NECA News December 2023 by NECA_AUSTRALIA

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL AND COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION

December 2023

Groundplan.com

07 3062 7737

Turn Your Plans Into Quantities

07 3062 7737

Turn Your Plans Into Quantities

l ntia ide Res

te K Ph OR comple TW nd a of WI ans HO your Pl line s a list rate f on oad e Upl Takof gene n r oa war u you ndpla for yo ities t d soft t u e Gro ntities r Quan tegrat Qua rt you t or in e o Exp adshe e

Industrial

spr

Commercial

Residential

HOW IT WORKS your Takoff online

Free Training

Groundplan generates a list of Commercial

IndustrialPhone, Chat & Email Support

Gro

Quantities for you Residential

Export your Quantities to a

spreadsheet or integrated software

Upload your Plans and complete

und

HOW IT WORKS

Free Demo

Groundplan generates a list of Export your Quantities to a

spreadsheet or integrated software

Free 14-Day Trial

n.co

Quantities for you

pla

Free Training Groundplan.com Phone, Chat & Email Support

your Takoff online

a in eD Em Fre ain at & e Tr Fre , Ch one

Free Demo

Upload your Plans and complete

Rapid installation on straight runs by quick alignment and click in position Lower installation costs, immediate time and cost savings The unique ‘click’ and forget design saves you time and installation hassle and offers excellent alignment.

Carparks

Commercial Buildings

Exhibition Halls

Data Centres

ti t i e uan

Fre 14-DayTrial

l rcia me Com rial ust Ind

o Dem

t por Sup ail

2023 2023

IN THIS ISSUE December 2023 POLICY AND ADVOCACY Government relations and policy

NECA APPRENTICE AWARDS 08

NECA SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

Emerging Small Business

Small Contracting Business

Small Business Project of the Year

NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Apprentice of the Year

Trade Teacher of the Year

NECA CONFERENCE

VIC BRANCH Branch update

Unlocking success – harnessing psychological safety for a thriving workplace

Legislation of cannabis – what you need to know

Compliance challenges for Victoria’s electrical businesses

Innovation

Work Health and Safety – Excellence in Action

Leaders in Diversity

Domestic Residence

WA BRANCH

Lighting Construction and Design

Branch update

Green Energy

WA technical update

ICT & AV

Driving positive change

Industrial Small

Please be aware of neutral voltage rise

Industrial Large

Case study: ignition risks from lead-acid batteries

Commercial Small

36 38

Legal update – medical marijuana and mine sites

Commercial Medium Commercial Large

ACT BRANCH

Women in Energy

Branch update

NECA News is the official publication of the National Electrical and Communications Association

NECA NATIONAL OFFICE

NECA WA BRANCH

NECA TAS BRANCH

122 Hume Highway, Chullora NSW 2190  1300 361 099  memberservices@neca.asn.au  www.neca.asn.au

18/199 Balcatta Road, Balcatta WA 6021  (08) 6241 6100  necawa@necawa.asn.au

 1300 361 099  memberservices@neca.asn.au

NECA SA/NT BRANCH NECA VIC BRANCH Level 12, 222 Kings Way, South Melbourne VIC 3205  1300 300 031  necavic@neca.asn.au

213 Greenhill Road, Eastwood SA 5063 PO Box 47, Fullarton SA 5063  (08) 8272 2966  neca@necasa.asn.au

23 48 SA/NT BRANCH

NSW BRANCH

TECHNICAL

Branch update

Connecting and collaborating – powering up with NECA

Encouraging more women to join NECA Training’s electrical pre-apprenticeship program

Important changes to Australian standards relating to occupational health and safety management systems

NECA recruiting new electrical apprentices now

Unfair contract terms – protecting small business

New accredited service provider training

QLD BRANCH Branch update

Building relationships with Queensland’s electrotechnology industry

Staying compliant with NECA’s technical advice and support

National technical update

OPINION Future directions for the trade – the clean energy generation

HEALTH AND WELLBEING The end of year festive season can bring its own challenges

TAS BRANCH Branch update

NECA Tasmania industry nights

Advocacy and policy – in the spotlight with ben Shaw

ACRS NEWS Director’s report

NECA QLD BRANCH

NECA ACT BRANCH

AUSTRALIAN CABLER REGISTRATION SERVICE

Suite 1.5 Ian Barclay Building, 460-492 Beaudesert Road, Salisbury QLD 4107  1300 361 099  memberservices@neca.asn.au

49 Tennant Street, Fyshwick ACT 2609 PO Box 298, Fyshwick ACT 2609  1300 361 099  memberservices@neca.asn.au

 1300 667 771

NECA NSW BRANCH 122 Hume Highway, Chullora NSW 2190  1300 361 099  memberservices@neca.asn.au

 enquiries@acrs.com.au  www.acrs.com.au

NECA News is published four times per year for NECA members, industry providers, wholesalers and manufacturers. Your input is important. To contribute article suggestions or to advertise, contact necanews@neca.asn.au DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed by contributors in articles, in reproduced articles and advertisements are the individual opinions of such contributors or the authors of such reproduced articles or advertisements and not necessarily those of NECA, which does not hold itself responsible for correctness of any statement contained herein.

CELEBRATING INDUSTRY’S SUCCESS As 2023 draws to a close, it is fitting to celebrate our industry’s many successes. In this edition we’ve focused on this years’ Excellence, Small Business and Apprentice Awards, which showcase the electrical industry’s most exceptional projects, passionate small businesses and best performing apprentices. Our feature articles recognise all state finalists, and takes a quick look at what made them stand out for our judging panels. Whether our nominees were a finalist or an award winner, they all demonstrated common themes of innovation, passion, determination, commitment and excellence, and we congratulate them all on their achievements.

We would also like to thank all our sponsors for their support of the many events NECA hosts throughout the year. Events like the awards nights provide an invaluable opportunity for members, and we are pleased to deliver a full events program throughout the year, which offers a helpful mix of business development, social connection and networking. In every state and territory, our NECA branches are working hard to ensure members have up-to-date information to support their business growth. Members consistently tell us that having access to a broad range of supports makes it easier to navigate the complexities and constant

changes of today’s environment. We are pleased to offer a comprehensive set of services and will continue to build on our offering next year. Our thanks to all members for their continued support of NECA and our industry. As always, if you have something to share from your corner of the country, let us know. We’d love to hear from you. Best wishes for the festive season — we look forward to working with you again in 2024!

The NECA News team

GET IN TOUCH TELL US WHAT YOU THINK Share your feedback via email necanews@neca.asn.au

GOT A STORY IDEA? Share your ideas for content via email necanews@neca.asn.au

ARE YOU A NECA MEMBER? We’re looking to showcase NECA member stories in each issue. Reach out to your NECA Branch or email necanews@neca.asn.au

SIGN UP TO NECA NEWS ONLINE If you’d like to join more than 30,000 of your industry peers and receive a digital version of NECA News, sign up at www.neca.asn.au/necanews

December 2023

Transform your workplace with Zumtobel Group. Our experts will help you create the sustainable and efficient office environment you’ve always dreamed of. Upgrade to energy-efficient LED lighting and install smart occupancy sensors that automatically adjust lighting and other systems based on movement. Make the most of natural light with Daylight Harvesting Systems to enhance wellbeing. Select from our array of eco-friendly options and reduce your carbon footprint. Take a proactive step towards a greener future by partnering with Thorn and Zumtobel to achieve a successful office refurbishment. Revolutionise your workplace with sustainability today!

Discover how we can support you on your sustainability journey by calling +61 1300 139 965 or emailing info.au@zumtobelgroup.com

zumtobelgroup.com

Revolutionise your workplace with sustainable lighting

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS AND POLICY OUR GOVERNMENT RELATIONS AND REGULATORY TEAM CONTINUES TO ENGAGE WITH THE KEY DECISION MAKERS ACROSS LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENTS, RAISING AWARENESS AND DRIVING TANGIBLE CHANGE ON THE REGULATORY ISSUES THAT IMPACT OUR MEMBERS EVERY DAY. Security of payments NECA continues to strongly advocate for greater security of payment reform with the Tasmanian, Victorian and New South Wales state governments actively investigating security of payment reform. Our work with the Federal Government to implement the Murray Review into Security of Payments is ongoing. Our members can no longer support the bad habits of the building industry and continue to be left unpaid if construction companies enter liquidation. NECA will continue to push all levels of governments across the country and argue for a fairer go for small businesses.

Senate Economics Reference Committee on Residential Electrification Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Bill 2023 Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Bill 2023 also referred to as the Closing Loopholes Bill, has been a key focus of the the NECA Government Relations and Regulatory Team, ensuring that the draft legislation reflects the needs of our members and subcontracting businesses across the electrotechnology field. NECA’s submission highlighted the various elements of the Bill that require stronger definitions in relation to casual employment, labour hire, bargaining frameworks, and workplace delegates rights. Following our submission to the Federal Government, NECA was asked to represent our industry and provide further evidence at the Federal Senate

Inquiry. We were honoured to be able to represent members and subcontractors at such an important hearing.

First meeting held for the National Construction Industry Forum The Federal Government’s National Construction Industry Forum (NCIF) met for the first time in October with Irma Beganovic, Director of Government Relations representing NECA members and the wider subcontracting industry. Reporting directly to the Federal Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Minister Tony Burke, the NCIF will aim to tackle several issues facing the building industry with an initial focus on gender equality, skills and training, and security of payment reform.

In September, NECA submitted a significant body of work to the Senate Economics Reference Committee on residential electrification across the country. NECA and its members are highly engaged in this space, particularly in the energy and electrotechnology sector and the design, installation and maintenance of the relevant infrastructure and systems required to achieve electrification. Residential electrification presents immense economic, environmental, and social opportunities for Australia and our members. By addressing the technical and specific barriers, including inadequate infrastructure and risks associated with substandard equipment, we can pave the way for a successful and sustainable transition to electrified households and NECA was thrilled to be able to provide a comprehensive brief on behalf of industry. December 2023

POLICY AND ADVOCACY

Federal Parliament engagement Our CEO, Oliver Judd, together with the Government Relations and Regulatory Team recently met with several high-profile federal ministers, senators and members of parliament in Canberra. The back-to-back meetings included Gavin Pearce MP, Minister Julie Collins, Senator Jacqui Lambie, Senator Tammy Tyrell and Senator Claire Chandler.

Unfair contract terms Federal Member for Fowler, Dai Le MP and NECA hosted a Federal Government roundtable in November to discuss unfair contract terms and the contractual agreements that undermine the principles of fair competition, collaboration and equitable treatment of all parties involved. Unfair contract terms have emerged as a critical issue across the construction sector, particularly in specialist subcontracting trades and businesses and following the roundtable, NECA will be finalising our recommendations to government and will continue to push for fairness on contracting practices.

Kent Johns NECA Head of Government Relations and Policy

ERIFLEX entnVent nVent ERIFLEX ERIFLEX Custom Solutions stom Custom Solutions Solutions nVent ERIFLEX engineering experts

t ERIFLEX nVent engineering ERIFLEX engineering experts can support your system design, experts provide technical and configuration upport can your support system your design, system design, advice, and help quoteand yourconfiguration complete de technical provide and technical configuration low voltage power solution. ce, andadvice, help quote and help yourquote complete your complete oltagelow power voltage solution. power solution. Before

Before

After

Before

After

Download the nVent ERIFLEX Custom Solutions checklist flyer today, then contact us to get started!

Download the nVent Download ERIFLEX the nVent ERIFLEX Custom SolutionsCustom checklist Solutions flyer checklist flyer today, then contact today, us to then get contact started!us to get started!

EFSAPAC@nVent.com

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

The very best of Australia’s electrical industry have come together to celebrate the most outstanding achievements from across the sector at the 2023 NECA National Awards. The annual event, which hosted over 300 guests at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, took place on Friday 24 November. Hosted by Master of Ceremonies Joel Caine, with Anthony “Lehmo” Lehmann on hand to entertain the crowd, attendees were treated to a stunning showcase of the year’s very best achievements. NECA CEO, Oliver Judd said, ‘Congratulations to our winners, who have not only exhibited outstanding examples of the best our industry has to offer but have also shown what is possible for the future of our industry.’ Winners of the 2023 NECA National Awards were selected from an extremely strong field with each nominee having already picked up a top accolade in their respective state or territory. ‘Our NECA members should be proud of the sector’s success and what these finalists

have achieved. Many have toughed it out through some very difficult periods over the past few years. The standard of work has been incredible and the attention to detail, pride in workmanship and the brilliant innovation across these projects is absolutely inspiring. I’m also very impressed by the calibre of apprentices here tonight. Whilst we still may have some way to go to overcome the labour shortages our industry is experiencing, the quality of tradespeople we’re producing assures me that the future is in safe hands,’ said Mr Judd. NECA would like to congratulate all finalists on their achievements and acknowledge our award winners who truly are the best in their class. We would also like to thank our sponsors Schneider Electric, NHP, MMEM, IPD/ABB, ACRS and ECA WA without whom these awards would not be possible.

THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 11

2023 NECA SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

EMERGING SMALL BUSINESS Ocean Air Electrical NSW Ocean Air Electrical comprises General Manager Laura, her husband Simon – a renewable energy specialist, a tradesman who completed his apprenticeship with Ocean Air, and a new apprentice. Focusing on solar, batteries, EV charging, and general electrical work, the company’s Northen Rivers location has also seen them complete numerous flood recovery projects including many hours of volunteer work during and after the devastating floods.

Switch Box QLD Switch Box build and assemble switchboards, and by stocking a wide range of components, aims to complete most boards within four weeks. Amongst the ten technical staff are a team of five apprentices, with the business supporting both school-based and adult apprentices. A move to two new warehouses will help Switch Box achieve its aim of doubling in size in 2024.

Lux Electrical Services Tasmania TAS As two young tradies, Josh and Patrick had worked together on various projects since 2015 and one day over lunch started talking about what a quality electrical contracting business should look like. From that conversation Lux Electrical Services Tasmania was born. Lux Electrical is now well established, providing electrical services to the residential, commercial and maintenance sectors in Southern Tasmania.

CITE Services SA/NT CITE Services focuses on repeat business and building strong relationships with its suppliers, clients and workforce. Having delivered commercial, industrial and defence projects from Adelaide’s CBD to Alice Springs, CITE Services has a team of nine technical employees, including four apprentices. With a family-first policy and a strong focus on work-life balance, CITE Services recognises its people are the key to lasting success.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Powerhouse Wiring Solutions

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

WA Corey and Michael, the owners of Powerhouse Wiring Solutions, both previously worked in larger companies, where their roles focused on governance and systems. Wanting to focus more on people, they joined together and created their own business in March 2021. Combining their extensive technical and project management skills, the company now has six technical employees and a strong culture built on positive client, supplier and employee relationships.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 13

2023 NECA SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

SMALL CONTRACTING BUSINESS 56 Electrical NSW Servicing Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Central Coast, 56 Electrical was established in July 2021 and has built a broad customer base with projects in the residential, commercial, light industrial and property management sectors. 56 Electrical is always looking for opportunities to increase the exposure of the company, whether it be on a local radio show discussing floor heating or sponsoring the local soccer team.

O’Brien Electrical Cairns & Innisfail QLD O’Brien Electrical Cairns and Innisfail aim to set the standard for other service and maintenance contractors in the region, with a respected team, a strong safety culture, and award-winning customer satisfaction levels.

Enginuity Power Solutions TAS Enginuity Power Solutions’ business offering is focussed on providing strategic solutions to increase the efficiency of its clients’ electrical installations. By gathering data about the client’s energy usage through a range of processes, Enginuity can develop strategies to create energy efficient, high-performance systems that serve the client’s needs today and into the future – resulting in reduced energy wastage, improved power quality, and lower CO2 emissions.

Kenner Electrics VIC While focussed on residential work, Kenner Electrics has also built a long-term relationship with Aveo Retirement Villages, servicing most of their villages in the eastern suburbs. With a technical team of five, Kenner Electrics is proud that four of the six apprentices trained by the company have chosen to stay at the end of their apprenticeship – a positive endorsement for the company’s culture and work practices.

Streamline Electrical and Communications WA While also undertaking electrical work, Streamline Electrical and Communications specialises in commercial and industrial communications design and installation, along with distributed antenna systems, for many of Perth’s major commercial electrical contractors. With their 20 years of experience, specialist skills and strong camaraderie, the team has worked on high-profile, technically demanding projects such as the Centre for National Resilience, Optus Stadium and the Ritz Carlton.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

All Gen Solutions

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

SA Able to supply anything from a simple generator to a mains-fail essential back-up system for hospitals and data centres, All Gen Solutions is made up of a team of experienced power generation specialists who can deliver the knowledge, products and technology for all stationary power generation needs – including integrating renewable energy and battery storage to help keep the lights on in regional towns and remote mining sites.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 15

2023 NECA SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

SMALL BUSINESS PROJECT OF THE YEAR Polygon Energy ACT Polygon Energy – Smart Energy Management Solution Polygon Energy were approached by a customer whose existing solar system didn’t meet their energy requirements and wanted to measure and control specific circuits such as in-floor heating and a rented granny flat. Polygon installed a three-phase solar PV and lithium battery system, integrated with a CarbonTrack Smart Energy Management System to track energy generation and consumption, while a CETA Energy Meter monitors individual loads.

M.A.C Electrical Services & Installations NSW

Gowrie Childcare – Orange

The Gowrie Childcare project in Orange involved the redevelopment of an 1890s heritage building and required a complete make-safe and removal of all existing electrical services. M.A.C. Electrical then completed the installation of all new underground services for electrical and NBN, a service mains upgrade, new MSB and distribution board, internal and external LED lighting, general power, communications, solar with battery backup and dry fire system.

R&H Electrical QLD Kedron Wavell RSL – Emergency Lighting Upgrade With an older clientele, this RSL Club needed a reliable emergency lighting system that allowed for accurate monitoring that could accommodate future expansion. R&H Electrical installed a Clevertronics platform that has met the client’s expectations and helped future-proof the club.

ElectroTech Tasmania TAS New Bridgewater Bridge Project – Site Establishment – Electrical (Main Compound) ElectroTech Tasmania were engaged to complete the design and installation of the electrical services infrastructure to the main site compound of one of Tasmania’s largest infrastructure projects. ElectroTech completed the electrical supply for 57 buildings in just 10 weeks, including the design, procurement, installation and commissioning process. Communications, air-conditioning, audio visual, and site lighting systems were also completed during the project.

Qube Industries WA Newman Heath Services Taking on a large hospital communications infrastructure project in a remote location was a major undertaking for a small business that had only been operating for twelve months. Qube was engaged to supply, install and commission a Panduit structured fibre optic and CAT6A cabling system that has helped provide a modern, fit-for-purpose facility delivering both telehealth services and medical care closer to home and on country.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Nisi Group VIC

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Berwick Project Together with the electrical scope for this family home, the NISI Group installed an extensive home automation package that will evolve as the children get older. Along with the audio visual, communications, and heating ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, the home features lighting control, automated blinds and curtains, security and access control, and motion detectors that shut down lighting and heating or cooling in a room when no movement is detected.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 17

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

INNOVATION

Fredon QLD Energy Efficient Lighting Control – Sensor-less Daylight Harvesting Existing lighting control systems often employ daylight harvesting to reduce energy consumption but require a significant investment in sensors to provide feedback. Fredon QLD is developing and testing an innovative solution which leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to accurately predict the amount of ambient sunlight entering a building. Called ‘Sensor-less Daylight Harvesting’, successive predictions allow the model to estimate and use more natural light, increasing energy savings.

JET Charge VIC Illuminating the Future of EV Charging JET Charge specialises in electric vehicle charging solutions. JET Charge participated in the EV Grid Trial which is an Australian Energy Renewable Agency funded project looking at the impact of EVs on the electricity network, consumer behaviour, and the role of distribution network service providers in EV charge management. JET Charge’s consumer app and cloud-based software played a major role in the success of the study.

Westsun Energy WA Project Symphony Westsun Energy partnered with Western Power, Synergy, and the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) to deliver Australia’s largest virtual power plant. Project Symphony addressed the backflow of excess solar energy into the grid by creating a virtual power plant (VPP) microgrid that charges and discharges energy using multiple connected assets. The project connected 500 homes and has paved the way for towns and communities to have their own renewable energy microgrid.

Planet Ark Power SA/NT IKEA eleXsys Microgrid Planet Ark Power’s eleXsys provides a solution for networks to avoid expensive infrastructure upgrades while they transition to a clean energy future. The IKEA eleXsys Microgrid in Adelaide is Australia’s largest grid-connected commercial microgrid and provides 50% of the IKEA outlet’s power needs.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

QRS Electrical NSW

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Magnetic Innovation When a client wanted to maintain the integrity and aesthetics of the finished surfaces in their facility, QRS Electrical held a brainstorming session before deciding to investigate using rare earth magnets to hold cable trays. After creating miniature prototypes, extensive testing was undertaken before using the magnets on projects. The versatile magnets now provide a unique, non-destructive, and efficient installation method for permanent and temporary installations.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 19

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY – EXCELLENCE IN ACTION Control & Electric ACT

Control & Electric – Safety in Action The implementation of custom-made safety software has seen an exponential increase in safety compliance and helped increase employee involvement at Control & Electric (C&E). The formation of a WHS Committee, safety newsletters, an interactive portal and high levels of staff engagement have all contributed to improved outcomes. Maintaining second party certification of C&E’s integrated management system is also more efficient, with automated alerts and risk mitigation strategies.

Asplundh Tree Expert Australia NSW Bridging the Gap

Asplundh is a vegetation management service provider primarily working with major electricity supply companies such as Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy, and Essential Energy. COVID-19 saw large ‘safety tailgate meetings’ move to Zoom or Teams. But the introduction of the Mentimeter platform has had the greatest impact on worker interaction – with staff able to comment or ask questions anonymously, participate in polls, and easily access information.

Give Industries QLD Custom HSEQ App

Give Industries’ business model is founded on supporting wellbeing globally and they recognise that this starts with their own team. A custom-built HSEQ app that is responsive and intuitive helps empower staff to take responsibility for risk assessment. The app helps to increase the reporting of risks, make safety information more accessible, enable more safety conversations amongst staff and management, and supports the company’s commitment to continuous improvement.

Contact Group TAS

Contact Group – Work Health and Safety Dashboards Developed by Contact Group’s in-house Software Engineer and officially launched in 2022, this visual work health and safety (WHS) dashboard allows the company to view, interpret and analyse its work health and safety data. As a result of the information collected, Contact Group has been able to identify trends, review systems and processes, and put new safety controls in place that have resulted in a dramatic fall in lost time injury (LTI) rates.

Keece Electrical Services VIC Keece Electrical Services

As a national electrical contractor with more than 60 technicians and apprentices throughout Australia and New Zealand, Keece Electrical Services was alarmed when analysis of internal incident reporting identified that a high proportion of incidents were apprentice related. Keece’s management invested heavily in the development of a health and safety management system across their group and implemented further strategies for the induction, supervision and training of apprentices.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

PGS Industries WA

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

PGS Industries Safety Application – ‘The Caged Canary’ With a growing number of apprentices working at PGS Industries, a new digital safety application was developed. Named the ‘Caged Canary’, safety information is now monitored in real-time, allowing for improved communication, faster management responses, and daily analysis of safety data. The result has been better worker engagement with safety, more confidence in the company’s safety systems, and better risk-management learning outcomes amongst apprentices.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 21

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

LEADERS IN DIVERSITY Shepherd Electrical ACT A Brighter Future While Shepherd Electrical has always been supportive of diversity, it recognised it needed to be more than a quiet ally – it needed to be a champion for diversity. It has embraced a raft of measures that reinforce the belief that sharing experiences, learning from others, drawing on someone else’s skills, beliefs or knowledge, and embracing differences will create a brighter future.

Norsafe QLD Norsafe Based in Cairns, Norsafe is an electrical safety business, providing testing and tagging, RCD testing and thermal imaging. Norsafe is committed to influencing the community and electrical industry by showcasing their diverse workforce and processes that ensure a family-first culture. Strong advocates for inclusive workforces, Norsafe is proof that gender, age, background or ethnicity shouldn’t be barriers to a successful career in the electrical industry.

All On Contracting TAS All On Contracting A small electrical contracting business of 13 based in Launceston, All On Contracting prides itself on its approach when hiring new staff, recognising that each new employee brings a different mindset to work, based on their own life experiences. With staff aged between 17 and 48, the team includes a female electrician and two female apprentices who have had a significant impact on the company’s culture.

Stowe Australia VIC Stowe Australia Stowe Australia prides itself on championing inclusion and diversity within construction. With a workforce that includes 10% women and 6% First Nations people, Stowe is implementing a number of strategies to ensure further employment, retention and growth of a more inclusive workforce – including a Women’s Group and a First Nation’s Group that provide support and a create a louder voice for these staff.

NSG Boffa SA/NT

Aboriginal Employment and Training Commitment NSG Boffa is proud of its diverse and inclusive workforce, and provides Cultural Awareness Training Workshops for its staff. Those staff, their families, and management, are committed to creating meaningful employment relationships, respect, and trust for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Partnering with an Indigenous training group, NSG Boffa’s Aboriginal Employment Integration Program has seen two young, indigenous workers commence their electrical apprenticeships.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Wilco Electrical WA

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Wilco Electrical When Frank Mitchell, Tim Bidstrup and Dwayne Rowland bought Wilco Electrical in 2015, they wanted to do something different. As an Aboriginal-owned company, they set about employing Aboriginal people wherever possible and empowering indigenous subcontractors and suppliers. Since 2016, Wilco and its associated businesses have helped create positions for 42 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the construction industry, of which 17 were electrical apprenticeships.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 23

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

DOMESTIC RESIDENCE New Age Electrical NSW Villa Riad The electrical scope for this high-end holiday accommodation in the Byron Bay hinterland, included the design, construction and fit-out of a main gallery residence, multiple villas, pool, yoga deck and sauna. New Age Electrical completed a site-wide power upgrade before undertaking the electrical, data and security installation. A key feature was the construction of custom-made light fittings made from unique objects belonging to the client.

Green Switch Electrical QLD Binna Burra Cottages The original 1970s house and granny flat adjacent to Binna Burra Lodge in the Lamington National Park, were destroyed in the 2019 bushfires. The architect of those houses and his son were briefed to design two new cottages for this unique location. Green Switch Electrical completed the design and installation of the power and light, solar, EV charging, and communications for the exceptional new properties.

Power Solutions Tasmania (PST) TAS The Mills Stage 1 of the Mills Project at New Norfolk comprised 24 off-the-plan houses that featured a uniquely Queensland style. The PST team completed the full electrical installation including underground services, mechanical, and general light and power for each property. PST completed 1,500 hours on the project, which with its tight time frame strengthened the company’s project management skills and collaboration within the team.

Westline Electrical Services WA Residential Lighting – 6 Prospect Street, Claremont When the owner of a high-end home wanted to install a three and a half metre high chandelier that weighed 150 kilograms in a high-domed, inaccessible feature ceiling, Westline Electrical engaged engineers and roof carpenters to assess the structure and install a winch system for future maintenance. To overcome cable installation obstacles, Westline Electrical installed kinetic switches, enabling wireless switching and dimming of the chandelier by the client.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Zelo Group VIC

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Luxury Resort Living Sprawling over three blocks in Bayside Melbourne this luxury resort-style house arcs around a central pool and entertaining area and features six bedrooms, home theatre, bar, golf simulator, gym, rooftop spa and tennis court. Running for four years and impacted by the pandemic, Zelo’s scope included the electrical installation as well as the design, installation and commissioning of the complex home automation systems.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 25

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

LIGHTING DESIGN AND CONSTRUCT Stowe Australia NSW Stadium Australia – Sports Lighting Upgrade Using innovations like BIM modelling coupled with dynamic installation practices, Stowe Australia designed and installed a new sports lighting system at Stadium Australia, including developing a bracket system to mount the fittings from the gantries and four lighting towers. Pharos and Dynalite networks control the new LED fittings via a fibre backbone, allowing theatrical control of the arena lighting to offer a better experience for patrons.

Green Switch Electrical QLD Penny’s Building Along with undertaking a complete overhaul of the power infrastructure of this heritage-listed building, Green Switch Electrical worked closely with their lighting supplier to manufacture a custom LED linear fitting to meet the client’s overall design, while still reducing the cost of the lighting package. A dynamic emergency exit lighting system was also installed due to the multiple exit pathways of the expanded building.

RBD Electrical TAS KGV Soccer Oval – Lighting Upgrade The upgrade of the lighting at KGV Soccer Oval - designed and constructed by RBD Electrical - included the removal of the old lighting, the upgrade of the existing site main switchboard, and the installation of six new 20-metre hot dip galvanised poles, complete with 44 Phillips Optivision LED lights. Now with a range of lux capabilities, users can remotely access the lighting via a web-based controller.

ODM Electrical Contractors VIC 510 Church, Level 9 – KANE HQ Given a highly conceptual design for Kane Constructions’ new offices, ODM filled in the technical gaps to ensure the vision was brought to life. Lights hidden behind a stretch material ceiling in the boardroom use DALI control to provide a soft transition between colours throughout the day. Suspended illuminated bands punctuate the entire space, while eccentric modular lighting and decorative pendants add to the overall impact.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Fredon Electrical WA

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Boola Katitjin Building (Building 360) Murdoch University – Lighting Upgrade Murdoch’s Boola Katitjin Building is unique in that most of the structure is made of laminated timber. The absence of ceiling spaces is another feature, so all services are exposed and form part of the architectural finish of the building. Fredon WA created a lighting design that features multiple custom light fittings controlled by HIVE and DALI, helping capture and enhance the building’s unique aesthetic.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 27

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

GREEN ENERGY

Star Group NSW Meadowbank TAFE The 15,000-square-metre Meadowbank TAFE Multi-trade and Digital Technology Hub provides training and learning spaces that will educate future tradespeople in construction and digital technology. Doubling as educational teaching aids, Star Group installed a roof-mounted grid-connected solar photovoltaic system, a single-axis grid-connected solar photovoltaic system with micro inverters, grid-connected wind turbine, grid-connected battery system, and an energy management system.

O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing Rowville VIC 3 Point Motors Mercedes-Benz Fairfield With not enough available power for the number of EV charging stations required at this Mercedes-Benz dealership, O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing Rowville designed and installed a large solar system with 357 PV panels and four inverters. The system will reduce the dealership’s reliance on electricity from the grid by at least 42%, while still generating enough power for EV charging and helping reduce carbon emissions.

Hybrid Systems Australia WA The First Australian Mine Site to be Powered by 100% Solar HSA designed and delivered a 1.2-megawatt solar farm, a 350-kilowatt hour battery storage system, and a 2-megawatt diesel plant for the Tellus Sandy Ridge facility, located approximately 240 km northwest of Kalgoorlie in remote Western Australia. The Build-Own-Operate agreement required a turnkey approach by Hybrid Systems Australia, including the design, engineering, procurement, manufacturing, installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of the microgrid system.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Contact Group TAS

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Maria Island Solar System Working in a World Heritage-listed site on Maria Island, Contact Group was engaged to design and deliver a solar array and battery storage facility. Replacing an old diesel generator that used approximately 14-thousand litres of diesel a year, the new ground-mount solar system has a minimum of two days battery autonomy, providing efficient and reliable power to the whole island.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 29

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

ICT & AV

Avit Group Australia NSW Fortress Sydney Fortress Sydney is the largest E Sports venue in Australia and includes arenas, bars, lounges, retail spaces, and back of house. The AVIT Group designed and installed high-end audio visual and broadcast systems for the venue, which range from background music to network video distribution, production audio, lighting, and broadcast services to deliver the daily live productions featuring a 10 metre Samsung LED wall and custom light show.

Nilsen QLD Queens Wharf Development – Data Centre and Gaming The Queens Wharf entertainment and residential precinct is one of the largest developments undertaken in Brisbane. The information and communication technology (ICT) works completed by Nilsen QLD include the ICT cabling and backbone, data centres, communications rooms, cabinets, racks and associated passive optical cable technology infrastructure. Almost 16,500 hours were worked with over 26,500 fibre cores and almost 2,000 CAT6A Outlets installed on this vast project.

Contact Group TAS Tasmanian Courts Video Conferencing Upgrade The video conferencing systems designed and installed by Contact Group at Tasmania’s Magistrates and Supreme Courts, provides cutting-edge technology to facilitate video conferencing and the general operations of multiple courtrooms in Hobart, Launceston, Devonport and Burnie. The project has created more efficiencies within Tasmania’s Judicial System, with the fast and reliable video conferencing technology enabling more court sittings and better access to legal representation.

Programmed Electrical Technologies VIC The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne Programmed designed and installed the audio visual solution for the new Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Melbourne. Working throughout the hotel’s common areas, ballrooms and function spaces, the project spanned four years and was impacted by the pandemic and the collapse of the original builder. The end result was a state-of-the-art installation, particularly in the ballrooms which include three large LED walls and six system control locations.

Fredon Electrical WA One The Esplanade, Perth This major CBD project spans 85,000 square metres across a 30-level tower and three-level podium structure. Along with the electrical infrastructure, Fredon WA designed and installed a building-wide integrated communication network (ICN). The project required meticulous attention to detail, with regular site visits conducted by senior CommScope sales managers and engineers, along with the client and other consultants, to assess the structured cabling installation.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Intravision ACT

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Civic Quarter 2 Delivered over 14 months, Intravision worked closely with the builder and their client to deliver the communications and audio visual packages for the 35,000 sqm Civic Quarter 2. Using dedicated communications and audio visual teams, Intravision installed 8,500 CAT6A outlets, 120 consolidation points, and 1,000 cores of fibre – while the audio visual scope included custom-designed audio visual software, 304 audio visual displays and 220 multi-functional rooms with video conferencing facilities.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 31

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

INDUSTRIAL SMALL Shepherd Electrical ACT Corin Dam – Intake Tower Equipment Refurbishment Corin Dam forms part of Canberra’s water supply. Built in the 1960s, some mechanical and electrical equipment was in poor condition. Shepherd Electrical won the contract to upgrade the electrical, instrumentation and structural infrastructure in the dam’s tower. The complex project ran for almost two years, with the team working without mobile phone coverage, often in the cold damp tower with 308 steps from top to bottom.

Kerfoot NSW Sydney Airport Tower Upgrade The Sydney Airport Tower Refurbishment was undertaken to allow an in-situ upgrade to new technology which combines flight and operational data, surveillance and voice communications. The tower remained fully operational, with safe air traffic operations taking precedence over all aspects of the refurbishment. Kerfoot faced the challenging task of installing new cable containment, fibre cabling, electrical and communication systems within the confined shaft of the pylon.

Mynt Energy Tech QLD SUMO Jumbo – Cross River Rail Cross River Rail will bring 10.2 kilometres of new rail line to Brisbane including a 5.9 kilometre tunnel under the Brisbane River and CBD. MYNT was approached to build a safe, reliable and compact temporary power distribution system for the project. MYNT designed and delivered 100 robust, multi-outlet, RCD-protected distribution boards that stack 12 to a pallet for easy redeployment around the site.

Contact Group TAS Port Latta – HV Cable Upgrade The HV offshore cable that powers the 1.8 kilometre long pier and associated infrastructure at the remote Port Latta processing plant was over 60 years old and beginning to fail, disrupting ship loading operations. Contact Group developed innovative installation solutions for the more than 2 kilometre long 3.3 kVA cables. The success of the project means more than 3,000 tonnes of iron ore pellets an hour can be loaded on ships.

ARA Electrical Services VIC Alba Thermal Hot Springs Alba Thermal Hot Springs is a major Victorian tourism attraction on the Mornington Peninsula. ARA’s scope included the full design, control panel supply, electrical installation, programming and commissioning from the hot bore pump in the 65 metre deep spring, through to the final destination in each pool. The water is then returned to the filtration plant for treatment prior to reinjection back underground for thermal regeneration.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Nilsen WA

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Fremantle Ports When Nilsen won the contract to refurbish a 50-year-old wiring infrastructure under Victoria Quay, it required a new way of working. Nilsen refined its methodology to manage the safety issues associated with working on a pontoon under a jetty, selected a new non-metallic cable containment to increase the longevity of the installation, and created schedules that took into account the tides, weather, and ship movements.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 33

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

INDUSTRIAL LARGE Fredon Infrastructure NSW Central Station Main Works

Fredon undertook the design, installation, and activation of all electrical infrastructure, power supplies, lighting, communication systems, public address (PA), DAS, and control systems for the new underground Sydney Metro platform and Central Walk, which is an underground concourse accessible from a new entrance on Chalmers Street. New escalators directly connect suburban platforms 12 to 23, while the upgraded northern concourse has improved pedestrian pathways and included a striking new lighting and canopy.

Nilsen QLD Logan Hospital Expansion Project – HV Electrical Works The high voltage works for the Logan Hospital Expansion undertaken by Nilsen QLD included the transition from the existing Energex HV assets to a private HV network, installation of an intake switching station (ISS), reconfiguring the existing HV distribution network to service all substations via a ring main arrangement, installation of new transformers and ring main units, and coordinating Energex’s installation of two new feeders to terminate at the ISS.

Frontline Electrical TAS King Island Scheelite Mine – Electrical Design and Installation Services With a strong track record in heavy industrial and mining projects, Frontline Electrical was engaged for electrical infrastructure as part of the recommissioning and upgrade of this old tungsten mine on King Island. Working 44,000 hours in a unique, pristine and fragile island environment, it became a full greenfield design and construct project for Frontline, that has delivered a 400,000 tonne per annum mineral processing plant.

Mason Electrical Engineering Contractors WA CBH Dumbleyung A-Type Storage Upgrade TEP The electrical refurbishment of a large grain storage facility for CBH – the first of 60 scheduled to be upgraded - was Mason Electrical Engineering Contractors’ first project as a CBH head contractor and the first time the 1967 infrastructure had been upgraded. In addition to the technical challenges, tight delivery timeframes, and strict COVID-19 protocols, the discovery of diesel-contaminated soil added another layer of complexity to the project.

Aquest Electrical SA/NT Pellet Plant Balling Upgrade The upgrade of Whyalla’s Pellet Plant was undertaken to improve the pellet making process whilst increasing electrical safety by removing 60 year old open fuse panels and replacing them with SCADA controlled MCC’s. Completing 26,000 hours on the project, Aquest Electrical were able to provide significant cost savings by selecting alternative cable ladder paths to eliminate the need for substantial amounts of scaffolding during the installation.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Stowe Australia VIC

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Geelong Ports – Project Spirit Stowe had a challenging timeframe to design and construct the high and low voltage power systems for the new Spirit of Tasmania facility at Corio Quay. The new infrastructure has improved network reliability, improved operator safety, and made provisions for future expansion and generator backup requirements. Stowe also designed the street lighting to ensure sufficient lux levels while having minimal impact on the marine wildlife.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 35

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

COMMERCIAL SMALL Stowe Australia ACT ACT Road Policing Centre Stowe Australia were contracted for the electrical and communications infrastructure in a conversion of a warehouse complex to suit the logistic and security requirements of ACT Road Policing. Stowe’s scope included the main switchboard, distribution boards, generator with UPS backup, fibre and CAT6A copper communications system. The new centre can grow as needed and offers updated technology and workspaces to boost road safety.

Pro Electrical Services NSW Oakhill College Innovation Hub and Hilltop Precinct Pro Electrical undertook the design and construct of electrical services for the new Innovation Hub and Hilltop Precinct at Oakhill College secondary school. To resolve the challenges created by the design of the hub’s mass timber structure, Pro Electrical and the design team utilised Building Information Modelling (BIM) 3D modelling and clash detection software to determine cable pathways and place services with a high degree of precision.

Newco Energy Group TAS Royal Hobart Hospital – Liverpool St Clinics Newco were engaged for the electrical, communications, access control and nurse call systems for the new Liverpool Street Clinics development, which includes custom procedure lighting for clinicians, illuminated ceilings, and feature lighting in the waiting areas. A certified Panduit CAT6A installation integrates into the existing hospital systems, while access control and nurse call provide a high level of safety and security for staff and patients.

ODM Electrical Contractors VIC Bacchus Marsh Hospital – Urgent Infrastructure Upgrade The electrical infrastructure upgrade by ODM Electrical Contractors has resulted in a safer, more reliable system to support the future growth of Bacchus Marsh Hospital. ODM installed a new 2 MVA kiosk, 2,800-amp pillar, new main switchboards (MSB), and 1,100 kVA generator with load management programmable logic controller (PLC) control. The hospital’s existing and new MSBs were required to operate concurrently, with a precise changeover to minimise disruption to the hospital.

Nilsen WA Optus Stadium Rooftop Walk Having originally installed the lighting system for Perth’s Optus stadium, Nilsen were able to draw on their expertise of working at heights to complete the Rooftop Walk Project. Nilsen‘s scope included the relocation of existing services, emergency lighting, new lift supply, access lighting installed into the steel handrails, relocating and providing additional lightning protection, and designing and installing a feature lighting package and lighting control system.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

iElectrical & Communications SA/NT Arup Adelaide Office Fit-out Completing an office fit-out for a global firm of sustainable development consultants was always going to be an interesting project! iElectrical & Communications embraced the challenge and helped deliver the first commercial project in South Australia to achieve the rigorous Living Building Challenge (LBC) certification.

WINNER

Elonara QLD

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Robina TAFE Fit-out This state-of-the art facility provides students with hands-on experience in co-located businesses that are open to the public, including a fully equipped gym, childcare centre, function centre, bar and restaurant, and beauty therapy facilities. Working with the base building infrastructure, Elonara completed significant integration between power, CAT6A communications, lighting and audio visual as part of the fit-out of this impressive, multi-level training facility.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 37

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

COMMERCIAL MEDIUM Phase 4 Electrical & Data ACT Canberra Centre – S96 Stage 1A Phase 4 Electrical & Data completed the electrical upgrade of the Canberra Centre - Scott’s Crossing Project. The scope included the demolition of the existing ground floor and a re-fit with a vibrant, energy-efficient arcade, landscaping and amenities. Canberra’s first hawker style eatery, Tiger Lane, is an exciting addition, while infrastructure upgrades to the existing centre included new switchboards, entry ramps, boom gates and light emitting diode (LED) upgrades.

GSTEC NSW

Aurora Place BMS/EMS and ICN Upgrade GSTEC was tasked with installing a new integrated communications network and replacing the building management system (BMS) and energy management system (EMS) within a fully occupied 49,000 sqm, 44-storey office tower in Sydney’s central business district (CBD). The upgrade uses over 1,300 internet protocol (IP) connected controllers, and provides monitoring, control, analytics and reporting via 7,000 hardware points and 11,000 software points – providing a scalable and upgradeable platform that helps future proof the building.

Perigon QLD The Satellite Hospital Program – Redland Bay The Redland Bay Satellite Hospital project is the first of five satellite hospitals Perigon has been engaged to deliver. Each facility will provide healthcare services that blend community healthcare; day patient and outpatient services; and virtual healthcare. Perigon completed the light and power, generator, power factor correction, lightning protection, lighting control, access and security system, nurse call, closed circuit television (CCTV), communications, dry fire and passive fire-rated systems.

Degree C TAS Glebe Hill Village Glebe Hill Village is Tasmania’s most technologically advanced neighbourhood shopping centre – with solar power, electrical vehicle (EV) charging, smart bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, wireless charging stations, and a weather station. Degree C completed the electrical and civil works including underground conduits and pits, switchboards, light and power, communications and audio visual, car park lighting, access control, CCTV, fire detection, and power supplies to 17 tenancies, including Coles.

Lanec Services VIC St Germain

A focal point within the heart of Toorak Village, the St Germain development hosts a mix of high-end retail and commercial tenancies. Spread across eight levels plus three levels of basement parking, Lanec was responsible for the entire electrical design and construct. Lanec’s scope included a wide variety of services such as light and power, communications, photovoltaics (PV), distributed antennae systems (DAS), access control, EV charging, CCTV, audio visual, and National Broadband Network (NBN) pathways.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

Niramar SA/NT National Wine Centre Redevelopment Built in 2001 as a tourist attraction and a flagship for the Australian Wine industry, the National Wine Centre is now predominantly a function centre. Niramar undertook the design and delivery of a new lighting system, along with electrical infrastructure upgrades including energy monitoring systems. Special cameras helped develop unique 3D renders, allowing for a range of lighting proposals to be presented for design review.

WINNER

Nilsen WA

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Westralia Square The 12-storey Westralia Square building is Perth’s first office tower built with hybrid materials. Integrated into the existing Westralia Square tower and constructed on top of the carpark, it presented numerous challenges for Nilsen. With WA Police and a trading floor operating in the existing tower, any power isolations had to be notified 10 weeks in advance, calling for detailed scheduling to manage the outages.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 39

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

COMMERCIAL LARGE Shepherd Electrical ACT

Department of Defence Data Centre Project The Department of Defence Data Centre Project was an extension to an existing Defence facility, adding floor space and mechanical and electrical plantrooms. Within the existing building, diesel generators were moved from Level 2 to Ground, mechanical plant from Level 1 to 2, and electrical switch rooms from Ground to Level 1, while new high voltage (HV) feeder cables from a different zone substation, now supply the new and existing building.

Downer Group NSW Sydney Opera House – Concert Hall Renewal Downer Group was engaged to install the electrical, specialist lighting and audio visual services for the Concert Hall refurbishment at the Sydney Opera House. This project has provided enhanced acoustics for artists and audiences, better access for people with mobility needs, and a safer venue behind the scenes. Downer’s previous work in the iconic building contributed heavily to this complex project’s success.

Stowe Australia QLD The Langham Hotel at Jewel Stowe Australia’s electrical and communications fit-out of the three existing Jewel Towers on the Gold Coast has created a five-star hotel featuring 169 hotel rooms, a function centre and grand ballroom, food and beverage outlets, a spa and gym, and retail tenancies. Two prototype hotel guest rooms were built, so the client and The Langham Hotel could ensure the level of finish met their expectations.

RBD Electrical TAS Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant 22 kVA Feeders The design and construct of 22 kVA 12 MVA feeders for this water treatment plant, saw RBD Electrical install 17,000 metres of HV cable in underground conduit across an 8.5 km route, incorporating 36 inline joints. Over 3,000 metres of horizontal directional drilling was completed in rock, crossing roads, rivers, and sensitive underground assets. This demanding project showcased RBD Electrical’s ability to develop innovative solutions and overcome complex technical challenges.

Prime Electrical & Data Services VIC CSL Melbourne

Over a two-year period, Prime Electrical & Data Services completed the complex electrical and communications services for the 18-storey tower that will serve as the headquarters and R&D Centre for CSL, a global biotech company. The tower can accommodate over 800 employees and features leading-edge biotechnology laboratories including physical containment laboratories, cleanroom areas, air handling plant rooms, incubator laboratories, office spaces, an auditorium, and training rooms.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

Planet Ark Power SA/NT IKEA eleXsys Microgrid The IKEA eleXsys Microgrid is an initiative of Planet Ark Power. Having secured funding from the SA Government’s Renewable Technology Fund in 2020, IKEA was identified as a location to build a large grid-connected solar PV and battery microgrid enabled by Planet Ark Power’s unique eleXsys technology – and now provides 50% of IKEA’s electricity usage, with Stage 2 aiming to provide 100% of the outlet’s electricity needs.

WINNER

Fredon Electrical WA

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

One The Esplanade, Perth One the Esplanade is the corporate headquarters of Chevron and includes a 30-level tower, conference facilities, child care centre, gym, retail shops, cafes and restaurants. Fredon WA implemented a number of cutting-edge technologies including a Comap control system to help ensure an uninterrupted power supply (UPS), while the Apex wiring solutions coupled with the Clevertronics HIVE and DALI/KNX lighting control systems, enhance the overall performance and flexibility of the building’s systems.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 41

2023 NECA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

WOMEN IN ENERGY Stacey Yeadon JDY Electrical NSW Formally an early childhood teacher, Stacey is the Operations Manager at JDY Electrical in Goulburn. Originally joining her husband’s business to help with administration, Stacey now manages all JDY’s operations - even helping on site as a labourer if needed. A keen advocate of women in trades, Stacey has spoken at career days encouraging girls to consider a career in the electrical industry.

Vicki Nogaski Nielsen QLD Vicki has been involved in the electrical industry almost continually since starting her apprenticeship 35 years ago. She is currently the Projects Coordinator and Continuous Improvement Officer for Nilsen’s Queensland business, where multiple female employees have entered the industry based on Vicki’s guidance. Vicki is a role model to women wanting to progress within Nilsen and consistently demonstrates that advocacy and passion can deliver systemic change.

Bianca Eberle RBD Electrical/NECA Education & Careers TAS Bianca is committed to increasing awareness of the career paths available to young women within the electrotechnology industry and trades in general. A proud ambassador for NECA’s initiative known as WaTT – Women and their Trade – she has mentored female apprentices and believes young girls and women need to be provided with the resources and support necessary to enter and stay in the industry.

Jessica Mckenzie Stowe Australia VIC Having worked at Stowe for 16 years, Jess has progressed from apprentice to Leading Hand, to Project Manager to now working as a Project Director running fast-paced, technically-complex projects. Jess has always been passionate about diversity and inclusion in the workforce, and has helped create a Women’s Group where young female apprentices can spend time with women in different roles across Stowe’s hierarchy.

December 2023

NECA AWARDS

WINNER

Mel Moore

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

GEM Generation Electrical Maintenance WA Mel went straight into the electrical trade upon leaving school in the UK. Having completed her apprenticeship at the age of twenty, she started out on her own, before moving to Australia where a short time later she started GEM. A role model and industry mentor, Mel draws on her experiences to drive change and encourage girls and women wanting to pursue an electrical career.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 43

2023 NECA APPRENTICE AWARDS

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR WINNER 4TH YEAR COMMERCIAL/DOMESTIC

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Corey Hackett NSW NECA Training and Apprenticeships Hosted by PM Electric

RUNNER-UP Alexander Fisher QLD NECA Electrical Apprenticeships Hosted by Fredon (QLD)

WINNER 4TH YEAR ELV/COMMUNICATIONS

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Marko Backovic VIC

NECA Education & Careers Hosted by Stowe Australia

RUNNER-UP Matthew Mahood WA Williams Services Group

WINNER 4TH YEAR INDUSTRIAL

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Oliver Stark-Wolff VIC Melbourne Polytechnic Hosted by BRE Services

RUNNER-UP Ethan Campbell SA/NT MEGT Hosted by Coopers

December 2023

2023 NECA APPRENTICE AWARDS

NECA AWARDS

TRADE TEACHER OF THE YEAR WINNER TRADE TEACHER OF THE YEAR

NATIONAL WINNER

2023

Craig Roper VIC

NECA Education & Careers

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 45

KEEPING THE POWER ON

ADVERTORIAL

AN INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF POWER CAN HAVE WIDE-RANGING, DEVASTATING, AND LONG-LASTING CONSEQUENCES. LIVES CAN BE IMPACTED, SAFETY COMPROMISED, AND ECONOMIC AND OPERATIONAL FALLOUTS CAN EASILY OCCUR. THESE EFFECTS ARE OFTEN COMPOUNDED BY THE LENGTH OF TIME A POWER SUPPLY IS DISRUPTED. Selecting the right equipment and technology is crucial as each site and application will have its own set of unique requirements to ensure a continuous power supply can be made available. There are three main technologies available to support critical power applications and coupled with advanced monitoring technology and a pre-emptive maintenance schedule, the right solution can help to safeguard your customers against a critical power failure.

Uninterrupted power supply (UPS) UPS devices provide backup power when power cuts out or drops to an inadequate voltage level. When a power disruption occurs, the UPS provides its own power to keep equipment running for a specific period. There are two types of UPS devices available – rotary and static. A rotary UPS consists of a mechanical flywheel that stores kinetic energy to provide power while back-up generators start. A static UPS utilises a battery and smart electrical convertor to provide continuous power when mains power is interrupted. Static UPSs are available in two different types, line interactive or online. A line interactive UPS will regulate voltage automatically, compensating for both high and low voltage conditions, only switching to a battery backup if required. An online UPS uses dual conversion to constantly rectify incoming mains power and invert it back to AC, meaning the battery is always connected to the inverter to keep the power steady. 46

Transfer switches There are two types of transfer switches that allow for conversion to a stable power source if the primary power source is interrupted. These are static transfer switches (STS) and automatic transfer switches (ATS). STS can seamlessly transfer critical load from one UPS to another, making them useful during maintenance or during a complete loss of power. An ATS can automatically transfer critical loads from the main line to an emergency line, ensuring equipment remains up and running during an outage. This reduces problems caused by network faults and means no manual transfer or reconnection is required to keep the power on. With a controller or embedded software, an ATS can protect critical loads under any condition, with a transfer time of milliseconds.

Digital solutions Digital management systems are becoming increasingly used across various industries to gather and review data allowing for assessment of energy consumption and asset condition. These systems can help control electricity usage and implement predictive maintenance with the assistance of cloud and IoT devices.

Energy management systems collect and analyse data from energy metering devices and can control equipment to optimise energy usage. This helps to detect avoidable electricity waste, provide real-time adjustments, prevent risks, and identify opportunities to save costs. Condition monitoring systems measure equipment performance and usage to predict required maintenance schedules. This helps to identify preventative actions that can be taken to minimise unexpected failures.

Finding your continuous power solution ABB’s range of continuous power supply products offer solutions for a variety of applications. The ABB team, or your ABB stockist can help to advise the critical power solution that is right for you. Scan the QR code below to download the Supporting mission critical power applications whitepaper and find out more about the solutions ABB have available to suit your needs.

There are two types of digital solutions – energy management systems and condition monitoring systems.

Shun Mizuta Product Marketing Manager, Energy Distribution and Switchgear ABB Australia

December 2023

— Supporting mission critical power applications Uninterrupted, reliable and clean power supply is essential for companies to achieve higher efficiency, productivity, safety and sustainability – and keep running 24/7 to meet their customers’ needs. Whether it is through ensuring product reliability, developing products that can be safely maintained while operational, or monitoring potential faults, we want to help you optimise the efficiency of your operations.

Learn about the range of ABB products and solutions that guarantee critical power for critical operations: – Scan the QR code to visit our webpage – Call: 1800 222 435

WE’RE GOING TO TASSIE

NECA CONFERENCE

THE NECA ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY CONFERENCE IS BACK, AND THIS TIME WE’RE HEADED TO HOBART! Pack your bags and block out your calendar as from 22 - 26 March 2024, you’ll have the chance to meet some of the best minds in the industry and hear from a stellar line-up of industry experts on a range of topics designed to help drive your business forward. The conference begins with the chance to catch up with friends old and new at the Clipsal Schneider Electric welcome reception at the historic Henry Jones Art Hotel, before we dive into a jampacked program that’s sure to provide some unique perspectives and leave you with a renewed sense of inspiration.

Hotel, creating their own work of art at our paint and sip sessions, or joining master storytellers on a tour around the beautiful Hobart Harbour. The opportunity then presents itself for you to share some quality time together with optional tours to Bruny Island, Port Arthur, MONA and Mount Wellington, or take in the picturesque Huon Valley and Tahune Airwalk. We’ll then close out our conference with the NHP Hoedown at the famous Willie Smith Apple Shed. Complete with

gourmet grazing tables, fire cooking, a dessert food truck and Willie Smith’s renowned apple pies. Enjoy local beer and wine, try Willie Smith’s ciders, and sample some of Charles Oates Distilling’s world class apple spirits while being entertained by our live band. After a five-year break, this conference is one that you surely won’t want to miss, so grab your phone, scan the QR code on the page opposite and book your place now. We can’t wait to see you there!

Whilst you’re off learning about artificial intelligence with Matt Michalewicz, developing tried and tested recruitment and retention strategies with Marnie Jones, discussing developments in industrial relations and policy with Irma Beganovic, and uncovering new business opportunities with Gus Balbontin, your partner will be enjoying high tea at Hadley’s Orient

December 2023

Re-energise in Tassie

CONFERENCE IS BACK! Registrations are now open - visit the conference website to learn more.

necaconference.com.au

R E G I S T E R

N O W

BRANCH UPDATE Pawel Podolski NECA VIC Executive Director Dean Spicer NECA VIC President

As we bid farewell to 2023 and step into a brand-new year, we’d like to extend a warm welcome to the new members joining our community. To our cherished loyal members, thank you for an incredible year.

Licensed Electrical Inspector Forum In late October, we held our highly anticipated Licensed Electrical Inspector (LEI) Forum. The feedback has been positive, with great engagement and plenty of requests for future sessions. It was great to see new inspectors attending for the first time and being able to connect with other inspectors. Both Solar Victoria and Energy Safe addressed the inspectors to talk about what’s happening in the industry. Special thanks to Fantech Trade for providing us with a fantastic venue.

Scan here to visit the NECA VIC homepage

VIC BRANCH

Refer a Member Program We believe in the power of community and shared success. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce our ‘Refer a Friend’ program, designed to reward our valued members. When your referred friend joins NECA Victoria, they unlock the countless benefits of NECA membership, and you get to enjoy one of three very practical reward choices – from NECA credits through to cash incentives. Help us grow the community and spread the word to support the body which supports you and our industry.

NECA Victoria Thrives at the 2023 NECA National Awards From the entire team at NECA Victoria, we’d like to congratulate all the finalists and winners of the prestigious NECA National Awards, with special acknowledgement of the remarkable Victorian champions who took home an Award on the night! As we bask in the glory of this year’s achievements, it’s time to look ahead

as the submissions for the 2024 State Awards will open once again in January. Start considering the projects that will set new standards and earn you a place among the champions. Many contractors have grown their businesses on the back of winning NECA Excellence Awards in their niche category. As the landscape continues to get more challenging and competitive – use your excellence to your advantage and get your name out there!

Vale Terry Apps With heavy hearts, we share the news of the passing of Terry Apps in late October. Terry served as the Managing Director of Apps Electrics from 1980 to 2010. Once retired, he dedicated his time to the NECA Victoria Awards as part of the judging panel and was an integral part of the OBEIL community. We express our gratitude for his significant contributions to the industry.

Compliance Moving Forward This edition focuses on celebrations; however, we want to highlight a few legislative changes expected to be implemented in 2024, including the legalisation of Cannabis and the introduction of the Psychosocial Safety Act. Compliance is key for electrical business owners, and on the last page of this section, we highlight a couple of recent cases where electrical businesses were fined due to non-compliance. Whilst its always troubling to see stories like this in the media, we’d like to encourage you all to learn from these mistakes, and if you need guidance in implementing preventive measures – we’re here to help. Your compliance is our priority! We wish you a joyous and safe holiday with friends and family and look forward to yet another fantastic year ahead!

December 2023

VIC BRANCH

CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY WITH NECA Get ready for the 5th anniversary of NECA Victoria’s International Women’s Day event. From humble beginnings, we’ve seen it grow beyond our wildest dreams. In 2019, we booked a room for 60 guests, not knowing what to expect. To our surprise we sold out within six weeks with over 100 attendees in the biggest room the venue had available. Every year we see a growing number of attendees joining us to celebrate this great cause, and at the peak we had 175 females across Victoria celebrating the event with us. Last year, we welcomed men who champion diversity and inclusion, and now, we’re gearing up for an unforgettable 2024. With not-to-be missed keynote speakers, scan this QR code to secure your ticket before it sells out. If you are interested in sponsoring the event, reach out to our marketing team on 1300 300 031 or via email at necavic@neca.asn.au

ESV UPDATE In late October I had the pleasure of talking to Licensed Electrical Inspectors (LEIs) at the NECA LEI Forum in Dandenong. One of the key issues we discussed was the dwindling numbers of LEIs especially in rural and regional areas. We have roughly 460 in Victoria and about 250 of them are active. With about 12 coming on each year (and that number has lifted in recent years), we still need more!

CPD addresses the three Cs: Currency How up to date everyone is. Competency How well we all do our jobs. Complacency This is one of the leading causes of workplace accidents according to WorkSafe Victoria.

We expect to open applications for this new class of licence early next year. The new class of licence comes into effect from April next year. After this time, you must have the renewables licence to inspect renewable installations.

Energy Safe has several initiatives in place to support LEIs, but we need more qualified people on the ground. In fact, I would like to see a doubling of the annual intake.

The LEI CPD program will be run by NECA. CPD will increase the already high levels of professionalism among inspectors. It will also serve to attract more people to a satisfying career option.

We will be reviewing the performance of all G-Class inspectors who apply for the new renewables licence and will look at recognising prior experience to grant renewables licences without requiring LEIs to sit the exam. LEIs with the G-Class licence will have to prove to Energy Safe that they have the technical competency to inspect and certify renewable electricity generation systems and battery systems.

Energy Safe will be engaging with LEIs in the weeks and months ahead to get feedback and ideas on what more can be done. There are some initiatives already happening to arrest this decline, not least of all the Certificate IV in Electrical Inspection. This has been a long time coming but I am pleased to announce it is happening. We are working on a pilot with Future Energy Skills and developing resources for a launch in 2024. The Certificate IV will make the qualification much more accessible. Some of it will be online (although there will be direct classroom components as well) which will make it easier for electrical workers in rural and regional areas to do the course. We are also supporting LEIs with continuing professional development (CPD). The Skills Maintenance component has now been completed by close to 4000 electrical workers. I am pleased to announce that CPD for Licensed Electrical Inspectors commenced at the end of October. WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

The other big initiative for LEIs is the introduction of a new renewables class of licence for LEIs. We have done two consultations – both in 2022 and this year. The renewables licence recognises the inherent changes that renewable energy brings with it. New sources of electricity generation require new and different capabilities for inspectors. Renewables are a growing area and are not going to go away. In fact, in the not-too-distant future they will dominate the energy environment. Renewable energy generation must be safe, and it is up to us – both the regulator and by extension, inspectors – to ensure that happens. You do not have to look far to find examples of solar panel or battery fires. LEIs with the licence will have the right skills to do their job and ensure renewable systems are safely installed.

I would encourage you to read our position paper on our website esv.vic.gov.au

One of the concerns raised with me by LEIs was the requirement for them to climb onto rooftops to inspect solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Several have told me that they no longer do solar inspections because they are concerned about being compliant with WorkSafe requirements around working at heights. This is an important issue and Energy Safe is working on a solution – with the support of NECA – that satisfies WorkSafe requirements and keeps inspectors working at heights, safely. Energy Safe. Always

Leanne Hughson ESV Chief Executive Officer www.esv.vic.gov.au

| 51

UNLOCKING SUCCESS HARNESSING PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY

VIC BRANCH

FOR A THRIVING WORKPLACE In today’s fast-paced world, taking care of employees’ wellbeing isn’t just a nice-tohave; it’s a must-have for any organisation looking to thrive. Beyond physical health and safety, psychological wellbeing is important to create a resilient work environment and positive workplace culture, and ensure the happiness of your people. In this article, we’ll dive into the concept of psychological health and safety. We’ll explore how to spot, evaluate and address psychosocial hazards, all while understanding the legal responsibilities and advantages of managing psychological safety and protecting your employees.

½ ½

Decoding psychosocial hazards Psychosocial hazards are factors in the design or management of work that increase the risk of work-related stress and can lead to psychological or physical harm. There are 14 identified workplace psychosocial hazards: high or low job demands; ½ low job control; ½ poor support; ½ lack of role clarity; ½ poor organisational change management; ½ inadequate reward and recognition; ½ poor organisational justice; ½ traumatic events or material; ½ remote or isolated work; ½ poor physical environment; ½ violence and aggression; ½

conflict or poor workplace relationships and interactions.

Psychological hazards can: ½

Employer obligations and the legislative landscape

In response, Victoria has commenced a key shift in its legislative framework. Previously, the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OHS Act) obligated employers to safeguard their employees’ safety, including psychological health. Now, a more prescriptive framework, backed by enforcement and penalties, demands employers provide a secure working environment by managing psychosocial hazards.

harassment, including sexual harassment;

The impact of psychosocial hazards

In 2021, ISO 45003 Occupational Health and Safety Management — Psychological health and safety in the workplace was established. This global standard transformed workplace safety worldwide. It highlighted the significance of psychological safety alongside physical safety.

bullying;

lead to stress which can result in psychological and physical harm; cause chronic stress which can lead to conditions such as musculoskeletal injuries, cardiovascular disease, chronic diseases and injuries related to fatigue; exacerbate existing physical and mental health conditions.

Psychological harm includes conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and sleep disorders.

The complexity of psychosocial hazard interactions Psychosocial hazards rarely exist in isolation, they often interact or combine to create new, changed, or higher risks. It’s essential to consider all potential psychosocial hazards that workers may be exposed to when managing psychosocial risks. Some hazards may not pose significant risks on their own, but can become problematic when combined with other hazards or under severe and/or ongoing conditions.

Implement control measures – Employers must eliminate or minimise risks to health and safety as far as reasonably practicable. This involves identifying effective control measures that are tailored to the organisation’s specific needs. Control measures include: job redesign; culture improvement; process improvements; and training and resources. Regularly review control measures – Continuously monitoring and reviewing control measures are essential to ensuring their effectiveness. This includes checking if they are continuing to eliminate or minimise risks, especially when new hazards or changes in the workplace occur.

Benefits of psychological health and safety compliance Complying with psychological safety regulations benefits employers in many ways: Safeguarding against fines and claims – Reduces the risk of substantial fines and Workcover claims, protecting the organisation’s financial stability. Legal compliance – Ensures adherence to legal requirements, preventing potential legal complications. Positive work culture – Fosters a positive and supportive work culture, leading to improved employee morale and wellbeing.

Managing psychosocial hazards/risks

Enhanced employee engagement – Promotes employee engagement, motivation, and productivity, resulting in higher-quality work and overall business success.

To effectively manage psychosocial risks, employers must follow a systematic approach:

Wrapping up and your next steps

Identify the hazards – Psychosocial hazards can be identified through various methods, including reviewing the organisational structure, inspecting the physical workplace, assessing job requirements, observing work tasks, consulting with the workforce, and analysing existing metrics.

Prioritising psychological health and safety is no longer an option but a necessity. By assessing, minimising, and managing psychosocial hazards and risks, you can create a thriving workplace where your employees feel valued and empowered, and in return your business thrives.

Assess the associated risks – This involves considering the duration, frequency, and severity of exposure to hazards, as well as their potential interactions.

Our goal at NECA is to support you in all things safety. When you are ready to elevate your business’s safety connect with us at safety@neca.asn.au

December 2023

130 361784

cbus uper.com.au

ThBuilt isinformationisaboby utCbus.Itdworkers, oesn't akeintoac ountyourspecif cnfor e ds,soyousworkers houldlo katyourownfinancialposition, Built by workers, for workers objectivesandrequirementsbeforemakinganyfinancialdecisions.YoushouldreadtheEmployerHandbo k,CbusIndustry Superan uationProductDisclosureStatement(PDS)andother elevantdocumentationtodecidewhetherCbusisrightforyou. AlsoreadtheTargetMarketDeterminationatcbus uper.com.au/tmd.Cal 130 361784orvisitwww.cbus uper.com.au As an industry super fund we are run only to benefit members. All profits are returned to members, not shareholders. As an industry super fund we are run only to benefit members. By choosing industrytosuper fund like you know you’re All profits arean returned members, notCbus, shareholders. in good hands. By choosing an industry super fund like Cbus, you know you’re in good hands.

UnitedSuperPtyLtdABN460 6261623AFSL23 792asTruste fortheConstructionandBuildingUnionsSuperan uation FundABN75493363262(Cbusand/orCbusSuper). 1300 361 784

cbussuper.com.au

1300 361 784

cbussuper.com.au

This information is about Cbus. It doesn't take into account your specific needs, so you should look at your own financial position, objectives and requirements before making any financial decisions. You should read the Employer Handbook, Cbus Industry Superannuation Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and other relevant documentation to decide whether Cbus is right for you. Also read the Target Market Determination at cbussuper.com.au/tmd. Call 1300so 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au This information is about Cbus. It doesn't take into account your specific needs, you should look at your own financial position, objectives andPty requirements before any233792 financial You should read the and Employer Handbook, Cbus Industry United Super Ltd ABN 46 006 261making 623 AFSL asdecisions. Trustee for the Construction Building Unions Superannuation Superannuation Statement (PDS) and other relevant documentation to decide whether Cbus is right for you. Fund ABN 75 493Product 363 262Disclosure (Cbus and/or Cbus Super). Also read the Target Market Determination at cbussuper.com.au/tmd. Call 1300 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 as Trustee for the Construction and Building Unions Superannuation

LEGISLATION OF CANNABIS

VIC BRANCH

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

THE LANDSCAPE OF DRUG POLICY IN VICTORIA MAY UNDERGO A SIGNIFICANT TRANSFORMATION WITH THE RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN LEGALISATION. THE LEGALISE CANNABIS PARTY INTRODUCED TWO BILLS THIS YEAR. IF THE BILLS ARE PASSED, IT WOULD MARK A SUBSTANTIAL SHIFT IN THE APPROACH TO CANNABIS IN THE WORKPLACE. Drugs, Positions and Controlled Substances Amendment (Regulation of Personal Adult Use of Cannabis) Bill 2023 Under current laws, growing (even for medicinal purposes), possessing, selling and/or using cannabis is illegal. The maximum penalty in Victoria is two years’ imprisonment and/or a fine up to $2,200 for possession/use. This Bill aims to legalise cannabis for personal use in the states of Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia. With the Bill, it would be legal for individuals to grow up to six plants at home and to sell through licensed cannabis cafes and dispensaries.

Transport Legislation Amendment (Port reforms and Other Matters) Bill 2022 Although the use of medicinal cannabis is legal in Victoria, it remains an offence for a person to drive with any trace of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis. This Bill would allow medicinal cannabis users to drive as part of a closed-circuit trial overseen by the Victorian government. With the changing legal landscape in Victoria and the broader push for cannabis legalisation, it is imperative to examine how these changes will affect workplace safety, policies, and risk management strategies for electrical businesses where safety is critical. 1. Review and revise workplace policies Businesses should update their workplace policies to address safety concerns tied to cannabis and other substances. This includes creating or revising policies on substance use, prescription medications, and drug

testing, clarifying the company’s stance on cannabis use during work hours, specifying medication-use conditions, and/or revising drug testing policies and the consequences of testing positive. 2. Develop clear guidelines for safetysensitive parts of the jobs Electricians handle a range of safetysensitive tasks. To enhance safety, companies can integrate specific guidelines into Safe Work Method Statements. Consider: a. Prohibition in safety-critical roles: For jobs with live electrical work or safetycritical tasks, maintain a strict ban on substance use during working hours. b. Alternative assignments: Explore the possibility of offering alternative tasks for employees needing medicinal cannabis, ensuring safety and performance aren’t compromised. 3. Provide education and training Prioritise training and education programs to raise awareness among employees and management about the potential dangers associated with substance use, particularly in safety-critical parts of the job. These programs should emphasise responsible behaviour in the workplace and the obligation each employee has to others. 4. Ensure consistent enforcement Enforce workplace policies consistently and fairly to maintain a safe working environment and to prevent discrimination claims. Disciplinary actions should be taken when policy violations occur. By developing and enforcing clear policies and risk management strategies, they can

mitigate potential risks while maintaining a productive work environment. 5. Employee assistance programs (EAPs) Encourage employees to use the EAP to deal with substance use issues. NECA members and their employees have FREE confidential access to an EAP, which can provide resources and counselling to help employees manage their health while maintaining job performance. 6. Review insurance policies Assess insurance policies, including workers’ compensation and public liability insurance, to ensure that they provide adequate coverage in cases where substance use may be involved in workplace incidents. 6. Keep updated Stay informed about the Bill and any other related legislative changes in Victoria around substances. Continuously adapt workplace policies and risk management strategies as needed to remain compliant with both industry standards and the law. 7. Seek guidance Seek guidance from NECA Victoria’s Health and Safety and Workplace Relations Team, who have expertise in policy development and compliance. We can help ensure that the policies adhere to industry-specific requirements and legal regulations. By taking these steps, businesses can navigate the potential impacts of cannabis legislation effectively and maintain a safe, productive and compliant work environment for employees and the public.

Saras Varatharajullu Principal Lawyer Constructive Legal Solutions

December 2023

COMPLIANCE CHALLENGES

VIC BRANCH

FOR VICTORIA’S ELECTRICAL BUSINESSES In two recent cases, the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) has taken legal action against Melbourne-based electrical services companies and their directors. These cases serve as a stark reminder of the importance of compliance with workplace laws in the electrical industry within Victoria.

Case one: underpayment of entitlements The first case, which occurred earlier this year, involves an electrical services company specialising in home automation systems. The FWO initiated an investigation after receiving complaints from two electricians who had worked for the company between January 2019 and February 2022, including an adult apprentice. Allegations included underpayments related to overtime, annual leave, and payment-in-lieu-of-notice-of-termination

entitlements. The workers claimed entitlements totalling over $19,000. The FWO alleges that the company failed to comply with Compliance Notices issued, which required them to calculate and rectify these entitlements. The company’s director is also implicated in these alleged contraventions.

These complaints centered on the alleged non-payment of accrued but untaken annual leave entitlements on termination of employment. The FWO issued Compliance Notices in 2021, alleging that the company failed to comply with them. The company’s sole director was also implicated in these contraventions.

Preventative actions

Case two: non-payment of entitlements In the second case, an electrical and telecommunications services company faced legal action back in 2022. The FWO commenced this action after three workers employed by the company between July 2018 and March 2021, including a fulltime project manager, a full-time field supervisor, and an apprentice electrician, aged 19 to 21 during his employment, lodged complaints.

These cases underscore the critical importance of compliance with workplace laws for electrical businesses in Victoria. To avoid similar legal challenges we recommend you review all employment agreements, comply with compliance notices and regularly update payroll systems. If you are uncertain about your obligations or have concerns about your compliance with workplace laws, contact the Workplace Relations team on 1300 300 031 to ensure your business operates within the bounds of the law.

Timetotoreinvent reinvent Time yourelectrical electrical career? your career? Thinking getting off off the Thinkingof getting Thinking ofof getting off the the tools and improving your toolsand andimproving improving your tools your work-life balance? work-life work-lifebalance? balance?

Do you with Maybe it’sMaybe time to consider Doenjoy you working enjoy working with it’s time to consider Do you enjoy working with Maybe it’s time to consider apprentices? trade teaching! apprentices? trade teaching! apprentices? trade teaching!

Our teachers say it was the best career move they ever NECA Education & Careers has a training program to help Our teachers waslearning, the best and career move they ever NECA & Careers electrical has a training made. You getsay to itkeep stay connected to the tradiesEducation become successful tradeprogram teachers.to help made. You get having to keepthe learning, and stay connected to the tradies become successful electrical trade teachers. industry, while satisfaction of Our teachers say it was the best career move they ever NECA Education & Careers a training help • Complete the Certificate IV has • Shadow otherprogram teachers to industry, while having the of satisfaction of the development skills andlearning, • in Complete the IV electrical • Shadowtrade other teachers made. You getofto keep and stay connected to the tradies become successful teachers. guiding Training andCertificate Assessment guiding the skills and • Develop the knowledge, know-how indevelopment younger generations. in Training and Assessment industry, while having the satisfaction of qualification • Develop the knowledge, know-how in younger generations. and confidence •qualification Complete the Certificate IV skills, • Shadow othertoteachers But don’t guiding take our the worddevelopment for it: scan skills, and confidence to of skills and teach • Receive effective But take out our Aaron’s word forvideo it: scan in Training andsupport Assessment successfully heredon’t to check for generations. a successfully teach • Receive effective support • Develop the knowledge, know-how in younger classes from experienced teachers here to check out Aaron’s video for a qualification first-hand account. classes from experienced teachers skills, and confidence to first-hand account. • Be paid while you learn But don’t take our word for it: scan successfully teach • Receive effective support • Be paid while you learn

here to check out Aaron’s video for a classes If you think a career change for you, we’d love to hear from you and have an informal chat. from experienced teacherscould be first-hand account. If you think a career change could be for you, we’d love to hear from you and have an informal chat. • Be paid while you learn

9942 on (03) If you think a career change could be for you, we’d love Contact to hear Stacey from you and 9389 have an informal chat. 9389 9942 Contact Stacey on (03) apprenticeships || traineeships || training apprenticeships traineeships training

necaeducation.com.au necaeducation.com.au Contact Stacey on (03) 9389 9942 ABN:53 054 944 366 | TOID:21098 ABN:53 054 944 366 | TOID:21098

apprenticeships | traineeships | training

necaeducation.com.au ABN:53 054 944 366 | TOID:21098

BRANCH UPDATE Claire Gerber NECA WA Membership, Events and Partnership Manager

Thanks to Steve Reinholdsten

Vale Dominic Cobb

At NECA WA we sincerely value the relationships we have with all of our Business Partners, however, there is one individual who has moved on from their position who we want to acknowledge for their immense support of NECA and the wider industry. Steve Reinholdtsen (or Rhino as he is universally known as) has stepped away from his role as General Manager at Schneider Electric in WA.

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of a legend of the electrical industry in WA, Dominic Cobb.

Dominic was a highly respected individual, and his passing will be felt by many within our industry. Vale Dominic.

NECA WA’s Modern Leader Workshop for Women, powered by Brighter Super

As well as providing contractors with outstanding service through his work at Schneider Electric, Steve has also been a passionate advocate, leading the way and setting an admirable example in the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion in the electrical industry.

Thank you to the attendees at NECA WA’s recent inaugural Modern Leader Workshop for women, powered by Brighter Super. The full-day interactive workshop took place at the end of September, attracting a diverse range of participants, including business owners, contract managers and general managers, in addition to individuals with varying roles in the construction industry.

We wish Steve the very best for his exciting new endeavours and thank him for a fantastic partnership over the years!

Designed to help attendees develop the skillset, business communication proficiency and leadership acumen to

Scan here to visit the NECA WA homepage

WA BRANCH

Steve and his team at Schneider have been supporting NECA WA for more than a decade. They have also been a major partner and supporter of the NECA WA Awards program since 2016. Steve’s genuine support to NECA WA and our members has been highly valued within our organisation and we want to express our sincere appreciation for his dedication to the industry.

Dominic ran Nilsen in WA for 15 years before retiring, after which he briefly came out of retirement to assist the organisation again for a short length of time. Under his leadership, Nilsen were involved in the construction of many of Perth’s iconic buildings, including RAC Arena, Optus Stadium, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth City Busport, Perth Children’s Hospital and the Ritz Carlton in Elizabeth Quay.

December 2023

WA BRANCH

succeed, the program’s primary goal was to empower women with the motivation and confidence to assert themselves as credible and skilled managers, even in environments traditionally dominated by men. Business Communication Consultant, Lisa Baumwol, covered a wide array of topics, from emotional intelligence and managing mindset to leadership and conflict management strategies. Throughout the day, participants offered valuable feedback affirming the workshop’s relevance and insightfulness. It not only boosted their confidence to communicate effectively, but also provided them with tangible strategies that could be implemented immediately in their everyday roles. We look forward to running similar workshops in 2024 – make sure you follow NECA WA’s Facebook page to keep up to date with future event announcements: fb.com/necawachapter

NECA Safe Digital update Did you know that NECA Safe Digital users can now take and upload photos when using the Vehicle Inspection Tool? This new feature enables users to capture and save photographic evidence of any issues identified during a vehicle inspection. After checking off the vehicle inspection and safety lists and recording any applicable faults and action items, users are prompted to take and/or attach up to two photographs before signing off on the inspection and saving the submission. This is a useful way to highlight any issues that require immediate action following the inspection. Starting at only $15/month for a single user, users can also complete prestart/toolboxes, risk assessments (risk assessment checklists and safe work method statements), electrical installation tests, incident reports and hazard reports via the NECA Safe Digital App. Learn more and sign up online at bit.ly/NECASafeDigital

The first issue in this series covers safe cable identification. Accidentally cutting through a live cable is one of the most common causes of electric shock. Visit bit.ly/ECAWA_SharingSiteStrategies to view ECA WA’s recommendations.

Renewable sector training courses launched at CET CET recently partnered with SkillBuild Training (RTO code 70059) to offer a variety of renewable energy training courses at their Jandakot campus. Enrolments are filling fast for the following courses: Solar Grid Connect Design and Install bit.ly/3Z3xIrF Battery Storage bit.ly/3iTOHYb Off-Grid bit.ly/47gudl3 Electric Vehicle Charging Course bit.ly/3u4dbaT The Electric Vehicle Charging Course is the second of its kind to be offered in Australia. This comprehensive nonaccredited course is designed for electrical workers who wish to acquire the knowledge and skills to work in the rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) sector, combining essential technical theory with practical training in a half-day workshop. Limited positions are remaining - don’t miss out on the unique opportunity to gain expertise in EV charging technology.

Electrical Group Training award frenzy! It’s been award-central at EGT, with employees being acknowledged for their outstanding talents and efforts at a number of award ceremonies and initiatives.

ECA WA launches new safety initiative

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

Furthermore, Kat dedicates her time and knowledge to uplift women in our field. She actively participates on the Women in Trade’s Committee for NAWIC, helped establish the ECA WA Electrical Women’s Advisory Group, and offers her voluntary services to initiatives like Trade-UP, Tradeswomen Australia, Sparkettes, and Supporting and Linking Tradeswomen (SALT). We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Kat and express our deepest gratitude for her invaluable contributions! EGT apprentices shine at the AEN WA Awards for Excellence The following apprentices were announced as winners at the Apprentice Employment Network WA (AEN WA) 2023 Awards for Excellence in October. Corrine Bass Apprentice of the Year Hosted by Compuroom Services Pty Ltd. Sanduni Senanayake Woman in Building and Construction Hosted by Fredon (WA) Electrical Pty Ltd. Dylan Bin Omar Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander Apprentice of the Year Hosted by Wilco Electrical It’s always great to see EGT’s talented apprentices being acknowledged for their hard work and dedication. Well done to all involved, including their amazing host employers!

Moving on from NECA WA

Any questions? Phone (08) 6241 6100 or email safety@ecawa.org.au

ECA WA is proud to announce the launch of its latest safety initiative, Sharing Site Strategies. Developed to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of everyone working in the WA electrical industry, it offers essential insights on important safety topics. Tailored to WA’s unique conditions and requirements, ECA WA hope that this initiative will foster greater knowledge sharing within the electrical sector to address common hazards.

she a skilled electrician and entrepreneur, but she is also EGT’s Host Services Officer and is the go-to representative for EGT at various partnership events, educational outreach programs, and career fairs.

Congratulations to Kathryn Born Most recently, EGT Host Services Officer Kathryn Born, received the Crystal Vision Award at the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) 2023 Awards for Excellence on 3 November. We are incredibly impressed by Kat’s ongoing contributions to our sector. Not only is

As you may be aware, this will be my final NECA WA Branch Report, as I will be moving on from NECA at the end of the year. Starting as the Events Coordinator in 2016 and eventually stepping into the role of Membership, Events and Partnership Manager, I have had the immense pleasure of managing NECA’s National Conference and Awards Program, forming relationships with many members and business partners and contributing to other successful initiatives, including the establishment of the ECA WA Electrical Women’s Advisory Group. As I move on to new opportunities, I am grateful for the invaluable experiences and friendships I’ve made at NECA WA. Thank you all for a memorable journey.

| 57

WA TECHNICAL UPDATE UNIQUE REQUIREMENTS FOR SMOKE ALARMS IN CLASS 1B BUILDINGS The Technical Team often receive enquiries regarding the rules and standards for smoke alarm installation. While most members have a reasonable understanding of the requirements for domestic housing and rental properties, there is often confusion regarding Class 1B buildings. These are buildings that are being used for more transient purposes, such as boarding houses, Air BnB and Stayz properties.

event of a fire and it must be activated by the smoke alarms. It must also consist of a light incorporated within the smoke alarm or the lighting located in the corridor, hallway or area served by the smoke alarms. Please refer to the diagram below. More information can be found in the section 9.5.3 of the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022.

The requirement for smoke alarms in these premises is quite different. In Class 1B buildings there must be interconnected smoke alarms installed in every bedroom, every corridor or hallway associated with a bedroom, or if there is no corridor of hallway, in an area between the bedrooms and the remainder of the building and each other storey. There must be a lighting system installed to assist evacuation of occupants in the

UPDATES TO THE WA ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS (WAER) FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2024 Building and Energy recently released an updated version of the WA Electrical Requirements (WAER). The new WAER will apply to all new electrical installation designs commenced after 1 February 2024. An amendment to the WAER does not apply retrospectively to electrical installations for which design or construction has commenced, or for which building contracts have been signed prior to the date of publication of the amendment. Key changes in the updated version include: Section 2 Replacement of WA Distributions Connections Manual (WADCM) references with WA Service and Installation Requirements (WASIR) – applicable to Western Power and Horizon Power. Section 3 New table included that sets out ownership and responsibilities for each component of service apparatus. 58

Section 7 Expanded scope from only high voltage (HV) installations to largescale installations that include solar, battery and wind turbine installations which exceed the upper limits (200 kVA) covered by Australian Standards.

Available now to view on the Technical Knowledge Base (TKB) We recommend members familiarise themselves with the changes, which have been updated in full on the TKB – visit bit.ly/47w68Ge

Outlines design requirements, design submissions and certifications for all large-scale installations that must be provided to the Network Operator. Final testing and ‘as commissioned’ certification that must be provided to the Network Operator (for network connections) and installation owner/ operator (for network connected and standalone systems).

December 2023

WA BRANCH

CURRENT LIMITS FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF MOTORS Recent enquiries indicate some confusion around current limits for different types of motors. This article provides clarification on determining the maximum allowable inrush current for various motor applications, including single-phase, three-phase and rural single/split-phase loads as per Section 10 of the Western Australian Service and Installation Requirements (WASIR). Single-phase starting currents Table 5 in Section 10 of the WASIR covers single-phase starting currents. The starting current for metro and major regional areas is limited to 45 amps. Other locations in the Southwest Interconnected System (SWIS) network are limited to 18 amps. Table 5: Starting currents single-phase (240V) Cities and major centres

45A

Other locations (SWIS)

Note for Horion Power refer to section 7.6.2 table 3

Three-phase starting currents

Inrush currents for motors in rural supplies with single/split-phase loads Table 7 of Section 10 of the WASIR covers these motor types.

the installation is served by a sole use transformer 25 kVA or larger.

240-volt single-phase motors may be started direct online (DOL).

Table 7: Rural single/splitphase loads (at 240 or 480V)

Provided the inrush current does not exceed the maximum levels in the table below, 480 volt split-phase motors up to 7.5 kW may be started DOL, where

Single-phase 240V

40A

Single-phase 480V (50kVA supply)

85.25A

Table 6 in Section 10 of the WASIR covers the requirements for threephase starting currents. There are three sections, and loads greater than 6 kW require a small calculation. For example, a 10 kW motor requires the current to be reduced to 45 amps as follows: 10 kW – 6 kW = 4 kW 4 kW x 3.2 amps = 12.8 amps 12.8 amps + 33 amps = 45 amps. Table 6: Starting currents three-phase (415V) All areas

13A

Up to 1.5kW

8.6A per kW

1.5-6.0kW

33A

18Plus 3.2A per kW greater than 6.0kW

Note for Horion Power refer to section 7.6.2 table 3

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 59

DRIVING POSITIVE CHANGE OFTEN WHEN WE TALK ABOUT CAREERS IN THE ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY, THE CONVERSATION FOCUSES ON THE INDUSTRY SECTOR AND THE TYPE OF BUSINESS WE WANT TO WORK IN. ARE WE MOST INTERESTED IN INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL, RESIDENTIAL OR MAYBE MINING? WILL WE GET THERE BY WORKING FOR A BIG COMPANY, A SMALL FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS OR PERHAPS BY STRIKING OUT ON OUR OWN? RARELY DO WE TALK ABOUT INDUSTRY REGULATION AS A CAREER PATHWAY. We were pleased to talk to Matthew Peacock, Building and Energy’s Director of Electrical, Gas and Plumbing Compliance, who shone a spotlight on this important part of industry. A former Electrical Group Training (EGT) apprentice, Matthew has had a varied and interesting career. He is passionate about safety, education and relationship-building, and draws on all three of these areas in his current role. How did you get into the industry? My career started with EGT. I applied for lots of electrical apprenticeships but missed out each time. It was hard, but I refused to give up and I continued to send out applications, including one for EGT. They saw something in me that the others didn’t and gave me a shot. I’ll always appreciate that. It was the best possible start for me. I was placed with two great companies. The first was Kings Park Electrical, a family-run business. I worked with two tradies: Alan Taylor and Andrew Webster, who really invested the time and effort to develop me right up to my third year. Then I moved on to LKR Electrical with Les Bertolini and Rino Perrella. Again, they were brilliant to work for and very supportive of my apprenticeship. Working with both companies gave me technical and practical skills that set me up for my future. Equally important, the tradies I worked with showed me what being a supervising tradesperson is all about. I believe that apprentices are a direct reflection of the tradespeople they’ve worked with. As a tradie, your aim should be to make your apprentice a better tradesperson than you are, so that you can take pride in the tradie they’ve become and know that you’ve done everything you can to keep them safe.

What are some of the highlights of your career? After my apprenticeship, I got a job with Positron Electrical, working as an underground electrician in gold mines. The mines run at 1000 volts all the way down the mineshaft, enabling us to reduce the current and use smaller cables to reticulate power throughout the mine. My job was to keep the power going and look after all the equipment including mobile drill rigs that ran on 1000 volts, pumps, pump starters, ventilation fans, and large complicated control panels. It was a fantastic job and I learned a lot. My first night, I got the call and made the half hour drive down to the drill point. The main hydraulic pump wasn’t working and I had a team of impatient people who were paid by the metre, waiting for me to get it fixed ASAP. I opened the two metre by one metre control panel and there were contactors and relays everywhere. Where to start? I learned very fast in that role! Being an underground electrician gave me solid controls and instrumentation experience. From there I worked as an electrical technician looking after automated electrical infrastructure for several large manufacturing companies. While I was there Alan and Andrew, my tradies from Kings Park Electrical, started a company called Blue Tongue Electrical. As the company grew so did our roles and over several years I worked my way up from sparky to project manager. I ran a lot of big-scale projects from start to finish including an automated flash butt welder facility producing 400 metre lengths of railway, a train refueler, and a new rail operations building for Rio Tinto. I built new portions of Banksia Hill Detention Centre, worked on the South Centro shopping centre, and a galvanising

plant located in a Naval Base. They were big projects and really interesting. By then though I’d had enough of being away from my family and realised I needed a change. I was looking about jobs in Perth or starting my own business when I saw an advert for Energy Safety (now called Building and Energy) and thought that’s my role. It felt meant to be. What made the advert leap out for you? I saw a chance to give back. When I was 17, I lost a mate. He had a restricted electrical licence and was working on a cool drink vending machine that had been left outside. The machine had filled up with water and was live when he pulled the frame off. That event planted a seed for me, way back then, around the importance of safety. After having the opportunity to work in so many parts of industry, going to work with Building and Energy enabled me to drive positive change and work to protect our workers, make industry safer, and look after the community. I started as a senior electrical inspector working on several high-level cases. My core role was to investigate matters that ranged from unlicensed work, unsafe appliances, ineffective supervision, dangerous work, and serious accidents. Such investigations require us to collect evidence, obtain witness statements, conduct records of interview, carry out specialised testing, and attend court as an expert witness. From there I moved into senior roles within the department.

December 2023

WA BRANCH

How did your apprenticeship with EGT contribute to your success? Without EGT I wouldn’t be here - they provided me with the best possible start and set me up for life. I had an excellent Field Officer, Greg Knowles, who looked after me and made sure I was ok. Through my placements I got experience across different parts of industry and firstclass technical skills. I worked with supportive companies who invested in me and were committed to giving me a solid foundation for my career. In my work I see first-hand the importance of company culture and how it plays out in the quality of the work produced and the products that are chosen. I see how critical it is for companies to invest in their apprentices so they are well trained, turn into the best possible electricians they can be, and can keep themselves and others safe. As an employer EGT plays a positive role in achieving this. What do you enjoy the most about your current role? Inspectors have a unique role in industry. I’m very passionate about what we do and am proud of what the team and I have been able to achieve in my time here. I am lucky to be surrounded by likeminded people who are just as passionate as me about the electrical industry and public safety. A large percentage of incidents result from a failure to isolate and test, so we place a strong focus on education. We have a lot of tools in place to improve safety outcomes including education, legislating, auditing, issuing warnings and prosecution. For me, education needs to be the first tool we use so that we can increase awareness and change industry culture. I see this as a primary role for our team. Since starting in my current role, we have created a full-time education position within our team. Together with our inspectors we visit TAFEs, colleges, contractor courses, industry nights, and other forums to talk about safety, share our stories, and engage with industry. We’ve seen a real improvement in the response from industry because of our education process. As part of this we’ve continued to focus on engaging with stakeholders including industry associations, network operators, unions, and

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

training providers, bringing everyone along for the journey. Working hand in hand with industry is how we are going to change culture. I value the relationships we’ve developed and the opportunity to collaborate. I enjoy using data to identify trends so we focus our energy in the right places. For example, in the solar sector we used data to pinpoint opportunities for change, then worked with the Clean Energy Regulator to modify the rebate process to improve compliance within industry. It is vital to ensure that solar systems are installed by licenced electricians, using components that meet strict Australian Safety Standards, and that the work completed is safe. The reforms greatly improved industry compliance in the solar space, protecting both consumers and industry from unlicensed operatives. Data also supports the legislative review process, and we have worked hard to ensure WA’s legislation sets strong standards, drives positive change, and continues to improve safety for workers and consumers. As a result of our efforts, each year we see the number of incidents in industry reducing and I’m proud to have played a part in that result. My work is incredibly satisfying and I feel like I’m making a genuine and valuable difference for our industry and community.

What advice would you give to current apprentices? Firstly, value your life and safety. Always test for yourself and make sure the power is off - don’t take anyone else’s word for it. If someone says, ‘It’s all good, don’t worry,’ test for yourself anyway. Secondly, soak up as much wisdom as possible during your apprenticeship. Ask questions, your tradies are ultimately your teacher, so ask for, and take their advice. Every day you should be learning something new. Take pride in your work. Make sure that the work you do is safe and meets the standards. Every day you should go home proud of, and confident in the work you’ve done. Lastly, think big. With so much change happening in the sector you can do anything. So many doors will open if you put the hard work in. Have you got any final thoughts you’d like to share? We are in a period of transformation not seen in 100 years and as an industry we are so lucky to be a part of that. Technology is advancing at lightning speed, infrastructure, power generation, and energy sources are changing. The work we do is becoming more complex. In this environment the opportunities for individuals, businesses, and industry as a whole are amazing. There has never been a better, more exciting time to enter the electrical world.

| 61

PLEASE BE AWARE OF

WA BRANCH

NEUTRAL VOLTAGE RISE ELECTRIC SHOCKS OR A TINGLING SENSATION FROM A WATER TAP OR ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE CAN BE A WARNING SIGN OF A VOLTAGE RISE IN THE EARTHING SYSTEM, COMMONLY RESULTING FROM BROKEN WIRING OR LOOSE, DEGRADED CONNECTIONS, OR AN OVERLOADED, UNBALANCED OR POORLY MAINTAINED ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION. Electrical contractors are reminded that even with a main earth neutral (MEN) connection scheme installed within the electrical installation it is possible for the neutral conductor voltage to rise above the earth reference potential. Elevated neutral voltages can cause metal objects in and around a building to become live with dangerous levels of electricity. As neutral voltage increases, so does the risk of electric shock. Neutral voltage rise can occur because of several factors, including but not limited to any one or combination of the following: ½

connection of large single phase and/or unbalanced multi-phase loads; connection of single-phase generation/renewable systems to multi-phase consumer electrical installations; high resistance or dysfunctional neutral connection(s) within a consumer’s electrical installation or at their connection point (MEN link); undersize, long, high resistance, or broken neutral conductors; high resistance or broken earth conductors; switching of neutral conductors (generation changeover devices); and/or high frequency harmonics, generated by power electronic devices.

These factors can generally be traced back to a consumer’s electrical installation.

Electrical contractor obligations Consumers have an ongoing responsibility through their electrical contractor to ensure that their home or business remains electrically safe and fit for the purpose, which includes the consumer’s electrical installation connection to the network operator’s distribution network. Additionally, when connecting a new or altering an existing consumer’s electrical installation by increasing the site electrical load or installing/ adding generation capacity, the consumer’s electrical contractor has an obligation to ensure that the requested electrical profile is balanced and protected in accordance with both regulatory and network requirements. Electrical contractors must carry out a new maximum demand calculation which reflects the circumstances of

the new load or generation equipment (AS/NZS 3000 clauses 1.6.3 and 2.2.2). The connection must also remain balanced where the connection is multi-phase, and in all cases be safe and compliant with current legislation, industry standards, and network operator requirements. This is particularly important when new loads such as high-current socket outlets, air conditioners, pool pumps, stoves, wall ovens, electric vehicle chargers, and renewable energy systems are added to an existing residential or commercial installation. Reminder: report all shocks and tingles to Western Power Incidents of shocks and tingles need to be reported and fully investigated irrespective of their seriousness. As soon as practicable after an incident call Western Power on 13 13 51 to report the nature of the electric shock or tingle. Find out more on the Western Power website westernpower.com.au

December 2023

CASE STUDY:

WA BRANCH

IGNITION RISKS FROM LEAD-ACID BATTERIES A RECENT PROSECUTION BY BUILDING AND ENERGY IN WA HAS HIGHLIGHTED THE IMPORTANCE OF NOT COMPROMISING SAFETY AS THE CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION PROGRESSES. A licensed electrical contractor from the state’s South West was ordered to pay $11,000 in fines and costs for a dangerous installation that could have caused a hydrogen explosion. Information presented to the Perth Magistrates Court showed the electrician attended a rural property to install inverter chargers in an existing offgrid, stand-alone power system. The system involved storing solar energy in a bank of vented lead-acid batteries, which produce potentially explosive hydrogen gas when they are recharging. The inverter chargers can be an ignition source for this gas. Building and Energy’s investigation found the electrician installed the inverter chargers near the vented batteries. This did not comply with the Australian/ New Zealand Wiring Rules, which require protection against ignition when electrical equipment is installed in areas where explosive gases may be present. In this case, ignition protection should have involved installation of the chargers

in a separate area to the vented batteries or in a lockable area with a separating partition or enclosure for the batteries. The electrician pleaded guilty to two breaches of WA’s Electricity (Licensing) Regulations 1991 – by not adhering to the Wiring Rules and by submitting an incorrect compliance declaration through a notice of completion. The Magistrate ordered the electrician to pay a global fine of $8,000 and $2,982.30 in costs. WA’s Director of Energy Safety, Saj Abdoolakhan, said the dangerous installation could have resulted in serious injuries and property damage. “Hydrogen would have been regularly produced whenever the vented lead-acid batteries were charged by energy from the solar panels,” Mr Abdoolakhan said.

“It is pure luck that the chargers did not ignite the gas from the nearby exposed batteries before the danger was identified by a Building and Energy electrical inspector. “The Wiring Rules require licensed electricians to carefully select the components and location for all their installations, including reference to the manufacturer’s instructions. “This risk assessment is particularly important when dealing with emerging technologies, unfamiliar set-ups or previously installed equipment. “Electricians must take a holistic approach to all installations, including safety factors associated with existing components, such as the presence of lead-acid batteries in this case.”

Saj Abdoolakhan WA’s Director of Energy Safety www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy

The bank of vented leadacid batteries and related ignition warning signs. Three inverter chargers (left) installed by the electrician in the same room as the lead-acid batteries.

The proximity of the inverter chargers (top right) to the leadacid batteries (bottom left).

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

Ignition warning signs near the lead-acid battery bank.

| 63

LEGAL UPDATE

WA BRANCH

MEDICAL MARIJUANA AND MINE SITES Can employees use prescribed marijuana on their days off? There is no single answer to this question, however several factors should be considered beyond simply whether the employee passes the workplace drug test or not. A recent decision of the Fair Work Commission upheld an employer’s decision to terminate their employee’s contract for use of medical marijuana in breach of their company drug and alcohol policy. This employee, Sheldon Haigh, had passed all drug tests required by his employer Platinum Blasting Services (Platinum) but had not disclosed his return to using prescribed marijuana following an unsuccessful attempt to substitute another medication.

as he did not use marijuana on site and ensured that 32 hours elapsed between his last use and commencing work. His view was that therefore, the marijuana could not be considered to impact his ability to perform his job and did not need disclosure. The Court found in favour of Platinum, ruling that the wording of the policy as ‘may affect’ required the employee to disclose his use of prescribed marijuana regardless of the precautions he took to ensure it did not in fact affect his work.

What does this mean for employers? Employees must disclose the use of medical marijuana even where this occurs only on their time off if their employer has a similarly worded drug and alcohol policy. It is accepted by the Court that use of marijuana may affect a person’s ability to work even where they are not under the influence of the drug while at work. [Sheldon Haigh v Platinum Blasting Services Pty Ltd [2023] FWC 2465]

Haigh was required by the employer’s policy to disclose any medications which may affect his ability to safely perform the requirements of his job. When he returned to taking the prescribed marijuana, he did not advise his employer of this. It came to light that he had returned to using the prescription when there was a near miss incident on site. Drug testing of all involved employees was required, and it was at this time that Haigh disclosed to the tester that he may be positive for marijuana due to his prescription. This was reported to his employer. As a result of Haigh’s non-disclosure of medical marijuana use, his employment was terminated. Platinum considered Haigh to have breached the disclosure requirement of their drug and alcohol policy. Haigh believed he did not have to disclose his prescription 64

Disclaimer: This summary is a guide only and is not legal advice. For more information, call ECA Legal on (08) 6241 6129 or email ecalegal@ecawa.org.au.

December 2023

We focus our energy on you Book a Super Health Check today at no additional cost.

You don’t need to be a Brighter Super member to book.

Brighter Super (the new name for Energy Super) is the industry super fund that offers competitive fees, tailored insurance and personal service to suit the needs of Australia’s energy workers.

T: 1800 444 396 brightersuper.com.au/energy Brighter Super (the new name for Energy Super) is the industry super fund that offers competitive fees, tailored insurance and personal service to suit the needs of Australia’s energy workers.

T: 1800 444 396 brightersuper.com.au/energy LGIAsuper Trustee (ABN 94 085 088 484 AFS Licence No. 230511) as trustee for LGIAsuper (ABN 23 053 121 564), trading as Brighter Super. Brighter LGIAsuper Trustee (ABN 94 085 088 484 AFS Licence No. 230511) as trustee for LGIAsuper (ABN 23 053 121 564), trading as Brighter Super. Brighter Super may refer to the Trustee or LGIAsuper as the as the context requires. Brighter Super products are issued by the Trustee on behalf of LGIAsuper. Super may refer to the Trustee or LGIAsuper as the as the context requires. Brighter Super products are issued by the Trustee on behalf of LGIAsuper.

BRANCH UPDATE Nataisha Martin NECA ACT & Southern NSW Member Manager

WELCOME TO OUR DECEMBER ISSUE OF NECA NEWS As we approach the end of another year it’s important to take some time and reflect on all that’s been accomplished. From groundbreaking projects to new industry partnerships, NECA members have once again demonstrated their strength and expertise in the industry. It’s been a year filled with hard work, determination and growth, and we’re excited to share all the details with you in this edition of NECA News.

NECA Membership

Scan here to visit the NECA ACT homepage

ACT BRANCH

NECA membership in the ACT and Southern NSW has experienced significant growth over the past year, reflecting the industry’s remarkable success and expansion. It has been a pivotal year for NECA, tirelessly working towards member betterment through regular health checks for businesses, informative industry nights with government regulators and wholesaler briefing sessions, and consistent advocacy to the State Government. This level of growth and success in the industry is truly heartening, and we hope this trend continues in the future. In the ever-changing electrical communications sector, understanding your responsibilities as an electrical contractor or employee is non-negotiable. That’s where NECA membership comes in. It serves as your essential companion, providing invaluable insights, resources and tailored support.

NECA Business Partners We would like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to our Business Partners. We truly cherish the relationships we have built with you over the years, and believe that strong partnerships are built on trust, mutual respect, and open communication. Your continued support and collaboration have played a significant role in the success of our association. Thank you MMEM Group, Clipsal Schneider, NHP, IPD ABB, NECA Training and Apprenticeships, ACRS and NESS Super.

New Partnership with Fergus This year NECA partnered with Fergus to bring members an all-in-one job management software that helps you streamline workflows, save valuable administration time, run safer workplaces, and build healthier cash flows. All NECA members in the ACT and Southern NSW receive 15% off their Fergus Job Management Software for the life of their NECA membership. Plus when you sign up as a paying customer, NECA’s FREE Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), which are available in the NECA Members’ Knowledge Base (MKB), are pre-loaded into your Fergus platform. Want to know more? Scan this QR code to visit the NECA website.

Stay on top of important dates and deadlines in 2024 NECA Members can log into NECA Member’s Knowledge Base to download your 2024 RDO and Public Holiday Calendar. As a NECA member, you get unlimited basic phone and email support from in-house workplace relation experts on all matters including pay rates, award rates, terminations, travel allowances and leave entitlements specific to your business. We value your privacy, and all enquiries are kept confidential. If you require assistance, we encourage you to connect with our legal experts. Scan the QR code to connect with a NECA Expert.

December 2023

ACT BRANCH

New and Improved NECA SWMS Take safety to the next level!

New NECA ACT Social Pages

NECA members’ pre-written Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) have been reviewed and updated by the NECASafe team as part of our 2023 audit. NECA members can access the new and improved SWMS through the NECA Members’ Knowledge Base (MKB).

NECA is dedicated to providing valuable support and resources for our members and we understand that each state has unique needs and challenges within the industry. This is why we have recently divided our NECA Group LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram accounts into individual state-specific accounts. This allows us to better cater to your specific needs by providing relevant content related to your state.

Key facts about NECA’s SWMS: NECA now offers an updated version of the NECA SWMS template; ½ the SWMS is compiled by industry experts and contains the latest guidelines and regulations; ½ NECA members have complimentary access to popular SWMS through MKB; ½ alternatively, members can subscribe to Safety GEN or EmploySafe Safety Management Systems for access to the NECASafe library; ½ the SWMS library is regularly updated to incorporate the learnings from real-world incidents and fatalities; ½ SWMS are regularly updated to comply with regulations and code changes; ½ NECA handles the details of regulatory compliance for its members; ½ NECA monitors principal contractors’ requirements for SWMS, streamlining the submission process; ½ regular reviews and monitoring are crucial for effective SWMS documentation;

By following our NECA ACT and NECA NSW social pages, you will have access to important updates, industry news, and helpful resources that are tailored specifically for the electrical industry in the ACT region.

We encourage you to join our NECA ACT social pages today!



/neca_act /neca_nsw



/necaactbranch /necanswbranch

existing SWMS must be updated by members to reflect any changes in activities or hazards;



@necaact @necansw

To discover more about accessing NECA’s new and improved SWMS, reach out to a NECA Representative.

members can download the updated NECA SWMS and review them in consultation with their team to create a safe working environment.

NECA members can log into the MKB to download the new NECA SWMS and more information including the NECASafe SWMS webinar, the type of SWMS you should consider for your business and the integration of SWMS with Fergus Job Management Software.

Christmas Shutdown The offices of NECA ACT, NECA NSW, NECA Training & Apprenticeships, NECA Legal and NECA Trade Services will be closed from Friday 22 December 2023 and re-open on Monday 8 January 2024.

15% off Fergus software for  15% off Fergus software for 15% off Fergus software for  15% off Fergus software for the life ofFergus your NECA membership* 15% off software for  15% off Fergus software for   the the life of your NECA membership* thethe life ofofyour your NECA membership* life yourNECA NECAmembership* membership* life of

the life of your NECA membership* Complete NECA SWMS onsite Complete NECA SWMS onsite Complete NECA SWMS onsite Complete NECA SWMS onsite within Fergus software  Complete NECA SWMS onsite Complete NECA SWMS onsite  within Fergus software within Fergus software  within within Fergus software Fergus software within Fergus software End-to-end job management End-to-end End-to-endjob jobmanagement management End-to-end job management  & real-time visibility End-to-end job management End-to-end job management & real-time visibility   &&& real-time real-time visibility visibility & real-time real-timevisibility visibility Scanthe the Scan Scan the 43% of electricians have trouble keeping track of job progress, QRCode Code to 43% of electricians have trouble keeping track of job progress, QR Scan the Scan the Scan the 43% of electricians have trouble keeping track of job progress, learn more. QR Code to deadlines, and customer communications. Are you one of those? of electricians have trouble keeping track of job progress, learn more. QR Code to deadlines, and customer communications. you of those? QR to 43% of have trouble track of job 43% ofelectricians electricians have troublekeeping keepingAre track ofone jobprogress, progress, QRCode Code to learn more. deadlines, and customer communications. Are you one of those? learn more. deadlines, and customer communications. Are you one of those? learn more. deadlines, and customer communications. Are you one of those?

deadlines, deadlines,and andcustomer customercommunications. communications.Are Areyou youone oneof ofthose? those?

learn more.

This offer only applies to NECA Members in the ACT, NSW, QLD & TAS. T&Cs apply - visit the NECA website for more details.

This offer only applies to NECA Members in the ACT, NSW, QLD & TAS. T&Cs apply - visit the NECA website for more details. This offer only applies to NECA Members in the ACT, NSW, QLD & TAS. T&Cs apply -- visit the NECA website for more details. This offer only applies to NECA Members in the ACT, NSW, QLD & TAS. T&Cs apply visit the NECA website for more details. This offer only applies to NECA Members in the ACT, NSW, QLD &&TAS. TAS. T&Cs apply visit the NECA website for more details. This Thisoffer offeronly onlyapplies appliesto toNECA NECAMembers Membersin inthe theACT, ACT,NSW, NSW,QLD QLD& TAS.T&Cs T&Csapply apply---visit visitthe theNECA NECAwebsite websitefor formore moredetails. details. Mag Advert_Half Page.indd 1

Mag Advert_Half Page.indd 1 Mag Advert_Half Page.indd 1 Mag Advert_Half Page.indd 1

T&Cs apply.

5/11/2023 4:55:40 PM

T&Cs apply. T&Cs apply. T&Cs apply. 5/11/2023 4:55:40 PM T&Cs apply. T&Cs 5/11/2023 4:55:40 PM T&Csapply. apply. 5/11/2023 4:55:40 PM

BRANCH UPDATE Mynas Leontios NECA Sydney Metro Member Manager Julia Cassar NECA Sydney Metro Account Manager

WELCOME TO THE DECEMBER ISSUE OF NECA NEWS! As we bid farewell to yet another year, it’s crucial to recognise the incredible achievements of NECA members throughout this year. Despite the chaos and unpredictability, our members have accomplished groundbreaking projects, and showcased their expertise through this year’s NECA Excellence, Small Business, and Apprentice Awards. Congratulations to all of our winners.

NECA Business Partners We would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to all our Business Partners. Your continuous support and collaboration have played a vital role in our success and the betterment of the industry. We cherish the relationships we have built with our partners, which are built on trust, respect and effective communication.

NSW BRANCH

A special thank you to our partners: MMEM Group – TLE, Clipsal Schneider, NHP, IPD ABB, ACRS, NECA Training and Apprenticeships, NESS Super.

Membership Growth in NSW NECA membership in NSW has experienced remarkable growth in the past year, reflecting the industry’s success and expansion. It has been a pivotal year for NECA NSW, diligently working towards the betterment of our members. From regular health checks for businesses to informative industry nights and continuous advocacy to the State Government, we strive to provide valuable support to our members. We are truly inspired by the growth and success in our industry and hope that this trend continues in the future. In the ever-changing electrical communications sector, understanding your responsibilities as an electrical contractor or employee is paramount. This is where NECA membership becomes your essential companion, offering invaluable insights, resources and tailored support.

New NECA NSW Social Pages NECA is dedicated to providing valuable support and resources for our members and we understand that each state has unique needs and challenges within the industry. This is why we have recently divided our NECA Group LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram accounts into individual state-specific accounts. This allows us to better cater to your specific needs by providing relevant content related to your state. By following our NECA NSW social pages, you will have access to important updates, industry news, and helpful resources that are tailored specifically for the electrical industry in New South Wales.

Scan here to visit the NECA NSW homepage

We encourage you to join our NECA QLD social pages today!



/necansw



/necanswbranch



@neca_nsw

December 2023

NSW BRANCH

New and Improved NECA SWMS Take safety to the next level! NECA members’ pre-written Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) have been reviewed and updated by the NECASafe team as part of our 2023 audit. NECA members can access the new and improved SWMS through the NECA Members’ Knowledge Base (MKB). Key facts about NECA’s SWMS: ½

Advocacy and Policy A core group of NECA partners and NSW industry leaders met with government recently for NECA’s annual NSW Parliamentary Dinner. The night was hosted by Nathan Hagarty MP and featured a keynote address by NSW Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis MP. The group also had the opportunity to hear from the Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong, Minister for Small Business Steve Kamper and Member for Liverpool Charishma Kaliyanda. Thank you to NESS Super for generously sponsoring this event, which allowed an open dialogue with ministers and members of parliament on many of the issues currently facing our industry.

the SWMS library is regularly updated to incorporate the learnings from real-world incidents and fatalities; SWMS are regularly updated to comply with regulations and code changes; NECA handles the details of regulatory compliance for its members; NECA monitors principal contractors’ requirements for SWMS, streamlining the submission process; existing SWMS must be updated by members to reflect any changes in activities or hazards; regular reviews and monitoring are crucial for effective SWMS documentation; members can download the updated NECA SWMS and review them in consultation with their team to create a safe working environment.

Security of Payment Reform The Hon. Anthony Roberts, Member for Lane Cove, delivered a Private Members Statement to the NSW Legislative Assembly on 14 September 2023, supporting NECA and our industry in our push for Security of Payment reform for subcontractors. The lack of national payment protection laws is hurting the building and construction sector and NECA has long been advocating for the introduction of cascading statutory trusts. The introduction of statutory trusts would ensure that stage payments to builders are being held in trust so that everyone in the contractual chain gets paid for the work they do. NECA will continue to push government for legislative change and ensure subcontractors have a strong voice when it comes to fair and prompt payment.

Christmas Shutdown The offices of NECA NSW, NECA Training & Apprenticeships, NECA Legal and NECA Trade Services will be closed from Friday 22 December 2023 and re-open on Monday 8 January 2024.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

Updates to audiometric testing requirements in NSW New regulations for audiometric testing are set to come into effect from 1 January 2024. These regulations will be enacted as part of Clause 58 of the NSW Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017. The regulation requires a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to provide audiometric testing to any worker who is frequently required to use personal protective equipment (PPE) (hearing protection) to protect themselves from the risk of hearing loss associated with noise that exceeds the exposure standard. The NSW Government recognises the importance of audiometric testing in preventing hearing loss due to exposure to high levels of noise. In light of this SafeWork NSW will be developing and distributing guidance material to ensure businesses can comply with the new regulations. It is important to note that audiometric testing may need to be conducted for workers who use loud equipment or work in environments with high levels of noise. This includes those employed in industrial settings, as well as those working on construction sites. It is also important to ensure that any hearing protection provided to workers is adequate and appropriate for the level of noise exposure. As a responsible employer, it is your duty to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your workers. Regular audiometric testing is an important aspect of this responsibility, as it can help to prevent hearing loss and preserve the hearing ability of workers. We recommend that NECA members take the time to review the new regulations and consider how they can implement the necessary measures to comply with them. This includes providing appropriate hearing protection and conducting regular audiometric testing for workers who are exposed to high levels of noise in the workplace. The NECA Members’ Knowledge Base (MKB) has a wealth of valuable resources to assist your business in maintaining compliance with the latest updates including PPE registers, preplacement health assessment report, and noise exposure risk identification. For more information, connect with our NECASafe experts.

| 69

CONNECTING AND COLLABORATING

NSW BRANCH

POWRERING UP WITH NECA NECA’S REGULATOR’S UPDATE AND ‘MY SMALL BUSINESS’ RESILIENCE WORKSHOP In collaboration with SafeWork NSW and NSW Small Business Month, NECA hosted two workshops in October at The Australian Hotel and Brewery in Rouse Hill on 11 October, and the St George Motor Boat Club in Sans Souci on 25 October. These events were a huge success with over 200 electrical contractors coming together to connect, learn and keep up to date with the latest changes in industry legislation and compliance issues that directly affect their businesses.

for Electrical Work (CCEW) regulations, updates to Australian standards and rules, addressing non-compliant and unsafe electrical work in NSW, and apprentice supervision regulations.

The events featured a line-up of speakers including representatives from SafeWork NSW, NSW Fair Trading and Ausgrid, who shared valuable insights on their key focuses and target areas for 2023/24. These included topics such as safety inspections, compliance with Certificate of Compliance

Another aspect of the workshop was the $1,000 SafeWork NSW Small Business Rebate, which is designed to assist small businesses in NSW to improve their workplace safety. The rebate is most commonly used towards purchasing and upgrading safety equipment.

Key highlights from the event included the following: representatives from SafeWork NSW, NSW Fair Trading, and Ausgrid provided valuable insights into their key focuses and target areas for 2023/24; ½ all attending electrical contracting businesses had the opportunity to apply for the $1,000 SafeWork NSW Small Business Rebate; ½ members were introduced to NECA’s exclusive member offer: 15% off Fergus Job Management Software for the duration of their NECA membership; ½ NECA business partners showcased their latest industry products and provided valuable insights. ½

NECA’s workshops were proudly supported by the NSW Government Small Business Month program, and our business partners: MMEM, TLE, Clipsal, Schneider Electric ,NHP, IPD, ABB, NECA Training & Apprenticeships, NESS Super, ACRS, Fergus, NSW Fair Trading, SafeWork NSW and Ausgrid.

NECA TRAINER’S EXPLORE CLIPSAL SCHNEIDER INNOVATION HUB AT MACQUARIE PARK NECA Training & Apprenticeships had an exciting opportunity to visit the Clipsal Schneider Innovation Hub in Macquarie Park on 28 September 2023. During their visit, they explored their EcoStruxure Story, which highlights their commitment to sustainable and efficient energy management. One of the day’s highlights was spending time inside the data centre with Schneider Electric Subject Matter Expert, Jason Dean. This was an incredible opportunity to see firsthand the technology and innovation that is driving the future of smart energy. The trainees’ enthusiasm and dedication in expanding their skills and knowledge was evident, as they asked questions and learned about the latest advancements in data center technology. The partnership between NECA and Schneider Electric is testament to the power of collaboration and a commitment to advancing the electrical industry. Thank you to the team at Schneider Electric for organising this tour. We look forward to future opportunities to continue exploring and learning about the cutting-edge solutions being developed by Clipsal Schneider.

NECA’S COMMERCIAL CONTRACTS WORKSHOP NECA Legal’s recent Commercial Contracts Workshop at their Centre of Excellence in Chullora was a rousing success, leaving attendees feeling empowered and knowledgeable about handling contract administration. Led by NECA Legal’s Senior Associate and Construction Practice Manager, Frank Brown, this interactive workshop covered everything from contracts and the Security of Payment Act to progressing claims and payment claims. It was clear that attendees walked away with the skills needed to effectively navigate the complex world of contracts and payments. The engaging workshop was praised for its well-organised structure and informative content, making it a truly valuable experience for all who attended.

December 2023

ENCOURAGING MORE WOMEN TO JOIN

NSW BRANCH

NECA TRAINING’S ELECTRICAL PRE-APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM INCREASING FEMALE PARTICIPATION IN THE NSW ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY: ENCOURAGING A MORE DIVERSE, INCLUSIVE AND SAFE WORKPLACE FOR WOMEN. Women are an essential part of our workforce, and the NSW Government is taking active steps to encourage more women to join the construction industry. One initiative under the Women in Construction Strategy is NECA Training’s Electrical Preapprenticeship Program for Women. Currently facilitated by Jane Ewing, NECA’s first Field Officer for Female Engagement, this program aims to increase participation rates of female electricians and improve gender diversity in the electrical industry.

Why should we encourage women to pursue a career in the electrical industry? As the construction industry continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled electricians. However, one major challenge faced by this field is the shortage of qualified workers. This gap in the workforce can be partially addressed by encouraging more women into the industry. Women are currently under-represented as skilled trades workers, making up only 2% of the workforce. This lack of diversity not only limits opportunities for women but also hinders the industry’s growth potential. By promoting and supporting women in pursuing careers in electrical work, we can help bridge this gap and create a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Our recent survey to employers and supervisors, tradeswomen and female apprentices found that education through schools and mentor/work experience programs were key to encouraging more women in the industry.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

Who can participate in NECA Training’s Electrical Preapprenticeship Program? Held over two weeks commencing from 10 January 2024, the program is an essential initiative under the Women in Construction (WIC) Strategy and aimed at female students in Years 10, 11 and 12. This program exists to encourage more women to join the electrical industry and gain the practical experience needed to start an apprenticeship in the electrical trades. It’s a great opportunity for women to explore and understand the skills needed to succeed in the industry. Program participants receive essential training that helps them get equipped with fundamental trade skills and knowledge that will set them up for success. It’s intended to break the stereotype electrician and provide women with a holistic understanding of the electrical industry and the different career paths available. Participants can learn about the different types of work within the trade, including residential, commercial and industrial, and gain a better understanding of the types of roles that exist within the electrical industry, such as project management. Furthermore, it provides opportunities for women with little or no prior experience to get hands-on experience in an industry setting, and gain practical skills to prepare them for a pathway to an electrical apprenticeship with NECA Training & Apprenticeships.

Best in Industry Mentors with NECA Training & Apprenticeships Who better to mentor this program than our professional NECA Trainers. Our mentors understand the challenges faced by women today, and they are committed to providing guidance and advice through every step of the program. With their support, we are confident that our participants will have the best chance of success in pursuing an electrical apprenticeship. Across the industry, 55% of apprentices complete their apprenticeship, but via NECA we have over 91% of our apprentices complete the trade due to the additional care and attention we put into our apprentices. The electrotechnology industry has traditionally been a male-dominated field, creating potential barriers for women who are interested in pursuing careers in this sector. Encouraging more women to ‘test the waters’ by holding initiatives such as NECA’s Electrical Pre-apprenticeship Program for Women can help break down these barriers and create a safer and more welcoming workplace for women. For more information, contact NECA on 1300 361 099.

| 71

NECA RECRUITING NEW ELECTRICAL APPRENTICES NOW

NSW BRANCH

NECA ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIPS ARE WELL INTO RECRUITMENT FOR THE NEXT LARGE INTAKE OF APPRENTICES, COMMENCING IN JANUARY 2024. THE ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY HAS SEEN THE DEMAND FOR ELECTRICAL APPRENTICES GROWING STEADILY SINCE THE END OF THE PANDEMIC, AND WE HAVE NOW RETURNED TO THE PRE-PANDEMIC RECRUITMENT LEVELS. WHILST NECA ELECTRICAL APPRENTICES RECRUITS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, MOST APPRENTICES COMMENCE BETWEEN NOVEMBER AND JANUARY TO COINCIDE WITH THEIR STUDIES WHICH BEGIN IN FEBRUARY. The recruitment and selection process is one of the most crucial aspects of a business’s continued growth. Our expert recruitment practices, knowledge and experience enables us to identify and hire quality candidates who add value to your business. This removes the risk of apprentice turnover and allowing our hosts to get on with running their business safe in the knowledge their future work force is secure. NECA Electrical Apprenticeships have achieved completion rates of 90% and above, whilst the industry completion rates for electrical apprenticeships in Australia are typically at 60% or lower. We believe the key ingredients for this success are industry-specific recruitment, including appropriate selection of work opportunities and support from experienced, specialist mentors such as our field officers – who are also qualified electricians.

What are the main issues with recruitment?

can help apprentices develop the skills and knowledge they need.

Too often trades are seen as an alternative for kids that don’t make it to university, which could not be further from the truth. For example, the theory component of the electrical trade requires a solid level of maths and comprehension. To ensure apprentices have the necessary skills, NECA uses a preselection test as the first stage of their recruitment process to identify suitable candidates. It also provides tutorial support to those who need additional help throughout their apprenticeship. NECA has conducted comprehensive research into our candidates, and we know which academic attributes make the best apprentices and how we

Beyond confirming an applicant’s academic ability to complete their theory component of an apprenticeship, an electrical apprentice should have similar attributes to other good employees and of course demonstrate an enthusiasm to work with their hands in a practical role. NECA includes basic practical tests during the selection process to confirm an applicant’s ability using hand tools. A high academic achiever who doesn’t know the pointy end of a hammer is no more useful than a practical applicant who can’t pass the theory!

Other advice for NECA members As the largest employer of apprentices in our industry, NECA Electrical Apprenticeships is very experienced in all aspects of training apprentices from recruitment through to completion. We are happy to assist NECA members with advice on apprenticeships, whether or not you’re a NECA host. For more advice or to enquire about becoming a host, call your local NECA office via the details below, or email us at apprentice@necatraining.com.au Sydney (02) 9744 2754 Brisbane (07) 3276 7950 Canberra (02) 6280 5580 NECA Electrical Apprentices is now recruiting apprentices for our next major intake – more information on the following page.

December 2023

HAVE ALL THE BENEFITS OF AN

ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE WITHOUT TAKING ON THE RISK

NECA NECA Electrical Electrical Apprenticeships Apprenticeships employ employ quality quality apprentices apprentices and and place place them them with with host host companies companies for for any any amount amount of of time time from from 33 months months to to 44 years. years. Becoming Becoming a a host host company company means means that that you you pay pay aa fixed fixed charge charge out out rate, rate, whilst whilst we we take take on on all all the the added added costs, costs, responsibilities responsibilities and and risk. risk.

Build are employed employed by by their their Build your your future: future: 97% 97% of of our our graduating graduating apprentices apprentices are host host on on completion. completion.

NECA ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIPS PROVIDE

 Advertising Advertising  Recruitment Recruitment  Interviews Interviews and and selection selection blindness test test  Medicals Medicals including including colour colour blindness  Payroll Payroll  On-going mentoring by by On-going monitoring monitoring and and mentoring licensed field staff staff licensed electrical electrical field  All All administration administration and and paperwork paperwork  TAFE TAFE (monitoring (monitoring results) results)

COSTS INCLUDED IN THE THE CHARGE CHARGE OUT OUT RATE RATE Annual Leave Leave days days Annual Sick days days  Sick Public holidays holidays  Public TAFE days days (36/yr) (36/yr)  TAFE  TAFE TAFE fees fees  Superannuation Superannuation  Uniforms Uniforms and and PPE PPE  Workers Workers Compensation Compensation 

WE ARE NOT-FOR-PROFIT | PASSING THE BENEFITS ON TO YOU

Connect with your local NECA centre ACT Brett Mick Apps McIntyre T (02) 6280 5580 NSW Brad Hoffman Hoff man T (02) (02) 9744 97442754 2754 QLD Mark Wood T (07) (07)3276 32767950 7950

necatraining.com.au

ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIPS national electrical and communications association

NEW ACCREDITED SERVICE PROVIDER TRAINING

NSW BRANCH

NECA’S TRAINING CENTRES IN SYDNEY AND THE ACT ARE SPECIALLY DESIGNED TO PROVIDE ACCREDITED SERVICE PROVIDER (ASP) TRAINING. WE OFFER TRAINING COURSES FOR BOTH NEWCOMERS AND EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS TO ENSURE THEY ARE SKILLED AND PRIORITISE SAFETY. What is an ASP? An ASP is someone authorised to work on the electrical network in New South Wales. They undergo training as either ASP Level 1 or ASP Level 2. Once accredited, ASPs have access to refresher training courses. ASP refresher training focuses on safety and is required for ASPs at various levels. It covers safe practices, rescue procedures and first aid.

ASP Initial Training: Building a Foundation This training provides essential knowledge and skills for working safely with electrical systems, covering topics like electrical theory, cable types, installation techniques and safety rules. Safety is a significant emphasis, ensuring participants understand the potential hazards and use of safety equipment.

Refresher Training: Adapting to Evolving Standards As technology and safety standards change, refresher training keeps ASPs up to date. It addresses new technologies and safety regulations, bridging the gap between established practices and evolving safety requirements. NECA Training offers various courses to help you with your ASP business, including refresher training. Here are some of our courses: Electrical Supply Industry New Worker; Electrical Supply Industry New Worker (With Overhead Work); ½ Essential Energy; ½ Level 1 ASP and Cable Joining (Class 1A, Class 1C, Transition Cable Joint); ½ Level 2 ASP (Statutory Training, Mandatory Units, Class 2B, Class 2C, Class 2D); ½ Refresher Training (ASP Refresher, Non-electrical Worker Refresher). ½ ½

December 2023

UPGRADE YOUR SKILLS

NEW DATA & TELECOMMUNICATION COURSES NECA – delivering first class training in an evolving industry NECA Training has a purpose built state-of-the-art facility in Chullora providing the latest digital IP equipment and HANDS-ON training with high end technical resources. If you wish to gain the ACMA registration, by choosing to train with NECA you’ll have access to our holistic facility. Experienced trainers deliver the courses so you can be up to date in this exciting and ever evolving industry. Learn best practices, improve your productivity, expand your knowledge and grow your career.

NECA TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROVIDE Nationally recognised training Specialists in the telecommunications and electrical industries Train with professionals, someone you can trust NECA provides training for the industry by the industry Anyone can enrol (including non-members)

TELECOMMUNICATIONS COURSES AVAILABLE Open Registration Courses Structured Cabling (Cat 5-7) Coaxial Cabling Optic Fibre Terminations Open Registration Exam for Electricians Working Near Electricity Network – Initial Working New Electricity Network – Refresher More courses available

WE ARE NOT-FOR-PROFIT | PASSING THE BENEFITS ON TO YOU

Visit our website for more details, course times and costs. ONLINE necatraining.com.au CALL (02) 9288 4424 EMAIL skills@necatraining.com.au

BRANCH UPDATE Christopher Gradwell NECA QLD Member Manager

WELCOME TO OUR DECEMBER ISSUE OF NECA NEWS. As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible achievements of the NECA members throughout the past twelve months. Despite the challenges faced, our members have risen to the occasion and accomplished remarkable projects, formed new fruitful partnerships, and continued to showcase their expertise and knowledge in their respective fields. We have seen some outstanding work this year and are excited to recognise them all in this edition of NECA News.

Scan here to visit the NECA QLD homepage

QLD BRANCH

NECA Membership The NECA membership in Queensland has seen a remarkable surge, reflecting the unprecedented success and expansion of the industry. With tireless dedication, NECA QLD has consistently strived for the betterment of its members through a range of initiatives. These include conducting regular health checks for businesses, hosting informative industry nights with government regulators, and organising wholesaler briefing sessions. NECA QLD has spared no effort in advocating for its members to the State Government. The growth and achievements in this industry are truly inspiring, and we anticipate this upward trend to continue in the coming years. In the ever-changing electrical communications sector understanding your responsibilities as an electrical contractor or employee is crucial. This is where NECA membership becomes your indispensable companion, equipping you with vital insights, resources, and tailored support specific to your circumstances. With NECA, you can confidently navigate the evolving landscape of regulations and legislation, ensuring compliance and staying ahead of the game.

NECA Business Partners At the heart of NECA are our business partners who collaborate seamlessly, providing the support needed to achieve betterment in our industry. For this reason, we would like to take a moment to express our sincere appreciation to all our business partners who have played an instrumental role in NECA and our industry. We believe that our relationships with our partners are among our most important assets, built on a foundation of trust, mutual respect and effective communication. So, to all our valued partners, thank you for your dedication and contribution, and here’s to many more years of fruitful collaboration. Thank you MMEM & Haymans, Clipsal Schneider, NHP, IPD ABB, ACRS.

New Partnership with Fergus As an electrical contractor, managing jobs can be a daunting task. Between scheduling, invoicing, and ensuring a safe workplace, the administrative side of the job can be overwhelming. That’s why NECA has partnered with Fergus, an all-in-one job management software designed to streamline workflows and save valuable administration time. With Fergus, NECA members in Queensland can build healthier cash flows while running safer workplaces. Plus, as a NECA member, you’ll receive 15% off the software for life. And if you become a paying customer, NECA’s free safe work method statements will be pre-loaded into your Fergus platform. Scan this QR code to visit the NECA website to find out more.

December 2023

QLD BRANCH

NECA Continues to sit on the Queensland Government Electrical Safety Board

New NECA QLD Social Pages NECA is dedicated to providing valuable support and resources for our members and we understand that each state has unique needs and challenges within the industry. This is why we have recently divided our NECA Group LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram accounts into individual statespecific accounts. This allows us to better cater to your specific needs by providing relevant content related to your state. By following our NECA QLD social pages, you will have access to important updates, industry news, and helpful resources that are tailored specifically for the electrical industry in Queensland. We encourage you to join our NECA QLD social pages today!



/necaqld



/necaqldbranch

NECA now offers an updated version of the NECA SWMS template; the SWMS is compiled by industry experts and contains the latest guidelines and regulations; NECA members have complimentary access to popular SWMS through MKB; alternatively, members can subscribe to Safety GEN or EmploySafe Safety Management Systems for access to the NECASafe library; the SWMS library is regularly updated to incorporate the learnings from real-world incidents and fatalities; SWMS are regularly updated to comply with regulations and code changes; NECA handles the details of regulatory compliance for its members; NECA monitors principal contractors’ requirements for SWMS, streamlining the submission process; existing SWMS must be updated by members to reflect any changes in activities or hazards; regular reviews and monitoring are crucial for effective SWMS documentation; members can download the updated NECA SWMS and review them in consultation with their team to create a safe working environment.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU



@neca_qld

Is your business in good health? As the year comes to a close, it’s a great opportunity to take a step back and evaluate your business’s overall health. Are there areas where your business may be struggling that you haven’t fully addressed yet? Luckily, there is a free resource available for NECA members to help identify potential issues and provide guidance and support to overcome them. A Membership Health Check with NECA can not only help you ensure you have the necessary tools to be successful, but it’s also a chance to build a strong relationship with your team and work together towards achieving your business goals. Don’t hesitate to reach out and make use of this valuable resource. Scan this QR code to get started.

The Queensland Government Electrical Safety Board was established to provide advice to the Queensland Minister for Industrial Relations (electrical safety) and to also provide leadership to the Electrical Safety Office on strategic directions for electrical safety matters in Queensland. The Board is refreshed every three years with appointments coming from diverse organisations representing employers, workers and community groups. NECA is an avid supporter of the Electrical Safety Board as it provides industry input into electrical safety in our state. NECA has been well represented on the Board in recent years, most recently through NECA’s Peter Lamont. The Honourable Grace Grace MP, Queensland Minister for Industrial Relations kindly acknowledged Peter’s contribution to the Board at the recent Parliamentary Dinner in Brisbane. In representing the sector for his term on the Board, Peter played a significant role in promoting industry best practice in safety and performance amongst electrical contractors, and electrical and communications workers. In October 2023, Minister Grace announced the appointments to the new Board membership for the next three years to October 2026, with NECA’s Director of Government Relations, Irma Beganovic being a welcome appointment. Irma brings a wealth of management and advocacy experience to her appointment, along with a desire to see electrically safe workplaces and safe electrical installations and electrical equipment in use in domestic and commercial properties. Irma also has a particular interest in increasing the representation of women in our sector. On behalf of NECA, I’d like to thank Peter Lamont for his significant contribution to the work of the Queensland Government, and his representation of the electrotechnology sector over the last three years on the Electrical Safety Board. Again, my congratulations to Irma on her appointment.

Christmas Shutdown The offices of NECA QLD, NECA Apprenticeships, NECA Legal and NECA Trade Services will be closed from Friday 22 December 2023 and re-open on Monday 8 January 2024.

| 77

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

QLD BRANCH

WITH QUEENSLAND’S ELECTROTECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY

HAYMANS VIRGINIA RACE DAY

NECA QLD’S VISIT TO MOUNT ISA

Representatives from all areas of the industry - contractors, suppliers, wholesalers and NECA Qld - came together for a day of fun, laughter and memories. What’s remarkable is how this event allowed everyone to feel more like friends and family than just business associates. This speaks to the deep relationships that NECA has fostered in the industry over the years. As the leading advocate for the electrical industry and electrical contractors, NECA knows the value of these relationships and the importance of industry engagement. These connections are what makes the industry stronger and better for everyone. Here in Queensland, NECA is making great strides in leading the way in this regard.

NECA QLD Membership Manager, Christopher Gradwell, recently took a trip to Mount Isa to connect with local electricians and have meaningful discussions about the pressing issues affecting their businesses. The support provided by NECA for Queensland’s regional electrical industry was highly appreciated by all the contractors who attended the meeting. During the visit, Chris actively listened to the insights contractors shared about the challenges they face in industry. Safety and regulation were the key areas of focus, as they discussed potential changes that could lead to long-term success for businesses across regional areas in Queensland.

NECA QLD INDUSTRY BRIEFING WITH HAYMANS CAIRNS AND NOOSA

ADVOCACY AND POLICY NECA thanks the Hon Grace Grace MP, Queensland Minister for Education, Industrial Relations and Racing for kindly hosting NECA Queensland’s inaugural Ministerial Dinner in Queensland’s Parliament House. The event provided an opportunity for members to engage directly with the Minister on issues impacting apprentices, workers and businesses in Queensland.

NECA QLD’s Industry Briefings with Haymans in Cairns and Noosa proved to be the ultimate networking and business growth experience. All attendees were kept up to date on industry standards, while forging valuable relationships. Among the key topics discussed were safety measures and regulations. Chrisotpher Gradwell attentively listened to the insights shared by electrical contractors, gaining knowledge on the challenges faced by businesses in regional areas across Queensland. He actively noted potential changes that may be required for long-term success.

December 2023

STAYING COMPLIANT

QLD BRANCH

WITH NECA’S TECHNICAL ADVICE AND SUPPORT FOR ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING BUSINESSES, STAYING COMPLIANT WITH INDUSTRY STANDARDS CAN MAKE OR BREAK THEIR BUSINESS. NON-COMPLIANCE CAN LEAD TO SAFETY HAZARDS AND LEGAL ISSUES, WHICH IN TURN CAN PUT A HUGE DENT IN A BUSINESS’ REPUTATION AND FINANCIAL STABILITY. To avoid such outcomes, NECA members have access to an invaluable resource – NECA’s technical advice and support. In this article, we explore five key reasons why NECA’s Technical support provides unlimited value.

Access to Australian Standards NECA’s technical advice and support provides unlimited phone and email support on all 24 Australian Standards that are available in the Members’ Knowledge Base (MKB), including the Wiring Rules, metering rules and state regulation rules. This means NECA members can consult with our Technical Experts regarding any technical issues or queries about industry regulations. This helps NECA members stay compliant, avoid costly mistakes and maintain a high level of safety.

On-the-spot support for complex situations Sometimes electricians can find themselves in situations that require further clarification of standards and regulations. NECA’s experts can help you apply standards regulations to your unique circumstance, and the best part is NECA has technical experts for every state.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

Education and training In addition to providing technical support, NECA also aims to educate its members through other resources such as its fortnightly eNewsletter, technical webinars and Industry Nights.

Keeping updated on regulatory changes Throughout the industry, regulations and standards change frequently. Not only are NECA’s Technical Experts qualified electricians with over 30 years in all sectors of the industry, they also sit on various committees, including the EL001 Wiring Rules Committee, to advocate and provide representation to State and Federal Governments to stay up to date on these changes. They also keep members informed about any relevant updates. This helps NECA members adjust to these changes more smoothly, and plan more effectively to changes in regulations.

NECA Members’ Knowledge Base (MKB) NECA MKB is a centralised online hub exclusively available to NECA members and holds over 24 Australian Standards and industry regulations. In addition, it houses a plethora of resources including health, safety, environment and quality (HSEQ) documents and safe work method statements (SWMS), Toolbox Talks, and hundreds of other templates including legal, human resources, and industrial relations. It’s important to note that NECA’s MKB is accessible to all NECA members and their staff at any time. Staying compliant should be a top priority – NECA membership provides a valuable resource for all members. With NECA’s unlimited technical advice and support, members can have peace of mind knowing they’re working within guidelines and regulations. For more information, scan the QR code to connect with NECA.

| 79

BRANCH UPDATE Larry Moore NECA SA/NT Executive Director

EVERY YEAR SEEMS TO BE PASSING BY AT AN EVERQUICKENING PACE, AND HERE WE ARE AGAIN ON THE COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS. I AM SURE YOU WILL ALL AGREE THIS YEAR HAS ABSOLUTELY FLOWN BY! As we come to the end of 2023, it is the perfect time to reflect on the many successes our members, their businesses, and the industry have enjoyed this year. The end of one year and the start of the next is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the wins, learn from the mistakes, and set some new goals for the year ahead!

Scan here to visit the NECA SA/NT homepage

SA/NT BRANCH

After another busy and challenging year, we want to remind our members and their employees how important it is to take care of ourselves, by ensuring we all take a well-deserved break to relax and recharge the batteries over the Christmas/New Year period. It has certainly been another busy year for NECA SA/NT, assisting members with various queries, from WHS to employee management, and labour shortages, to holding various events from our roadshows to our Industry Gala Dinner, and lobbying and advocating on behalf of our members to the State and Federal Governments.

Events We have managed to run several successful events and training sessions for our members this year. Some highlights have included: ½

a fantastic High Tea, at the Adelaide Pavilion, in March, with the other members of the Specialist Contractors Association to celebrate women in construction, coinciding with International Women’s Day. This event brings together like-minded women and men who support the brilliant work that women undertake in this industry, providing an opportunity to network, listen to guest speakers, and enjoy some delicious refreshments;

the delivery of an informative and successful Roadshow Seminar Series that visited thirteen locations across metropolitan and regional South Australia with updates from NECA, SA Power Networks, and the Office of the Technical Regulator. Nearly 1,000 electricians attended across the thirteen shows to hear about the latest rules and regulations for the trade and check out the latest products and services from our dedicated sponsors; an informative and interesting webinar, hosted in June, with business consultant Ray Hodge and industrial relations lawyer Tom Earls, on managing tricky people and how to bring out the best in your employees. This topic was particularly relevant with many businesses struggling to recruit enough skilled people to align with their labour requirements; another successful Specialist Contractors Association Annual Business Luncheon, which was held in August at the National Wine Centre. With a theme of ‘Managing Risks in Construction Contracts,’ the event saw over 150 attendees informed about Security of Payment legislation, statutory trusts, and unfair contract terms; another brilliant Industry Gala Dinner, at the Adelaide Convention Centre in September, saw the top electrical and communications apprentices, small businesses, and projects in South Australia and the Northern Territory being recognised. Each of our state Apprentice, Small Business, and Excellence Awards winners went onto the National Awards. We are extremely proud of them and wish them all the best. For further information, see the Apprentice, Small Business, and Excellence Awards feature in this magazine;

December 2023

SA/NT BRANCH

an educational presentation, by Charles Moran from Lynch Meyer Lawyers, on Unfair Contract Term reforms, which came into effect in November 2023. This presentation saw members of all associations that are part of the Specialist Contractors Association come together to understand the changes to the law and be guided on what terms may fall foul of the legislation.

Membership We believe we have continued to excel in providing helpful and relevant information and services to our members in various important areas, including human resource management, industrial relations, legal and contractual matters, workplace health and safety, business management and marketing, training and education, and technical and licensing issues. Particularly with the severe skilled labour shortages and ever-rising supply costs, membership engagement is at an alltime high, with members seeking support and advice from their industry body.

Industry representation and advocacy At the industry level, we have continued to work with other industry stakeholders, including government regulators, both national and state, supply authorities, manufacturers, and wholesalers where we have continued to maintain a strong and dynamic presence to ensure the best interests of contractors are represented.

We have had an incredibly successful year in advocating for our members, particularly in regard to Unfair Contract Terms, and have been working with our NECA national Government Relations team to ensure our members’ needs are heard across the country. This year we have again represented members’ interests in a diverse array of areas, including representation on the Portable Long Service Leave board, Electrotechnology Industry Reference Committee (IRC), SA Power Networks Connections Working Group (CWG) and Major Electrical Connection Subcommittee, Energy Skills Australia, TAFE SA Industry Reference Group, Electrotechnology Training Advisory Group (ETAG), and, of course, the management committees of RACCA, NECA, NCA and the Specialist Contractors Association.

NECA Careers & Apprenticeships Our group training organisation, NECA Careers & Apprenticeships (NCA), is now in its sixth year of operation. At the time of writing, we have 134 apprentices employed, with 20 of them graduating this year, which is incredibly exciting and a testament to the commitment and dedication of the NCA team. We are so pleased to see the organisation thriving and have received some outstanding feedback from industry on the quality of our apprentices. We would love to provide this service to more of our members and are looking for more apprentices and host employers

Christmas Shutdown The offices of NECA SA/NT and NECA Careers & Apprenticeships (NCA) will be closed from Friday 22 December 2023 and re-open on Monday 8 January 2024.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

in 2024. We remind members that they receive a discounted chargeout rate on apprentices as well.

Closing To all of our members, we sincerely thank you for your support and I trust NECA SA/NT has been able to help you and your business throughout the year. I would like to acknowledge and thank our sponsors of the events held during 2023 and look forward to working with them again in the new year. In particular, I would like to thank our national business partners, Clipsal by Schneider Electric, NHP, and IPD/ABB, and also our state business partners, Cbus Super, MEGT, and simPRO, for their ongoing support. A very special thank you must go to the NECA SA/NT and NCA teams: Maica, Jasmin, Jamie, Dain, Ben, Craig, Russell, Lara, Tash, Gemma, and Claire whose unwavering efforts ensure that NECA SA/NT, NCA, RACCA SA, and the Specialist Contractors Association run smoothly and effectively. I would also like to thank the NECA SA/ NT Committee of Management: Andrew Cross, Greg Hodby, Simon Butler, Jarrod Poulton, Chris Mattner, Brad Maurits, and Andrew Russell and the RACCA SA Committee John Daniels, Craig Goodall, Michael Neller, Nick Kolev and Kim Anderson. In addition, I thank those members who represent NECA SA/NT and RACCA SA on various committees, boards, and other industry bodies. We are extremely fortunate to have such a dedicated and hard-working group of people who work together representing the interests of our members. Finally, best wishes to you and your families for a safe and happy festive season and we look forward to working with you in the new year.

| 81

IMPORTANT CHANGES TO AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS RELATING TO OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

SA/NT BRANCH

AS/NZS ISO 45001 (which replaced AS 4801 Occupational Health and Safety Management System) came into effect on 13 July 2023. If you are still contracted under AS 4801 for a project then you will stay with AS 4801 until it finishes; however, you must then come across to ISO 45001.

So, what are the differences? One of the main differences is that senior management (in the case of a small business the director) have been allocated thirteen additional responsibilities. Some examples of these are below: ½ ensuring the integration of health and safety management system requirements into the organisation’s business processes; ½ communicating the importance of the management system and of conforming to the requirement of the management system; ½ ensuring and promoting continual improvement; ½ developing, leading, and promoting a culture in the organisation that supports the intended outcome of the management system; ½ protecting workers from reprisals when reporting incidents and hazards (no blame policy). Regarding the Health and Safety Policy, you must now demonstrate: a commitment to providing safe and healthy working conditions for the prevention of workrelated injury and ill health; ½ a commitment to eliminating hazards and reducing occupational health and safety (OH&S) risks; and ½ a commitment to consultation and participation of workers, and, where they exist, workers representatives. ½

Part of the consultation and communication from non-managerial workers now must include the following: Seek participation when: ½ determining the competence requirements, training needs and evaluating training;

investigating incidents and non-conformities and determining corrective actions.

Remove obstacles and barriers to participation such as: ½

failure to respond to worker suggestions;

language or literacy barriers;

reprisals or threat of reprisals;

practices that discourage or penalise worker participation.

Consult non-managerial workers when: ½

determining how to fulfil legal and other requirements; establishing health and safety objectives.

Risks and opportunities Determine risks and opportunities when establishing, implementing, and maintaining the management system: Some risks could be: ½

non-compliance with legal or other requirements; not implementing the health and safety system; not monitoring the health and safety system effectively.

Opportunities could be: ½

Consultation and communication

determining what needs to be communicated and how this will be done;

using technology (such as digital health and safety systems) to improve efficiency; planning and conducting initiatives to improve the wellbeing of workers and the safety culture. These could include the planning of team building activities or establishment of reward programs.

Psychosocial hazards The requirements of identifying hazards, and what must be considered, have now been expanded to include psychosocial hazards. Specifically, psychosocial hazards address the mental behaviour of a work group as a whole and how this can harm the wellbeing of people within the workgroup. Examples of this could include: ½ workload; ½ work hours; ½ victimisation; ½ harassment/bullying; ½ leadership (micromanagement or lack of effective leadership); ½ the culture of the organisation (generally stemming from poor leadership).

Procurement ISO 45001 now addresses the need for contractors to extend their health and safety requirements to subcontractors. Procurement must address the requirements for considering and managing the health and safety risks arising from: ½ ½

the subcontractor’s operations; the impact of your business’s operations on the subcontractor; the subcontractor’s impact on other interested parties.

One way of meeting this requirement is to ensure you introduce your WHS policy and applicable procedures to the subcontractor and record their acknowledgement of receipt with a signed document.

The importance of effective systems Now more than ever you need to be proactive in having a compliant management system that addresses health, safety, and the wellbeing of your workforce. The responsibilities of a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) and officers are growing and so are the needs of your workers.

Ben Simpson Workplace Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Manager

December 2023

UNFAIR CONTRACT TERMS

SA/NT BRANCH

PROTECTING SMALL BUSINESS AS OF 9 NOVEMBER 2023, A SIGNIFICANT LEGAL REFORM CAME INTO EFFECT THROUGH THE TREASURY LAWS AMENDMENT (MORE COMPETITION, BETTER PRICES) ACT 2022. THIS AMENDMENT BROUGHT ABOUT CHANGES TO THE UNFAIR CONTRACT TERMS PROVISIONS OF THE COMPETITION AND CONSUMER ACT 2010 AND THE AUSTRALIAN SECURITIES AND INVESTMENTS COMMISSION ACT 2001 (ASIC ACT). THESE CHANGES PROVIDE ENHANCED PROTECTION FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AGAINST UNFAIR CONTRACT TERMS AS WELL AS PROVIDING OTHER EXPANDED PROTECTIONS. Changes to the scope: definition of small business Prior to the amendment, the Unfair Contract Terms regime was limited under Australian Consumer Law to contracts in which one party employed fewer than 20 people, and the contract in question had a duration of less than 12 months and a value less than $300,000. Since the amendment took effect, the definition of a small business for the purposes of unfair contracts has now been expanded to include businesses with up to 100 employees or a turnover of less than $10 million. The restrictions regarding the value of the contract have also been removed.

Claiming unfairness: standard form contracts Whilst the number of firms that can now seek relief from Unfair Contract Terms has been expanded, making a claim remains a nuanced process. It goes beyond simply identifying a clause as unfair, as per the definition under Australian Consumer Law or other imbalance between the parties as to rights. For a successful claim the contract in question must be a ‘standard form’ contract. The presumption rests with the party claiming a contract is a standard form contract and must be rebutted by the party alleging otherwise. In making the determination the court will consider the following: ½

firstly, whether one party was essentially presented with a ‘take it or leave it’ contract where they had to accept the terms as presented;

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

secondly, whether the other party had an effective opportunity to negotiate those terms; additionally, the court evaluates whether one of the parties has used the same or a similar contract before.

Importantly, even if there was an opportunity for minor or insubstantial alterations, selection from predetermined options, or negotiation of other terms within the contract, a court may still classify it as a standard form contract.

Conclusion The Treasury Laws Amendment (More Competition, Better Prices) Act 2022 has significantly strengthened small business protections against unfair contract terms. While the process of challenging such terms can be complex, the amendments improve the bargaining position of subcontractors in the electrical industry meaning a fairer and more competitive marketplace moving forward.

Dain Venning Workplace Relations Advisor

| 83

BRANCH UPDATE Ben Shaw NECA TAS Member Manager

WELCOME TO OUR DECEMBER ISSUE OF NECA NEWS. As we prepare to say goodbye to yet another year, it’s important to acknowledge all the incredible accomplishments of our NECA members throughout the year. This year has been chaotic and unpredictable, but it’s notable how our members have achieved groundbreaking projects, formed new industry partnerships, and continued to demonstrate their expertise in the field as demonstrated by the nominees of this year’s NECA Excellence, Small Business and Apprentice Awards.

NECA Membership

TAS BRANCH

NECA membership in Tasmania has experienced significant growth over the past year, reflecting the industry’s remarkable success and expansion. It has been a pivotal year for NECA TAS, tirelessly working towards member betterment through regular health checks for businesses, informative industry nights with government regulators and wholesaler briefing sessions, and continued advocacy to the State Government.

This level of growth and success in the industry is truly heartening, and we hope this trend continues in the future. In the ever-changing electrical communications sector, understanding your responsibilities as an electrical contractor or employee is non-negotiable. That’s where NECA membership comes in. It serves as your essential companion, providing invaluable insights, resources and tailored support.

New Partnership with Fergus This year NECA partnered with Fergus to bring members an all-in-one job management software that helps you streamline workflows, save valuable administration time, run safer workplaces and build healthier cash flows. All NECA members in the TAS receive 15% off their Fergus Job Management Software for the life of their NECA membership. Plus when you sign up as a paying customer, NECA’s FREE safe work method statements (SWMS), which are available in the NECA Members’ Knowledge Base, are pre-loaded into your Fergus platform. Scan this QR code to visit the NECA website to find out more.

New NECA TAS Social Pages NECA is dedicated to providing valuable support and resources for our members and we understand that each state has unique needs and challenges within the industry. This is why we have recently divided our NECA Group LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram accounts into individual state-specific accounts. This allows us to better cater to your specific needs by providing relevant content related to your state. By following our NECA TAS social pages, you will have access to important updates, industry news, and helpful resources that are tailored specifically for the electrical industry in Tasmania.

Scan here to visit the NECA TAS homepage

We encourage you to join our NECA TAS social pages today!



/necatas



/necatasbranch



@neca_tas

December 2023

TAS BRANCH

NECA Takes steps to bridge state-wide training gap The NECA TAS Branch successfully delivered training on Installation Testing Practices for 46 of the state’s electricians in Hobart recently. The NECA-run course is currently one of an extremely limited posttrade offering in Tasmania for the electrical sector and addresses the serious lack of opportunity to upskill the state’s sparkies. ‘Quite a large number of non-compliant electrical works identified by the CBOS team have been centred around a lack of understanding of the testing and verification requirements,’ a Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) spokesperson said. ‘The training that NECA is providing is a big step forward in ensuring the standard of Tasmania’s electrical work continues to improve.’ NECA Tasmania’s Ben Shaw said, ‘This course has received outstanding feedback from participants and their employers, with many more wanting to take part. There are a further 80 participants undertaking this NECAled training throughout the state during our next session; however, the course reached maximum capacity within days of being announced. ‘As a result, we are currently looking at opportunities to expand our posttrade offerings even further for Tassie’s electricians. The collaboration

Stay on top of important dates and deadlines in 2024 Log into NECA Member’s Knowledge Base to download your 2024 RDO and Public Holiday Calendar. As a NECA member, you get unlimited basic phone and email support from in-house workplace relation experts on all matters including pay rates, award rates, terminations, travel allowances and leave entitlements specific to your business. We value your privacy, and all enquiries are kept confidential. If you require assistance, we encourage you to connect with our legal experts. Scan the QR code to connect with a NECA Expert.

with Keystone Tasmania has worked very well and it shows how working together can deliver great outcomes for our electricians and our sector.’ NECA National CEO Oliver Judd said, ‘The Employment White Paper released by the Federal Government has identified the critical need not only for additional apprentices, but the requirement for upskilling to meet the demands of the Australian economy. Australia will need almost 43,000 more electricians in the next ten years alone and these upskilling courses will be in high demand if we plan to deliver the clean energy workforce of the future.’

Gideon Perrott, CEO NECA Education and Careers, said, ‘It’s important that we as industry leaders are stepping up and providing opportunities to strengthen the Tasmanian electrotechnology sector and supporting its post-trade needs. We’re pleased to provide this industryled training with the support of Keystone funding and to ensure the Tasmanian electrical sector now has access to this critical set of skills which form a key part of the Australian Standards.’ NECA Training ACT is bringing more posttrade training courses to Tasmania and are seeking feedback from members for future training courses.

Christmas Shutdown The offices of NECA TAS, NECA Legal and NECA Trade Services will be closed from Friday 22 December 2023 and re-open on Monday 8 January 2024.

NECA Business Partners We want to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to all our business partners. Your continuous support and collaboration have been instrumental in our success and to the betterment of the industry. We value the relationships we’ve developed with our partners and believe they are founded on trust, respect and effective communication. Thank you MMEM Group – AWM, D&W, Power & Automation, EWM, Clipsal Schneider, NHP, IPD ABB, ACRS, NECA Education and Careers, TasNetworks and Keystone.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 85

NECA TASMANIA

TAS BRANCH

INDUSTRY NIGHTS NECA Tasmania Technical Lunches in October Ben Shaw and our Tasmanian business partners MMEM Group, NHP and Schneider Electric hosted Industry Technical Lunches in MMEM branches across the state during October.

THE SECOND SERIES OF NECA TASMANIA’S INDUSTRY NIGHTS FOR 2023 WAS A HUGE SUCCESS. OVER 450 ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS FROM PENGUIN, LAUNCESTON AND HOBART GATHERED TO CONNECT WITH EACH OTHER, LEARN ABOUT INDUSTRY LEGISLATION AND DISCUSS COMPLIANCE ISSUES IMPACTING THEIR BUSINESS. It was an amazing opportunity for everyone involved. The level of engagement was incredibly high as discussions centered around how best to navigate the ever-changing landscape that is the electrical contracting industry. Not only did attendees gain valuable insights into current regulations and guidelines they also had access to expert speakers from Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS), TasNetworks, NECA Technical Grant Morehouse and NECASafe Shaun Beet, who provided invaluable information over the three nights.

CBOS qualified these Industry Nights for three continuing professional development (CPD) points due to the wealth of knowledge shared at the event – a testament not just to those in attendance but also those who made it possible in the first place! A big thank you must go out to our speakers, business partners and everyone else who contributed or attended one or more of these nights. Your dedication will no doubt help push the industry forward in leaps and bounds!

AWM Burnie and Launceston, and D&W Devonport and Hobart all had the chance to offer customers exclusive access to NECA’s Technical, Safety, and Membership teams in their branches. Each session was well attended and many quality conversations were had. Participants were treated to information and the latest product samples from both sponsors, before enjoying a casual feed and chat with NECA’s Expert guests. As the week came to a close in all four cities it was clear that everyone who attended had gained valuable insights into how these business partners could help them succeed in their respective industries. As well as getting valuable technical support from our experts, from innovative products to helpful tips on best practices when dealing with customers, and how best to handle your businesses day to day it was evident that this year’s Technical Lunches had been a resounding success much to the delight of everyone involved. As we look forward to next year’s events, let us not forget just how important it is for our industry to remain informed about current trends, so we can continue providing quality services and knowledge to our clients every step of the way.

December 2023

ADVOCACY AND POLICY

TAS BRANCH

IN THE SPOTLIGHT WITH BEN SHAW

I recently had the opportunity to catch up with my old friend, the Hon Madeleine Ogilvie MP, who now holds the important portfolio of Workplace Safety and Consumer Affairs. Their conversation covered a wide range of topics, including licensing and regulations within our sector, and the opportunity to brief Minister Ogilvie on various issues and initiatives that NECA TAS has been advocating for. They discussed important matters such as electronic Certificate of Electrical Compliance (CEC) forms, the future of professional development in our sector, industrial relations legislation, and security of payments. It was refreshing to have engaging conversations with a highly invested minister. We are extremely excited to collaborate closely with Minister Ogilvie in the future. NECA’s Government and Policy Team also had an eventful few days in the Australian Capital Territory. They had the privilege of engaging directly with key ministers, shadow ministers, senators, and members of parliament to discuss vital topics such as security of payments, skills and training, industrial relations legislation, and female participation. We are extremely grateful to the following MPs for generously dedicating their time to meet with us and address the pressing issues our industry is confronted with: Minister Brendan O’Connor MP, Minister Julie Collins MP, Senator Wendy Askew, Senator The Hon Jonathon Duniam, Gavin Pearce MP, Senator Michaelia Cash, Senator Jacqui Lambie, Senator Claire Chandler, Senator Richard Colbeck, Senator Tammy Tyrrell, and Senator Hollie Hughes. Thank you to the Tasmanian Small Business Council (TSBC) for providing NECA TAS with the opportunity to meet with opposition leader Rebecca White. We had a productive discussion on Labor’s plans to support our small business sector, as well as the valuable insights shared by industry association representatives. During the conversation, several important issues were raised that are impacting our sector, including skills shortages, training, and the challenges faced by small contractors in attracting and retaining a workforce that can meet the demands of housing and major projects. Rebecca’s response was encouraging, and we were particularly impressed with the ideas she put forward for further consideration. I would like to extend my gratitude to Robert Mallett and the TSBC for facilitating this engaging opportunity. I had the pleasure of representing NECA at the recent Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ACCI) General Council meeting. A big shout-out to the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for organising this incredible event — great job Michael Bailey and the team! We would also like to extend our gratitude to Minister Julie Collins for taking the time to address the crucial issues facing our sector. I caught up with NECA member Contact Group (TAS) Annah Fromberg and Chey Sullivan along with Dr Karin Mathison to discuss women in electrotechnology policies, and how we can create a more diverse electrical industry. During the meeting, we reviewed NECA’s national policy position and explored ways to bring it to life in Tasmania. It was an amazing first step on our journey, and we are fully committed to making a difference! If you’re passionate about supporting women in the electrotechnology industry or know someone who is, stay tuned! We’ll soon be calling on you to stand with us and participate in initiatives that drive positive change.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

| 87

EASY DRIVING

ADVERTORIAL

DO YOU HAVE EXPERIENCE INSTALLING VARIABLE SPEED DRIVES? FAILURES WITH VARIABLE SPEED DRIVES CAN OCCUR IF NOT INSTALLED CORRECTLY. WITH SUPPLY CHAIN CONSTRAINTS, IF YOU DON’T HAVE EXPERIENCE INSTALLING DRIVES, IT IS PRUDENT TO ARRANGE FOR THE VENDOR OF THE DRIVES TO VALIDATE THE INSTALLATION AND ENSURE THE DRIVE IS SET UP CORRECTLY FOR START-UP. Your drive start-up will include: ½

physical inspection and verification of proper drive and motor installation practices prior to the application of power; verification that external control wiring is properly terminated at the drive input and output connection points; confirmation of drive cabling to the motor, line feed and isolation transformer (if applicable); inspection of all power and control components to verify correct operation; inspection of all vents, fans and current transformers; operation of the drive through its speed range to verify correct performance.

What to expect Kick-off meeting and site preparation NHP will conduct a kick-off meeting prior to attending the site and verify that you have completed and returned a variable speed drive (VSD) pre-startup checklist.

NHP is excited to introduce a new onsite Standard Drive Commissioning and Start Up Service for Allen-Bradley PowerFlex variable speed drives. The benefits of this new service include: Extended warranty Upon completion of the drive start-up process the manufacturer’s drive(s) warranty will be extended for 12 months from the start-up date.

Validate operation NHP Service Technicians can validate that the necessary electrical, mechanical and environmental criteria have been met to ensure proper equipment operation.

Optimal performance Configuring, commissioning and deployment of hardware and software.

Provide documentation NHP will provide documented evidence that the system functions in the manner specified by the manufacturer, improving reliability.

On-site drive start-up Upon completion and verification of a completed pre-startup checklist, NHP will perform the start-up of this equipment and provide documented evidence that the system functions in the manner specified by the manufacturer. Extended part warranty Upon completion of the drive startup process, the manufacturer’s drive(s) warranty will be extended for 12 months from the start-up date (the warranty is not to exceed 30 months from date of manufacture). For more information, please call your local NHP Account Representative on 1300 647 647 or email us at nhpsales@nhp.com.au December 2023

ABS ABSwall wall mount mount ABS wall enclosures enclosures

mount enclosures

Durable, cost effectiveand andsimple simpletotoinstall install Durable, cost effective

Durable, cost effective and simple to■install 5 sizes available:

300 x 200 x 180mm to 600 x 400 x 220mm

■ Light weight, which makeswall mounting

a simple, one-person job

nhp.com.au 1300 647 647 Wall mount range Wall mount range

nhp.com.au nhp.com.au 1300 647 647

nhpsales@nhp.com.au

1300 647 647 nhpsales@nhp.com.au

■ Easier to drill and cut

■ 5 sizes available: ■ 5 300 sizesx available: 200 x 180mm to 600 x 400 x 220mm

■300 Wireless cantobe600installed x 200 devices x 180mm x 400 xinside 220mm ■ Light weight, which makeswall mounting

without the need for external antenna

■ Light weight, which makeswall mounting a simple, one-person job

a simple, one-person job

■ Easier to drill and cut

■ Chemical resistant and won’t rust

■ Easier to drill and cut ■ Wireless devices can be installed inside

■ Wireless withoutdevices the need forbe external antenna can installed inside

theresistant need for external antenna ■without Chemical and won’t rust

Chemical resistant and won’t rust To order, please contact your local electrical wholesaler To order, please contact your local electrical wholesaler or or your your local local NHP NHP Account Account Representative Representative

Wall mount range

nhpsales@nhp.com.au

■

To order, please contact your local electrical wholesaler or your local NHP Account Representative

DIRECTOR’S REPORT Peter Lamont Director ACRS and Senior Policy Advisor peter.lamont@neca.asn.au

IT HAS BEEN A BUSY YEAR AT THE AUSTRALIAN CABLER REGISTRATION SERVICE (ACRS) AS WE CONTINUE TO ASSESS AND PROCESS APPLICATIONS FOR CABLER REGISTRATIONS. WHILE REGISTRATION NUMBERS ARE GOING UP, IT REMAINS A CONCERN TO ACRS STAFF THAT A NUMBER OF REGISTERED CABLERS ARE FAILING TO RENEW THEIR REGISTRATION WHEN IT EXPIRES. AS WE HAVE SAID MANY TIMES, ANYONE WHO CONTINUES TO WORK ON DATA AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS CABLING WHEN THEY ARE NOT REGISTERED IS OPERATING WITH HIGH RISK. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has been studying the chain of responsibility for the communications industry. Some of the ACMA’s key findings include the continuing shift towards internet-based services. This includes traditional voice and messaging, gaming, entertainment and mobile

Scan here to visit the ACRS website

ACRS NEWS

This is at a time when technology is advancing rapidly, and data and telecommunication cabling work becomes more important to business improvements and to home accessibility. Home automation is becoming increasingly popular, with new systems offering improvements to comfort, convenience, and control.

December 2023

IS YOUR BUSINESS payment services. In response, ACMA found that Telcos are responding by expanding their service offerings and forming partnerships with industry.

ACRSBUSINESS NEWS BUSINESS

features of the Wiring Rules and how they have changed over recent years.

you receive, and never click a link in an email to make a payment. If you’re unsure if a bill is real, contact the business by using a number you have sourced independently (for example, check their phone number online), or log in to your account if you have one the provider.of What are thewith consequences of doing doing What are the consequences cabling work work without without being being registered? registered? cabling Finally, the Telecommunications The ACMA ACMA has aa range range ofDeclaration options available available to to The has options (Types of Cabling Work)of enforce compliance. compliance. These These include: include: formal formal enforce 2013, is due to sunset on 1 April 2024. warnings; non-compliance non-compliance notices notices to to the the warnings; Astelecommunications such, ACMA is proposing towhich makemay a telecommunications carrier, which may carrier, Telecommunications (Types Cabling result in in disconnection disconnection fromof the network; result from the network; telecommunications infringement notices Work) Declaration 2024 to replace notices telecommunications infringement (on-the-spot fine of $2,040); and the (on-the-spot fine of $2,040); and the existing instrument, with minorifif the matter is is serious serious enough, taking court court matter enough, amendments from the 2013 taking version. action, which which may may result result in in aa conviction conviction action, and/or fine of of up uptoto towork $20,400. and/or fine $20,400. ACRS willaacontinue with the ACMA to ensure that the is new The biggest consequence is that, that, should should The biggest consequence instrument remains current and anything go wrong or your work is is found found anything go wrong or your work to be be faulty, faulty, your business insurance insurance is is to your business workable for our cablers. unlikely to to cover cover you. you. This This could could lead lead to to unlikely litigation and and substantial financial financial loss loss litigation With Christmas substantial coming on, ACRS would for your your business. business. for like to wish all our cablers a merry Not being beingand registered ishappy not worth worth the risk. Not registered is not risk. Christmas safe and newthe year.

COMPLIANT FOR CABLING?

From a supply chain perspective these trends are leading to network infrastructure and equipment upgrades Thinking about about aa move move into into data data and and Thinking and a growing demand for communications as aa way way toconsumer diversify your your communications as to diversify devices that in returnHere maintain pressure contracting business? Here are aa few few critical contracting business? are critical on chipsetto Cloud and questions tomanufacturers. ask before before you you get get started. questions ask started. edge computing are now driving dataAm II registered registered to to do do the the work? work? Am centre expansion and growth, with this In Australia, Australia, all cabling cabling work, including including expansion capability typically delivered In all work, telephone, data, fire and security alarm telephone, data, fire and security by global cloud service providers. alarm system cabling, cabling, that that connects connects with with the the system telecommunications network must be be This year, ACRS, alongnetwork with other telecommunications must performed by aa registered registered cabler, or under under performed by cabler, cabler registration providers haveor the direct direct supervision of aaeffort registered cabler. the supervision of registered been investing time and intocabler. trying torequired understand more about what What is is required to become become registered What to aa registered information and advice cablers need cabler? cabler? to do their job and to comply with To become become aa registered registered cabler cabler you you must must To the Wiringthe Rules and AS/CAtraining S009. course complete appropriate complete the appropriate training course for the the work work to be be undertaken undertaken through aa for to through A survey of cablers has led to the Registered Training Training Organisations Organisations (RTO). (RTO). Registered development and roll out of a series Anwebinars Open Registration Registration is required required for of on key topics of value to An Open is for commercial and domestic premises commercial premises cablers. Theand firstdomestic webinar had more than work. For work work in inand domestic premises you work. For domestic premises you 200 participants covered the main only require require aa Restricted Restricted Registration. Registration. only

You must must also also have have aa minimum minimum of of 80 80 You hours cabling cabling experience experience for for Restricted Restricted hours

A series of webinars has been planned and commenced, with all webinars being taped and made available at any time on the ACRS website for those who cannot attend. These include Registration and and 360 360 hours hours for for Open Open Registration webinars on topics such how to Registration. Holding anas electrical Registration. Holding an electrical deploy wireless correctly, what are licence, Security licence or or enAbleTM enAbleTM licence, Security licence the NBNmain Cardinfrastructure will suffice. suffice. requirements NBN Card will for the Internet of Things, and what Once I’ve completed completed the training, training, who do do I’ve the who isOnce the best way to conduct risk I register with? I register with? mitigation – to ‘cover your butt’.

There are are aa number number of of Cabling Cabling There An important warning for businesses Registrars authorised authorised by by the the Australian Australian Registrars and individuals focuses on the Communications and and Media Media Authority Authority (ACMA) (ACMA) Communications increasingly sophisticated scam emails in Australia, including ACRS, that can in Australia, including ACRS, that can and texts that appear to befor from wellverify cabler’s eligibility for registration. verify aa cabler’s eligibility registration. known product or service providers. Do all all my staff staff need to be be registered? Do to registered? One of my the latestneed scams is requesting payment of a bill or renewalwith fee. the They No. To To ensure ensure compliance with the No. compliance often have an attachment that looks ACMA guidelines, guidelines, cablers cablers must must be be either either ACMA like a legitimate bill or invoice with at registered or, directly directly supervised at all all registered or, supervised payment orwho include a link to afor times by bydetails cabler who is registered registered for times aa cabler is the type typesite of work work beingadone. done. payment to renew subscription. the of being To avoid getting caught out, stop and check the details of any invoices Peter Lamont Lamont Peter Director, ACRS ACRS Director, www.acrs.com.au www.acrs.com.au

Cabling Registration run Cabling run Registration by the theCabling industry, for industry by for the therun industry by the industry, for the industry

TheAustralian AustralianCabler Cabler Registration Registration Service The Service (ACRS) (ACRS)provides providesaafast, fast,reliable reliableand and low-cost registration service for the electrical and communications industry. The Australian Cabler Service (ACRS) provides a fast, reliable and low-cost registration service forRegistration the electrical and communications industry. low-cost registration service for Peace of mind mindcosts costsless lessthan than60c 60caaaweek! week! Register with ACRS and reap thetheofelectrical and communications industry. Peace of mind costs less than 60c week! Register with ACRS and the Peace of of mind Register with ACRS and reap reapreap the benefits benefits Peace costs less less than than 60c aaweek! Register with ACRS and the of Peace of mind costs 60c week! Register with ACRS and reap the fine. benefits ofthe being with the only only Australian electrical specialist registry while benefits of being with the Australian electrical specialist registry while being with with only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding heftyand being the only Australian specialist while avoiding hefty fine. Peaceelectrical of mind mind costs costs less than thanregistry 60c aa week! week! Register withaaACRS ACRS and reap the the of less 60c Register with reap avoiding heftywith fine. benefits ofaabeing the Peace only Australian electrical specialist registry while avoiding hefty fine. benefits ofregistered being with with the the only Australian Australian electrical specialist registry while benefits being only specialist registry is illegal illegal for anyone anyone other than aof a registered cabler to install installelectrical or maintain maintain cabling thatwhile ItIt is for than cabler to or cabling that avoiding a hefty fine. other avoiding aa hefty hefty fine. fine. avoiding tofor the telecommunications network. So So you are installing any equipment equipment Itconnects is illegal illegalto for anyone other than aa registered registered cabler toare install or maintain maintain the telecommunications network. ifif you installing any Itconnects is anyone other than cabler to install or that will connect to the network – from smart home systems to extra extra phone lines illegal for anyone anyone other than a registered registered cabler to install install or maintain maintain that willthat connect to the –afrom smartother home systems to phone lines –– cabling that connects tonetwork the telecommunications network. So ifcabler you are ItIt isis illegal for than ato to or to the telecommunications network. So ifor you are It cabling is illegal for connects anyone other than registered cabler install maintain cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are you need a current cabling registration. cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are you need a current cabling registration. installing any equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home cabling that connects to the telecommunications network. So if you are installing any equipment installing that willany connect to the network – from smart home equipment that that will will connect connect to to the the network network –– from from smart smart home home installing anyneed equipment systems extra phone lines – you a current cabling registration. systems extra phone lines – you need a current cabling registration. Carryingany atocurrent current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the installing equipment that will connect to the network – from smart home Carrying ato cabling registration card confirms you have completed the systems to to extra extra phone phone lines lines –– you you need need aa current current cabling cabling registration. registration. systems relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the systems to extra phone lines – you need a current cabling registration. relevant training and gained the professional experience to complete the work to the Carrying current cablingCarrying registration card confirms you card haveconfirms completed thecompleted Carrying current cabling registration card confirms you have have completed the the Carrying aa current cabling registration card confirms you have completed the aa current cabling registration you customer’s expectations. customer’s expectations. relevant training and gained gained the professional professional experience complete the the relevant and the experience complete relevanta training training and gained gained thetraining professional experience to complete complete thetotothe relevant and the professional experience to the Carrying current cabling registration card confirms you have completed For more more information information visit visit www.acrs.com.au www.acrs.com.au or call call 1300 667 667 771. 771. work to to the customer’s customer’s expectations. For or 1300 work expectations. work totraining the customer’s expectations. work to the customer’s expectations. relevant and gained the the professional experience to complete the work to the customer’s expectations.

THE SECRET TO

ADVERTORIAL

MAKING EDGE COMPUTING MORE SUSTAINABLE Data processing is energy-intensive work in large centralised data centres and distributed edge computing environments. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), data centres, server rooms, and data transmission networks account for 1-1.5% of global electricity use and nearly 1% of energy-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Many organisations have voiced their intentions to improve the sustainability of their energy-intensive data processing operations. However, translating these objectives into tangible actions has been a challenge. Fortunately, over recent years, breakthroughs have occurred − thanks to investor interest, public and customer concern over global warming, regulatory actions, and technological innovation − that enable actionable steps towards lower emissions. The 451 Research Report Sustainability at the Edge validates the high priority of managing sustainable operations for those who manage edge computing sites. According to the report, optimising energy use and related carbon emissions was the top-cited challenge among more than 40% of respondents. However, edge management teams have several obstacles to overcome to better control edge computing emissions. According to the 451 Research Report, those issues include a shortage of skilled individuals who can address environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, an inability to obtain consistent data and metrics needed to measure energy usage and carbon footprints, and a lack of edge performance and energy consumption monitoring systems. Stakeholders managing edge computing sites also cited a need for knowledge regarding current and future emissions compliance obligations and clarity regarding the technologies that optimise energy use.

Choosing the right edge computing partner is critical

Sustainable edge computing success at Bridgestone

In response to these challenges, many organisations deploying and managing edge computing sites are tapping into an ecosystem of partners to help them better manage the situation. They look to their partner network for several reasons:

When the world’s leading tyre manufacturer Bridgestone and its subsidiary Bandag set out to modernise their edge system server room, local Bandag manufacturing site stakeholders collaborated with Schneider Electric and their partner Bechtle to achieve their goals of equipment consolidation, simplified administration and improved infrastructure sustainability.

They possess ESG expertise The right partner can help manage the scope of migration to both digitisation and improved sustainability by suggesting reliable, compliant and energy-efficient solutions. They help address the skilled labour gap New-generation remote management tools enable these partners to monitor equipment performance and energy management, enhancing systems’ uptime while reducing energy consumption across multiple edge computing sites. This relieves owners of edge sites from having to hire on-site technical experts to manage their edge systems. They support circularity and carbon emissions reduction efforts Partners such as managed service providers now offer predictive maintenance services. They utilise software that monitors the condition of edge systems in near realtime and analyse the data obtained. The benefits of such an approach include identifying potential failures before they occur, thus enhancing systems uptime. For example, such partners know precisely when a battery in a UPS needs replacement and can avoid replacing batteries too early or too late. This optimises power usage and reduces electricity bills. Plus, fewer maintenance technicians need to be dispatched on-site to implement fixes, thereby reducing the overall carbon footprint associated with travel.

By implementing a new five-rack micro data center edge system, Bandag facilitated a circular economy in each of its businesses through resource circulation, reduction of CO2 emissions, and carbon neutral activities — while reinvesting those benefits and value sustainably back into their businesses.

What to look for in a partner When implementing sustainability initiatives at edge computing locations, the selection of the right ecosystem of partners is critical. Look for organisations with a mature network of trained sustainability partners who offer ‘Green Premium‘ products (which formally document energy consumption and CO2 emissions data). Also, consider manufacturers who have successfully implemented their own internal corporate sustainability strategies and possess deep knowledge of sustainability and digitisation (which work hand-in-hand).

For more information Scan this QR code to download the detailed findings of the 451 ‘Sustainability at the Edge’ Report, and discover how organisations are addressing sustainability challenges related to edge computing.

Anna Timme Head of Sustainability Schneider Secure Power and Data Centre Businesses

December 2023

network with Easy Micro Data Centre by Schneider Electric.

Alarm Beacon Display

Rapid deployment in weeks, not months

Micro data centre essentials at an affordable price

Securely manage system from anywhere

Glass door for contained enclosure

Local Monitoring Host Power Distribution

Make Edge Computing Simple, Affordable, Resilient. Resiliency and affordabi lity solution to optimise the edge •AnReliaall-in-one bility delivered atITa competi tive price •Solution Focused optiatonsaforglance quick selection and configuration Active • System-level environmental sensors & email alerts Cooling • Built-in local and remote monitoring The C-Series Easy Micro Data Centre solution packages power, cooling, monitoring and essential accessories into a single enclosure that is simple to order and eliminates weeks from the deployment process! Built for cost-conscious customers without sacrificing reliability, the C-Series 42U & 24U deliver seamless customer experience and optimised business operations at the edge of your network with Easy Micro Data Centre by Schneider Electric.

Emergency Fans Display

Rapid deployment in weeks, not months

Micro data centre essentials at an affordable price

Securely manage system from anywhere

Glass door for contained enclosure

UPS Battery

Alarm Beacon Local Monitoring Host Power Distribution

Resiliency and affordability • Reliability delivered at a competitive price • Focused options for quick selection and configuration • System-level environmental sensors & email alerts • Built-in local and remote monitoring

se.com/au

se.com/au ©2023 Schneider Electric. Life Is On Schneider Electric is a trademark and the property of Schneider Electric SE, its subsidiaries and affiliated companies. All rights reserved. ©2023 Schneider Electric. Life Is On Schneider Electric is a trademark and the property of Schneider Electric SE, its subsidiaries and affiliated companies. All rights reserved.

UPS Active Cooling Emergency Fans

Battery

NATIONAL TECHNICAL UPDATE Working safely around electrical hazards With the release of the refreshed Australian Standard AS/NZS 4836:2023 Safe working on or near low voltage and extra-low voltage electrical installations and equipment earlier this year, it is worth reviewing the content and its application to businesses in our industry. In particular: ½

is compliance with this standard compulsory in workplace health and safety (WHS) law? ; are there new/additional elements that you need to consider?

Is compliance with the refreshed standard compulsory in WHS law? There is no short answer to this question. However, failure to assess risk and implement controls for electrical work in a way that is consistent with this standard could place businesses, and potentially directors of those businesses, at risk of prosecution from the relevant safety regulator if the worst should happen. Although AS/NZS 4836 is not mandated by WHS regulations and is barely mentioned in the model Code of Practice for Managing Electrical Risk, it is routinely referred to by regulators, and may be introduced by prosecutors at trial, to articulate how a business has/has not adequately attempted to protect its workers with respect to specific hazards or situations.

This is perfectly valid for workplace incidents as the determination of guilt contemplates how the person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) has managed the risks involved in their activities against available knowledge, standards, and controls for that industry. In such instances, there is necessarily the question of ‘what material represents an adequate risk assessment and controls for such work?’ and the authoritative document for work on or near low voltage electrical installations is invariably AS/NZS 4836:2023.

When are workers exposed to energised equipment? The model WHS regulations do not provide a definition of when exposure to energised equipment occurs; however, AS/NZS 4836:2023 (section 2.3.7) indicates: ½

Are there new/additional elements to consider? The new standard extends its scope to include work on extra-low voltage installations and equipment and non-electrical workers. It includes additional information specific to: ½

principles of risk management, assessment of risk and risk treatment;

This then invokes those specific WHS duties on the PCBU to:

working with asbestos and polychlorinated biphenyls;

document the risk assessment; have a SWMS for the electrical work;

working below ground level;

cutting cables and wiring enclosures;

selection and use of test equipment;

any work within 0.5m of energised exposed conductors/ parts is deemed to be ‘working on’ those parts.

Importantly, the basic test for deenergised qualifies as ‘energised electrical work’ both under this part of AS/NZS 4836 and the WHS regulations in each jurisdiction.

risk treatments (controls) are required if any work is to take place within 3m of energised exposed conductors/parts; and

selection and use of personal protective equipment; preservation of an incident scene.

With this knowledge, PCBUs involved in electrical work may need to review and/or update their safe work method statements (SWMS) and procedures in consultation with their workforce.

ensure the work is performed by a competent (generally licensed) person with tools, test equipment, and personal protective equipment (PPE) that are suitable, properly tested, and in good condition; and ensure that the worker(s) cannot inadvertently make contact with adjacent energised equipment, which is consistent with AS/NZS 4836.

December 2023

TECHNICAL

Work on energised electrical equipment Work on energised electrical equipment is prohibited in every jurisdiction, unless the work legitimately meets the following criteria: ½ ½

testing to verify de-energisation; necessary in the interests of health and safety; or necessary that the equipment be energised for the work to be carried out properly; or there is no reasonable alternative means of carrying out the work.

Other testing and/or fault finding under energised conditions can only be justified if it meets one or more of the last three criteria above and requires a trained safety observer. Convenience, for either the customer or the work of the electrical contractor, is not a valid basis for a decision to work on energised equipment. The point of this commentary, for the benefit of NECA members, is to demonstrate that AS/NZS 4836:2023 is not new or vague guidance material, it is as central to the competent practice of the trade as the Wiring Rules and associated installation standards. It is especially important that your risk assessments and SWMS for electrical work tasks are constructed consistent with AS/NZS 4836:2023 and that your workers are informed of, equipped and work to those SWMS.

WWW.NECA.ASN.AU

Specific hazard – residential roof spaces and under floor areas This year has seen several fatalities of electrical workers in these locations, in more than one jurisdiction. There is also long history before that which has led to bans on any workers entering roof spaces whilst the installation is energised (WA), and alerts direct mailed to licence holders (NSW) advising that isolation at the installation main switch is critical to avoiding potentially serious shocks in those locations. Many NECA members will also have seen communication a few weeks ago in response to recent fatalities in NSW. Three aspects of work in these areas appear to contribute to the seriousness of the outcome.

i. Potential for illegal, exposed, damaged or deteriorated wiring (lacking basic protection) or other energised extraneous conductive material. ii. Presence of an earthed situation – pipes, uninsulated earth wires, earthed metal frames, soil. iii. The ability to effect a rescue from the restricted space and/or working one-out/out of sight. NECA strongly recommends that member businesses that send workers into these areas, review their policies and SWMS, in consultation with their workforce, to ensure that the risk controls are in place to avoid further preventable deaths.

Neil Roberts Director: Policy, Technical and Safety

| 95

FUTURE DIRECTIONS FOR THE TRADE

OPINION

THE CLEAN ENERGY GENERATION IN ONE OF THEIR FIRST PIECES OF WORK, JOBS AND SKILLS AUSTRALIA (JSA) PUBLISHED THEIR CLEAN ENERGY CAPACITY STUDY, TITLED ‘THE CLEAN ENERGY GENERATION - WORKFORCE NEEDS FOR A NET ZERO ECONOMY’. WHAT TAKEAWAYS CAN WE GLEAN FROM THIS SEMINAL WORK? WE NEED A LOT MORE ELECTRICIANS. HOW MANY MORE? THAT REALLY DEPENDS ON OUR RESOLVE AS A NATION. Steady growth over the past five years, saw almost 14,000 enrolments in 2022 alone. Early school leavers often take preapprenticeship pathways to bridge gaps in their studies. While over two-thirds of electrical apprentices completed year 12, less than one-third of electrical preapprentices had. Pre-apprentices are also slightly more likely to be female (5.0% vs 3.2%) and have a disability (5.5% vs 2.5%). The Federal Government has identified that tapping into under-represented cohorts, such as females and persons with a disability, can assist in building capacity in the system. So why do we need to build capacity? Current data from the Powering Skills Organisation, the Energy Sector Jobs and Skills Council, notes that in a report from 2021 there were 143,100 Electricians in Australia with a predicted future growth of 10.2% to 157,700 by 2026. Australia is on a journey to transition towards decarbonisation and electrifying the nation. This journey is vital if we are to meet Australia’s whole of economy long-term emissions reduction plan including reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The former Acting Commissioner, Professor Peter Dawkins AO, Jobs and Skills Australia, noted, ‘Australia has a once in a generation opportunity to reshape our economy through a rejuvenated, harmonised approach to skilling. This means moving beyond coordination and collaboration and instead pursuing genuine partnerships within and among systems. The clean energy workforce could be a unique testbed to explore innovative models of education and training and should be used to the fullest.’ Professor Dawkins and JSA invite us to explore the future of our trade, as we navigate towards a future where our energy is generated in a sustainable and environmentally sound way. 96

Pre-apprenticeships are often the first taste of our trade, as school-based students are given the opportunity to enhance their final years of school, honing their knowledge and skills to gain entrance into an apprenticeship. Pre-apprenticeships, under the ‘Career Start’ label, have been the pathway into an apprenticeship for many years. The flagship pre-apprenticeship pathway for clean energy, the Certificate II in Electrotechnology, has seen significant increases in the number of enrolments.

This won’t happen unless we develop a suitably qualified and skilled electrotechnology workforce. By 2030, we are expecting an additional 32,000 electricians will be needed, taking our workforce to 175,000 electricians. Our pre-apprenticeship programs will need to be engaging, encouraging a whole generation of clean energy workers to grab hold of this ‘once in a generation’ opportunity. We could say, all our futures depend on our latest generation – the Clean Energy Generation.

Steve Hall GM Projects - Powering Skills Organisation Ltd

December 2023

THE END OF YEAR

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

FESTIVE SEASON CAN BRING ITS OWN CHALLENGES WHEN I WORKED FOR A LARGE MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER THAT PROVIDED PHONE SUPPORT, THE FESTIVE SEASON WAS ALWAYS THE BUSIEST TIME. THE CALLERS SPOKE ABOUT VARYING ISSUES, AND MANY LOOKED FORWARD TO THEIR END OF THE YEAR BREAK SO MUCH, BUT UNFORTUNATELY, IT SOMETIMES TURNED OUT TO BE NOT AS ENJOYABLE AS THEY HOPED OR NEEDED. The festive season can be a time for family and friends to get together, but that can bring its own challenges. This time of year can also be incredibly lonely for people when they watch the community come together but have no one to share this special time with themselves. As we look forward to this year’s break, take time to reflect on what you have been grateful for, the people that may have come into your life and those that may have left a gap or cannot be with you to celebrate. Let’s look at a few tips that we can all consider as we approach the festive season:

Me-time It can be a busy time as we attend functions, parties, BBQs and drinks with mates, but make sure you plan time for yourself. Why not start some exercise or a hobby you have been trying to start during the year? It is a great time to form positive habits that you can continue when you go back to work.

Look after your health Be wary of throwing yourself into the festivities too hard. Increasing your food intake as well as your alcohol consumption for too long may have negative consequences on your health and overall wellbeing. Eat well, drink lots of water and take this time to catch up on some sleep.

Spread the cheer If you have a mate who is doing it tough or will have a lonely time in the coming few weeks, why not reach out? Ask them if they are OK and catch up for a coffee or a meal. The festive season is a great time to catch up with those you have made promises to throughout the year.

Lessen the financial stress This can be a very expensive time of year. Buying presents for family, friends and work mates, can clean out the bank account quickly. Think of ways to connect without necessarily buying presents for everyone. Some of the options include agreeing that only the kids get presents, placing a budget on gift giving, going out for a picnic and spending time together, or going to the movies as a social group. By planning and budgeting for this period throughout the year, it will not hit so hard when the festive season arrives.

Set a social media-free time The social media world always goes into overdrive this time of year as people take the opportunity to post happy snaps, holidays and all things great. Remember, these curated photos can sometimes make us feel worse about our own daily lives.

Why not take some time off social media, start a new hobby, take up a sport and read a few books instead? I guarantee you will enjoy it more.

Lock in your support If you are seeking some support, specialist treatment or need a check in with your GP or mental health practitioner, be sure to consider when they may be closed during the festive season and have a back-up plan if you need it. Mates in Energy will be open and ready to chat throughout the festive season for you and your family. Enjoy this time of year, stay safe and be kind to yourself. Thank you for your support throughout the year.

Michael Stoddart General Manager Mining Energy and Manufacturing, Mates in Energy

December 2023

ELECTRICAL SAFETY RECALL ELECTRICAL SAFETY ELECTRICAL RECALL ELECTRICAL SAFETY SAFETY RECALL RECALL

Is your LG home battery safe? Is your LG home battery Is your LG home battery safe? safe? RESU 3.3 RESU 3.3 R4863P3SBMA RESU 3.3 R4863P3SBMA RESU 3.3 R4863P3SBMA R4863P3SBMA

RESU 6.5 RESU 6.5 R48126P3SBMA RESU 6.5 R48126P3SBMA RESU 6.5 R48126P3SBMA R48126P3SBMA

RESU 10 RESU 10 R48189P3SBMA RESU 10 R48189P3SBMA RESU 10 R48189P3SBMA R48189P3SBMA

RESU 13 RESU 13 EH048252P3S1BMA RESU 13 EH048252P3S1BMA RESU 13 EH048252P3S1BMA EH048252P3S1BMA

RESU 7H TYPE R RESU 7H TYPE R R11163P3SSEG1 RESU 7H TYPE R R11163P3SSEG1 RESU 7H TYPE R R11163P3SSEG1 R11163P3SSEG1

RESU 10H RESU 10H R15563P3SSEG1 RESU 10H R15563P3SSEG1 R15563P3SSEG2 RESU 10H R15563P3SSEG1 R15563P3SSEG2 R15563P3SDLT1 R15563P3SSEG1 R15563P3SSEG2 R15563P3SDLT1 R15563P3SDLT7 R15563P3SSEG2 R15563P3SDLT1 R15563P3SDLT7 R15563P3SDLT1 R15563P3SDLT7 R15563P3SDLT7

S/A Gen2 1P S/A Gen2 1P EM048063P3S2BMA S/A Gen2 1P EM048063P3S2BMA EM048063P3S4BMA S/A Gen2 1P EM048063P3S2BMA EM048063P3S4BMA EM048063P3S5BMA EM048063P3S2BMA EM048063P3S4BMA EM048063P3S5BMA EM048063P3S4BMA EM048063P3S5BMA EM048063P3S5BMA

S/A Gen2 2P S/A Gen2 2P EM048126P3S7BMA S/A Gen2 2P EM048126P3S7BMA EM048126P3S8BMA S/A Gen2 2P EM048126P3S7BMA EM048126P3S8BMA EM048126P3S7BMA EM048126P3S8BMA EM048126P3S8BMA

The affected ESS Home Batteries may overheat and catch on fire The affected ESS Home Batteries may overheat and catch on fire The affected ESS Home Batteries overheat and catch on fire and cause injury or death and/or may damage to property. Incidents The affected ESS Home Batteries may overheat and catch on fire and cause injury or death and/or damage to property. Incidents and cause injury or death and/or damage to property. Incidents have occurred and caused damage to property. and cause injury orcaused death and/or damage to property. Incidents have occurred and damage to property. have occurred and caused damage to property. have occurred and caused damage to property.

Find out now, to prevent the risk of fire. Find out now, to prevent the risk of fire. Find Find out out now, now, to to prevent prevent the the risk risk of of fire. fire. 1300 677 273 1300 677 273 1300 1300 677 677 273 273 productau@lgensol.com productau@lgensol.com productau@lgensol.com productau@lgensol.com Is Your Battery Safe? Is Is Your Your Battery Battery Safe? Safe? Is Your Battery Safe?

www.lghomebattery.com.au/isyourbatterysafe www.lghomebattery.com.au/isyourbatterysafe www.lghomebattery.com.au/isyourbatterysafe www.lghomebattery.com.au/isyourbatterysafe

If you have an LG battery or SolaX or Opal Power solar/battery If you have an LG battery or SolaX or Opal Power solar/battery If an LG battery or SolaX or Power solar/battery system, please contact us atOpal 1300 677 273. If you you have have an LG battery or SolaX or Opal Power solar/battery system, please contact us at 1300 677 273. system, please contact us at 1300 677 273. system, please contact us at 1300 677 273.

NECA membership isn’t a luxury, it’s a business essential.

We have the experts in-house to provide you with the support you need to thrive in this industry.

NECA MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES: Free 24/7 access to view technical standards at your fingertips with TKB, NECA’s Technical Knowledge Base

Access to discounts or benefits for Fuel, Fleet, Insurance, and Health Cover

Free access to Technical experts for on the job support

Industry representation at all levels of Government and key industry groups

Free access to NECA Workplace Relations specialists

Access to education and training events, workshops,seminars and industry conference

Free access to Workplace Health and Safety advice

Access to enter NECA’s prestigious Excellence and Apprentice Awards

Expert Legal advice on contract disputes and negotiation, debt recovery, and representation

Access to industry networking opportunities

NOT A MEMBER? GIVE YOUR LOCAL NECA BRANCH A CALL NECA ACT

1300 361 099

NECA NSW

1300 361 099

NECA QLD

1300 361 099

NECA SA & NT

(08) 8272 2966

NECA TAS

1300 361 099

NECA VIC

1300 300 031

NECA WA

(08) 6241 6100

NECA is the peak body representing the electrical and communications industry Australia-wide | www.neca.asn.au