The ACT’s workplace safety regulator has confirmed that it recently received a report of a worker who received an electric shock by way of a faulty cord on a laptop charger and charging station.

The regulator has explained that contact with damaged or exposed wiring or live equipment can lead to serious injury, including electrical burns, bruising, electrical shock or even death. They reminded the public that under the WHS Act, it is the responsibility of persons conducting business and undertakings, or PCBUs, to manage risks to work health and safety, including identifying and controlling risks of electric shock in the workplace.

It is worth noting that despite its prevalence, electricity is a significant hazard in workplaces. It accounted for 2% of annual workplace fatalities in Australia and made for 1,679 serious injuries in the most recent reporting period.

Any electrical equipment in a workplace via an electrical socket must be regularly inspected and tested, and January is an excellent time to ensure that all the electrical equipment in your workplace has been tagged and tested by a licensed professional. It is particularly important for workplaces where the equipment is used in a way that it could be damaged.

PCBUs are also reminded that they must immediately disconnect any unsafe or untested electrical equipment from their electrical supply. Once disconnected (or isolated), the equipment must not be reconnected or used until it is replaced, repaired or tested by a competent person and found safe. Alternatively, the equipment can be replaced or permanently removed from use.