He was standing on an aluminium ladder that was in direct contact with the earthed section of the switchboard.

Recommendations

Electrical industry workers can prevent a similar accident from occurring. The following steps will minimise risks when retrieving hidden cables:

• Use a hook made of fully insulated material designed for the purpose.  Specially designed plastic or fibre hooks can be bought at electrical supply warehouses
• before starting the work, always de-energise all electrical circuits around the work area. Remember to test the circuit.

If a previous worker has left incorrect wiring, or has marked the wiring wrongly, the next electrician cannot tell if the circuit is dead without testing it. Using a multi-meter, or other appropriate test equipment, check that live apparatus has been isolated.

For more detailed information, contact WorkCover for a copy of the Code of Practice Electrical practices for construction work and the NSW Office of Energy for the booklet, Guidelines for testing electrical installations.

• Use an insulated ladder.  Using an insulated ladder may save a life if the worker accidentally contacts live apparatus.
  Use of a conducting ladder, made of aluminium or other metal or a ladder reinforced with wire, near electrical conductors or equipment, contravenes a construction safety regulation. (Construction Safety Regulation 80 and AS 1892.1 - 1986, Portable Ladders Part 1 - Metal).
• More safety information
  WorkCover has produced a booklet in conjunction with industry entitled "Guide to electrical workers safety practices". This booklet gives guidance as to how to work on electricity supply equipment in a safe way.

Further information

For more information call WorkCover’s Information Centre on 13 10 50.

Safety Alert No: 4002                                   Date of Issue: 01 October 1992