The electrical industry is in shock after hearing of the tragic death of a tradesman working in the roof space of a Carlton home in NSW this week. Emergency services were called to the house shortly before 3pm after reports the 25-year-old man had been electrocuted. Paramedics tried to revive the man at the scene but he later died.

SafeWork NSW is investigating the incident.

“At this point in time we are unsure as to whether this young man was an electrician but with six electrical industry-related fatalities in, or on, roof spaces in little over a year we must become more vigilant in how this type of work is managed,” said NECA chief executive Suresh Manickam.

Most roof spaces are dirty, hot and restricted environments that can be full of hazards and the nature of the physical volume to operate in such an environment can also have psychological impacts on decision making. NECA has therefore urged greater vigilance in roof spaces.

NECA also called on governments to adopt NECA’s policy relating to Home Safety Electrical Audits, arguing routine or regular electrical safety checks in residential or commercial properties will provide a clear signal to property owners with respect to safety/standard adequacy. Such a signal should then lead to a greater number of property owners who will act to improve the wiring and safety standards of their property.

“We urge business operators, managers and tradespeople to work together to put in place more effective health and safety measures, and to ensure appropriate staff training is conducted to minimise the risk of serious injuries or possible fatalities. Collectively, we can work to eliminate such tragedies. We extend our condolences to this young man’s family,” Suresh concluded.