horton

Economics and investing: Is there any light on the horizon? Stephen Horton considers the global outlook.

To say we are in interesting times is something of an understatement. We continually hear how lucky we are to be in Australia – our economy is the envy of the rest of the world. The Prime Minister is strutting our stuff on the world stage reminding anyone who will listen that we breezed through the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) thanks to our discipline, our foresight, and the banking and economic models that everyone else should now be aspiring to.

to grit our teeth and get on with things, reasonably expecting it will all be worth it one day.

And the facts back this up to some extent. We did not go into technical recession during the worst of the GFC, we averted banking collapses, and our central bank was able to stimulate the economy with interest rate cuts while still keeping some ammunition for future actions should they be needed. And while recent economic data has been a bit of a mixed bag, the growth numbers for the March quarter for example were surprisingly good, suggesting our economy grew by 4.3 per cent for the year to 31 March 2012. This is very impressive when compared to other developed economies.

A lot of the fear and confusion that investors and business operators may be feeling is driven by this constant news stream we find ourselves in nowadays. The 24 hour news cycle is an avalanche of journalists’ opinion pieces, political opportunism, and the constant release of new data – some of it more important than others, some of it very well reported and some of it not so. Unfortunately, the more reliable information usually comes from organisations such as the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and the International Monetary Fund….reliable maybe, but good TV? No way.

Yet in 2012, sections of our economy, and no doubt potentially some of the readers of this magazine, are genuinely struggling with a renewed round of job losses and business closures causing pain to those directly affected and anxiety to a workforce wondering who might be next. And what of Europe, China, the USA, and the rest of the world?

But having said that, there is absolutely no doubt that things around the world are far from rosy:

We are all workers, business operators, investors or some combination of them all. So it’s important we can still find reasons www.masterelectricians.com.au

So how are we supposed to make sense of it all? That’s a tricky job with so much contradictory information about the place. A good starting point in such a formidable quest is to try to shut out some of the “noise”, or at least remind ourselves to keep it in context.

• Parts of Europe will remain a basket-case, extreme volatility is likely to persist, and economic growth in Europe as a whole will be negligible for potentially many years to come; • The US recovery appears to be taking a little break recently too with the latest jobs figures disappointing the analysts and the high level of government debt continuing to concern many;

• In China, recent economic indicators have pointed to a growth rate slowing faster than predicted; • And here in Australia parts of our own economy will continue to struggle. State by State there are widening gaps as the twospeed economy rolls on. And all of this sits against the backdrop of world-wide social unrest fuelled by minority governments, populist political movements and short term planning. With these factors at play and a world still jittery following the GFC, extreme volatility remains the only short term event anyone will predict with any confidence. So where’s the good news? While political and economic uncertainty remains high, the global economic outlook is better than some of the more alarmist headlines might suggest. Let’s have a look: Europe Eurozone officials have demonstrated a willingness to act in a cohesive and decisive way in recent months. The Long Term Refinancing Operation put in place in early 2012, the plans to recapitalise the Spanish banks, and the concerted efforts to reassure markets that any and all steps will be taken to keep the Eurozone together are signs that the leaders recognise the need for stability and confidence to be the foundations upon which any rebuilding can commence. It is very clear that there are no quick fixes in Europe, but what is needed is the confidence that problems can be worked through and growth eventually restored, however long that may take. The Greek elections of June 17 appear to have saved Greece from exiting the Euro which would have caused havoc in global markets. The election result is a positive step though not the answer to everything. However since it’s become clear the pro-austerity parties will form a coalition in Greece, Germany appears to be reconsidering some minor relaxation in the austerity measures. China In 2011 China overtook Japan as the world’s second largest economy, still a long way behind the US. Its importance to Australia as a trading partner is well documented and our prospects remain firmly hitched to the Chinese wagon – probably a very good situation, all things considered. Talk of China’s ‘problems’ may well be overplayed: growth is

predicted to slow to anywhere between 7 per cent and 8 per cent which is still robust in any language. They have cut interest rates and allowed banks more freedom to lend as a means of stimulating their economy and they have plenty of other levers to pull – a cache of more than US$3 trillion in foreign exchange reserves being one of them. United States Data from the US in recent weeks has turned a little soft however the latest Wall Street Journal poll has forecasters predicting between 2.5 per cent and 3.0 per cent growth annually over the next three years. It has some issues to manage including the expiration of Bush-era and Obama stimulation packages, looming elections, and another debt-ceiling debate later this year however the Federal Reserve has signalled its intention to introduce more monetary easing if these issues threaten their recovery. In its tenuous political environment, there is also the view that neither side of politics is willing to be seen to be responsible for allowing another recession – no doubt the usual politicking will take place however deals are likely to be done, albeit at the eleventh hour. Australia Despite the regional and/or sector worries (eg, retailing), our economy is likely to do quite well over the next few years. Growth of 3.0 per cent for 2012 and 3.5 per cent for 2013 is forecast and an enormous pipeline in mining investment is likely to fuel economic activity. And even after the recent cuts to the official cash rate, the RBA still has ammunition to stimulate the economy as needed. Our recent, surprisingly good, growth figures were driven by two main factors: Consumption (which shows that Retail is not the only sector that counts) and Business Investment – chiefly the mining investment referred to above. And for those scratching their heads at the performance of their Super Funds and share portfolios, these factors should provide a sound macroeconomic foundation for Australian shares to do reasonably well over the remainder of this year. That’s good news for long term investors who accept that volatility is part and parcel of investing in equities. Stephen Horton is an Adviser with Whittaker Macnaught, a division of CBA. stephen.horton@whittakermacnaught.com.au. This advice is general in nature and readers should seek their own expert advice before making financial decisions. The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

general news

Mr Powell said Power Integration was very pleased with last years’ win, and the company was looking forward to this year’s awards. “Although I am not sure if there is a possibility of us winning the award two years in a row, you never know,” he said. Glenn Powell and Kent Bradford from Power Integration receiving 2011 Annual Excellence Awards from Malcolm Richards, ECA Group CEO.

Annual Excellence Awards Nominations are closing for the 2012 Annual Excellence Awards. Take this opportunity to celebrate the successes of individuals and businesses within the electrical industry.

The country’s best and brightest

sparkies will be honoured at the Master Electricians Australia (MEA) and Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) Gala Dinner on September 22 at the Sofitel Hotel in Brisbane. ECA Group CEO Malcolm Richards said thirteen awards are up for grabs for businesses and individuals who have performed outstandingly well in their chosen field. “Award recipients must demonstrate excellence and best practice in the sector, setting a new benchmark for, and demonstrating the continued growth of, the electrical industry. Mr Richards said judging the award nominees would be particularly difficult this year. “The standard of applicants and work is getting better and better each year. I www.masterelectricians.com.au

expect every nominee is well and truly on the path to becoming an industry leader.” The 2011 Master Electrician of the Year and winner of the Domestic Project of the Year, Power Integration, was recognised for the company’s strong emphasis on training staff and its positive company culture. Power Integration director Glenn Powell said last year’s award had opened up numerous doors for the company, contributing to its success in bids on a number of lucrative projects. “I think winning the award last year has definitely boosted Power Integration’s credibility,” Mr Powell said. “We have seen direct results from the win in our clients’ confidence and trust in our company. “It has really given potential clients a solid reason to choose Power Integration over other companies.”

“I think Power Integration is definitely up to the task of vying for the ‘Master Electrician of the Year’ award again. “We will certainly be aiming to win even more awards.” The business categories include: • Master Electrician of the Year • Residential Project of the Year – valued under $400K • Executive Residential Project of the Year – valued over $400K • Smart Wiring Project of the Year • Commercial & Utilities Project of the Year • Industrial & Mining Project of the Year • Communications & Data Project of the Year • Fire & Instrumentation Project of the Year • Solar Installations Project of the Year • Green Project of the Year • Innovative Product of the Year The individual categories include: • Business Woman of the Year • Apprentice of the Year This year the nomination process has been simplified to an online nomination form. For more information or to make a nomination visit www.masterelectricians.com.au/excellenceawards.

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feature

The Brisbane Airport Link Tunnel How many electricians does it take to construct one of Australia’s largest infrastructure projects? Stephanie Lim takes an insiders look into the electrical work going into this mega-structure - from the John Holland team helping bring the Brisbane Airport Link Tunnel to life.

Connecting the Brisbane central business district

and the Clem Jones Tunnel to the East-West Arterial Road, the 6.7 kilometre Airport Link motorway tunnel is one of the largest infrastructure projects ever constructed in Brisbane. With a team of 1200 personnel working night and day, this three-and-a-half year project has created 10,000 direct and indirect jobs. BrisConnections has been appointed by the Queensland Government to deliver this $4.8 billion project, comprising two tunnels and a new airport connection – the largely underground Airport Link toll road, the Windsor to Kedron section of the Nothern Busway, and the 750-metre flyover and fast-diamond intersection replacing the airport roundabout. One of Australia’s leading contracting, engineering and services providers, John Holland has been contracted by BrisConnections to undertake the design, construction and commissioning of the three integrated projects. With a large-scale project such as this one, how many electricians are required to be contracted for such an undertaking? John Holland Queensland Electrical and Instrumentation Manager Greg Sismey says throughout the course of the project, over 90 John Holland electricians and staff had to contribute to various day to day roles. “We peaked at about 80 electricians at one point,” Mr Sismey says.

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“On top of that we also had a staff of about eleven.” Mr Sismey says work on the project varied from time to time. “Sometimes we were in the elevated work platforms fixing tunnel lights and LED signs,” he says. “Other times we were on the ground fitting out the small equipment rooms. Our role was to take the existing cables for the pits and then run them locally within our area and finish off as we progressed, so the commissioning could commence.” John Holland was also awarded a subcontract for electrical fit out of ramps A&B. “The fit out of the ramps was the main electrical and related work for over one kilometre of the tunnel,” Mr Sismey says. “This included tunnel lighting as well as emergency lighting, power, and traffic monitoring devices such as road speed signs, CCTV and LED direction and warning signs. We also had fire detection protection, a deluge system and the tunnel pumping system electrical works.” John Holland Project Director Geoff McEntee says the new Airport Link toll road will most certainly ease transport for motorists. “The Airport Link will be the first major motorway linking Brisbane city to the northern suburbs and airport precinct,” he says.

“Electronic tolling will make the journey faster, less congested and safer, with much less stopping and starting for motorists.” Mr McEntee believes the opening of the Airport Link will also create a much safer travelling atmosphere for all. “Along with the Airport Link, the Airport Link Operations Centre incorporating the Toll Road Control Centre will also commence operation,” he says. “This will be located on Stafford Road and provide 24 hour surveillance and safe operation of the toll road.” The John Holland electrical team in Energy are no new faces to big projects, having been involved in tunnel works and other high profile projects such as Devils Creek and the LNG projects in Gladstone. “We are there to support the main John Holland groups with our ability to self-perform electrical, controls and instrumentation works. It’s a core part of our Energy business model,” Mr McEntee says. The Airport Link project is estimated to be completed this month, with the tunnel already under commissioning. “We always enjoy the challenges of a project though the pressure is sometimes a bit intense,” Mr McEntee says. “John Holland is looking forward to whatever project comes next, and our next challenge!” The Brisbane Airport Link Tunnel was due to open to vehicles by 21 July. More than 5,000 people attended a public walk through of the tunnel on 16 July.

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The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

meet a master electrician

Name: Danny Finnerty Company: Onsite Electrical Services State: New South Wales Status: Accredited Master Electrician

Are you involved in any community organisations? I sponsor my local rugby club (Easts Rugby) because I believe in supporting my local community and really enjoy the social aspect. Also over the past few years, my friends and I get together every couple of months at a local soup kitchen to cook breakfast for the homeless. It’s only a small gesture but I find it extremely rewarding helping less fortunate people who don’t have the same opportunities that I have.

Moving half way round the world may be a daunting prospect for some, but for Master Electrician Danny Finnerty, it’s a dream come true. Where did you grow up? I was born and bred in a place called Kingsbury which is in North West London. It is a very diverse, multicultural town which is vibrant and busy, with plenty of things to see and do. Wembley is on the doorstep, which is most famous for Wembley Stadium, with central London only 15 minutes away on the underground. I love going home but I also love my new life ‘down under’. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I always wanted to be a policeman until I realised it wasn’t about driving fast www.masterelectricians.com.au

cars and women loving the uniform. After twelve weeks of training with the Metropolitan Police and endless hours of paperwork I realised it wasn’t for me. What’s your favourite weekend/ holiday activity? On weekends, I’d have to say watching the English Premiership is something I love to do (even when the games start at 4am). Catching up with the boys over a few beers or having dinner out at a nice restaurant is also a favourite of mine. Last minute weekends away throughout Australia are also at the top of my list of favourite things to do!

What is most rewarding about your job, what makes it all worthwhile? The great thing about being an electrician and having a trade was working my way around the world and discovering Australia. My trade also enabled me to gain citizenship here when I decided to come back and settle down in 2006. How do you keep a healthy work/ life balance? This is definitely a challenge for any business owner. I think the analogy “work hard play hard” describes me best. Generally I try to place equal importance on work and personal commitments. Regular exercise, catching up with friends and taking as many holidays every year ensures I keep a healthy balance. What are you most proud of? I’m most proud of relocating half way around the world and managing to open Onsite Electrical Services in Australia. When first starting Onsite, in London back in 2001, I never could have imagined I’d end up living in Sydney, let alone starting Onsite here.

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benefit spotlight

Master Electricians – Are you taking advantage of these online tools to help your business? These easy-to-use online tools can help you with Technical and Safety, Workplace Relations, debt collection and much more.

All Master Electricians have exclusive access to the ‘Master Electricians only’ section of www.masterelectricians.com.au. The website is a major source of information for everything related to the multitude of services, benefits and advice Master Electricians Australia provides. All the information on the site is free to download and there to assist with managing the most intricate areas of your business. We have highlighted below a small selection of resources that can be found within. Technical and Safety Our technical and safety section provides relevant documents and links to assist with running the technical side of your business. You’ll find resources to assist with interpreting legislation such as Wiring Rules guidance documents and electrical fact sheets. www.masterelectricians.com.au

The introduction of new harmonised work health and safety laws can be easily implemented within your business by reviewing our harmonisation resources and links. This information is tailored to each state, with regulation and licensing links also available. Workplace Relations When dealing with employees it is important to know the right wage rates and entitlements. The workplace relations section provides up-to-date wage information and modern awards to assist in navigating this complex area. Debt Collection Even with sound credit management policies and procedures you may still incur bad debts. The debt collection area provides details on the different options available to get your debtors paying. It also includes free access to the McKays Solicitors letter of

demand service. By providing the details of your debt via the online portal, a letter of demand is generated by McKays Solicitors and sent to the debtor. In addition to having a good success rate, a letter of demand is a document which may be tendered in evidence during court proceedings as written proof of your claim of the debt owed and your attempt to settle the matter. Additional features • Latest industry news for each state • Library of Master Electricians Australia publications • Event information • Business and marketing resources • Links to Institute of Electrical Inspectors journals and alerts • Apprentice tools – supervision guides, incentive information • Membership benefits and discounts To access this and more simply go to www.masterelectricians.com. au and click the ‘Master Electrician login’ section on the top righthand side of the screen.

If you are not an Accredited Master Electrician, contact us today to find out more about how we can help your business. Visit www.masterelectricians.com.au or contact 1300 889 198.

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Winter 2012

news from the distributors Energex

new tariffs now online

QLD

Prices and charges from electricity distributors essentially fall into two categories: Network tariffs and fees for work requested by customers or their retailer. Recently, the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) approved the Energex tariff and prices schedule for 2012/13. The cost of customer or retailer-initiated work, including most domestic and small business fee-based services, is listed in Table 2 of our Tariff Schedule, found under “About us” at www.energex.com.au. Most fee-based services are charged to the customer through the retailer billing mechanism, not directly to the requestor. From 1 July, some of the most common fee-based services will be (ex-GST):

CitiPower/Powercor

REConnect given the tick of approval from RECs and Retailers

• Overhead service replacement - $310.73 (single phase), or $366.04 (3 phase)

VIC

Launched in late 2011, CitiPower and Powercor’s REConnect system has been given the tick of approval by many of the Registered Electrical Contractors (RECs) and Retailers that have used it. Feedback received from RECs indicates that REConnect allows them to be more organised as they no longer have to contact retailers, CitiPower or Powercor as frequently to track jobs and know what stage their jobs are at. They are also able to fill out and save Electrical Work Requests EWRs online, again helping them be more efficient and save time. RECs using REConnect also report that they are no longer being told that their paperwork has been lost in the system. We currently have a few hundred RECs signed up and a pamphlet promoting REConnect has been sent out to about 3,500 RECs with the latest edition of Tech Talk magazine. We anticipate a significant increase in the number of RECs using REConnect following this mail out. Feedback from Retailers has also been positive with several keen to promote REConnect to RECs as they recognise the benefits it provides all users. REConnect has proven to be user friendly. No matter the REC’s computer skill, users are able to feel comfortable using REConnect, a recent comment provided by RECs is that “using REConnect is simple and straight forward”. Work is continuing to enhance REConnect’s capabilities as part of Phase 2 of the project by automating internal processes for creating National Meter Identifiers (NMIs) and services orders for field crew to carry out the works. Future enhancements to REConnect are proposed to include direct links to Google Maps or the Land Victoria Database to ensure addresses are correct, the ability to create EWRs as PDF files, and the capture of meter numbers or NMIs for all additions and alterations. If you have any further questions in relation to REConnect please feel free to email us at REConnect@citipower.com.au or REConnect@powercor.com.au. www.masterelectricians.com.au

• Meter reconfiguration including a tariff change - $75.30 Tariff changes over the 2012-13 period will be significant, following the review of the regulated retail tariffs by the Queensland Competition Authority. Many of the network tariffs, which are a major component of the retail tariffs published in the Queensland Tariff Gazette, will change over the year. Some of the larger changes are: • The small and medium flat business tariffs (8500 and 8600) have been combined to one flat business tariff that underpins retail tariff 20. • The small and medium time-of-use (ToU) business tariffs (8700 and 8800) have been combined to one ToU business tariff that relates to retail tariff 22. • A new time-of-use domestic tariff (8900, or retail tariff 12) is now available. • The monthly minimum charges for controlled-load tariffs 31 and 33 have been removed. • A number of tariffs, including declining block commercial tariff 21 and ToU heating tariff 37 will be phased out over the next 12 months. For further information, visit www.qca.org.au or www.energex.com.au.

ESSENTIAL SERVICES COMMISSION

1 July 2012 Electricity Standing Contract Price Adjustment The standing contract price will increase by 18 per cent, largely due to the impact of the solar feed-in tariff scheme on network prices, other increases in network charges, and the introduction of a price on carbon emissions. In announcing its decision, the Essential Services Commission of SA (the Commission) has also announced the commencement of an investigation into the retail costs that comprise the standing contract price. The standing contract is the retail electricity contract that AGL SA must offer to all South Australian small customers (customers consuming less than 160 megawatt hours (MWh) per annum). Only 25 per cent of all small electricity customers now use the standing contract, as the majority of customers have elected to switch to a market contract. The Commission’s electricity standing contract price determination comprises network and retail costs. Network costs consist of ElectraNet’s transmission tariffs and ETSA Utilities’ distribution tariffs, and comprise approximately 45 per cent of a typical

residential bill. The retail costs currently make up the remaining 55 per cent, and include the cost of energy and retail operating costs. The table below shows indicative increases in standing contract bills between 2011/12 and 2012/13 for residential and small business customers.

Indicative impact on annual electricity bills (GST exclusive) Residential (5MWh p.a.)

Small Business (10MWh p.a.)

2011/12 Annual Bill

$1,525.94

$2,929.51

Increased Feed-in Tariff (FiT) costs

+$105.00

(6.9%)

+$214.60

(7.3%)

Increase in network charge (ex-FiT)

+$60.32

(4.0%)

+$107.61

(3.7%)

Carbon price pass-through

+$69.85

(4.6%)

+$139.70

(4.8%)

Other ^

+$39.45

(2.6%)

+$65.25

(2.1%)

2012/13 Annual Bill

$1,800.56

(18.0%)

$3,456.67

(18.0%)

^ Includes CPI adjustment to retail tariffs and changes in other retail charges

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F: 1300 738 717

E: sales@cableloc.com

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The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

would test 20 energy and water efficient appliances, an electric car and tools that monitor their power use, such as a smartphone app, website, and in-home monitors. “We want the Taylor’s to road test this new technology and share their thoughts with Australians,” Mr Maltabarow said. “The home’s heating and cooling system will be upgraded to an air conditioner that can be controlled remotely during high energy use times, known as peak periods. “It means we’ll be able to test load control technology that reduces the home’s power use from the electricity grid during peak times. “We’ve already proved that the home can generate enough electricity to power two typical houses. We now want to test whether the home can reduce power use during the highest use periods and even export electricity to the grid during these peak times.” Sydney Water Managing Director Kevin Young said analysis of the previous smart home family’s water use showed they used less water than their target. “We are keen to find out how the water consumption differs with more people living in the home,” Mr Young said. Damien and Kylie Taylor said they were eager to take the step into the home and test the energy saving potential of the new technology. “Our old fibro home chewed through electricity,” Kylie said. “We’re all very keen to see how we adapt to some of these new appliances and see if they can help a typical family reduce their energy use and costs,” Damien said. Key features of the home include: • RedFlow battery unit that stores power for use in peak times

Ausgrid

New smart home family to test energy efficiency

• BlueGen gas-fired fuel cell that generates power from natural gas

NSW

Australia’s new Smart Home Family has moved into their new energy efficient home, ready to test the latest smart grid technology that will remotely switch off appliances to reduce energy use during peak times. Primary school teacher Damien Taylor and full-time mum Kylie, their children Eli, 9 and Zoe, 6 and pet dog Reggie, were selected from more than 100 applicants to live rent free in the smart home, in the Sydney suburb of Newington. The home was created by Ausgrid and Sydney Water to test what life is like for a family to live with the latest energy and water efficient technologies. Ausgrid Managing Director George Maltabarow said the family www.masterelectricians.com.au

• A solar pergola – new thin-film solar technology has been used as a pergola roof. It provides shade and allows light in, and produces 0.5 kilowatts of electricity • An all electric car, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV • Recycled water and water efficient appliances • The only home in NSW to use recycled water for the washing machine. The Taylors will be among the first to trial technologies to be tested in the Australian Government’s Smart Grid, Smart City project. They will share their experience on their blog www.smarthomefamily.com.au and share updates on Facebook or Twitter. The previous smart home family lived in the home for 18 months and moved out in January this year.

Western Power

ERA Report highlights improved performance by Western Power

Western Power has welcomed a report by the Economic Regulation Authority which highlighted significant improvements in the reliability of the Western Power network over 2010/11. The report found that the number of Western Power customers who experienced extended interruptions fell by 51.6 per cent compared to the previous year. There was also a 46 per cent drop in the number of urban customers experiencing multiple disruptions and an even bigger decrease of 71.3 per cent in regional areas. Acting CEO Paul Italiano said Western Power customers can depend on the network for an electricity service they can rely on. “Our track record for reliability is beginning to reach outstanding levels. In the metro area, on average, power is available to our customers 99.96 per cent of the time, and 99.92 per cent of the time, on average, in regional areas” said Mr Italiano. The report also pointed out that complaints received by Western Power fell by 36 per cent compared to the previous year. “We are extremely pleased that we have managed to reduce customer complaints by 36 per cent over the past year. This is a significant achievement and reflects our efforts to prioritise customer service across the network” Mr Italiano added. Western Power has also greatly improved its on-time delivery of new connections. The report showed that on-time delivery of new

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connections improved from 79.6 per cent to 96.4 per cent over the five years to 2010/11. Another significant area of improvement related to the timeliness of Western Power’s metropolitan street light repairs. Over the last five years, the proportion of repairs that took longer than five days fell from 35 per cent to about 3 per cent. “The report by the ERA validates the improvements we are making to our systems and processes across the Western Power network. We are responding more quickly to power interruptions, connecting new customers on time and not surprisingly we are receiving fewer complaints about our service,” Mr Italiano concluded.

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iautomation.com.au 1800 225 063 The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

regulator wrap up the latest state news from regulators

Energy Safety

A warning on VIR and TRS wiring

Many domestic installations wired before 1960 have potentially deadly VIR (Vulcanised Indian Rubber) and TRS (tough rubber sheathed) cables of some form. This wiring has exceeded its serviceable life and poses a risk of electrocution for electricians, other tradespersons, homeowners and persons entering the roof space. VIR wiring was installed as an “open wiring” system where single insulated cables were supported with wooden or porcelain cleats on top of the ceiling joists (Note: single insulated accessible open wiring systems are no longer permitted in installations in Western Australia). These cables were installed without mechanical protection and in locations where they could be easily touched. Connections to the open wiring system were made using unenclosed joints anywhere along the cable. The wiring to switches or socket outlets, for example, were installed inside steel conduits located in the walls. Consumer’s mains were also enclosed in steel conduit. These conduits could be made live if the wiring insulation perished. VIR and TRS wiring systems pose a risk because the standards of the day did not require earthing conductors to be insulated or the cable joints to be enclosed. They were not designed to handle increasing household power demands and do not meet the current electrical safety standards. Very often the high temperatures in roof spaces or excessive circuit loading may cause the wire to overheat and lead to the insulation deteriorating. Anecdotal evidence suggests that VIR and TRS insulation has a service life of no more than 30 years. This maximum service life takes into account the deterioration due to natural aging of the rubber and to high ambient temperatures in roof spaces. This deterioration of the cable insulation may result in bare live

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conductors in the roof space and possibly bare live conductors in wall conduits and behind fittings. Once the integrity of the rubber insulation is breached, the live conductors are exposed. This is a safety hazard for anyone entering the roof space. Several fatalities have occurred as a result of touching bare exposed conductors of deteriorated VIR wiring. Last year, a young man received a fatal electric shock when he made simultaneous contact between exposed live conductors of VIR wiring and bare earth conductors in the roof space of his parent’s house. EnergySafety has attempted to encourage owners of pre-1960 premises, through newspaper advertisements, to engage a licensed electrical contractor to have the electrical wiring checked and rewired if VIR or TRS wiring are present. Electrical contractors encountering VIR or TRS wiring in an installation should undertake an assessment and be mindful that the wiring could be in a poor state and potentially hazardous. In the majority of cases, the wiring will need to be replaced. It is essential that they isolate the electricity supply before commencing any work on the installation and before entering the roof space.

www.cableloc.com

Energy Safe Victoria

Smart meters are safe concludes energy safety regulator

VIC

Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) has released its draft report into the safety of Victoria’s advanced metering infrastructure (smart meters). The report has found that smart meters are safe and don’t pose any greater safety risk than older electronic or electromechanical meters. ESV began its review into the safety of smart meters following a handful of meter failures in Melbourne’s northern suburbs in December and January. While the failures were initially thought to have been caused by a high-voltage (HV) injection, subsequent investigation determined criminal damage was the cause. Police are investigating. The report has found: • When smart meters fail, they fail safely and potentially reduce the risk of personal damage and injury • There is no evidence to suggest that smart meters are exploding or causing fires • Recent confirmed examples of latent meter failure are attributable to criminal damage rather than HV injection • There is no evidence to suggest the safety risks associated with smart meters are any greater than older style electronic or electromechanical meters

• The smart meters being installed in Victoria meet current Australian Standards including those related to safety, and those standards are robust and appropriate • The electricity companies are following Victorian Electricity Supply Industry (VESI) minimum procedures for responding to a HV injection when it occurs, which includes requirements to inspect metering equipment and conduct testing as required • The procedures that describe what is acceptable in relation to the condition of meter boards and panels prior to a meter installation were found to be appropriate and suitable for the purpose • Victoria’s Director of Energy Safety, Paul Fearon, said the draft report was now open for public comment and submissions were invited to ensure that it addresses the key issues that are of concern to the community “There has been a lot of debate in the community recently about the safety of smart meters, and a lot of that discussion has not been based on facts or evidence,” Mr Fearon said. “This is unfortunate because it has caused a great deal of concern, particularly among the elderly and vulnerable. “Our conclusions are based on research, specific inquiries and investigation. On all the available evidence, I have no hesitation in assuring Victorians that smart meters are safe. “We will nevertheless continue to monitor the rollout, investigate incidents and assess trends to ensure that the safety of Victorians remains paramount.” A copy of the report is available from the ESV website at www.esv.vic.gov.au

New ProTag Optima System Australia’s Most Compact Appliance Testing and Tag Printing System. The new ProTag Optima System tests portable appliances and RCDs, and prints test tags in a compact system weighing only around 2kg. No interface cables between the tester, printer and scanner provide maximum mobility on construction sites, factories and workshops. Light weight, wireless, battery powered and with logging of visual inspections and risk assessments, the Optima System guarantees greater efficiency, huge time savings and a lower cost per tag. Call EMONA Instruments on tel: 1 800 632 953 email: testinst@emona.com.au or www.protag.com.au The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

regulator wrap up Office of the Technical Regulator

Illegal meter relocation and reconnection of supply There are many instances each year where the Office of the Technical Regulator (OTR) is advised of work done by electrical contractors who have relocated meters, and disconnected and reconnected supply without ETSA Utilities (ETSA’s) authority. This work is usually done when contractors are pressured by builders to shift the meter box and switchboard due to renovation work. Case 1 Recently a house was being demolished and the overhead service was removed from a fascia and relocated onto a temporary service pole by an electrical contractor. The meter was relocated into the new meter box and the new switchboard was re-energised by the contractor. Case 2 In another situation the meter reader could not find the meter but observed that the house still had supply. On investigation it was found that the meter panel and switchboard had been relocated from the laundry into the roof space to permit renovation work to continue.

These illegal and unsafe practices are in breach of both ETSA’s Service and Installation Rules and the Electricity Act. Contractors are warned that these practices will not be tolerated and an expiation fee of $315 can be applied, or contractors prosecuted (maximum penalty $5,000) for such breaches against Section 59 of the Electricity Act 1996.

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Electrical Safety Office

Ten year review of Electrical Safety Regulation 2002 - 2012

QLD

Every ten years, all government regulations must, by law, be reviewed to ensure they remain relevant, workable and that there is a continued need for the particular regulation. The Electrical Safety Regulation 2002 is due to be reviewed as it reaches the ten year anniversary of its making in September 2012. Terms of Reference for the review will be developed over coming months with the review scheduled to start in October 2012. As part of the review a Regulatory Assessment Statement will be developed incorporating a cost benefit analysis of each regulated requirement to be retained. The review will also look at whether there are any regulatory requirements which can be changed or discontinued to reduce the regulatory burden in line with the Government’s red tape reduction policy. Public and industry views will be invited as part of the regulatory review process, with a view to the development of an electrical safety regulation reflective of contemporary industry and societal needs.

We work with industry associations, employers and contractors to manage building and construction skilling opportunities within Queensland. CSQ also provides funding assistance against some of the costs of training and assessment associated with acquiring a licence for those already employed in the industry. If you’re considering hiring an apprentice or trainee, ask us today about incentives to take on an out-of trade apprentice and keep skills in the industry. Call Construction Skills Queensland and get the help you need to start building success today.

Call 1800 798 488 or visit csq.org.au

Fair Trading

NSW Warning to electricians to stop installing unapproved DC circuit breakers

Fair Trading has become aware that electricians are installing unmarked or unapproved DC circuit breakers. It has been advised that 400V and 800V Miniature Overcurrent Circuit Breakers (MOCB) are being installed that do not show the required marking or a model number. A Miniature Overcurrent Circuit Breaker (MOCB) is a declared article by definition under the Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2004. While the lower rated MOCBs are approved, the 400V & 800V MOCBs are not approved for use. The approval given for MOCBs and other declared articles is a mechanism to certify that the appropriate tests have been carried out to ensure the safety of the article concerned. Fair Trading is currently looking into the sale of unapproved MOCB devices with a view to either issuing penalty infringement notices or prosecution. Fair Trading would like all electricians to be aware of this and check that the MOCB approval mark is appropriate for use. Checks can be carried out by going to the following page on the Fair Trading website: http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/About_ us/Online_services/Approved_electrical_articles_register.html

To search for information about an approved article in NSW, use the ‘Start Check’ button. Please note that for ‘Like’ searches, the ‘%’ character should be used instead of the ‘*’ character. Fair Trading encourages all electricians who have a concern about the approval of an MOCB they are installing, to use the link above to check if the MOCB has the appropriate approval. The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

Here at Lawrence and Hanson and Auslec, we have taken a long hard look at our business and your business and decided to make a promise. A promise to ensure that we provide you with the great service that will help you grow your business.

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letter of the law

How will the Carbon Tax affect you and your business? While electrical contractors are unlikely to be directly liable for the carbon tax they should still watch out for the increased cost of doing business.

The Clean Energy Act 2011 (Cth) and associated legislation establishing a national carbon pricing scheme has been passed into law. This amounts to what is known in the real world as the Carbon Tax. Why do we have a carbon tax? Well, the Australian Government has chosen to lead the world in this area. It is a bold and some may say premature step by a nation producing less than 1 per cent of the carbon emissions. Time will tell if other countries follow our lead. What is taxed? The carbon tax covers 4 of the 6 Kyoto Protocol greenhouse gases and applies in 5 areas: 1. Stationary energy (e.g. electricity generation); 2. Industrial processing (e.g. aluminium smelting); 3. Fugitive emissions other than from decommissioned coal mines (e.g. emissions from the extraction of coal, oil and natural gas); 4. Emissions from landfill waste and waste water treatment ; and 5. Heavy on Road Vehicles potentially covered from 1 July 2014. www.masterelectricians.com.au

What does the carbon tax do? The scheme imposes a carbon price on operating facilities that emit more than 25,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per annum. These are commonly known as the bigger emitters or large producers of carbon. What does it cost? Each big emitter will pay a fixed price for emissions above the carbon cap. How is it calculated? A single permit is expected to be around $23 each. Each permit relates to one tonne of carbon emitted in the initial year. Will the carbon tax be increased? A fixed price for emissions will be in effect for three years from July 2012. It will then move to a flexible, market-based pricing mechanism from July 2015. The scheme covers direct or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Scope 1â&#x20AC;&#x2122; emissions, capturing around 300 to 500 liable entities from 2012. How many people will pay the tax? The tax only directly captures approximately 300 to 500 entities.

Its effects on you? Like all business costs, if the electricity generator’s costs increase so do, eventually, their charges to every person consuming their product. Hence, ultimately all Australians will see this cost passed on to them through increased charges. For electricity the Treasury has estimated that carbon pricing will raise electricity prices by 10 per cent immediately and a further 16 per cent over the next five years. In more detail, how does it work? There are two types of entities that are directly liable to pay the tax: 1. Entities that have operational control over activities that emit 25,000 tonnes or more of CO2; and 2. Certain Supplies of Natural Gas (directly through a pipeline). Liability for the emissions from activities that exceed the above amount is imposed on the entity that has ‘operational control’ over the activity. An entity will have operational control over an activity where it has the authority to introduce or implement operating, health and safety, or environmental policies for the activity or possibly have some element of financial control.

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Liable entities will have to surrender permits to meet their liability. In other words, they “buy credits” to cover their carbon emissions. Though it may be unlikely that electrical contractors will be directly liable for the carbon tax, the introduction will still have an impact on the cost of everything in the entire community. However, advice should immediately be obtained if any member: • Is involved in a joint venture, including an unincorporated joint ventures, with a directly liable entity • Is involved in an activity that would exceed emissions of 25,000 tonnes • Exercises “operational control” over an activity that creates a liability to pay. Tendering and pricing jobs Probably the most important thing arising out of the carbon tax for your business is to make sure that when tendering or pricing a job you bear in mind the increased cost of doing business resulting from the new tax.

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Compensation? To offset the overall cost to all Australians the government has provided for one-off pass backs, some targeted payments and some changes to other taxes. How effective these will be in the medium to long term is a matter that will only be known over time. For more information about how the Carbon Tax works please call Paul Evans on (07) 3223 5900 or pevans@mckayslaw.com or Sean Diljore on (07) 3223 5909 or sdiljore@mckayslaw.com.

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The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

the interview role in the organisation on the way through, so no one step was overwhelming. Did you have prior training in management or experience in the electrical trade? When I left school I did a traineeship with a company called STC - now Alcatel who sold telephone exchanges. I gained a Diploma in Electrical Engineering. I have done Management and Marketing Certificates while I was working my way through the ranks at John R Turk. What are some day-to-day tasks and responsibilities as the managing director of Rexel Holdings? Some of my core roles are ensuring that we have the best quality senior managers in all our support functions and leaders in all our trading divisions. It is my responsibility to guide the strategy including the investment strategy of the group with the customer the central focus of our strategies. I also have to ensure our businesses are led in such a way that we have the best people, simple structures, simple procedures and clear directions.

Guy Picken

From Rugby League star to managing director of an electrical supplies distributor. Guy Picken talks about his transition into the electrical industry. You were a Rugby League player for the Cronulla Sharks and the St George Dragons. How did you go from being a footy player to the managing director of a leading distributor of electrical supplies? I am asked this question a lot. I put most of what I have achieved in life down to what I learned playing football. I was lucky enough to have had some terrific mentors during my time in Rugby League, namely Brian Smith and the late Jack Gibson. The lessons I learned were as much about life as football. The biggest take-away from sport is that there are no excuses. You can have the best reason in the world for a bad www.masterelectricians.com.au

performance but you will be telling it to the second grade coach. So the marketing people at Nike summed it up … “Just do it”. Tell us about your transition into the electrical industry. I started as a sales representative for John R Turk and as I was a footballer it was reasonably easy to gain new business. John R Turk was relatively small in those days and all the people there were like a family. They made it easy to fit in and interestingly many are still there today. My journey to managing director was progressive and I have filled almost every

How do you like working in the electrical industry compared with your Rugby League days? I have been very fortunate in that I got to live the dream of many boys by playing sport professionally. When that career came to an end I was again lucky to find an industry and a job I love. People in this industry like to complain about it but from what I have seen many ordinary people have been able to earn very good livings through hard work. It is also an industry where we have a lot of fun. What are some of the major differences in careers that you have had to get used to? Sport is much more about living in the moment. In business most significant achievements are the results of long term planning and the efforts of others. In tough environments you can’t improve the result with one good run or tackle. In football, if you don’t like the score you can do something about it that very minute. In a similar vein, in business your performance is assessed over a longer period of time. Sport is probably the only profession where you can be fired for one bad day or become immortal for a great one.

What did your Rugby League mates say when they found out about your decision to join the electrical industry? I joined the industry before I gave up football. In those days there were a few of us in the electrical industry. When I was at St. George four of us worked in the industry. Brad Mackay and Peter Gill also worked for us at John R Turk and Mick Potter worked for Lawrence and Hanson. Do you have any regrets in giving up Rugby League to move into the electrical industry full-time? It isn’t like I had the option of staying 25 forever. Rock stars can stumble along into their 60s trading on their name. Sportsmen are totally reliant on performance as it is measurable on a daily basis. I do wish I was 25 again and in my physical prime but I am not the type to spend time living in the past. One door shut and another one opened and it opened into a very good place.

Do you still play, and do you miss playing the sport professionally? No I am too old to play now even if I wanted to. When I retired it was due to a serious knee injury. It was my choice to retire as I had a contract available but I knew I couldn’t play at the standard of previous years. I never want to go backwards. What do you miss the most about your football days? What I miss most about it is the oneon-one contest. You had an opposite number you had to defeat either physically, mentally or both. There is a winner on the day not only of the game but in that personal contest. What do you think of your son following in your footsteps to become a footy player? My son is a pretty good footballer, much better than I was, but he doesn’t see any other career except football. I am trying

to convince him of the need for education but he can’t see it. I asked him what would happen if he suffered a bad leg injury. He told me he would become a professional golfer. I then asked what he would do if the injury was so bad he couldn’t be a professional golfer. He told me if it was that bad he would just get a job like mine. Guy Picken is the managing director for Rexel Holdings Australia, and a former Rugby League player from 1986 to 1992, where he played for the Cronulla Sharks and the St George Dragons.

2012 Training Courses

INVESTING IN SKILLS AND TRAINING Electro Group Training is pleased to offer a wide range of quality training programs to suit the Electrotechnology Industry Electro Group Training are your own not for profit skills centre owned and operated by your industry and proudly supported by the Electrical and Communications Association (ECA) and The Electrical Trades Union (ETU).

Our Skills Centre has highly qualified industry instructors to provide training in: • Electrician Apprenticeship – Stage 1 to 4 and Capstone assessment • Solar PV cell Install and Design (INCLUDES Work Safely at Heights Accreditation) • CPR/Resuscitation and Switchboard Rescue • Open Registration (ACMA Registration)

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www.electrogroup.com.au The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

gadget guide

Bolle printer

10 Port USB 2.0 Hub

With millions of smart phone owners now preferring to take their happy snaps on their phone rather than a camera, the arrival of a smart printer that requires no computer is great news!

Do you ever get frustrated wishing you had more USB ports to plug in all of your favourite devices and chargers?

The Bolle Photo BP-100 Printer is a compact printer, compatible with iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad and Android devices that produces 6” x 4” prints directly from the smart device. There is no need for a computer – or any other device – simply ‘dock’ the device or connect via the in built USB port for both printing and charging. It prints on photo-quality paper that is tear, finger-print and water resistant and has a number of fun optional templates. iOS and AndroidTM devices directly communicate with the printer via a free downloadable application called ‘Bolle Photo’ available via the App Store and Android Market. Printer software is updated automatically by the application if and when required. RRP $199 Visit www.apspl.com.au for more information.

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Well this super compact USB 2.0 Hub has enough ports to connect up to ten USB devices with lightening fast 480Mbps transfer speeds. This hub allows you to power the hub either directly from a computer or from an AC/ DC socket. So in addition to connecting multiple USB devices to your computer, you can also recharge devices such as digital cameras, MP4 players and mobile phones wherever there is a wall power socket. This top grade USB 2.0 hub also features automatic over-current protection for each port, hot swapping plug and play connection, and the ability to daisy chain up to 127 USB devices if you wish. What more could you ask for? All you need to do is plug-and-play as no software or drivers are necessary. RRP $43.95 Visit www.gadgetbuy.com.au for more information.

35mm Film Scanner with LCD and SD Card Slot Are you an old time photo hobbyist? Or perhaps your parents or grandparents have a rich collection of old film that you would like to bring into the digital age. Well, instead of taking those old 35mm slides and negatives and paying $2 each to have them scanned by the local shop, now you can do it yourself for a fraction of the cost! With the G111 35mm Film Scanner with LCD and SD Card Slot you can digitise all those precious memories at the comfort of your desk all on a standalone unit. Now in less than four seconds per picture, you can turn any old 35mm photo into a 4.2MP JPEG and save it to a SD card. This is the quickest, cheapest and most convenient way to share old pictures! If high quality and speedy film scanning wasn’t enough, this model film scanner also has an LCD view screen plus TV OUT which allows you to view the film you are working on as well as photos saved on the inserted SD card. RRP $145.50 Visit www.gadgetbuy.com.au for more information.

techno biz

AirconMiser® Energy Control System Ground breaking technology delivers advanced energy and cost reductions in the world’s hottest and humid environments. AirconMiser® has proven its unrivalled performance and has been developed for commercial and industrial businesses and even power generators looking to reduce their peak demand problems. The AirconMiser® does not just learn once about the connected air conditioning unit. Instead, the patented design has been developed using state-of-the-art smart chip technology to adjust its energy saving characteristics in each and every compressor cycle. The result is a product that continually optimises its energy saving characteristics while ensuring that required comfort levels are maintained. The AirconMiser® will deliver average energy savings of 30 per cent or more on wellmaintained air conditioner systems. Amongst its international certification portfolio, British designed AirconMiser® is patented with C Tick and is NATA accredited laboratory tested. It has also been verified by a range of independent tests. Recently awarded a certificate of merit at the Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence it is now sold in around 50 countries worldwide. A truly world beating product, now isn’t that cool? For more information visit www.airconenergy.com.au

Blue Sun Group Photovoltaic Modules Blue Sun Group Photovoltaic Modules are designed by Australians for Australian conditions and come with an Australian backed warranty. Blue Sun Group has a broad range of Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline Photovoltaic modules listed on the CEC approved register. Blue Sun Group Photovoltaic Modules are manufactured in its state of the art factory in China, with uncompromised material and production quality and traceable quality control. They use the highest grade cells, with cell efficiency of 18 per cent, matched cell characteristics, positive cell power rating for positive module power rating and high shunt resistance for low light performance. The modules have high grade EVA and PET backplane from major suppliers, silver soldered connections hidden behind the cells and UV protection, and replaceable diodes. They are visually tested for appearance, cells characteristic tested, automatically assembled, and module (flash) tested. These high quality photovoltaic modules can be purchased direct from Blue Sun Group.

FLIR’s new userfriendly T400-Series Users are demanding more from their thermal imaging cameras. They want ergonomic systems that they can use several hours per day without tiring, cameras that offer high image quality and that are equipped with all the necessary features that help them to save time when doing their everyday jobs. The new user-friendly FLIR T400-series makes thermal imaging even more accessible and attractive for both the advanced user and the beginner. It is designed for the user looking to combine excellent ergonomics and high performance with high image quality of 320 x 240 pixels – all at an affordable price. For the building inspection sector a compass has been integrated in the FLIR T440bx model. This way the inspector can see which direction they are looking and to which direction a wall is oriented. This can be important information when doing building inspections. The FLIR T400 and T400bx-Series also come with a tiltable optical unit which makes it possible to measure and take images of objects in all angles, still in a comfortable working position. Image used for illustrative purposes only. For more information visit www.flir.com

For more information visit www.bluesun-group.com

The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

technical talk

PHOTOGRAPHY: Image courtesy of Energy Safe Victoria

Warning about the dangers of Metallic Split Conduit

Beware of “live” metallic split conduits. With recent fatalities Master Electricians Australia urges all tradespeople and home renovators to be cautious.

Master Electricians Australia would like to raise the

awareness of property owners and other trades people to the dangers of electrical metallic split conduits which can be found in many older properties. Due to age and possible modifications over the years, some split conduits have lost their earthing continuity and become “live”. Energy Safe Victoria Investigators who were called to a home at Hamlyn Heights after an electrocution from metallic split conduit said that the wiring in the ceiling was “a fatality waiting to happen”.4

What is metallic split conduit? If a home was built in the 1920s to the 1960s and the electrical installation has not been rewired in recent years there is a good chance it would still have metallic split conduit installed. These conduits were manufactured of mild steel, formed almost into a complete circle without the seam being joined and was then painted black. This system was designed to enclose single or multiple insulated cables and the conduit fittings included elbows, tees, junction boxes and couplings which were connected by clamping with screws. The system was dependent upon the entire length of the split conduit being earthed.

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What is the danger? Unfortunately earthing continuity can be lost in the long term through deterioration or modification. The metal conduit and fittings which were usually installed on top of roof timbers produced a risk of separation if people who required access to the roof cavity stood or walked on the conduit. There have also been cases where tee points and elbow fittings have been disconnected to aid in gaining access to the existing cables and have not been reconnected. The cable installed in the split conduit is subject to ordinary aging where it can lose its normal insulating property over time and the live cable could come into contact with the metal conduit. Split Conduit Incidents There have been a number of deaths due to dangerous split conduit installations which raises some very serious questions about the condition of ageing conduits still existing in many properties. • A floor stumper or reblocker was killed in 1995. He contacted a section of conduit which was not earthed while the insulation of the cables enclosed in the conduit had deteriorated to such an extent that it was “live”.2

contacted exposed live parts in a junction box where the cover was missing.3

• In another incident, a person installing a security alarm contacted a “live” conduit when working in the ceiling space of a commercial property in 2000.2 • A man died while reblocking a house in Hawthorn 2007. He was working in the subfloor area directly beneath the lounge room when a metal tool he was using contacted a metal conduit that was live. Tests showed that the conduit was “live” at voltages that varied from 90 to 100 volts AC to earth.2 • A 92-year old man was electrocuted in the roof of a property at Hamlyn Heights near Geelong in February 2010.1 There have been similar incidents in Tasmania over past years, the result of inadvertent contact with a “live” section of metal conduit. • In one previous instance, an electrician was installing data cabling when he contacted a section of conduit which was not earthed and had become “live” when the insulation of the cables enclosed in a wall box attached to the conduit had been pierced by the fixing screw of a switch plate.3 • In the other incident, a plumber contacted a “live” conduit when working in the ceiling space of a commercial premises.3 • And in another “live” contact in a roof space, an electrician

What should be done? Master Electricians Australia warns all tradespeople and home renovators who may come in contact with these conduits to be extremely cautious. The conduits should not be touched and a licensed electrical contractor should be called to carry out the appropriate tests to ensure that they are not “live” before work starts. It is not recommended that anyone use voltage meters as a sole method to determine whether the conduits are “live” or not. Customers should also be advised of the existence of the conduits and the danger they pose. Master Electricians Australia urges owners to re-wire their properties if the split conduits are showing any signs of deterioration. At the very least they should install safety switches as a protection measure until the re-wiring can take place. http://www.coronerscourt.vic.gov.au/resources/3446d799-7cb8-439d-ad0ef97caf369877/davidwilliamherbertspence_080110.pdf 2 http://www.esv.vic.gov.au/Portals/0/About%20ESV/Files/Issue%2020.pdf 3 http://www.wst.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/77258/Bulletin_64.pdf 4 http://www.esv.vic.gov.au/Portals/0/About%20ESV/Files/Magazine/Issue19.pdf 1

The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

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workplace relations Before reviewing the submission, Justice Ross, President of FWA, contacted The Hon Bill Shorten MP to ask for the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) to provide information pertaining to what may be examined. Below is a summary of the key issues and decision points that a Panel recommended to Minister Shorten. These were raised in the scoping paper released on 23 May 2012 by DEEWR in consultation with the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education Key issues and decision points

ACTU lodges application to increase apprentice and trainee wages and conditions The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) believes current wages and conditions are inadequate and are a major factor in low completion rates.

On 8 March 2012 the Australian

Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) lodged an application with Fair Work Australia (FWA) to vary modern awards in relation to apprenticeship wages and conditions as part of the Modern Award Review process. The ACTU argued that current apprenticeship wages and conditions under modern awards are inadequate for meeting the reasonable living expenses of many apprentices, and together with the additional costs apprentices are faced with, are a major factor in low completion rates. Variations sought by the ACTU Apprentice Minimum wages Juniors • Increase the minimum wage for all first year apprentices to 60 per cent of trade rate. • Adjust existing percentages for 2nd, 3rd and 4th year apprentices in each modern

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award in order to provide an appropriate skill-based wage structure that takes into account the increase to the 1st year rate. Apprentice Minimum Wages - Adults • Provide for adult apprentices to be paid the rate for the lowest award classification or the rate prescribed for the relevant year of the apprenticeship, whichever is the greater. • Ensure that adult apprentices that were employed prior to becoming an apprentice do not suffer a reduction in pay. Conditions of Employment • Include specific provisions for apprentices in relation to probationary period, training requirements, hours of work, fees and textbooks, excess travelling and fares, block release, travelling time payment, suspension, cancellation and termination and redundancy.

1. Removal of barriers to competencybased wage progression Decision point: FWA should consider whether competency based wage progression provisions in modern awards and other workplace instruments would assist the achievement of competency based progression in the Australian Apprenticeships system. 2. Apprentice and trainee award pay compared to going rates of pay Decision point: FWA must examine the relativities between apprentice and trainee wages, the NTW schedule, junior rates of pay and the national minimum wage and whether the relativities are appropriate, given the productivity of apprentices and trainees. 3. Age, diversity and circumstances of commencing apprentices and trainees Decision point: FWA to examine whether rates of pay continue to be appropriate in light of the changing demographics and circumstances of modern-day apprentices and trainees. 4. Allowances Decision point: FWA should consider whether there is a need to address these award variations in order to complement and support the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system. 5. Cost to apprentices and trainees of participation in an Australian Apprenticeship Decision point: FWA to examine the opportunity costs for apprentices/ trainees and their employers resulting from participation in an apprenticeship or traineeship. In particular, consider whether

lower wages are a contributing factor to low retention and completion rates. 6. Part-time and school-based arrangements Decision point: FWA to examine whether the set minimum number of hours for part-time apprentices and the minimum rates of pay for school-based and part-time apprentices and trainees are appropriate. 7. Recognition of pre-apprenticeship and pre-vocational programs Decision point: FWA to consider whether all modern awards should have consistent provisions for the recognition of preapprenticeship and pre-vocational training for apprentices and trainees, particularly for the purpose of setting wage rates. Justice Ross conducted a conference of interested parties including Master Electricians Australia’s General Manager for Workplace Relations Jason O’Dwyer, ACTU, Australian Chamber of Commerce

and Industry (ACCI), Australian Industry Group (AIG) and other employer and employee organisations to discuss and determine how the matter would proceed. Justice Ross was not convinced that he at that time had an application that would allow him to have a review of Apprenticeships and Trainees as broad as Mr Shorten’s Department had indicated in its correspondence of 23 May. Justice Ross’ preferred position was to release a draft order taking into account the submissions of the parties. In general he was of the opinion that a review of apprentices and trainees would proceed on applications that were received in relation to the Modern Award Review. Each individual award was advised to meet and report back to the full bench by 10 August 2012. Justice Ross also asked for parties wishing to assert a broader review to file submissions by 11 July with a response to submissions due by 8 August. Mr O’Dwyer said “This process allows

for each industry to evaluate the effects of the applications and take into account each industry’s own circumstances and the effect that the proposed changes may have particularly given the current economic climate for small to medium business.” Master Electricians and ECA members were recently asked to respond to a survey concerning the modern award and apprentices. Mr O’Dwyer said that the responses had greatly assisted in evaluating how these changes would affect members if allowed to pass through. “Ultimately the industry needs apprentices, but at the same time we cannot expect employers to accept the full cost of untrained and therefore unproductive employees that make business unsustainable”. Master Electricians and ECA members will be kept up to date on the progress of the applications.

Get ready for Digital

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FIRST OF ITS KIND IN THE INDUSTRY! Getting Ready For Digital is now even easier. As customers become more tech-savvy, their service expectations have also increased. So to meet the rising demand for digital entertainment and technologies, Matchmaster have developed a new software package to help customers and installers understand and identify digital ready products and accessories to suit the site being upgraded to digital. The Matchmaster Antenna Selection Guide is ‘FREE’! Check it out at www.matchmaster.tv Why was the Matchmaster Antenna Locator developed? It’s all about becoming ready for the Digital Switchover, with the Government making changes to the television industry by setting firm dates for switching off analog transmitters. As part of the transition to digital-only services, the new Matchmaster Antenna Selection Guide will assist with making the transition even easier. Check it out now.

SCAN ME NOW

The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

feature business “You can also contact Consumer Affairs Victoria or the relevant consumer protection agency in your State for advice and/or conciliation. These services are free.” Dr Webber reminds contractors that consumers are automatically protected by consumer guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL). If an electrician purchases and installs an exhaust fan in the bathroom for a customer and the fan turns out to be faulty, then they are under certain obligations to provide a remedy, depending on whether the fault is major or minor.

Sparkies versus Customers “The customer is always right”. A phrase much heard across almost every aspect of business. But is it true? Stephanie Lim picks the brains of two industry experts to answer your customer service questions.

Is customer service really that important

to a business? More specifically, is customer service pivotal for electricians and their trade? Customer Service expert Steve Mitchinson believes there is no question.

“The rapid take up of social media also means that you are losing track of how you control customer perceptions – customers now have the power, and as we know most people research online before they make a purchase decision.”

“This is extremely influential on a customer’s opinion of their work. Every interaction needs to be considered in the context of the impact it can have on reputation, repeat and referral business.”

Consumer Affairs Victoria Program Manager – Building, Dr Ronald Webber, says there are ways to handle situations that have arisen between customers and tradesmen, and draws from issues raised by sparkies with Consumer Affairs staff during a Master Electricians roadshow in Victoria.

Mr Mitchinson says Australians’ propensity to complain is very high in comparison to other nations. Good – or bad – customer service can thus be the tipping point between maintaining and losing a big client.

One electrician shared his experience of being called to a home to fix an oven. Upon inspection of the oven, he advised the customer to purchase a new one. The customer then refused to pay the call out fee as the oven had not been fixed.

“The variation between service offerings and the increased levels of competition in all industries often means that your only point of potential differentiation is the level of service you offer your current and prospective clients,” he says.

Dr Webber advised the trader in this situation to let the customer know of service fee costs up front.

“Electricians’ work is often very visible,” says Mr Mitchinson.

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“This way the customer is obliged to pay for the service they agreed to receive,” Dr Webber says.

These obligations range from repairing the fan within a reasonable time or replacing it with a new fan that works, both at no cost to the customer. If neither course of action is successful, the consumer may also be able to claim a refund. “A warranty against defects provided by the manufacturer cannot limit a consumer’s right under the law,” Dr Webber says. “So, even after a warranty against defects has expired, the consumer may still be protected by the consumer guarantees. “You have the right to seek a refund or replacement for the fan from your supplier as well as any out of pocket costs for replacing or removing the fan. Remember, you have the same rights under the ACL.” Mr Mitchinson notes that in certain situations, and despite your best efforts, a customer may still be unhappy regardless of your work ethics and quality. “It is true in all forms of service that some customers are just angry at the world,” he says. “I also know there are professional debtors out there who use that sort of approach to get out of paying. Where there is any doubt about customers, seek a deposit or part payment beforehand – this often flushes out the habitual defaulters before the damage is done.” Mr Mitchinson noted that sometimes rectifying a service failure often results in higher satisfaction than if you had never made a service failure in the first place, and advises sparkies to “never overlook the opportunity to turn a detractor into an advocate”.

Steve Mitchinson’s top customer service tips for sparkies: 1. Set very clear expectations up front – costs, impact, alternatives and time frames 2. Be proactive – take it upon yourself to explain any issues that have arisen. Do not just take action and fix things your way assuming the customer will agree 3. Create alliances with related trades – there are many situations where the electrical work is a result of a plumbing change. So develop relationships with plumbers and coordinate the entire piece of work. The easier it is for the customer, the more likely they are to be satisfied - subject to the quality of your work, of course 4. Never criticise your opposition 5. Don’t leave anything to surprise 6. And leave the place as you found it! Steve Mitchinson is a Herrmann-Certified Customer Service expert and the Associate Director of LimeBridge Australia, providing specialist customer service advice services to organisations.

Ron Webber’s top tips for Sparkies when dealing with customer complaints: 1. Have a complaints handling process suitable for your size of business, such as a customer complaint form; someone in your business designated to respond to all complaints; a dedicated phone line; a feedback option on your web page or invoice 2. Deal with the complaint as soon as practical 3. Do not attempt to lay blame or be defensive – politely provide the customer with your perspective 4. Make a record of the complaint and confirm the details with the customer 5. Explain the course of action available to address the complaint 6. Check if the customer is satisfied with the proposed action – if not, discuss alternatives 7. Send written correspondence to the customer, even if you have already phoned them 8. If you come to agreement about a resolution, then correct the problem as soon as possible

Dr Webber also says under the ACL, consumer guarantees apply to both goods and services. A tradesperson must provide services with due care and skill, make sure the services are fit for their purpose, and provide the service within a reasonable time. If the service provided is not durable, is unsafe, does not match the description, or does not do what it is supposed to do then it is the responsibility of the tradesperson to remedy the problem, given that they supplied the services. Any disclaimers will not exempt a business from their legal responsibilities.

9. Communication is the key. If you have tried to deal with the complaint but it cannot be resolved, seek assistance from your state or territory fair trading agency.

“For example, if the electrician had incorrectly installed an exhaust fan then he or she must reinstall the fan correctly and at no cost to the customer,” Dr Webber says.

Dr Ronald J. Webber is the Program Manager – Building with Consumer Affairs Victoria, and has qualifications in building design, building, building surveying, education and project management. He has also participated in the building industry for some 30 years.

“The customer could also claim reasonably foreseeable costs if there was damage to the property, such as repairs to the bathroom because the faulty installation caused a fire.” Mr Mitchinson says good customer service is a combination of not only quality of the product and the workmanship involved, but includes other critical aspects of good service such as setting acceptable expectations with the customer, being price competitive, easily understandable price schedules, and ease of payment. Lack of such could easily break a business. “Over 40 years I have seen many a business fail or at least lose valuable market share due to a failure to provide the service expected by its customers,” Mr Mitchinson says.

“There are no laws on handling customer complaints but there is ‘best business practice’. Managing complaints effectively can benefit your business by improving product and service delivery, saving your business money, increasing customer loyalty and word of mouth referrals (or positive online reviews).”

“In the commercial world it is not unusual for over 50 per cent of overdue accounts to be a result of a service failure – nothing to do with the client’s capacity to pay. “If good customer service is provided, positive word of mouth or advocates emerge. You get lots of repeat business and depending on the circle of influence of your satisfied customers your advertising cost per new job or client can be rapidly diminished.” The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

all about ME

Master Electricians Australia shocked by ACTU’s Better Bargaining policy Master Electricians Australia (MEA)

is extremely concerned with the Australian Council of Trade Union’s (ACTU’s) recently proposed Better Bargaining policy which will see a return to the unproductive central wage fixation practices of the past. The ACTU’s proposal demonstrates it wants the Government to have increased control in every aspect of business, including social and corporate responsibility. In our view, the policy potentially exposes the Government and further threatens this country’s already falling productivity levels. The calls for reforming the Fair Work Act, to shift the balance towards a more productive workforce, are growing louder every day. Yet the ACTU’s actions to push its social agenda into the workforce will only further frustrate Australia’s economic competitiveness. MEA is convinced the ACTU’s proposed policy to allow unions to adopt other enterprise bargaining agreements from other industries points to massive wage

explosion. Greenfield agreements, being used in areas like LNG and resources under the policy, could then translate into areas such as manufacturing, general service maintenance, retail, or building and construction industries. This will drive up prices and add further pressure to the cost of living for families. Australian wages are already pushing ahead of most countries in key sectors. That is growth which is unsustainable for the vast majority of businesses. The Better Bargaining policy is counterproductive to the union’s own members and constituents. Surely the arrogance of the ACTU to push such an agenda at a time when there are a significant number of people giving up the search for employment and withdrawing from the workforce is counterproductive for what is supposed to be the Labor heartland. The gap in the two speed economy is being more pronounced with unemployment lifting in June to 5.2 per cent.

The ACTU claims its policies are aimed to improve work life balance by pursuing individual flexibility but in practice, unions in the building construction, electrical and resources industries continue to refuse to accept the Government’s own National Employment Standard clause for individual flexibility. The sham continues to unravel the Government’s calls for the proposed superannuation increase, to 12 per cent, be traded off for either productivity increases or forgoing wage increases in enterprise bargaining. We’re concerned that once again the ACTU congress has no intent to recognise growing productivity problems, let alone consider productivity, in their push for what effectively is central wage fixation. Master Electricians Australia is concerned that the ACTU’s Better Bargaining policy will result in higher levels of industrial action, unemployment, and less incentive for small to medium business to grow and employ people.

Day packages released for 2012 Annual Conference in Melbourne Due to popular demand, Master

provides an excellent opportunity to grow your business, broaden your industry knowledge and strengthen your professional relationships.

Held from Friday 10 August to Tuesday 14 August this event is the leading electrical conference. It is relevant for electrical contractors and their families, electricians looking for business advice and inspiration, electricity industry suppliers and wholesalers, electrical distribution companies and anyone else who wants to keep up-to-date with the latest industry information.

From the welcome reception to gala dinners and unique leisure activities there are a number of networking opportunities.

Electricians Australia and the Electrical Contractors Association have released day packages for this year’s conference.

With a wide range of inspirational key note speakers and social events, the conference www.masterelectricians.com.au

Enjoy the vibrant city of Melbourne at this tax deductible conference. Day packages are available from $410 per day and full conference packages are still available. Visit www.masterelectricians.com.au/ daypackages to secure your spot today. Registrations close soon.

Master Electricians Australia welcomes new WA State Manager Master Electricians Australia (MEA) has welcomed a longtime industry supporter and advocate as State Manager for their new headquarters in Perth. Tony Mancini brings over 40 years of experience in the electrical industry to Master Electricians, including 11 years as Western Power’s Principal Electrical Inspector. Mr Mancini said he was very excited at the prospect of heading the up-and-coming offices in Perth. “As MEA accredits only the best electrical contractors across the country, they know that they will be provided the right tools and training to ensure the highest standard of services. We will really be focusing on raising safety standards and awareness for the state amongst electrical contractors, as well as unifying them under one body. The knowledge that accredited electrical contractors have the support of MEA will, I believe, lead to them being able to secure more valuable work,” he said. Mr Mancini is known to many electrical contractors, electrical distributors and electrical regulators in WA. MEA is pleased to appoint him as State manager and to expand their offices to WA after enjoying rapid growth, with proven results, in Victoria, NSW and South Australia. For more information contact Tony on 0427 909 285

Blacktown City Council launches public electrical safety awareness campaign Every year 15 Australians are killed and around 300 are hospitalised due to electrical accidents that could have been prevented if safety switches had been installed.

Master Electricians Australia has partnered with Blacktown City Council to deliver a public awareness campaign to highlight the importance of electrical safety in the home. The campaign will be focused on educating residents about the importance of installing safety switches on all electrical circuits in domestic residences. Residents will be also incentivised to book an accredited Master Electrician to retrofit safety switches. The Blacktown local government area is the third largest in Australia with 300,000 people across 92,000 households. The campaign will help increase electrical safety awareness amongst a large number of residents in NSW, and help to save lives. Malcolm Richards, Group CEO, brings his own experience to this important issue in this edition’s ‘Last Word’.

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The Master Electrician

Winter 2012

all about ME Nominations closing for the 2012 Annual Excellence Awards Hosted by Master Electricians Australia (MEA) and Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) these awards encourage and celebrate the success of individuals and businesses throughout Australia.

This year there were two ways to nominate. Electrical businesses and individuals could nominate themselves, or customers could nominate on behalf of the individual or business. Marketing tips and tools were also available to help promote the awards to customers and get them nominating. The tools included an awards nomination poster that could be printed and displayed in office or shop windows, “nominate us” email signatures, and a marketing tips and tools document with ideas on how to encourage customers to nominate. For more information or to make a nomination visit www.masterelectricians.com.au/excellenceawards. Entries close end July 2012.

Electrical contractors out in force Master Electricians

Australia and the Electrical Contractors Association recently attended a series of seminars hosted by Ergon Energy aimed at residential electrical contractors. Known as ‘Residential Electrical Contractor Engagement Sessions’ (or RECESS), these information sessions discussed critical

NIGEL PAYNE Energy Super Member

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topics such as compliance, demand management, tariffs, emerging technologies and connection issues. The turnout for the RECESS seminars has been extremely positive with 800 contractors so far attending a session. We would like to thank all those electrical contractors who attended and hope you found it valuable.

TH E

2 01 2

ELEC TRIC A L

I N DUSTRY

AN N UAL

Day Packages Released! Get in quick – limited day packages available!

Saturday 11 August Day sessions • Members: $410* Sunday 12 August Day sessions • Members: $410*

CON FERENCE

Presented by:

To register: • Non members: $530*

Visit: www.masterelectricians.com. au/conferencedaypackages Download and return the completed

• Non members: $530*

registration form to the Events Team.

Day sessions & Caulfield Dinner • Non members: $720* • Members: $560*

For more information, please

Monday 13 August Day sessions & Gala Dinner • Non members: $540* • Members: $420*

events@masterelectricians.com.au

Full conference packages are still available: • Non members: $1,995* • Members: $1,550*

* Per person, including GST. For Conference terms and conditions visit masterelectricians.com.au/annualconference

This is your opportunity to attend a once in a lifetime Conference that mixes business with pleasure through inspirational industry sessions about topics that are affecting your industry right now, and leisure experiences that you will never forget. You will hear from: • Geoff Stapleton, Managing Director of Global Sustainable Energy Solutions • Patrick McKendry, Chief Executive Officer of Careers Australia • Tom Gleeson, one of Australia’s most loved comedians • Tom Hafey, legendary AFL coach and motivational speaker • And much more!

If you are serious about the success of your business then book your place at this tax deductible Conference today!