Building and Energy WA has launched the ‘Working Live Kills’ campaign to urge electricians to stop dangerous and illegal practices of working on or near energised equipment.

The ads aim to get the attention of electrical contractors and electrical workers at all experience levels.

Live work is the leading cause of serious electrical burns, shocks, serious injuries and death among Western Australian electricians.

Since 2018, three workers have died and 15 others have had serious injuries on installations that were found to be live and not isolated correctly.

“The risks can be removed by following the vital rule: always isolate the electricity supply and test before you touch,” Western Australia director of energy safety Peter Stewart says.

“Electricity regulations prohibit live work except in specific, limited circumstances. Most safety checks take just minutes, but they can save lives. There’s no excuse for cutting corners when it comes to electrical safety. The consequences can be deadly.”

The ‘Working Live Kills’ campaign will run until mid-September on radio, social media, online video and streaming platforms and advertised on billboards across Western Australia.