The  NSW Government announcement of a series of measures designed to protect consumers and electrical workers from houses contaminated with loose-fill asbestos has been welcomed by the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA).

“Following last week’s announcement from the ACT Government, the actions taken by the NSW Government will be welcomed by electrical contractors,” said NECA’s chief executive officer Suresh Manickam.

“We understand that the package offered by the Government includes measures to assist electricians and contractors such as the establishment of a public register for affected properties and the introduction of mandatory hazard labelling.”

Last year, the NSW Government offered a free sample home testing program across 26 Local Government Areas where it was known that Mr Fluffy provided home insulation. This program has been extended until August 2016. 66 properties in New South Wales have been positively identified (57 from historical records and 9 from sampling), with the bulk of those located in Queanbeyan.

“NECA has lobbied both the ACT and NSW Governments to provide a suitable resolution for homeowners and electrical workers that does not compromise on personal safety – for contractors or members of the public. With electrical workers regularly called upon to enter ceiling spaces, these actions assist our industry to maintain its strong, safety-first culture.”