The workplace safety Act in each state specifies the incident notification requirements, which in part, require employers to notify the relevant authority in the event of an “electric shock” that:
a) Results in a person requiring immediate medical treatment, or
b) An incident that exposed a person to an imminent risk of electric shock.
Many businesses would, of course, be cautious and send any person who experiences any type of electrical sensation or electric shock for a medical check-up or treatment.
Does this mean every minor “tickle” or suspected electrical incident must be reported to the relevant state authority? Answer: No!
WorkSafe WA recently clarified the criteria for notifying electrical shock incidents and offered the following notification exemptions eg shock from:
Static electricity,
Extra-low voltage eg <50V AC or <120V DC, or
Deliberate shocks from a defibrillator for medical or first aid purposes.
However, it would be prudent for employers to always explore the source of persistent experiences including static electricity and extra-low voltage equipment.
