Asbestos safety at customer switchboards – Proactive safety messaging

In an effort to improve safety for our people, electrical contractors and customers, recently we have been using social media to remind customers of the risks of asbestos in their home or business switchboard.

The campaign, being run across the Ergon Energy Network Facebook and Instagram as well as the Energex Facebook and Instagram, shares:

• warning signs for customers to be on the lookout for
• the actions we (and electrical contractors) take if asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are spotted while undertaking works
• proactive actions that customers can take if they suspect ACM in their switchboard.

The suggested actions for customers include contacting their preferred, suitably licenced electrical contractor to discuss any concerns they may have, or to initiate a switchboard upgrade.

In addition to notifying you of the campaign and the potential for customer requests as a result, we’re seeking your support to share similar safety messages with your customers and continue safely managing ACMs in customer switchboards.

Please note the following requirements should you be completing work for customers whose switchboards may contain ACMs:

• Ensure all switchboard upgrades are compliant with the requirements of the QECM – refer QECM clauses 4.3.2.1, 4.3.2.2 and table 70
• Specific to ACM, ensure the works are managed in accordance with QECM 4.3.1, 9.9.1, including removal and disposal of all materials
• Follow the Queensland Government’s codes of practice and legislative requirements, available at www.asbestos.qld.gov.au
• IMPORTANT: Electrical contractors must not move entity owned equipment, including electrical meters. This is only to be done by Ergon Energy Network or Energex staff as per QECM 5.4.1 & 1.5.2.6.

For further information on your obligations when working near our networks, please refer to the QECM and our network websites.

For further information on the identification and management of ACMs in private property switchboards, please contact our Customer Technical Support Team via email qecmtechadvice@energyq.com.au at or by phone on:

• Ergon Energy Network 1800 237 466 option 5
• Energex 1300 762 397 option 5