Stay Shock-Free: Essential Electrical Safety Tips for Your Holiday Home
Even if you win a brand-new bach, you'll still need to consider electrical work and maintenance. No electrical system is immune to natural ageing, and without intending to, you might misuse your electrical appliances.
Staying dry and pest free
Moisture, animal infestations, and normal wear and tear mean that wiring needs to be inspected every few years. To extend the lifespan of your electrical systems, investing in a good dehumidifier and ensuring your home remains pest-free with a few rodent traps are sound investments.
Fuse Boxes and Powerboards
It’s too easy to unintentionally misuse electrical systems without realising there's a problem. Overloading extension cords and multi-boxes, or failing to replace worn-out appliances, can lead to serious issues. If you find yourself frequently overriding fuses or circuit breakers to keep your home warm and well-lit, it's definitely time to call an electrician.
Stay away from DIY
There's a reason why non-qualified handymen are restricted in the type of electrical work they can perform: safety. Your safety and that of your loved ones depend on professionally maintained electrical systems.
Non-compliant installations, subpar upgrades, or DIY repairs can be extremely costly in the long run—especially if you discover that your home and contents insurance is null and void due to improper work, or worse yet, you shorten your own life!
Useful References:
• Aurora STAY SAFE NEAR ELECTRICITY Dec 2018
• In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment AS/NZS 3760:2001
• Quick Guide: Electrical safety on small construction sites
• Working near low voltage overhead electric lines QUICK GUIDE April 2021
If this has been helpful, consider reviewing your health and safety system when you do get back to work to make sure burning issues or other sparky topics don’t affect your organisation in 2025. For questions or additional information on staying safe during fire season, feel free to email Sarah at SarahHSE@easinz.co.nz or call 0272 007 680.