The National Electrical and Communications Association reminds all electrical apprentices, electricians and contractors about the dangers of working with live electricity, following the death of a young apprentice in Victoria.

The 21 year old third year apprentice was electrocuted after carrying out unsupervised work in the roof of a friend’s house.

“This tragic event is a reminder to all of us about the dangers of working with live electricity,” said the CEO of the National Electrical and Communications Association, Suresh Manickam.

“In this instance, the apprentice was carrying out work outside of his regular employment unsupervised and NECA reminds electrical contractors and training organisations to ensure that apprentices understand that they are not licenced to conduct such activities given the potential dangers.”

“We must all be vigilant when it comes to electricity,” Mr Manickam said.

“On behalf of all our members and the wider industry, I would like to extend my sympathy to the apprentice’s family and loved ones.”

-ENDS-

Media enquiries and interviews

Barry Jackson – National Marketing and Communications

E barry.jackson@neca.asn.au

D 02 9962 6904

M 0457 767 328

Notes for editors

1. NECA is the peak industry body representing the interests of electrical and communications contractors Australia-wide.
2. NECA is run by electrical contractors, for electrical contractors.
3. We have 5,000 contracting companies as members – and they in turn employ over 50,000 people Australia-wide.
4. NECA employs almost 350 people across its seven chapters (Queensland, New South Wales, ACT, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia).
5. The chapters provide NECA members with a range of services including: Industrial Relations, Health & Safety, Legal, Technical, Training, business-support services, product discounts and advocacy representation in Canberra with Government, Industry bodies and Training bodies.
6. NECA wholly-owns its Legal firm, Group Training and the NECA Colleges (in WA) and EcoSmart Electricians – and has joint ventures with a superannuation company (NSW) and one of the national cabling registrars (ACRS).
7. NECA also employ around 2,000 apprentice electricians and provides training to a further 2,000.
8. For further information go to www.neca.asn.au.