There are many rules and regulations that homeowners in NSW should be aware of; electrical safety regulations should be at the top of that list, as they’re essential for the well-being of residents and visitors. This article provides an overview of the key NSW electrical safety regulations every homeowner in the state needs to know.
Safety Regulations for Homeowners
Every home that’s powered by mains electricity needs to adhere to certain safety regulations in order to prevent potential danger or injury. As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to ensure these regulations are followed.
Legal Requirements
The first and most important legal requirement in NSW is that any electrical installations must be carried out by a qualified electrician who holds a current licence. This applies to anything from installing wiring in the home to fitting a switchboard or a new energy-efficient light switch.
Any alterations made to the wiring in the home should also be done in accordance with Australian Standards, as set out by Standards Australia. If you are in any doubt about whether your electrical wiring is up to par, it’s best to call in an experienced electrician to take a look.
Safety Devices
To stay up to date with the latest safety regulations, there are a few safety devices you should have installed in your home. The first of these is an RCD, or residual circuit breaker. This device trips and turns off the electricity to a circuit or the entire house if there’s an electric shock risk detected. It’s important to note that your RCD should be tested regularly to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
You must also have smoke alarms that are linked to mains power with a battery backup or have an independent power source. This ensures that your alarms will continue to alert you in the event of a power outage.
Protection Against Overloading
The risk of overloading circuits should be taken seriously, as it increases the risk of electric shock, fire, household accidents and even death. The best way to avoid overcurrent or overloading is to make sure your switchboard and circuit breakers are all fitted properly and avoid plugging too many items into one outlet. It’s also important to keep up with regular switchboard maintenance to reduce the risk of overloading.
Get an Electrical Inspection
If you’ve recently moved into a home or your home is more than ten years old, it’s best to get an electrical inspection of the property. An electrician will take a look at the wiring and make sure it’s up to par, and check that your switchboard meets current standards. This will help to put your mind at ease and ensure your home meets all the safety regulations.
Adhering to the key NSW electrical safety regulations for homeowners is important for the well-being of everyone living in the home and for the ongoing safety of your property. AJ Services Group specialises in all types of electrical installation and repair and has a team of experienced electricians on hand to provide expert advice and assistance. Contact us today to find out more.