Campaign to help owners understand electrical work rules

A new consumer campaign by the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) has begun today, to raise awareness of the rules when getting electrical work done around the home.

Registrar of Electrical Worker Licensing at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment John Sickels says the EWRB has a duty under the Electricity Act to promote safety for all New Zealanders by ensuring the competence of electrical workers.

The online campaign, targeting homeowners, has four simple key messages:

1. There are rules when doing electrical work in your home or business

2. Make sure your electrical worker is licensed to do your job before completing the work

3. Ask electrical workers to certify completed work

4. To find a licensed electrical worker go to www.ewrb.govt.nz

Mr Sickels says, "Many homeowners are not aware of these rules and may not realise that uncertified electrical work can cause serious harm, such as electrocution. Uncertified work may also affect a homeowner’s insurance policy, as most house insurance policies do not cover damage to the home that is caused by poor workmanship."

"Our aim is that by the end of the campaign in late February 2015, as many homeowners as possible will be aware that safe electrical work is work that is completed by a licensed electrical worker and is certified", says John Sickels.