The perfect reporting standard

AS/nZS 3019:2007 – electrical Installation Periodic Verification, is an often overlooked standard, which can be extremely useful when undertaking regular or periodic testing, and writing reports.

Documentation within the standard includes a certificate of periodic verification form and a schedule of test results, which are great resources for record keeping and handing over information.

AS/NZS 3019:2007 has a number of practical applications.

½ It is useful where a regulated inspection certificate is not required, but may be used in conjunction with the documents mentioned above, as it provides more detail and acts as proof of work undertaken. ½ The standard provides an excellent log for electrical installation wiring and components that require regular preventative maintenance or periodic inspection, and can be left with the customer as a record of actions performed and items requiring further attention. ½ It is perfect for rental properties and pre-sales inspections. In some states it is mandatory to complete an electrical inspection prior to sale or occupancy. Please check your state regulations for further information. Following recent flood events, the nationally recognised standard has proven particularly helpful. It is able to act as an audit record for customers, providing a register of what part of the installation has been visually inspected, part tested or fully tested. It also shows which parts are ok for use and those areas that need attention prior to the re-energisation of their premises.

THE ECONOMICAL CHOICE IN LIGHTING

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CURRENT LABOUR SHORTAGES REQUIRE LONG-TERM STRATEGIES

IT’S nO SeCReT THAT SInCe THe BeGInnInG OF THe PAnDeMIC, One OF THe BIGGeST STReSSORS FACInG THe eLeCTRICAL InDuSTRY HAS Been A SHORTAGe OF LABOuR.

The national Skills Commission’s 2021 Skills Priority List (SPL) reports that 60% of electrotechnology and Telecommunications Trades Worker occupations assessed are in shortage, compared to 19% across all occupations. With continued growth projected in both the construction and infrastructure sectors, and a strong uptake in renewable energy, skills shortages only look likely to worsen.

Low unemployment rates have meant that fewer skilled tradespeople are looking for work, and COVID-19 has led to a decrease in skilled migration further reducing the talent pool. Many qualified electricians are also being lured away from the trade to higher paid roles in industries such as mining and specialised construction services. Additionally, COVID-19 has led to a sharp decrease in overseas student numbers, with universities now offering more and more places to local students, diverting the career path of many who may otherwise have undertaken a trade.

Brett Carew, neCA nSW State Member Manager, believes that most people look at labour shortages as a short-term problem; however, he says that if we’re truly going to make a change, we need to start looking at longer-term strategies. “One of the best tools we have available is staff retention,” said Brett. “That’s not just about offering higher wages, KPIs and monetary incentives, but getting to know your team and learning what they value and what motivates them as individuals. When you understand why your people come to work each day, you’re able to help them feel fulfilled, give them a sense of achievement and help to keep them motivated.”

Replacing lost talent can cost an employer two to three times the outgoing worker’s annual salary once they account for hiring costs, onboarding, lost productivity and lack of engagement.

“It makes more sense to identify your top performers, upskill them and promote from within,” Brett said. “When the balance is right, these people become more than ‘just electricians’. They develop a respect for the trade, take pride in what they do and promote a rewarding career path for those around them and those considering undertaking an electrical career.”

When the time comes to advertise a job vacancy Brett has some helpful tips here too. “Don’t just target the usual sites with an ad saying ‘electrician Wanted’. Consider alternative channels and targeting partners and family members as well. A free ad in a well-placed Facebook group may catch the eye of a partner who is aware of their significant other coming home unhappy in their current role, or the parent of a school leaver who is yet to choose a career path.”

Ads like these can help you stand out from the crowd, be seen as a progressive employer and perhaps give applicants the push they need to submit an application for the role you have available.

To discuss taking on a neCA apprentice, contact your local neCA branch today.