Two electrical deaths in two weeks prompt SafeWork NSW warning
06 June 2025•BlueSafe Team•Source: SafeWork NSW
SafeWork NSW inspectors are reminding employers and workers about the dangers of working with or near electricity after two people died from electrocution on NSW worksites in the past two weeks.
Contact with electricity accounted for five of the 60 workplace fatalities recorded in NSW in 2023. Electrocution is the second leading cause of traumatic deaths in the state's construction industry, while survivors of electric shocks can face life-changing injuries and long-term recovery.
Business owners must make sure workers carrying out electrical work have appropriate training, licences and supervision. Head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin said owners must ensure employees work safely and workplaces meet the required standard.
“Two deaths in two weeks is an absolute tragedy and my condolences are with the families, friends and colleagues of those who have sadly lost their lives.”
Curtin warned that inspectors would continue taking enforcement action over serious electrical risks: “Electricity risks are well known. SafeWork NSW Inspectors will continue to take a zero-tolerance response where they come across serious electrical risks such as working live and will issue penalty notices to businesses and, where necessary, to workers.”
Workers can raise workplace health and safety concerns anonymously by calling SafeWork on 13 10 50 or using the ‘Speak Up Save Lives’ website. Resources to help business owners and workers manage electrical risks are also available on the SafeWork NSW website.
How Blue Safe can help: Our free WHS self-check can help you review your business's approach to workplace health and safety and identify areas that may need closer attention. Take the free WHS self-check