the master electrician magazine spring 2011

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insideNational harmonisation of work health and safety laws

Apprentices hold the key to a safe future

Powering the Suns

THE INTERVIEW: Sam Kekovich

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CNW AD September - Final-01.pdf 1 13/09/2011 12:41:26 PM

table of contents

The Master Electrician Spring 2011

renewable energy spotlight 04

national harmonisation of work health and safety laws 06

picking a winner 08

the buzz 10

apprentices hold the key to a safe future 18

how to close the sale 20

meet a master electrician 22

TV shock tactics 24

best seller: reputation 26

powering the sun’s 28

general news 30

news from the distributors 32

regulator wrap up 36

letter of the law 41

the interview 42

gadget guide 44

techno biz 45

technical talk 46

workplace relations 48

grid gossip 50

all about ME 52

test drive 56

events calendar 58

best or worst story 59

the last word 62

Average Net Distribution 30 000 CAB Audited as of March 2011

Disclaimer: The statements and opinions expressed in this publication are offered solely in pursuance of the objects of the electrical contractors association and master electricians australia to provide an informative service to contractors in the electrical industry on legal, commercial and other issues and problems related to the industry. The electrical contractors association and master electricians australia are not aware that any person intends to act or rely upon such statements and opinions contained in this publication or the manner in which it might be possible to do so. The electrical contractors association and master electricians australia issues no invitation to any member or other persons to act or rely upon such statements or opinions or any of them and it accepts no responsibility for any of them. it intends by this provision to exclude, to the extent permitted by law, all liability for any such statements and opinions. The master electrician magazine can be viewed online at www.masterelectricians.com.au

Editorial ContaCts & ContributorsEDITOR Malcolm Richards ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kylie RobinsonADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Janelle MacDonaldPHONE 07 3252 4860EMAIL [email protected] AND PRINT POMO 07 3844 3873

GEnEral EnquiriEsMaster Electricians AustraliaPO Box 2438, Fortitude Valley BC Queensland 4006PHONE 1300 889 198FAX 1800 622 914EMAIL [email protected] www.masterelectricians.com.au ABN 31 145 178 203

Follow us @Masterelectrics on Twitter

Become a Fan on Facebook www.facebook.com/masterelectricians

www.masterelectricians.com.auor call 1300 889 198

WElcoME To ThE Spring EdiTion of ThE MaSTEr ElEcTrician MagazinE.

iT has been an exciting time at Master Electricians Australia’s headquarters. After almost 12 months of extensive strategic planning, we are thrilled to have launched our new brand at our Annual Conference in Fiji last month.The launch was a huge success with over 350 Conference delegates applauding the results at the official Welcome Dinner. The significant project included a realignment of our business structure to clarify ownership between the brands, an establishment of cohesive brand identities which are recognisable to industry and members, and the creation of a brand promise that not only supports the needs of our members, but allows us to future-proof our organisation. All the results, along with the new logos can be found on page 52.On top of that, we have opened our New South Wales office in the Sydney suburb of Parramatta and appointed a State Manager in Victoria. These new movements will help to even further support Master Electricians in these states.

Until next time.

Kylie Robinson Associate Editor

www.masterelectricians.com.au

4

There’s no denying that climate change has become a buzz-phrase in the public conscience in the last 25 years. While there is ongoing scientific debate about the impact of climate change, the majority of scientists agree, climate change is a result of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions and we need to do something about it sooner rather than later.

Beyond Zero Emissions, an Australian based think tank, is creating a roadmap to transform the energy sector from coal dependency, to 100 per cent renewables, as part of its solution to rapidly reduce emissions and give global ecosystems a chance of surviving long into the future.

How can australia reach a zero emissions target?Beyond Zero Emissions has developed the award-winning Zero Carbon Australia 2020 Project which has put together transition plans to get Australia to zero emissions in ten years.

Beyond Zero Emissions Founder and Executive Director Matthew Wright said the best part about the plan is that it uses only current proven technologies and engineering.

“Our aim is to demonstrate that there are no technical barriers to zero emission buildings in Australia.

“Everything we need to address the challenge – from base load solar thermal plants, to heat pumps that can reduce the amount of energy needed to heat a home by up to 80 per cent – are all available off the shelf now,” he said.

“A zero emissions economy is achievable and the bonus is that all these changes have extra benefits. The materials and products we will be working with in the 21st Century clean tech economy are much safer for tradespeople.”

Beyond Zero Emissions estimate the cost of their scheme to investors to be AU$37 billion per year for ten years, or approximately three per cent of Australia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). If this was paid back in electricity sales from 2011 to 2040, the extra cost to households would be only $8 per household per week.

“The plan creates 80,000 construction jobs, 20,000 manufacturing jobs and 45,000 ongoing jobs in operations and maintenance which is more than replacing the current 20,000 jobs in the domestic fossil energy sector,” Mr Wright said.

Total energy use under the plan is reduced by half from 3,915 PJ/yr (2010) to 1,660 PJ/yr (2020). The same level of energy services are maintained including heating, cooling and industrial energy use. This is achieved by switching energy services

currently provided with oil and natural gas, mostly for transport and heating, with far more efficient electrical systems.

“To accommodate this switch from fuel to electricity, the total electricity use increases from 228 TWh/yr to 325 TWh/yr even though energy efficiency measures cause the energy use for current electrical services to fall.”

The German advisory council on Global Climate Change states that in order to have a 67 per cent chance of keeping global warming at less than two degrees celsius above pre-industrial temperatures, countries with high per capita emissions, such as Australia, would need to reduce emissions to zero in ten years.

The plan shows that with a combination of energy efficiency, fuel switching from gas to oil to electrified energy services, then using a combination of commercially available renewable energy technologies, Australia’s energy needs can be met with 100 per cent renewables.

What does this mean for electricians?Under the Zero Carbon Australia (ZCA) plan, Australians would use less electricity and generate more from on-site renewable energy technologies. The goal is that energy efficient appliances would replace expensive gas consumption, creating more

renewable energy spotlight

Creating a road map to a zero emissions future

Beyond Zero Emissions

feature

Professor Ross Garnaut and Federal MP Tony Windsor during their recent fact finding tour of the Gemasolar baseload solar power tower in Spain.


5

work for tradespeople and cost-savings for householders.

Mr Wright says electricians are in an ideal position to benefit from the transition to a clean tech economy.

“Taking jobs in renewable energy and clean tech industries and passing over jobs to work for the old, fossil fuel industries will speed up the transition.

“Electricians can train up to be licenced solar panel installers and get restricted refrigerant licences to install reverse cycle air conditioners for heating,” he says.

“They can also encourage their customers to install rooftop solar panels, insulation, and replace conventional gas or inefficient electric appliances with new efficient ones.”

Mr Wright says the ZCA Plan will also provide attractive new business prospects for electricians.

“Many will find themselves with a lot more rewiring jobs, installing LED lighting systems and heat pumps. Some electricians might move to energy services business models where they will advise on how to achieve comfort in an affordable and energy efficient way by addressing air infiltration and recommending insulation and double glazing for example.”

He insists there is urgency in the call to change the way we consume energy, but opportunities too.

“We must start reducing our emissions today or risk irreversibly changing our climate – we have all the tools we need.”

Find out more about the Zero Carbon Australia Stationary Energy Plan at beyondzeroemissions.org

hoW auSTralia lookS in a zEro carbon fuTurE…at homeHouses are built with passive solar design and enough thermal mass storage like concrete or rammed earth to keep its occupants warm through many days of continuous cloud cover.

There is no more gas in use, so the gas cooktop is gone, replaced by the European style induction cooktop, which cooks faster and gives better responsiveness than gas.

Our televisions are Organic LED (OLED) display based. Sony has already released one and they use 10 per cent of the power of today’s LCD flat-panel televisions.

in the energy industryWind power contributes to 40 per cent of total power generation and we see rapid growth in concentrating solar thermal plants (these boil water to drive steam turbines to make electricity).

For energy security, reliable base load and peak power demand, we use pumped hydro, compressed air storage, high temperature solar hydrogen storage, ammonia thermochemical storage and Phase Change Salt thermal batteries as well as flywheels and super-capacitors.

Mining and construction now predominantly use electric vehicles and tools.

day-to-day60 per cent of vehicles used are electric, and 40 per cent are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Congestion charges and road taxes motivate most people to use public transport.

Energy used for production is listed on all foods, which are taxed based on their total life cycle energy input.

Entertainment is zero carbon, with the lights at the MCG being replaced by an array of thousands of high power LEDs.

Source: http://beyondzeroemissions.org

The Gemasolar power tower generates electricity 24-hours a day.


6

On January 1 next year, each Australian state and territory will align their occupational health and safety regulations with the national Workplace Health and Safety Act 2011.

According to Safe Work Australia, uniform WHS and OHS laws will reduce the regulatory burden on employers and employees operating across the country by adopting and implementing similar laws and policies nationwide.

A Safe Work Australia spokesperson said the idea has been on the government’s agenda for over three decades but was set in motion with a national review into model OHS laws commissioned back in 2008. Harmonisation was proposed as a solution to the confusion businesses faced in adhering with different safety standards across jurisdictions and industry sectors.

Astoundingly, there are currently ten principal OHS statutes across Australia, covering six states, two territories and two Australian Government Acts, one relating to government employees and one specific to seafarers. On top of these, there are state based industry specific safety laws such those covering mining in New South Wales and Queensland.

The new WHS Act retains the existing three-step risk management process to identify hazards, assess risks of injury or harm that may arise, and control risks through implementation measures.

Safe Work Australia helped the Council of Australian Governments engineer the new Act, and says implementation of the model WHS laws will not significantly affect the way electricians currently operate.

The most significant changes are related to definitions which aim to capture new and evolving work arrangements.

As of January 2012, duties of care will no longer be defined by the nature of the employment relationship. This means that the term ‘employer’ currently applied in most OHS laws is replaced with the term ‘person conducting a business or undertaking’ and ‘employee’ is replaced with a broadly defined term of ‘worker’.

The new WHS Act protects all types of ‘workers’ including employees, volunteers, contractors, sub-contractors, apprentices, work experience students and outworkers.

Positive duties will be introduced for ‘officers’ to exercise ‘due diligence’ to ensure the person conducting a business or undertaking, complies with its duty

of care. This is a new way of expressing officers’ responsibilities under current law.

Currently most OHS Acts attribute liability to officers after an incident occurs, where a corporation is in breach of a duty and they have a reverse onus of proof to show that they did what was reasonably practicable, or that they had no influence in relation to the breach. Under the new WHS Act there is no attributed liability. Some of the ways officers can demonstrate due diligence are by keeping up-to-date knowledge of health and safety matters and providing suitable reporting processes and training for employees.

There will also be a duty to consult, cooperate and coordinate activities with other duty holders. This duty aims to address situations where more than one duty holder is responsible for the same work health and safety matter to ensure they work together to control health and safety risk.

In terms of prosecution, the Act includes a significant increase in penalties for a breach of the work health and safety duties. The maximum fine for recklessly exposing a person to risk of death or serious injury is now $3 million for a corporation, and $600,000, or five years jail for an individual.

feature

The safety of workers on-the-job is a paramount concern for employers, and now, thanks to new legislation it’s about to get easier to manage.

National harmonisation of work health and safety laws


7

Lead.Connect.

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SafetyConnect is the trusted, proven system that is consistent with new WHS standards.

For more information about how this program can dramatically reduce the risk of accidents and ultimately, prosecution to your business, contact SafetyConnect Australia on 1300 636 787 or visit www.safetyconnect.com.au

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If you are worried about meeting your obligations under the new requirements, the award winning SafetyConnect program can offer you peace of mind.

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This program is unique in that it is consistent with the new WHS requirements and, when implemented, can dramatically reduce the risk of accidents and ultimately, prosecution, to your business.

As part of a not-for-profit industry group, specialists deliver the program in your business, ensuring you have the resources to get started, together with the ongoing support, advice and services to make sure your business works safely.

Best of all, unlike other safety packages, the SafetyConnect team will implement and run the award-winning service for electrical contractors on a cost-effective and all-inclusive annual subscription basis.

To find out how you can take advantage of the SafetyConnect program, contact us on 1300 636 787 or email [email protected]

WhY WE nEEd harMoniSaTion• Uniform safety standards and protections for all

Australian workers

• Easier for employers with operations in more than one jurisdiction to comply

• Reductions in the incidence of death, injury and disease in the workplace

WhaT iT MEanS for You• Primary duty of care requires persons conducting a

business to ensure the health and safety of those involved, so far as is reasonably practicable in controlling risks

• Directors and officers must exercise due diligence to ensure compliance, a shift away from being automatically held liable for incidents after they occur

• Further duty of care for upstream parties, i.e. designers, suppliers and installers

• More stringent reporting requirements for notifiable incidents including serious illness, injury or death

• An entry permit scheme allows union officials to enquire into suspected contraventions affecting contractors

• Increase in maximum penalties for non-compliance


8

ThaT all-important image captured at the finish line is the source of joy and adulation or heartbreak and despair for racing enthusiasts.

One of Australia’s most memorable photo finishes occurred at its most famous race – the Melbourne Cup – in 2008, where legendary trainer Bart Cummings’ horse, Viewed, beat Luca Cumani’s charge, Bauer, by a nose. That was the closest finish the Cup has produced to date.

Terry Fraumano, veteran camera operator with Amalgamated Photo Finish, took the photo that year, and he’ll be behind the lens once again in 2011 to see if the gap can get any narrower.

The winner of this year’s Melbourne Cup will once again be decided using Finish Lynx digital cameras.

Amalgamated Photo Finish has dominated the photo finish industry in Australia for over 60 years and is responsible for 95 per cent of all races held in Victoria.

Mr Fraumano says modern photo-finish technology has come a long way since it was developed in Australia in the 1940s.

“There’s nothing these cameras miss,” says Mr Fraumano.

The technology was originally invented to address widespread corruption in horse racing, as noted in an exhibition

of its history at Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum. It was common practice for corrupt race judges to falsely declare the winners of close races, which infuriated bookmakers and punters. One such victim of the system, John Thomas Cooper, was spurred into action and set about creating a camera to catch the contentious moment.

The first prototype of a multi-lens high speed camera suitable for racing sports was made using recycled war surplus material, including lenses sourced from bombsite cameras. These fifteen lens cameras took a total of 360 pictures per second.

Picking a winnerWhether you’re placing a bet on a lazy saturday afternoon at the pub, or trackside on the greatest Tuesday of the year, your money is wagered on the result of one critical millisecond - the photo-finish. Zoe Knobel reports.

feature


9

Mr Fraumano has recorded the winner of around 30 Melbourne Cup race days and says the technology has improved dramatically.

“The current system is very accurate, taking some pictures at 1700 images a second.”

The continuous strip ‘Camera Graph’ system was first trialled at Flemington Race Course in 1946 by Amalgamated Photo Finish. This circular flow camera had no shutter, unlike conventional cameras, and began to record its image on moving film once the first horse had crossed the line. Back then, the service boasted an ability to produce a photo print of the finish line within sixty-five seconds.

“Up until 1995 all photo finish cameras used 35mm black and white film which was processed in about one minute and an image produced. We then changed to the present colour digital cameras and a full colour image is now produced within about 20 seconds,” says Mr Fraumano.

“We use three of the Finish Lynx digital cameras at Flemington on race days. These cameras are of course focussed on the finishing line and record every horse as they cross the line. Each horse’s time and margin from the

winner is also recorded. This information is then immediately sent back to Racing Victoria.

“It’s not all automated – we set up the cameras at the start of the day, and manually trigger them once the horses are about ten lengths away from the finish line. We end up with a long strip of photos, which looks like slow motion still photography.”

The technology assures punters and jockeys of three critical things when deciding races: reliability, security and speed. For bookmakers, the instant transfer of data to judges and scoreboards reduces the time taken to produce official results, meaning winning bets can be paid straight away.

For the sport as a whole, it has eliminated corruption from the racetrack. The images are both encoded and time-indexed, making them tamperproof as it is impossible to open or manipulate them in any computer graphics program.

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“The current system is very accurate, taking some pictures at 1700 images a second.”


10

the buzz

nEW HaGEr Golf Wins australian dEsiGn aWard for Good dEsiGn After last year’s successful participation and winning of the Red Dot Design Award, Hager’s golf enclosure was the only electrical distribution board which received the prestigious Australian Design Award for good design 2011.

This year, 232 Australian and internationally designed products were physically assessed by a panel of international design experts.

Brandon Gien, Managing Director of Good Design Australia said all entries underwent a thorough physical inspection assessing form, function, quality, safety, sustainability, innovation and best in class design.

“Award winners are the result of unwavering dedication to good design and commitment to a professional design process. Innovation, creativity and attention to detail are clearly at the heart of each project,” Gien said.

solar poWEr tops poll of positivE pErCEptions Solar energy has a very positive rating in the public’s mind, while the nuclear industry and coal-fired power stations are at the bottom when people are asked about their perceptions of energy industries.

A UMR survey last month found more than eight in ten people had a positive view of solar energy; only 10 per cent were negative.

Three-quarters were positive on renewable energy. The gas industry also scored positively (61 per cent), but those rating the coal industry favourably outstripped those seeing it negatively relatively narrowly (45-38 per cent). People were equally divided about the oil industry (42 per cent each).

Coal-fired power stations, which have copped bad publicity in the carbon debate, were seen negatively by almost half (48 per cent) accompanied by 34 per cent who had a benign view.

urGEnt rECall of CEraMiC laMp KitsNSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe is urging consumers who have purchased haveyoumetmissjones ceramic, portable lamp kits to stop using them because they are not safe.

The haveyoumetmissjones lamp kits, which supply 240v, pose a risk because the lampholder does not hold the bulb securely inside the lamp base and the bulb can fall out.

Mr Stowe said Fair Trading had organised a national recall of the lamp kits, in consultation with the Sydney business owner of haveyoumetmissjones.

5,240 lamp kits have been sold nationally, through gift and interior design stores, as well as direct sales from haveyoumetmissjones.com.au

429 customers have been notified of the recall.

Anyone who has purchased a lamp kit should stop using it immediately and call 02 8339 0777 to organise a replacement power supply and lampholder.

australia’s larGEst solar panEl sEllEr plaCEd in rECEivErsHipAustralia’s largest solar panel retailer, Solar Shop Australia, has been placed in receivership.

Solar Shop, established 12 years ago, currently employs 200 people and has operations across six states and territories in Australia.

Ferrier Hodgson has been appointed as receivers of Solar Shop, and will manage the company during this period.

In a statement, Ferrier Hodgson claims job cuts and a business restructuring were not enough to stem financial losses.

Ferrier Hodgson and Solar Shop managers are continuing to trade business, while attempting to find a purchaser for the business.


11

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standards australia announCEs sMart Grid road MapThe Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism has commissioned Standards Australia to initiate the delivery of a Smart Grid Standards Roadmap.

“Smart grids use two-way communications technology to improve the economic and energy efficiency of the electricity networks and improve sustainability outcomes,” said Colin Blair, Chief Executive of Standards Australia.

Blair said work will shortly commence on the formation of a government and industry based smart grid working group.

“Smart grids represent a new frontier for cities and major centres as they grapple with the need for greater energy efficiency, and the development of Smart Grid standards will play a critical role in providing some of the answers,” said Blair.

“Consumers are increasingly aware of energy prices and are therefore more concerned about measures which can help manage household energy usage.” Blair said the objective of the standards scoping study is to determine the current state of smart grid technologies in the Australian marketplace and the potential role of Australian Standards.

HpM lEGrand sWitCHEs on EvEry day ExCEllEnCE WitH ExCEl lifEHPM legrand has introduced key design and environmental innovations to the Australian market with the launch of its new legrand Excel Life range, making it the largest range of its kind in the local market.

The offering marks the next generation of the Excel range, which was originally developed by HPM in 1989. It’s also another step in the renewal of the HPM legrand product portfolio which begun in 2007 with the introduction of Bticino, and since then Linea colour switch covers and the Arteor range of switches and outlets.

“We are offering the Australian installer and end user innovative functions and the latest technology in a contemporary, Australian design style,” Giuseppe Parola, CEO of HPM Legrand said.

Suitable for all types of applications in residential and commercial projects, the Excel Life range features new generation electronic push button switches and all load dimmers with customisable red or blue LED colour; internal safety shutters on all powerpoints; all-in-one rotary switches; 770 module surge protection and time delay switch mechanisms, as well as unique 770 module LED ring kits. As part of its ongoing commitment to Australian manufacturing, part of the range will be manufactured at HPM legrand’s new Prestons headquarters in western Sydney.

In the new range, the humble rocker switch has undergone a major transformation. It has been upgraded to 16AX (fluoro rated), and it features a new contemporary rounded shape. Illuminated blue LED rocker ring kits can easily be snapped onto the switch mechanism for a quick and easy upgrade. They can be programmed for ‘find-the-light’ applications or to indicate on/off status. It will also appeal to those clients wanting a contemporary high-tech finish.

A product trusted by so mAny, cAn only be improved by the world leAder.

The all new common plate series.

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hpm excel is becominG the All new excel life from leGrAndHPM Excel has been a trusted name for decades in Australia, which is why you can only trust the world leader in manufacturing and supply of switches and sockets to improve it.

Introducing the all new Excel life range from Legrand, featuring a dedicated plate and an all new common plate series to improve flexibility on the job. Innovations like an LED Illuminated Ring Kit to fit any standard rocker in the range. More electronic functions to meet changing customer demands.

There are loads more innovations and improvements to make your job easier, all developed to give you new levels of product excellence for your everyday projects. It’s what we call everyday excellence.Ask your wholesaler for Excel Life and try it on your next project.

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12

the buzz

WHat you nEEd to KnoW about tHE nEW as/nZs 4836:2011The recent overhaul of AS/NZS 4836:2011 has seen a variety of changes that have a significant impact on the entire electrical industry. The largest changes from a safety perspective, and in particular that of personal protection, come in the area of arc flash protection.

AS/NZS 4836:2011, for the first time, specifies arc flash PPE that must be used in certain situations. The arc flash PPE specified is of American Standards rating (NFPA 70-E).

The American standard classifies garments by a rating known as cal/cm2. This is calories, per square centimetre.

Calorie is a measure of energy (or heat), required to heat 1L of water by 1°C. As you can quickly work out, the higher a cal/cm2 rating a garment will have, the more heat and energy it can protect the wearer from. AS/NZS 4836:2011 specifies certain cal/cm2 (or simply ‘cal’) ratings certain pieces of PPE are now required to have. Quite obviously, higher risk tasks, require higher rating pieces of PPE.

What do you need to know? The table below is based on table 9.1 from AS/NZS 4836:2011 and shows the new arc flash requirements for PPE in clear, easy to understand format. Products to suit all of the below requirements are readily available from reputable safety companies.

tEquila plant Could fuEl vEHiClEs and HElp rEduCE EMissions Large-scale farms of the agave plant used to make the drink tequila could be established in Australia’s arid inland as a novel and greenhouse-friendly solution to our transport fuel problems, a University of Sydney academic has found.

In an article published in the Journal of Energy and Environmental Science, plant physiologist Dr Daniel Tan and his University of Oxford collaborators have analysed the potential to produce bioethanol (biofuel) from the agave plant, a high-sugar succulent widely grown in Mexico to make the alcoholic drink tequila. The agave plant has not yet been widely cultivated as a fuel source, but it promises some significant advantages over existing sources of ethanol such as sugarcane and corn, Dr Tan and his Oxford colleagues agree.

“The agave plant is probably one of the most promising crops we can grow to produce ethanol-based fuels,” said Dr Tan, a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. “It can grow in arid areas without irrigation; it doesn’t compete with food crops or put demands on limited water supplies.”

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Requirements to AS/NZS 4836:2011

Clarification

Eye protection No metal, complying with AS/NZS1337 and selected in accordance with AS/NZS 1336.

Heat resistant, no metal

Face shield Certified to 10cam/cm2 Tested to 10calArc flash suit and hood Certified to 40cal/cm2 Tested to 40calInsulating gloves AS2225 or Equivalent, rated

to appropriate voltage, air tested before use.

IEC, ASTM and EN gloves acceptable

Flame-resistant (FR) gloves

Gloves made from leather or other non-melting heat-resistance material

Complying with AS/NZS2161.4

Protective clothing Flame-resistant, full body clothing with no metal.

Cotton not suitable. Must be FR rated and tested fabric.

The ACT Government’s changes to occupational health and safety laws passed earlier this month after heated debate.

The Greens and the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union said the shake-up to workplace health and safety laws unfairly removed the right of

unions to launch third-party prosecutions against employers.

While ACT unions will lose the right to launch third-party prosecutions on behalf of workers, that right has been retained in NSW. Barry O’Farrell’s Government tried to remove the right of unions to launch lawsuits when it took office, but

the Opposition, Greens and Shooters’ Party united to retain the right of unions to prosecute employers.

In the ACT, only the Greens opposed the removal of this clause.

aCt WorKplaCE HEaltH, safEty laWs HarMonisEd


14

Newtagsadvert180x81.pdf 16/04/2009 2:04:04 PM

the buzz

proposEd “dad and partnEr” parEntal lEavE payMEntThe Federal Government has proposed “Dad and Partner” paid paternity leave, which is due to take effect from 1 January 2013.

Under the proposed scheme, fathers and partners would be able to take two weeks paid leave after the birth or adoption of a child.

The amount of pay would be linked to the national minimum wage before tax.

To be eligible, the father or partner will need to have worked about one day a week (330 hours) for at least 10 of the 13 months prior to the birth or adoption and must have earned less than $150,000 in the previous financial year.

The income of the other parent, such as the mother, will not count towards the income test and the scheme will be open to full-time, part-time, casual, seasonal, contract and self-employed workers who meet the eligibility criteria.

At this stage, the government is proposing that the leave payments will be made by the Family Assistance Office rather than by employers directly.

Master Electricians Australia will provide further information as it becomes available closer to the proposed implementation date of 1 January 2013.

www.fahcsia.gov.au

assistanCE for viablE sMall businEssEs ExpEriEnCinG sHort-tErM finanCial diffiCultiEsSmall business operators with an annual turnover of less than $2 million can apply for an interest-free payment arrangement of up to 12 months for their activity statement debts.

These arrangements are aimed at helping small business operators who have a good history of meeting their tax lodgment and payment obligations, but are experiencing short-term financial difficulties.

For more information, and details of who may be eligible for a general interest charge-free payment arrangement, visit www.ato.gov.au/helpingsmallbusiness

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FOr the first time, implications for electrical safety are coming to light as suggestions a continued workforce shortage could force future training short-cuts in attempts to fast-track workers to meet industry demands.

In response, Master Electricians Australia is now working with both state and federal governments to reform the Australian apprenticeship system so that accelerated and unsafe training options will not be necessary in the future.

“We need to ensure Australia has a high-quality and competitive apprenticeship system and responsibility must be shared by both industry and government to meet existing and future business needs,” said Master Electricians’ spokesperson Stacey Ozolins.

Ms Ozolins says there are a number of factors playing a part in the current poor state of electrical apprenticeships.

“There’s been a strong push suggesting that an academic future for electrical apprenticeships is the only way it will survive. Some people stereotype trades as a ‘grubbier’ profession, while success is measured by how many bachelor degrees you have,” Ms Ozolins said.

“In 2008 less than eight per cent of Queensland year 12 school leavers took on apprenticeships while more than 30 per cent went on to university.

“About 1000 kids start an electrical apprenticeship each year and only about 65 per cent complete the four-year course,” she said.

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With australia’s skills shortage set to worsen, industry experts are warning the shortage could pose a threat to the future of electrical safety.

Apprentices hold the key to a safe future

feature


19

Ms Ozolins says the key to the future success of Australian electrical apprenticeships is in developing more user friendly training models.

“We are still using the same training models that were used in the sixties and seventies but kids don’t learn the same way that they use to.

“The traditional block-step system is tried and true but a blended training model which is shorter and includes more real life on-the-job training has greater value to both apprentices and employers.”

“We don’t want less-qualified electricians coming through, but the government and industry need to explore better ways to attract and train apprentices.”

According to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) the average weekly income of those employed in the electrical industry is more than $100 higher than any other trade.

“Many people are put off by the thought of getting $6 or $7 an hour when they start their apprenticeship. What they don’t

realise is when they come out in four years’ time they will be instantly earning sixty to eighty thousand dollars a year and have no HECS fee, unlike most university graduates,” Ms Ozolins said.

She said that employers can also often find taking on an apprentice both daunting and frustrating but it gives them the opportunity to give back to an industry that has done well for them.

“There is now more support available through trade apprentice mentors who not only help students but can also offer assistance to employers with advice and help with the complex paper work.”

Energy Skills Queensland has predicted a skills shortfall of almost 36,000 tradespeople in Australia by 2015, as a result of the resource sector’s boom as well as an ageing workforce.

Ms Ozolins said Master Electricians Australia is doing everything possible to ensure the next generation of electricians is ready to support future demand for the trade so that when the time comes they don’t have to cut corners.

“If we don’t quickly increase apprenticeships there will be a gaping hole in our domestic market when thousands of contractors are swayed out to the continually growing mining regions,” she said.

NCVER statistics show a growth across all trades in apprentices over the age of 25. In 2006 less than 30 per cent of apprentices were 25 years and older while this year almost 40 per cent are over 25 years old.

The skills shortage can be weakened by people retiring later, retaining and up-skilling existing workers, skilled migration as well encouraging new entrants to the electrical sector.

“The electrical industry is a very good and prosperous career path which offers a hands on job and qualifications that mean you can work anywhere in the world,” Ms Ozolins said.

“Apprentices are the lifeblood of our industry. The system needs an urgent reform to boost completion rates and shrink Australia’s skills shortage.”


20

respOnsiBle businesses consider the ‘closing’ of a sale from the outset. Your business success revolves around your ability to promote your services effectively to a buyer, and securing that new customer is a process that requires consistency and professionalism. With buyers making more frequent purchase decisions, they are becoming savvier at choosing between competitors, and gaining commitment from a customer to close a new contract can often be difficult.

We sat down with Master Electricians Australia Sales Manager David Thorpe to discuss the ins and outs of quoting and closing a sale. He explains that the key to closing a sale is to assume you already have the job.

What can be done at the quoting stage to help win a sale?I firmly believe in setting the foundation before you can build the house. The foundation in quoting, assuming the quoting stage is done face-to-face, is to create a strong first impression for your potential customer. This involves some golden rules:

• Be prepared

• Dress in a clean uniform which has a company logo

• Don’t wear sunglasses when speaking to a client

• Have a business card handy

• Have a pen and note pad on you with a set of key questions you have prepared to ask the customer

You should always greet the customer with a smile and introduce yourself. Preparing some basic questions is a good way to break the ice and get them talking about their expectations. Once the customer has outlined what they require you to do, give them your thoughts on how you intend to do the job and check for their approval. When you give them the price add, “I have a time slot available on Tuesday or Thursday to do this for you so I will book it

in for you.” The key is to take a positive approach and assume you have already got the job. They can only say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ so if you have made the time to call out, you have the right to assume the job is yours.

How can you turn objections from potential customers into opportunities?You can turn any perceived negative into a positive. For example, if someone suggests your quote is too high, you can explain to them that there are a few ways a job can be done. Tell them there are some electricians who will do work the wrong way and you won’t ever see it because the work is hidden and could potentially be a danger. You will gain credibility if you explain to the customer that you always work by the regulations and guarantee your work.

do you have any tips when it comes to following up with customers?Always respond to your customer within an hour of them contacting you. It’s very important that you try to understand how your customer is feeling. If they think something is important, so should you. If you are following up after quoting, call within two days. It’s extremely important to acknowledge a quote or sale request as soon as possible. Follow them up quickly because it’s money to you.

What are some technical tips to help close a sale?Tools such as having an active voicemail, email address and web page can help. The key thing is to try and deliver the quote at your first meeting so you can ask the all-important question – “When should I start?” If you have to leave the site to do up a quote, then always organise another appointment so you can deliver the quote in person.

business

feature

How to close the sale: The power of negotiating to get the job‘Closing the sale’ is not an isolated act; it’s an ongoing series of events that occurs throughout the selling process.


21

What is the best way to behave through the whole process of negotiating and closing the sale?Become the customer’s trusted advisor. Be confident, knowledgeable, understanding and always make them feel comfortable that you think their needs are important. You will fail if you don’t ask for the job. You have to seem enthusiastic and show that you really want it.

When closing the sale, what’s the best way to gain commitment from a customer?I’ve said it over and over but the key to close is by making the assumption the job is already yours. Tell them you have a time slot available because this way when they either say ‘yes’ or ‘no’, you are either going to win a sale, or have the opportunity to overcome any of their objections.

You have to have the courage to ask for the job. It engages conversation, which nine times out of ten leads to getting the work.

What’s the worst thing you can do when negotiating a sale?Never drop your price after you’ve delivered the quote. This can suggest that you’re cutting corners or being ‘dodgy’. When you are working through the quote with the customer you could tell them you can see some savings with the price if you start the work this week and then straight away suggest you will book them in.

Don’t ever challenge your customer or argue with them and be respectful at all times.

if the customer lets you know you haven’t won the work, what should you do? I firmly believe that if you have missed out on the job then you should follow up with a call from someone else in the company. Tell the customer you understand that your company didn’t win their business but ask if they have a couple of minutes to answer some questions which will help benefit the business in the future. Ask why you failed to gain the job (and listen!). Don’t raise money concerns unless the customer does and definitely don’t argue or try to win. Finish by thanking them for the opportunity and ask if you can send them a fridge magnet, or something similar, with your details on it for future opportunities.

do you have any other handy hints?If you believe in yourself and your work the customer will see you as a trusted advisor. You have to remember that everyone is looking for value, so show them why the quote is what it is, what they are getting for their money, and remind them of your good workmanship and guarantees. And ask for the job! Let them know you want their business and that you will work hard for them.

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GrOWinG up on a table grape farm in Victoria’s Red Cliffs, Mildura, Tony Chiera, didn’t know much about electrics. It was when an electrician made the trek out to his family’s newly built home on the farm that Tony’s fascination with wires began. He finished his apprenticeship in 1991 and by 1993, at only 22, he had already started contracting on his own.

“I finished doing my time and got my papers then I thought to myself ‘what have I got to lose’. I was young and knew I could recover if things went belly-up so I went out on my own,” Tony said.

Tony has come a long way from his early days as a self-employed electrician. He now owns and runs Top Cat Electrics with a workforce of more than 25 staff that is still growing.

“We’ve just moved in to a bigger premise in Maidstone so we can better cater for all our clients. We work mainly on

big commercial and industrial jobs so it’s important we help clients with whatever they need as soon as possible.”

Tony insists that the Top Cat Electrics company name, which he formed in 1995, was fate. “TC is my nickname and not many people realise that it stands for my initials. When the business register said that name was available I knew it was meant to be.”

The self-confessed gym junkie knew he really was one of the “top cats” of Victoria’s electrical industry when he won his first big contract for residential twin towers in Melbourne’s Lara Street in 2000.

“That was one of my first big jobs and it really got the ball rolling for my business. I prefer to do commercial and industrial work because domestic trade is much more cut throat.”

He assured us the success of his business is based on more than its quirky name. “We put

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introducing Tony Chiera from Top Cat electrics in Victoria

more than 100 per cent into every job. We always try to achieve the highest possible standards of work to exceed both our customers’ needs and their expectations.”

The father of two believes being a Master Electrician gives him peace of mind that there is always support and technical advice available when his business needs it. “If you’re a Master Electrician you’re a true electrician. I’m proud to be an electrician and I’ll gladly accept being

called a master of anything,” Tony joked.

Safety is Tony’s number one priority and he said being a Master Electrician reassures his customers that he is accredited to provide the highest level of workmanship and electrical safety.

“My customers can be confident they aren’t getting a cowboy who will do shoddy work. Being a Master Electrician means all our services are safe and fit for purpose.”

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feature

not all publicity is good publicity, as a number of Queensland electrical contractors found out after the floods.

sOuTh-easT Queensland’s horror floods made non-stop news for weeks at the beginning of this year, with media organisations from around the world feasting on a smorgasbord of human interest and heartbreak.

But as the flow of news stories dried up with the flood waters, some reporters became increasingly desperate to find an angle, and in some cases they turned on the electrical contractors who had worked around the clock to get the power back on.

Master Electricians Australia has recently intervened on behalf of two contractors ambushed by television reporters following work performed during the flood clean-ups.

In one case, clients had complained to Channel Nine News about the cost of work needed to repair electrical fittings in a southern Brisbane home that had been submerged to the second level – including replacing the switchboard, hot water system, all light fittings and power sockets, and testing all the circuits.

An item on the six o’clock news named the family-owned company, which was not given a right of reply. Channel Nine refused subsequent requests for a follow

TV shock tactics

up interview to set the record straight. The matter is now the subject of a complaint by the contractor to the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

In the second instance, A Current Affair aired allegations that a contractor had overcharged for similar work performed at the request of electricity distributor Energex as it scrambled to get the power back on after the flash flooding at Grantham.

In both cases, Master Electricians Australia was able to establish that not only had the work been necessary and the charges fair, but that both contractors had charged little more than cost price for the significant work they had performed.

And yet in both cases the contractors were heavily criticised by the news organisations, prompting abusive calls from members of the public and, in some cases, regular customers and suppliers.

Brisbane-based CBC Group Media and Public Affairs provides media relations advice to Master Electricians Australia, and its director Malcolm Cole says while it may not be possible to stop a negative news story, there are steps contractors can take to reduce the impact.

Mr Cole recently gave a presentation at the ECA and MEA Annual Conference about how to minimise damage to your reputation from negative and unfair media attention.

“The first thing to do is to talk with the journalist or news organisation to establish

the basis of the complaint against you,” he says.

“You don’t have to agree with what they say against you, or even respond on the spot. Tell them you want some time to research the case and consider your response.

“Then, if you are an accredited Master Electrician or ECA member, get in touch with Master Electricians Australia, explain your situation and get expert help. They will provide crisis media support as part of its services to you.

“We can help you to decide how to respond to the media and what to say. We can also help you understand the dangers and what not to do and say when you are dealing with the media.

“As distressing and difficult as it is to stand in front of a camera and rebut false allegations, if you don’t speak out you can be sure your side of the story won’t be told.

“And finally, if you are named adversely in the media, write to your suppliers, staff, customers and prospects and give them your side of the story directly. Make sure they don’t make a judgement about your business based solely on what they see on TV.

“While these steps won’t guarantee you get a good outcome, they will ensure you have the best possible chance of protecting your precious reputation in the face of a negative media attack.”

“We can help you to decide how to respond to the media and what to say.”

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a total of 1,222 Australians were polled, revealing that the reputation of the tradie is more important than the price of the job.

According to the survey conducted by Newspoll for PickAQuote.com.au, a staggering 69 per cent of people say that reputation comes before price when booking a tradie, compared with only 31 per cent who allocate price as the most important reason.

Almost one in two Australians (49 per cent) had engaged an electrician in the 12 months prior to the survey.

Master Electricians Australia Group CEO Malcolm Richards said the Newspoll findings reinforced earlier research pointing to the importance of trust in the client-tradesperson relationship.

“Research conducted by Internet Thinking for Master Electricians Australia showed the value consumers place on the reputation of their electrical contractors,” Mr Richards said.

“This commitment to excellence has resulted in strong public recognition of the value of using a Master Electrician for electrical work.

“Those findings showed that around 63 per cent of home owners would choose a Master Electrician as their first preference for electrical work.“

The Newspoll survey also revealed that the average Aussie is prepared to hold off on getting started in order to find the perfect tradie to get the job done right.

A whopping 90 per cent of respondents stated they would rather research and acquire at least two quotes before hiring. Almost 46 per cent stated they spent time getting three quotes to ensure that they found the tradie with the best reputation that was the most reliable.

According to the survey, 67 per cent of Aussies feel unsafe and unwilling to leave a tradesperson alone in their home while doing a job. Interestingly, this distrust of tradespeople increased with age, with 69 per cent of 35-64 year olds saying they would not leave a tradie at home alone, compared with 58 per cent of 18-24 year olds.

It also showed a frustration with a lack of punctuality, with respondents saying tradespeople turned up an average of 58 minutes late.

Mr Richards said the research findings delivered a clear challenge to electrical contractors.

“It’s evident that Aussies are willing to spend time and money to hire the tradesperson with the best reputation” said Mr Richards.

“In order to meet consumers’ expectations, electrical contractors need to demonstrate they provide a safe, high-quality service and they can be trusted to turn up on time to perform the work.

“The benefit of achieving Master Electrician accreditation is that you show your customers you are serious about meeting their needs.”

a recent national survey has revealed that reputation is best when it comes to picking the right tradesperson for the job.

feature

Best seller: Reputation

“Those findings showed that around 63 per cent of home owners would choose a Master Electrician as their first preference for electrical work.“

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CrOWned with a ‘solar halo’ and the title of Australia’s largest solar stadium – the Gold Coast’s Metricon Stadium has generated more than 75,342 kilowatt hours of electricity during the home team’s first season in the AFL.

The $144 million complete redevelopment of the former Cararra Stadium in Queensland incorporates a ‘solar halo’ of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels in the new roof which architect Chris Paterson said provides the stadium with 20 per cent of its total power usage.

“Metricon Stadium is an Australian first both in terms of its cost-effective design and its sustainable design features,” Mr Paterson said.

The new glass edge of the stadium roof is made from 574 high-efficiency solar panel modules, making the most of the sun’s power. Each module outputs 376.1watts and weighs 110kg.

The ‘halo’ contains 1937m2 of solar glass which is expected to generate approximately 275,000 kilowatt hours of electricity a year. Solar PV panelling up to five metres wide is installed around the inner edge of the roof to maximise solar harvesting while also being a very visible feature of the stadium.

In addition to the stadium generating solar energy, extensive water harvesting with the ability to store 650,000 litres of rain water and a new public transport system creates a benchmark for environmental design.

“Metricon Stadium is one of Australia’s greenest stadiums. The initiative highlights the importance of embracing renewable energy technologies at the design phase,” Mr Paterson said.

The stadium also boasts an impressive 200m2 LED video screen at the north end of the ground which has become an attraction in itself. The screen is the second largest in Australia, topped only by the giant screens in Sydney’s ANZ Stadium. Rather than having two smaller screens, designers decided to make one large screen a major feature of the north end of the stadium.

All that remains of the old Cararra Stadium are the six light towers, with everything else flattened. For a stadium with a capacity of 25,000, a budget of $144.2 million was very lean. In order to stretch their budget the redevelopment team decided to make the new

feature

saving energy is not normally linked to aFl but that’s what Metricon stadium, home of the Gold Coast suns, is all about. rebecca Belsham reports

Powering the Suns

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stadium fit around the existing light towers and this became their biggest challenge during the design and engineering phases.

“The stadium itself wouldn’t totally fit within the existing light towers so we had to integrate one of the light towers into the western stand. It’s actually pretty awesome. People are definitely wowed when they see it,” Mr Wright added.

At the time of the stadium’s opening, Gold Coast Suns CEO Travis Auld told austadiums.com that Metricon Stadium is a glowing endorsement for AFL on the Gold Coast.

“We have been absolutely humbled by the support our organisation has received since being granted the league’s seventeenth licence,” he said.

“Like the Gold Coast community who have shown their support through almost twelve thousand membership packages, we are also equally proud of the corporate support we have received from our sponsors and our Stadium naming rights partner, Metricon.”

As well as being home of the new Gold Coast Suns Football Club, the venue is also expected to play host to cricket fixtures and is central to the Gold Coast’s 2018 Commonwealth Games bid.

Should the Gold Coast win the bid to host the Games, the seating capacity will be increased by 15,000 for a total of 40,000 seats. The stadium would host both the opening and closing ceremonies along with all track and field events.

The 18-month redevelopment has transformed the old Carrara Stadium into a world-class venue. In a matter of four short months, there have been more than 100,000 patrons through Gold Coast Stadium’s door.

“People have really embraced the stadium as their own. Everyone has been really passionate about it.”

“Metricon Stadium is an Australian first both in terms of its cost-effective design and its sustainable design features,” Mr Paterson said.


30

ausTralian manufacturing jobs could be at risk due to the alleged dumping of electrical cables imported from China, but there are no safety concerns about the product at this stage.

The recently formed Australian Cablemakers Association (ACA) brought the situation to the attention of Australian Customs and a formal investigation into dumping is now underway.

Customs has been informed that the Australian cable manufacturing sector has been facing unfair trading practices for some time from cheap Chinese imports.

The founding members of ACA – Advance Cables Pty Ltd, Olex Australia Pty Ltd and Prysmian Power Cables & Systems Australia Pty Ltd – are advising Customs in their investigation which will cover the period from July 2010 to June 2011.

ACA secretary David Klarich said the association’s members had suffered material injury as a consequence of the dumping and looked forward to the favourable resolution of the investigation.

“Material injury has included the loss of employment for workers in the Australian cable industry,” Mr Klarich said.

“It has also resulted in reduced profitability and market share for Australian businesses, reduced return on investments and an inability to raise capital. The long-term result if this is not addressed

will be the loss of another Australian manufacturing industry, and with it the livelihoods of thousands of families.

“The ACA has taken this action because we want to send a very strong signal that Australian cablemakers will not tolerate illegal dumping which threatens the future of our industry and our jobs.”

Group CEO of Master Electricians Australia, Malcolm Richards, said the issue had the potential to result in problems for the industry in the future.

“There’re obviously some companies out of China throwing cheap cable into the Australian market. As we understand it, there’s no suggestion of this product being unsafe – just that it’s allegedly being sold below cost.

“If that’s correct it would potentially damage Australia’s long-term capacity to be a producer of cable. This would be concerning to Master Electricians Australia, and we’ll be paying close attention to the Customs investigation as it continues.”

The electric cables in question are suitable for connection to mains power supply and are commonly used in domestic and commercial applications. In the event that Customs finds the case proved, it is empowered to impose a dumping duty on all future imports of the cables from the People’s Republic of China for the next five years.

general news

Customs investigates Chinese electrical cable imports

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news from the distributors

ausGridNEW HoNEySucKlE cENTRE THRoWS oPENS ITS dooRS

The Smart Grid, Smart City Centre has opened its doors so visitors can inspect an electric car, step into a lighting room to test energy efficient lights and control appliances using an iPod touch.

Ausgrid Managing Director George Maltabarow said the Centre was the community hub for the Australian Government’s Smart Grid, Smart City demonstration project.

“The centre is a hands-on demonstration of the future of household electricity use,” he said.

“It makes Newcastle an international showcase and a world-leader in energy technologies.”

Visitors can test smart home technology being offered to local homes during the trial including using a laptop and iPod touch to turn appliances on and off, and learn about fuel cells and batteries.

You can get updates on the program, compare running costs of appliances to see which are the most efficient, and get practical energy and water saving advice.

The state-of-the-art centre will give families a better understanding of their household energy use, how to be more efficient, and a preview of what’s coming in the future.

The centre also includes an auditorium for information sessions for the community and industry.

Built using sustainable materials, the centre features a timber wall made from recycled local power poles, flooring made from recycled tyres and chairs made from recycled car batteries.

The Smart Grid, Smart City will be open to the public 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Sunday. Admission is free. 19 Honeysuckle Drive Newcastle.

CitipoWEr / poWErCorREcoNNEcT EWRS oNlINE

Managing your customers’ connections just got easier – introducing REConnect. CitiPower and Powercor Australia is ready to launch this electronic EWR self service Website by Q3 2011. This means you will be able to lodge your EWR online. REConnect is currently in its final testing phase, and was developed with the advice of RECs, to ensure it meets their needs, and those of retailers and distributors alike.

Some of the benefits that REConnect offers RECs include:

• A simple registration process

• An unique log on for security

• The ability to create EWR templates

• The ability to attach a CES and other documentation to the EWR for submission

• The ability to submit and view status 24hrs per day, 7 days per week

• The ability to trace all jobs

• You can receive notification of an anticipated connection date

• It reduces time chasing jobs with retailers and DBs

• Offers a more streamlined EWR process

• Reduces storage on your systems

• You can receive sms or email updates on jobs

There will be training sessions provided to all RECs in various locations. If you would like to express an interest in the training, or have any questions in relation to REConnect, please email [email protected] or [email protected]

VicnSW


33

“ Has your business grown by four vans in the last eight months? Mine has.”

- Todd Grinceri, QLD franchisee

Enquire about franchising today.Visit platinumelectrical.com.au, click the ‘franchising’ tab and lodge an Expression of Interest form.

aurora EnErGyAuRoRA ENERgy cHIEf dElIVERS SmART NETWoRK VISIoN

Deployment of new technology across Aurora Energy’s “poles and wires’’ network will help limit future electricity price increases, the company’s CEO Dr Peter Davis told a national utilities conference.

Speaking at the Australian Energy and Utility Summit in Sydney, Dr Davis told industry leaders that Aurora’s regulatory proposal to the Australian Energy Regulator for the years 2012 to 2017 included investment in smart technologies to respond to customer needs and improve efficiency.

“Aurora has shown national leadership by framing our regulatory proposal around limiting price increases for customers,’’ Dr Davis said.

“While the first stage of the plan is to improve operational efficiencies, the critical second stage will be to focus on deployment of innovative, modern technology to drive further efficiencies.

“Aurora’s lead role in the roll-out of the NBN in Tasmania will present a number of opportunities to bring convergence between the telecommunications industry and electricity networks.

“Meanwhile, Aurora is working on new technologies that have become proven around the world.

TaS

These include water heating load controls, energy demand management programs for all customer segments and clearer price signals for customers to respond to fluctuations in demand.

“These initiatives will continue our industry leadership in the deployment of new technologies such as time-of-use pricing through Aurora Pay As You Go, which remains unique in Australia and the CablePI electrical safety sensor.

“Exploiting new technologies will help us achieve greater productivity gains across the entire electricity industry value chain.

“Smart technologies can provide real potential to achieve great productivity gains in the electricity supply industry for the benefit of customers.’’


34

EnErGExENERgEX lAuNcHES mobIlE WEbSITE

ENERGEX has launched its new mobile website in conjunction with the start of the 2011/12 storm season.

The mobile website will enable South East Queenslanders to access general and emergency information from their mobile phones via a mobile-specific website.

The website, specially designed to provide easy access, visibility and usability, includes features such as click-to-call and click-to-email functionality for speed of contact, which will be particularly useful during emergencies.

A weather widget also features a search-driven section for local area weather updates while an emergency banner has been incorporated to alert customers to severe weather events.

ENERGEX Chief Executive Officer Terry Effeney said the mobile website would allow customers and the community the ability to access important information from smartphones – anywhere, anytime.

“This great tool will enable ENERGEX to continue its collective responsibility to stay in touch with the community, particularly during times of heightened urgency.”

“Through the mobile website, customers are able to stay abreast of important information around severe weather events or more

common, every-day events such as planned and unplanned power outages,” Mr Effeney said.

Mr Effeney also noted that the mobile website would assist as an additional vehicle in promoting its safety-first messages to the community.

The ENERGEX mobile website can be accessed by visiting energex.com.au/mobile from any smartphone.

Qld

Free Training and Skills Development Advice

ph 3277 1333 or visitwww.energyskillsqld.com.au

Gain access to subsidised training

Skill up your workforce for future opportunities

Get Your Workforce’s Skills & Experience RecognisedGet Your Workforce’s Skills & Experience Recognised

Energy Skills Solutions is a free service available for Queensland residents only.


35

FLIR i3 revolution is here

Locate electrical problems

Check mechanical devices

6060x IR resolution:60x60 pixels

Measurement mode: Centre Spot

Compact sized, Lightweight: 340g

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Battery Operating Time: 5 hours

Convenient Thumbnail Image Gallery

WEstErn poWErWoRld’S lATEST TEcHNology offEREd IN PERTH

In a world first trial, a selection of Perth homes with solar panels are being offered the latest technology that shows how much they are importing or exporting from the electricity grid at any point in time.

Using a wireless home area network created by a ‘smart’ household electricity meter, homeowners will be able to look at a portable display which shows them how much electricity they are using, or sending into the grid.

“Currently householders receive a bill on average every 60 days which doesn’t give them much opportunity to manage their electricity use, so we want to see if having a display in the kitchen or living room, showing the real time flow of electricity into or out of the home affects people’s choices about electricity use”, said Andrew Blaver – Program Manager of Perth Solar City – WA’s largest energy efficiency initiative.

Western Power and Synergy are currently conducting the trial involving 700 new generation In Home Displays (IHD’s) as part of the Perth Solar City (PSC) program. This roll-out is in addition to the 1500 IHDs already issued under PSC that showed the amount of energy a house was using, and how much it was costing in real time but did not show if a house was using its own generated power or importing it.

Wa

“The benefits of this latest technology is that it calculates in real time the amount of power that the house is currently taking from or exporting to the grid – so on a sunny day a householder can immediately see if they are using any electricity from the grid, and whether turning off an appliance reduces their reliance on electricity from the grid. This display enables the householder to make better choices about electricity use”, he said.

“This is world leading technology being offered that enables customers and the network to interact so that customers get information when they want it about their use of energy and the network gets visibility of the flow of electricity to better manage the system. It is currently only being offered to homes in the PSC trial which is being run in Perth’s eastern suburbs” Mr. Blaver said.


36

regulator wrap up

the latest state news from regulators

tHE ElECtriCal safEty offiCEmodEl lEgISlATIoN To HARmoNISE ElEcTRIcAl SAfETy

You may have heard about ‘harmonisation’ in the electrical industry but what does it mean for you?

At the moment Australia’s states and territories have different rules, licences and electrical equipment registration systems but that’s about to change courtesy of harmonisation.

At the end of the process there will be national work health and safety laws including new electrical safety provisions, national occupational licences and a national system of electrical equipment approvals.

All states and territories will generally align their own work health and safety legislation (including electrical safety legislation) with the model act and regulations.

Work health and safetyWork health and safety changes will come into effect from 1 January 2012. These changes will bring about national harmonisation in electrical safety by introducing a common approach to the regulation of work health and safety, and ensuring there is a shared reference to requirements for electrical safety in the workplace.

In May 2011, Queensland amended the Electrical Safety Act 2002 to reflect changes agreed to by the Workplace Relations Ministerial Council. Changes to the Electrical Safety Regulation 2002 are being drafted. Both the Electrical Safety Act 2002 and the Electrical Safety Regulation 2002 will remain as principal legislation in Queensland.

The major effects of the changes to the Act and Regulation will be:

• Use of the term “person in charge of a business or undertaking” instead of “employer” and “self-employed person”

• “Electrical safety obligation” is replaced by “electrical safety duty”

• There will be three tiers of offences – reckless conduct, failure to comply with an electrical safety duty (risk of death or serious injury or illness), and failure to comply with an electrical safety duty

• A new enforcement measure is introduced – a Non-disturbance Notice

• Test and tag provisions will cover use of electrical equipment in an environment that exposes it to likely damage or reduction of expected life-span

• Portable or installed safety switches may be used in a workplace

• New Codes of Practice to cover Managing Electrical Risks at the Workplace, and Working in the Vicinity of Overhead Electric Lines and Underground Electrical Services.

Safe Work Australia, the coordinating agency for this project, is publishing the model Regulations and the proposed electrical Codes of Practice, as well as a Decision Regulation Impact Statement, which will outline the new model provisions in detail.

occupational licensing changesOccupational licensing changes will come into effect during 2012 as part of the planned legislative changes to achieve national harmonisation in electrical safety. These changes will create consistency of rules, licences and electrical equipment registration systems across states and territories. From mid to late 2012 jurisdictions will commence operating a new national occupational

Qld


37

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licensing system. The electrical occupations will be in the first wave of those coming under a National Occupational Licensing Authority, based in Sydney. The licensing system will be run by each state and territory in accordance with the policies of the Authority.

In November 2010 the Queensland Government passed the Occupational Licensing National Law (Queensland) Act 2010 which applied Victorian legislation to Queensland. Other states and territories have followed suit.

Electrical equipment approval changesElectrical equipment approval changes will come into effect during 2012. These changes will work towards national harmonisation in electrical safety by eliminating the current need for businesses and workers to operate to differing rules, licences and electrical equipment registration systems across states and territories.

From 1 July 2012, Queensland and Victoria will commence the operation of an electrical equipment safety system, underpinned by nationally consistent performance legislation, which establishes risk-based harmonised rules for registration of types of electrical equipment. Other Australian jurisdictions and New Zealand are expected to join the system shortly after. Relevant legislative

changes were made to the Electrical Safety Act 2002 and the Electrical Safety Regulation 2002 by Parliament in March 2011.

The new system will:

• Specify which electrical equipment is included in the system

• Classify electrical equipment into three risk levels with proportionate standards of conformance for each level

• Place obligations for safety on a responsible supplier who is the first point of sale

• Create a national register for all suppliers, and for certain high risk electrical equipment to be registered prior to sale

• Fund a surveillance program to ensure ongoing compliance.

For more information please check out the website of the Electrical Regulatory Authorities Council – www.erac.gov.au


38

EnErGy safEtycHANgES To THE ElEcTRIcITy (lIcENSINg) REgulATIoNS 1991 – fAQ’S

The following FAQ’s provide electrical contractors and electricians an understanding of the changes to the Regulations.

an electrical contractor has been engaged to carry out work but cannot complete the work, does he have to submit a notice of Completion?Yes, when it is realised that you can no longer carry out any further work on an installation, even though the work is not complete and not ready to connect to the electricity supply, you must submit a Notice of Completion for the electrical work you have carried out. The notice must indicate the work status and that the installation is not ready to connect to the electricity supply.

do i have to submit notices when another electrical contractor is also engaged on the project?Yes. When notifiable work is carried out, or is caused to be carried out by more than one electrical contractor, each contractor must submit notices for their portion of the work carried out, or caused to be carried out. The notice must clearly describe the portion of the work carried out by each contractor.

as an electrical contractor, should i submit notices for electrical work that i have not carried out?No. It is an offence to sign and submit a notice for work not carried out or caused by the contractor signing.

do i need to make a request to Energysafety for an exemption from the submission of notices at mine sites?Electrical contractors carrying out notifiable work at mine sites no longer need to request an exemption from the submission of notices for certain types of work. Notices do not need to be submitted to the relevant network operator, so long as the work does not:

• Involve an initial connection to distribution works or a private generating plant

• Require an alteration to a main switchboard

• Require an alteration to service apparatus or distribution works

• Consist of the installation or removal of a private generating plant; or

• Alter the capacity of a private generating plant.

if i am not submitting notices at the mine site, should i be keeping a record of the electrical work carried out?Yes. The electrical contractor carrying out the work must ensure a record is kept of all notifiable work, alongside a declaration that the work has been checked and tested,

is safe and complies with the regulations. EnergySafety provides a log book to mine site managers for this purpose. The records of the notifiable work are to be kept at the mine site until it is no longer operating. The principal employer commits an offence if they fail to ensure that accurate records of the notifiable electrical work are kept.

for what electrical work do i need to issue an Electrical safety Certificate to my customers?An electrical contractor carrying out any electrical installing work, or causes any electrical installing work, commits an offence if they do not deliver an Electrical Safety Certificate to the person for whom the work was carried out within twenty eight days after the work was completed. However, an Electrical Safety Certificate is not required for:

• Maintenance work

• In-house electrical installing work carried out under an in-house electrical licence

• Electrical installing work carried out at a mine, so long as the electrical contractor makes a record of the work in a form approved by the Director (on-site EnergySafety log book)

• Electrical installing work associated with the installation of a temporary builder’s supply.

For more information contact Energy Safety on 08 9422 5200.

Wa

regulator wrap up


39

fair tradinGfAIR TRAdINg TAKES AcTIoN AgAINST SolAR PANEl INSTAllERS

An unlicensed solar panel installer from Sydney has been convicted of fraud and fined $20,481 for carrying out unlicensed and unqualified specialist electrical work.

Barry Eli Kibblewhite, trading as Chaser Electrical, claimed to be a licensed electrician and accredited with the Clean Energy Council of Australia – which are legal requirements to undertake grid-connected solar panel installation work in NSW. However, the court found that Fair Trading had proven that Mr Kibblewhite had falsified a letter from the Clean Energy Council supporting his accreditation and

quoting an accreditation number that was not his. Mr Kibblewhite was also found guilty of undertaking installation work and carrying out safety tests while unlicensed.

Mr Kibblewhite was exposed as part of Fair Trading’s on-going crackdown on unsafe solar installations. So far, Fair Trading has taken ‘show cause’ action against 11 installers. Three installers have subsequently been suspended for two months and are required to retrain in solar panel installation work.

Penalties have been imposed on another 11 solar panel companies for a range of breaches including being unlicensed and undertaking work without the required home warranty insurance. These traders have received fines from $1,500 up to $9,000.

A recent Fair Trading audit of solar installations in Sydney’s north-west found

unacceptably high level of major defects primarily related to incorrect wiring of DC circuit breakers, as well as a high level of minor defects related to cabling, signage and marking, and mechanical protection of cables.

Fair Trading recommends that builders and electrical contractors review the Fair Trading audit report to understand the commonly found defects and ensure they take steps to avoid these.

Go to Fair Trading’s website www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au to read more about safe solar installations, including downloading a copy of the preliminary results of the audit, a simple guide to the requirements for tradespeople and a list of installers that have had legal or disciplinary actions taken against them by Fair Trading.

For more information contact 13 32 20.

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�•�Electrician�Apprenticeship�–�Stage�1�to�4�and�Capstone�assessment

�•�Solar�PV�cell�Install�and�Design�(INCLUDES�Work�Safely�at�Heights�Accreditation)

•�CPR/Resuscitation�and�Switchboard�Rescue

•�Open�Registration�(ACMA�Registration)

2011�Training�Programs

INVESTING IN SKILLS AND TRAININGElectro�Group�Training�is�pleased�to�offer�a�wide�range�of�quality�training�programs�to�suit�the�Electrotechnology�Industry

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Electro�Group�Training�are�your�own�not�for�profit�skills�centre�owned�and�operated�by�your�industry�and�proudly�supported�by�the�Electrical�and�Communications�Association�(ECA)�and�The�Electrical�Trades�

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or EmAIL [email protected]


40

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EnErGy safE viCtoriacomPANy fINEd $25,000 oVER ElEcTRIc SHocK

A Mordialloc company has been fined $25,000 over an electric shock incident that left a worker with third-degree burns to almost half of his body.

The sub-contractor received more than 22,000 volts after he came into contact with a powerline while working on a roof at a Mulgrave warehouse on 18 August 2007.

The victim’s employer pleaded guilty at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court recently to failing to provide a safe workplace.

According to a WorkSafe media release issued after the case concluded, the Croydon North man had been instructed by the defendant company to steer an elevated work platform dangerously close to high voltage powerlines so he could work on the warehouse’s roof.

Vic

He suffered an electric shock and third-degree burns to 45 per cent to his body after the platform hit the powerline as it was raised.

The court was told the man has since suffered from depression and post-traumatic stress, endured four skin grafts, is not allowed to expose his skin to sunlight and cannot properly regulate his body temperature.

WorkSafe’s investigation found the man was put at risk as he was placed in an area classified as a No Go Zone, said the media release.

The acting Director of WorkSafe’s Construction and Utilities Division, Allan Beacom, said No Go Zones were areas where strict procedures must be implemented.

“Not doing so greatly increases the risk of direct contact with powerlines or of electricity arcing up to three metres from them,” he said.

“This case shows the consequences can be instant and last a lifetime.”

WorkSafe’s investigation found the defendant company failed to:

• Obtain permission from the electrical company or develop a safe system to perform the work in accordance with the No Go Zone guidelines

• Provide training on how to safely work at heights or in No Go Zones.

The company was fined $25,000, without conviction.

For more information, contact 03 9203 9700.

regulator wrap up


41

a recent adjudication decision in favour of a major electrical contractor (“the contractor”) demonstrates how quickly a payment claim can lead to enforcement of payment and how you can get interest at decent rates to compensate you for late payment.

In this case, the contractor served a payment claim for $15,020.09 on the builder on 6 April 2011. The builder never delivered a payment schedule. The contractor filed an adjudication application on 4 May 2011 and received a decision on 25 May 2011.

Because no payment schedule had been delivered, the contractor won 100 per cent.

The builder was also ordered to pay 100 per cent of the adjudicator’s costs.

The adjudicator gave interest on top and under the legislation in the relevant jurisdiction (the Queensland Building Services Act). This was 14.91 per cent.

This case demonstrates just how quickly you can get your money if you deliver a payment claim using the payment claim system.

people matter“First, they got the wrong people off the bus and the right people in the right seats on the bus. Then, they figured out where to drive it.”

— Jim Collins, auThor Good To GreaT

if you are only advertising to get new staff in one place, perhaps you are letting your business down. Great businesses are built with great staff and if you are looking for more applicants, look to elecjobs.com.au.

australia’s job board for the electrical industry.

We believe that you can build a great team, you just aren’t looking hard enough.

register online now to get our upcoming book 21 ways to improve your australian electrical business

Adjudicator awards electrician 100 per cent of payment claim + 14.91 per cent interest on top

conTacT:Michael Cope (Registered Adjudicator) [email protected] or 07 3223 5939.

Douglas Skelton (Registered Builder) [email protected] or 07 3223 5920.

Danielle Sanderson (Mackay office) on [email protected] or 07 4968 5431.

Ian Heathwood (Head of Building and Construction Team) [email protected] or 07 3223 5942.

It also shows that it is likely to be a good idea to include in an adjudication application, a claim that you should be paid interest calculated on the amount owing, at a particular rate and where possible, to link it to any relevant statutory rate.

If you would like any assistance with payment claims, have any other questions or just want to be pointed in the right direction, just give McKays Solicitors a call.

letter of the law


42

the interview

in your speech to Conference guests and delegates, you told us what you thought was wrong with australia today. in short, what are your biggest gripes?I’m just thinking what everyone else is thinking, we’re all very frustrated with the fact that we’ve changed direction so remarkably in terms of political correctness. We’ve lost our sense of humour and become so tense. All the things that were the cornerstone of being Australian, that were so much admired by all and sundry, seem to have been dissipated for some inexplicable reason by fringe cultures. We’ve allowed minorities to dictate terms. ‘What was good for one, was good for all’ now seems to be disenfranchised so it’s terribly, terribly frustrating.

We need to get back to the reclamation of some of those wonderful utilitarian values that we were taught. It’s about learning some respect and getting our kids to remember what colour Blue’s hair is, and what ‘ridgey-didge’ means. You know, the thing that made us so unique as a people was our iconic larrikin spirit and that seems to have dissipated as well.

through your work as a lambassador, you’re the bloke who’s given people a wake-up call about the loss of the australian culture. Can you pinpoint where all of this change started?I think the social break-down of the family has had a lot to do with it. I mean, being a baby-boomer I’m sure that my parents argued and I’m sure that they had as many arguments as the contemporary family but we never knew anything apart from a compatible upbringing. We enjoyed the simple things. We used to build billy-carts and come down the side of a mountain at 100 mile an hour without seatbelts – if you were grazed you put a bit of mercurochrome on and moved on, and still had a lot of fun. Six or seven mouths drank out of the same bottle but nothing ever happened to us. So we didn’t become overly precious.

Probably where it all started was that we started diluting things in this country – we’ve diluted, almost, our sovereignty. Australia was renowned once for raising the bar, now we tend to appease the bottom denominators. In my day if you couldn’t get a kick in the Seniors you were dropped to the Seconds; if you failed your classes you went back a year. Now they’re just making the provisions available for all and sundry to get through. The erosion of those fundamentals, the break-down of families, was the beginning of it. When we talk about change I think we have to look at the fact that we’ve lost respect. Respect is the most pivotal thing: simple good manners, simple respect. When you lose that you compromise your values and I think we have. It started somewhere in the late ‘70s I would imagine, where we became so totally complacent. When we were a prosperous land we took a lot of things for granted, no one had to pay bills; we just ran rampant as a society and it was easy.

recently we’ve seen that foster’s and vb have become an English/american/south african brand, what do you think we should do about that?I think that all of us are terribly disappointed that a number of our iconic brands have been taken over by overseas conglomerates. It often amazes me that the bane of western society is the work of the almighty buck. I think that some things are so pivotal to your own flag, so to speak, that they’re non-negotiable. Those wonderful iconic brands should always be ensured that they stay within the confines of our own four-walls because they are very much representative of who we are as people and should certainly be looked after. There’s no reason why we can’t cater for them, but such is the nature of the corporate jungle that we live in. It’s dog-eat-dog, and whilst we emphasise and revolve around the bottom line, I guess that’s what’s going to take place forever.

one of the areas where you’ve been responsible for a bit of a fight back is as a lambassador for Meat and livestock australia. How did that come about?Well, erudition and good-looks were a prerequisite. But more importantly I used to be involved in a show called ‘The Fat’ on the ABC where I used to do political monologue rants down the barrel. For whatever reason the MLA in their wisdom thought, ‘well, let’s think laterally, and let’s take a chance’. And as they say in the classics, the rest is history.

so what are the perks of being a lambassador? do you get an overseas residence, staff, chauffeurs, vip treatment at airports? No, I don’t have any diplomatic immunity per se. But I do get a lot of pests driving me mad on a regular basis, which let me tell you, is far better than me getting back into the swing of things trying to get a real job.

tell us what you think about tofu?(Laughs.) Exactly what I’m starting to think about this interview.

Coming back to aussie larrikinism, there’s a lot of pressure on the players in today’s game. you get young blokes who are in their late teens-early twenties, give them a stack of money, turn them into idols and send them out in the world. but when they carry on in an australian way that all of us would be used to, the media gives them a hard time. do you think it’s difficult to balance the spoils of the sport with acceptable behaviour?I don’t think it is. I sometimes get terribly annoyed with the misconception or the misrepresentation of the Australian larrikin spirit. Everyone thinks that the Australian behavioural pattern

Sam Kekovichaustralia’s most famous lambassador, sam Kekovich, was a guest speaker at the eCa/Mea annual Conference in Fiji in september. We caught up with slammin’ sam as he lazed poolside in the idyllic island paradise


43

is what it was over the drip tray some three or four decades ago, where the old ugly Aussie and the yobbo used to be totally shickered and inebriated to the extent of reprehensible behaviour. But the contemporary Australian, you’ve got to understand, that’s also changed dramatically. The average ocker has got a terrific turn of wit. Some of the best humour in the world you’ll pick up from the grandstands of our sporting arenas. When we say it’s the ‘Australian behaviour’, it’s not the yobbo behaviour of yesteryear. And I get a little bit annoyed about that.

But pertaining to our contemporaries in the sporting codes, yes, we’ve got to be mindful of the fact that they’re paid a salacious amount of money, they’ve got a lot of time up their sleeves, and of course they live in a bubble and it’s not a healthy one. Sometimes there are forty of them living together and it’s quite conceivable they hate half of them, or dislike them. We’ve got to be very careful that we balance their people skills. In my day when we played, we worked. By working we learnt ways to interact, to engage and converse, and all those wonderful qualities. One of the problems with these guys is that they’ve got a lot of money and they’ve got star billing, and of course when they get into the real world and they have to cope with rejection they find it very, very difficult to combat that because they don’t have the necessary dialogue or the turn-of-phrase or the wit to be able to address it. Then they get agitated and belligerent and it ultimately leads to the transgressions that we’re alluding to.

L- R: Master Electricians Australia Group CEO Malcolm Richards and Sam Kekovich at the ECA/MEA Annual Conference in Fiji


44

2gb dIgITAl cAmERA dIVINg mASK

If you are partial to snorkeling, this device is set to change the way you experience the water. The 2GB Digital Camera Diving Mask incorporates a built-in digital camera that can take up to 2300 digital photos or two hours of video. Rated to a depth of 15 metres with 5MP sensor, pop-up viewfinder, LED flash and USB 2.0 high speed interface and digital/icon LCD screen, you’ll want to use it on the beach as well as in the water.

From the pool, to the local waterhole, to the Great Barrier Reef, whether you’re just finding Nemo or discovering a whole new species of mollusc – the 2GB Digital Camera Diving Mask is the multi-tasking mask that lets you dive right in!

Product features:

• Power: 3.7V Li-ion battery

• Battery life: 3 hours

• LED flash and USB 2.0 high speed interface

• Tempered glass lens and PVC frame makes it highly durable

• Pop-up Viewfinder

RRP: $129

www.gtmall.com.au

gadget guide

With the silly season fast approaching, we thought we’d look at some gift ideas that dad would enjoy

cuSTom bbQ bRANdINg IRoN

Every family has one. That one family member who is irresistibly drawn to the barbeque at a party, as if the sizzle of the sausages is calling them – as if the steak is actually speaking their name. Well, now it can. The Custom BBQ Branding Iron can speak their name and everybody else’s!

That’s right. Just when you thought the barbeque revolution had reached its pinnacle, the Custom BBQ Branding Iron allows you to offer personalised porterhouse, signature snags and monogrammed kebabs!

Of course, you can use it simply to separate the rares from the mediums - or stop steak stealers and rissole rustlers at parties. But with 52 changeable letters, as well as spacers, that’s just the appetiser - you could and should let your literary skills roam all over the hotplate. Sending messages of love, best wishes for birthdays and of course the irresistible double entendres e.g. “nice rump”, “eat me”, or “dead meat”.

RRP: $29.95

www.latestbuy.com.au

RobomoW – THE AuTomATIc lAWN moWER

On the face of it, the Robomower is an awesome gadget, and could give other leading grass droids, like the Husqvarna Automower and LawnBott, a run for their money.

There are various models available that can mow lawns from 600 square metres to 2,000 square metres. You don’t even have to tear yourself away from the Playstation to turn it on. It is timer controlled, and will start automatically, do its job, then return to its charging station. If someone comes by and decides they like it a little too much, its high-tech theft protection system will alert you.

They’ve also remembered that a lot of people will be interested because they’re just not good with garden tools, especially the ones with sharp spinning blades. So it shuts off automatically when tipped up – also important if it takes a tumble on its own. And it’s quite light and also has a rain sensor, so will stay in its dock if the weather isn’t right for cutting.

Features & Benefits:

• No need to collect the clippings

• Very quiet, virtually silent

• No petrol, no oil, no emissions

• Exclusive safety features

• Designed for domestic lawns of any size

RRP: POA

www.robomow.com.au


45

TESTo 885 THERmAl ImAgER

Testo introduces the first model from the new pro-generation, with sophisticated ergonomics, excellent image quality with innovative features.

The new Testo 885, in the newly developed camcorder format with a rotatable handle, allows even easier and more effective thermography – with excellent image quality. It is the first model of the new generation camera from the measurement technology specialist Testo.

The combination of first-class optics with a light wide angle or telephoto lens, 320 x 240-pixel detector, an NETD < 30 mK and high quality system components means unusually sharp focus and clear thermal images. Thanks to the SuperResolution technology, a fourfold resolution of the thermal image can additionally be achieved.

If the illustration of the measurement object in building thermography is not possible with a single image, the Testo 885 offers the new panoramic image which makes one total view out of several individual images.

For more information visit www.testo.com.au

techno biz

HAgER 3 PHASE Rcd combo – oNE modulE WIdE!

Combining the essential elements of modular design and functionality, hager’s One Module Add-On Block provides simple and practical usability along with uncompromised safety aspects.

Hager’s One Module Add-On Block (RCCB) & MCB combination only requires four poles (3+1) and provides the protective characteristics of both devices, thereby protecting the entire circuit and removing the need, for example, to wire between DIN mounted RCD & MCB. This results in a significant reduction of time, labour and the size and cost of the socket outlet (no RCD module).

The ‘Type A’ characteristic gives added protection against any ‘pulsating DC component’ generating from such loads as power tools, motor speed controllers and the like.

At hager, they don’t require specific part numbers for current ratings and sensitivities. They like to make it easy; the One Module Add-On Block will suit any hager MCB combination, 6kA, 10kA, C curve or D curve up to 63A. What could be simpler?

For more information visit www.hagerbr.com.au

AuSTRAlIA’S TRuly uNIVERSAl mEcH

Clipsal’s 30 Series Mechanism has literally stood the test of time. Introduced back in 1971, this mighty mech has survived and flourished over the years. Now there’s a new addition to the series that’s providing even more versatile switching solutions for electrical contractors.

Today, there are more than 80 variations of the Clipsal 30 Series mech. The series includes everything from 10A to 35A mechs, mechs with neon/LED indicators, double pole mechs, engraved mechs and even push-button versions.

The engineering team have now introduced a new model to the 30 Mech family, the 30USM (Universal Switch Mechanism).

The new 30USM has a whopping 20A capacity and can switch fluorescent loads up to 16AX as well as increased performance in high short circuit conditions, which makes it a truly universal switch mechanism and ideal for any application.

In addition, the terminals can accommodate 3 x 2.5mm2 conductors and even angled the terminal screws for easier accessibility.

The mech also has a deep contact action and 3mm air gap within the mechanism. This eliminates visible arcing and

“crackling”, preventing carbon deposits on the dolly (switch) and aperture.

For more information visit www.clipsal.com.au

Master electricians are giving you the good-oil on the best stuff!


46

BeFOre a new installation can commence, the owner will need to establish an account with Telstra (Call 1800 283 407).

trenching workIn most cases when building a new home, it’s necessary to dig a trench for lead-in cabling when telephone services need to be provided. Under Telstra’s policy, whenever practical, underground (rather than aerial) lead-in cables will need to be installed. However, there may be circumstances, or particular locations, that prohibit the use of underground cabling. A Telstra Approved Contractor will determine the appropriate installation method at the site of a new home.

Remember – Permission must be obtained from the building owner before starting any trenching, internal wiring or telephone socket work.

For underground lead-in cable, a trench must be dug and backfilled. The building owner can hire their own contractor or use a Telstra Approved Contractor who can discuss the details of property alignment, specifications and the route of the trench.

The open trench should extend from the property boundary to the house. The trench may be shared with other utilities, such as electricity, gas and water, as well as the phone line. However, Telstra’s specifications will need to be complied with. If a separate trench is needed it should be done early to minimise disruptions to other features, such as landscaping and driveways. A Telstra Approved Contractor can locate and/

or mark a trench but this may incur a site visit charge.

Where the trench is dug and backfilled by a contractor, the owner can use their contractor. or contact a Telstra Approved Contractor to arrange for the provision of the lead-in pipe and cable.

Telstra recommends that a Telstra Approved Contractor is to install telephone cabling into the pipe of an open trench, although a contractor can do this work if done as per Telstra’s specifications.

Note: Trenching costs are not included in the Telstra connection fee. It’s important to discuss and clarify trenching requirements prior to digging the trench to avoid unnecessary rework and extra cost if the trench is provided in the wrong location or to the wrong specification.

lead-in cablingThe owner needs to arrange the installation of a lead-in cable and pipe into the trench (this must be done by a Telstra Approved Contractor) before the trench is backfilled. The Telstra connection fee includes the costs of the cable/pipe in the trench from the Telstra network in the street to the Network Boundary Point – usually the first socket in a home.

aerial lead-in cableA Telstra Approved Contractor will determine the requirements for an aerial lead-in cable, and ensure the aerial lead-in is ready before the date of the owner’s service connection.

A Telstra Approved Contractor will supply the Telstra poles and cables on the owner’s property. The owner will need to pay for the erection of Telstra poles, including clearing, digging and reinstatement of land and pole holes on their property.

Where a Telstra Approved Contractor provides aerial lead-in cable before the date that the owner’s service is ready for connection, a Telstra Communications Technician will connect the aerial lead-in cable to the pole on the day the owner’s service is connected.

possible additional charges Where the existing Telstra network is more than 500 metres from the property boundary entry point, an additional ‘network extension’ charge may be applicable. Please contact Telstra for further information.

internal wiring and telephone socketsThe phone point/socket must be fitted prior to the connection of the service. The owner should contact a Telstra Approved Contractor to make an appointment for this work.

The cost of the first socket is included as part of the owner’s Telstra connection fee. Larger buildings with multiple telephone connections may require a distributor. In these cases, the distributor will be classed as the network boundary point.

Contact Telstra before construction starts. The local Telstra Approved Contractor can explain what’s involved at each stage.

information telstra or a telstra approved Contractor requires• The approximate distance (in metres)

from the property boundary to the front of the house

• The street numberNote: If only a lot number is available, the street number (if available), rural number or registered property details will need to be obtained. Local councils can help with this.

• The construction stage/status of a house (for example if the house is at frame stage with the roof tiles on)

Is your client building a new home?The following information may help to make the process a lot smoother.

technical talk

digging ThE TrEnchGet the location of underground pipes and cables before digging.

Call Dial Before You Dig on 1100.


47

• The approximate building start and completion dates for a new home, or any changes to the timing of construction. Telstra should be informed of the owner’s move in date and the owner’s preferred date of connection for the Telephone service

• The number of lines/services the owner requires (fax, internet, telephone, etc)

• The number of additional socket points required

• Trenching arrangements and whether an underground lead-in cable is needed.

planning ahead – for cabling of new developments. If a contractor is contracted to install customer cabling for a new development which includes three or more living units, Telstra have requested contractors register the development and consult with them with regards to the design of the lead in cabling.

www.telstra.com.au/smart-community/developers/index.htm#register

This is extremely beneficial to both Telstra and the contractor because early consultation will ensure the customer cabling is installed to Telstra specifications

and will remove any problems at the end of the project.

If the development is one or two living units please call the Telstra number 13 22 00 for any design information.

Property Entry Point Property Entry Point

Footway Fence FenceConnection

boxConnection

box

Lead-in cabling Customercabling

Customerequipment

‘Carrier side’ of thenetwork boundary

‘Customer side’of the networkboundary


Customerequipment



Network boundary Network boundary

Pit

Buildingentry point Building

entry point

First TO First TO

Additional TO Additional TO

Plug Plug

Pole

Street orfootpath

Aeriallead-in cable

Property Entry Point Property Entry Point

Footway Fence FenceConnection

boxConnection

box


Customerequipment




Customerequipment



Network boundary Network boundary

Pit

Buildingentry point Building

entry point

First TO First TO

Additional TO Additional TO

Plug Plug

Pole

Street orfootpath

Aeriallead-in cable

liSTing of TElSTra approVEd conTracTorSLocation Contractor Name Phone Contact

Melbourne South and East Service Stream 1800 773 776Melbourne North and West Visionstream 1800 303 085Victoria East Visionstream 1800 303 085Victoria West & Tasmania Service Stream 1800 773 776Queensland Metro Silcar 1800 081 205Queensland North Silcar 1800 081 205Queensland South Service Stream 1800 773 776Sydney North Silcar 1800 081 205Sydney South Service Stream 1800 773 776New South Wales Central Silcar 1800 081 205New South Wales South and West Silcar 1800 081 205New South Wales North and East Service Stream 1800 773 776South Australia (North) Service Stream 1800 773 776South Australia (South) Visionstream 1800 303 085West Australia (North) Visionstream 1800 303 085West Australia (South) Service Stream 1800 773 776

Figure 2: Aerial lead-in cabling to the buildingFigure 1: Underground lead-in cabling to the building


48

approaching redundancy

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workplace relations

When work is slowing, or you are experiencing financial difficulties, the stress of maintaining a full outfit of staff is daunting, not to mention stressful. Many contractors consider redundancy as an option, but aren’t sure of the ‘right’ way to approach this delicate situation.

If redundancy is a path you need to head down, there are certain obligations and processes that legally must be adhered to in order to ensure you reduce the chance of an unfair dismissal claim being made against your company.

So how do you know if you can genuinely make an employee redundant?

A genuine redundancy has only occurred if your employee’s employment was terminated in one of the following situations:

• At your initiative, because you no longer require the job done by the employee, to be done by anyone, except where this

is due to the ordinary and customary turnover of labour, or

• Because your business has become insolvent or bankrupt, or

• You complied with your obligations under either the relevant modern award, or enterprise agreement that applied to the employment to consult about the redundancy.

An employee’s dismissal is not a case of genuine redundancy if it would have been reasonable in all the circumstances for the person to be redeployed within:

• Your enterprise; or

• The enterprise of an associated entity of yours.

A key provision of redundancy is that the position is being made redundant, not the employee. Therefore you cannot replace the role when the employee is made redundant, as the position no longer exists.

If you replace the employee, it was not a genuine redundancy and you may be subject to an unfair dismissal claim.

The appropriate termination notice and severance pay must be provided to the terminated employee based on the employee’s length of service and the employer’s size.


49

Work Christmas Parties

unFOrTunaTely, behaviour leading to discrimination and harassment claims can be high if employers do not take the reasonable steps leading up to the function and actively investigate complaints.

What is deemed the employer’s responsibility? As an employer you have a responsibility for your employees’ safety, and you are required to put preventative measures in place to ensure these responsibilities are met.

Anywhere you conduct business, or anywhere your employees may be for the purposes of performing the inherent requirements of their position, is considered the responsibility of the employer. Christmas parties and the venue at which the event is held are deemed part of the workplace or a work activity.

If an employee harasses another at a Christmas party, you may be liable for their conduct if no reasonable measures have been taken prior to, and after the event, to prevent this type of behavior.

Common examples of harassment can be:

• Unwelcome physical contact

• Suggestive comments/sexual propositions

• Leering/staring

• Unwelcome enquiries into a person’s private life

• Persistent unwanted requests to go out

so how do you protect yourself, and your employees?Below are some suggested preventative measures that you can take:

• Serve non-alcoholic and light alcoholic drinks

• Provide plenty of food, a sit down meal is a good option

• Set a time for finishing the event

• Select a venue that allows for employees to easily access public transport or taxis to ensure they get home safely

• Implement relevant policies in the workplace and hold sessions with staff to ensure they understand the content of the policies

• Implement a grievance procedure and ensure all employees know what to do if they have a complaint about harassment or discrimination

• Enforce the content of the policies by issuing warnings, counseling and disciplinary action for breaches

• Treat every complaint seriously and conduct investigations in relation to the complaints. If the complaint is complex you may need to seek external assistance

• Remind all employees of their obligations before the event and notify them that bad behaviour and breaches of company policy will not be tolerated

Employers should look out for behavior such as an unwanted kiss underneath the mistletoe, an overly enthusiastic dance partner, an offensive Secret Santa gift or a comment on someone’s appearance. Try to intercept the behaviour before it proceeds to avoid any harassment complaints from employees and liability for you as the employer.

as preparations for end of year celebrations begin, it is timely for employers to ensure their employees understand the policies relating to alcohol consumption and overall conduct and behavior.


50

The Fujitsu V8 Supercar races at Mount Panorama, Bathurst saw Mr. Consistency Chaz Mostert continue his run of top 10 finishes, while Ash Walsh’s bad luck and mechanical woes set him back once again.

Two hours after returning from Europe, where he competed in both the Barcelona 24 hour race and the Britcar 24 hour race at Silverstone, Walsh made the long trip to Bathurst only to miss practice one due to electrical problems, and have the second session cancelled due to fog.

After finally having the chance to let loose on the Mountain for the first time during qualifying, Walsh crashed out almost immediately thanks to a loose wheel. The extent of the damage to the car meant it could not be fixed in time for the first race despite initial efforts from the team mechanics.

“It was unfortunately a very short weekend for me but we will work hard to get the car in prime condition to race at Sandown next month. I am determined to show everyone what I can do on the track – let’s just hope we don’t run into any other issues. This year has been tough and I really want to bag a good result” Walsh said.

However, it was not all doom and gloom for the Master Electricians/simPRO Racing team with Chaz Mostert finishing in 11th and 7th place in Race 1 and 2 respectively. The result leaves Chaz in 7th place of the Series – just one spot behind Bathurst 1000 winner Nick Percat!

The Master Electricians/simPRO Racing Falcons will return to the track at Sandown International Raceway on November 18 for round 6 of their 7 round series.

grid gossip

The mountain proves to be bittersweet for Master Electricians/simpro racing

the newWatt Hour Meter

Slim, efficient,accuratewith easy

installation!

Advantages at a glance• Sets a totally new standard• Immediate measurement up to 32 A• Replaces the classic single phase

a.c. watt hour meter• Quick, space-saving installation only

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Ampere Electrical Manufacturing Co. Pty. Ltd.168-176 High St Prahran Victoria, 3181.Tel (03) 9510 4333, 9510 2428Fax (03) 9510 5940Toll Free: 1800 AMPERE (1800 267 373)www.ampere.com.au


52

all about ME

MEa undertakes significant branding project to future proof organisation

They say branding is at the very essence of all businesses, in fact, some say it should appear on the profit and loss sheet. A stretch? Possibly for some companies. Although it inherently highlights the importance of this five letter word in business.

People think brand means a ‘logo’ or a ‘website’, but a brand is so much more than that. There are many definitions of what a brand is, but in a holistic sense, a brand is a collection of perceptions in the mind of a customer. In short, it is a promise. A promise that you make to your customer about your offerings, and the perception of whether your customer believes you delivered on that promise.

Over the past few months, Master Electricians Australia and the Electrical and Communications Association have undertaken an extensive strategic branding exercise and now, after significant consultation with industry, Accredited Master Electricians, ECA members, the general public, MEA board members, ECA councillors, and a strategic brand specialist, we are excited to share the results with you.

so what has changed?The Master Electricians Australia logo has been modernised and now boasts a fresh design that exudes quality and strength. The new logo alleviates the reducibility issue which was evident whenever the logo was condensed to smaller sizes.

The Electrical and Communications Association will revert back to the Electrical Contractors Association. This change reflects the core area of our members’ businesses.

In order to clearly demonstrate the relationship between Master Electricians Australia and the Electrical Contractors Association, we have developed the ECA Group – a corporate entity which will be used as the ownership body for both Master Electricians Australia and the Electrical Contractors Association.

The ECA logo has been evolved in line with the new Master Electricians Australia logo. The new logos are stronger, easily recognisable and work effectively in tandem with each other.

2011 rEadErShip SurVEY rESulTS Thanks to everyone who completed the 2011 Readership Survey.

Congratulations to Gerrit Kuiper from Teesdale Elect & Design from St Albans Park in Victoria who was the lucky winner of the iPad2.

The results from the survey will be used to improve the magazine to ensure we continue to deliver a cutting edge electrical magazine.

Feedback for the magazine can be sent to [email protected] at any time.

Our brand values have been redefined. Working together we lead the industry as a benchmark professional advocate, connecting Master Electricians to opportunity and consumers to Master Electricians.

We lead our industry and connect our Master Electricians to professional success locally, regionally and nationally.

We are leaders and connectors.

Our new brand ethics are strong.

our focus is quality.Together we set and inspire quality benchmarks that are coveted and admired, positioning our brand as a master professional performer, and industry standards leadership group.

our passion is safety.We deliver assurance through every aspect of our professional performance and the quality of our people, as passionate advocates for safe and reliable service delivery. Our brand and our people are the safe choice.

our benchmark is reliability. We are professional advocates of connected and reliable performance. We connect Master Electricians to valued knowledge and insights, to ensure we inspire outstanding technical standards and reliability, where everything simply works.

Our promise is clear.

lead.Connect.We lead our industry and connect Master Electricians to professional success.


53

How have the ‘Connect’ brands changed?The Connect brands have undergone the most significant transformation. Our objective was to position these highly successful initiatives as their own entities in order to allow them to grow and secure their own position in the industry.

ECA ApprenticeConnect has been renamed to ApprenticeConnect Australia. ApprenticeConnect Australia is the hassle free management solution for indenturing your own electrical apprentice.

ECA SafetyConnect has been renamed to SafetyConnect Australia. SafetyConnect Australia is the comprehensive, in-house safety management solution for electrical contractors.

ECA SkillsConnect has been renamed to SkillsConnect Australia. SkillsConnect Australia delivers high quality, relevant accredited training for the electrical industry.

You will begin to see a change in the way we do things. You will notice new marketing material, corporate stationery, uniforms, vehicle signage and reference material over the coming weeks.

We invite you to visit our new website www.masterelectricians.com.au which will be a key portal for the latest information for our industry.

Excited? We are too. Let us know what you think about the new brands – we’d love to hear from you – [email protected]


54

INNOVATION IN SWITCHINGAND CONTROL


• Relays• Timers• Counters• Sensors• Power Supplies• Switches• Pushbuttons• Level Sensors• Safety Systems• Industrial Automation Software• Temperature and Process Controllers• Network and Remote I/O• Machine Vision Systems• PLC and HMI

www.ia.omron.com

Australian Customer Service Centre

1300 7 OMRONNew Zealand: (09) 358 4400

all about ME

MasTer Electricians Australia are pleased to announce the appointment of Carl Rankin as Victoria’s new State Manager.

Carl has extensive experience across the industry with his most recent post as Operations Coordinator with the Electrical Contractors Association in New Zealand (ECANZ).

Most notably, Carl was responsible for the successful growth of the New Zealand Master Electricians program across the country.

He is a registered electrician and his previous experience includes apprentice management and training.

Carl is focused on driving the Master Electricians program forward.

The website has been re-designed to provide Master Electricians and ECA members an opportunity to stay connected with the latest industry news.

The ‘Master Electricians’ only area has also been re-developed to provide Master Electricians with access to the latest technical, workplace relations and safety information.

Check them both out at www.masterelectricians.com.au today

Introducing carl Rankin our new website is live


55



• Relays• Timers• Counters• Sensors• Power Supplies• Switches• Pushbuttons• Level Sensors• Safety Systems• Industrial Automation Software• Temperature and Process Controllers• Network and Remote I/O• Machine Vision Systems• PLC and HMI

www.ia.omron.com

Australian Customer Service Centre

1300 7 OMRONNew Zealand: (09) 358 4400 www.hagerbr.com.au

1 | 2 | 3 AOB

3 phase RCBO

Earth Leakage Protection

One Module Add-On Block

3 phase earth leakage protection in a smaller enclosureRecognising the need for three phase earth leakage protection, the necessity to reduce installation time & importantly the panelboard size, hager introduces a product that delivers all the attributes of earth leakage protection that pairs effortlessly to any circuit breaker up to 63A.

For more information, contact Hager B&R on 1300 850 253.

The ECA/MEA Annual Excellence Awards celebrate individuals and businesses who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in their chosen field over the past 12 months. They provide you with a great opportunity to show recognition, support and praise to the people in our industry who are making a positive difference.This year’s Gala Dinner will be on Friday 4 November 2011 at the Sebel Citigate in Brisbane.Along with all of the excitement of the Award announcements, you will be treated to a whole host of entertainment options which are guaranteed to ensure you have a great night.Treat your workers, colleagues and clients to a fun-filled night of entertainment. There will be suppliers, sponsors and staff also on hand to ensure you get the best opportunity for networking. Places are limited so secure your spot or table today. Please contact the Events Team on 1300 657 488 for further information.

due to significant growth across the country, Master Electricians Australia has expanded its operations and opened a New South Wales Office in the western Sydney suburb of Parramatta.

The office will be a great support for our New South Wales Master Electricians who will have access to the expertise of the NSW team.

The new office is located at 100 George Street, Parramatta.

have you registered for the electrical industry’s night of nights? if not there is still time.

master Electricians expands its operations


56

BeinG German, VW don’t do things by half measures, and the Amarok is a perfect example of that. Their first foray into a ute style of vehicle, and they hit the nail on the head. The Amarok (meaning ‘lone wolf’ in Inuit, cool name) has everything you want from a work ute and rivals anything that Toyota, Nissan or any of the established market leaders have on the table at the moment.

As usual, there are a few options to consider. The basic or entry level 2WD drive model and the Highline 4WD top of the range model are what I test drove and will be the focus of this article.

There are two other mid-range 4WD models also – one is a 4WD version of the entry level vehicle, and one is the Trendline and sits between the two. The entry level 2WD is very affordable at $33,490 and the

Highline tops the range at $58,490. The other models obviously sit somewhere in the middle.

The interior is very, very roomy for both the driver, and the passengers in either the front, or rear seats (it’s a dual cab). It has more than enough room to take the family on a weekend trip to the beach.

The Amarok follows VW’s basic interior and dash design and is simple, but elegant. It has all the bells and whistles with cruise control, MP3, stereo, centre console storage, cup holders, a large glove compartment and so on. The entry level models offer‘hose-out’ plastic flooring, while the Highline is a bit more posh with a schmick carpet lining.

The engine may not look an impressive one at first, sporting only 2.0L of capacity compared to some of the engines made

in Japan which have a 2.5L or even 3.0L of capacity – but it’s an extremely good package. Punchy and driveable, the torque curve gives you plenty of get-up-and-go from only 1500rpm. The gearbox is crisp and has a nice short ‘throw’ of the gear lever which gives it a great sporty feel. You don’t even pay for this racy feel and power at the diesel pump, with an impressive consumption figure of 7.9L/100km (claimed).

If you plan on having some fun with your work-horse on the weekends, you will needless to say want the 4WD option.

So there you have it; VW in one foul swoop, have matched the best options on the market when it comes to a dual-cab work ute. The Amarok seems to be a strong and reliable package – and did I mention it looks sensational? I want one!

test drive

VW AmarokA sparky’s new ‘must-have’ tool!The ute market for tradies has become somewhat stale lately. luckily, the VW amarok breathes some fresh air into the market. By andre Borell.


58

events calendar

iMporTanT daTES ThiS QuarTEr11 November 2011 Remembrance Day

25 December 2011 Christmas Day

26 December 2011 Boxing Day

1 January 2012 New Years Day

26 January 2012 Australia Day

novEMbEr2–4 November 2011 10th National Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion Brisbane www.icebergevents.com

4 November 2011 ECA/MEA Annual Excellence Awards Brisbane www.masterelectricians.com.au

8–10 November 2011 Smart Utilities Australia & New Zealand 2011 Sydney www.tradechakra.com

8–11 November 2011 1st International Conference Energy & Meteorology Surfers Paradise www.icem2011.org

Thursday 17 November 2011 Energy Efficiency Council National Conference 2011 Melbourne www.eec.org.au

17–19 November 2011 Australian Geothermal Energy Conference Melbourne www.ausgeothermal.com

21–22 November 2011 Zero Harm Target 2011 Melbourne www.nsca.org.au

dECEMbEr1–5 December 2011 Vodafone Boxing Day Test Melbourne www.cricketvictoria.com.au

2–4 December 2011 Sydney Telstra 500 V8 Supercars Sydney www.v8supercars.com.au

2–4 December 2011 Vodafone Test Match - Australia vs. New Zealand Brisbane cricket.com.au

12–13 December 2011 Maximising organisational productivity and safety Perth www.nsca.org.au

January 1 January 2012 New workplace health and safety laws commence www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au

17–30 January 2012 Australian Open Victoria www.australianopen.com

21–22 November 2011/ 28–29 November 2011 Maximising organisational productivity and safety Brisbane / Sydney www.nsca.org.au

23–24 November 2011 Power System Protection & Earthing Forum Perth www.engineersaustralia.org.au

29 November–2 December 2011 The 49th Annual Conference of the Australian Solar Energy Society (AuSES)Sydney solarmagazine.com.au

InstalTest Combo

Call EMONA on tel: 1 800 632 953, email: [email protected] or www.instaltest.com.au

InstalTestCOMBO 3125

$999ex GST

Single & 3 Phase Multi-Function Tester for All YourElectrical Installation Testing and Verification.

� Replaces 5 instruments with 12 tests inone instrument.

� Single & 3 phase installation testing toAS/NZS3017 covering earth continuity,insulation resistance, polarity, correct connections, fault loop impedance andRCD testing.

� Optional 3 phase adaptors for safe, quickand reliable 3 phase testing from the 3phase socket outlet - no need for probing!

Optional MI-TPI for 3 phasetesting of RCDs, fault loop etc.


59

best or worst story

This photo shows an instantaneous gas hotwater system installed too close to a switchboard by a gas contractor.

This highlights the issue of the required distances between gas and electrical work.

Thanks to Christian Madsen from Beenleigh for sending in this picture, $50 is coming your way.

Send your entries to [email protected] for your chance to win.

Too close for comfort

likE To Win $50?Send us your favourite picture or story and if we publish it, we’ll send you $50!

Here at Lawrence and Hanson and Auslec, we have taken a long hard look at our business and your business and decided to make a promise.

A promise to ensure that we provide you with the great service that will help you grow your business.

Our Promise? Great ServiceHelp us help you - jump onto our revamped websites full of branch and product information and tell us how we can meet our promise.

www.lh.com.au www.auslec.com.au

Alternatively, find your local L&H or Auslec branch on the listing opposite, and come in and experience our customer service for yourself.

My Promise? To get your delivery out fastWe know that for you, like any business person, time is money. So we promise to get your delivery out of our doors quickly, and endeavor it will reach you when we say it will.

My Promise? To know the products you needAt L&H and Auslec our staff undertake continuous training. This ensures that they are knowledgeable on the products you need to keep your business moving.

My Promise? To support your businessSupporting your business is our goal. So if you need help with any aspect of your day to day business, pop in and have a chat with your local branch manager.

o u r a u s t r a l i a w i d e n e t w o r k

BranCH loCations

• Branch open Saturday (trading hours)

* Data & Comms specialist branch Industrial Outlet

L&H–Lawrence & Hanson AUS–Auslec

queensland Branch phone FaXL&H• AYR(8Am-11Am) 93GRAHAmST (07)47835833 (07)47835844L&H• BEENLEIGH(7Am-10Am) UNIT1,104HARBURGDR (07)32872822 (07)38080013L&H• BROWNSPLAINS(7Am-10Am) 13CENTRALCT (07)38001069 (07)38000001L&H•* BUNDABERG(7Am-10Am) 14ELECTRAST (07)41531699 (07)41531860L&H• CABOOLTURE(7Am-11Am) CNRmORAYFIELDRD&GAFFIELDST (07)54986188 (07)54986441L&H•* CAIRNS(8Am-12Pm) 210mCCORmACKST (07)40536055 (07)40321310L&H CAPALABA 54NEUmANNRD (07)32454133 (07)32456165L&H* COORPAROO 15BIRUBIST (07)33979322 (07)33944491L&H• EmERALD(8Am-11Am) LOT9HAWKINSPLACE (07)49824144 (07)49824412L&H FORTITUDEVALLEY CNRCOmmERCIALRD&LEOPOLDST (07)32574263 (07)38541964AUS•* GEEBUNG(7Am-10Am) 410NEWmANRD (07)32654102 (07)32654329AUS•* GLADSTONE(7Am-10Am) 63LORDST (07)49723133 (07)49726646L&H GYmPIE 47TOZERST (07)54828377 (07)54828909L&H• HERVEYBAY(8Am-11Am) SHOPS1&2,6/8CARLOST (07)41282099 (07)41283599L&H• IPSWICH(7Am-10Am) 2LOWRYST (07)32812211 (07)32021434L&H LAWNTON UNIT1,10PAISLEYDR (07)32054344 (07)32054936L&H mACKAY(8Am-11Am) 7INDUSTRIALST (07)49577311 (07)49534132L&H•* mAROOCHYDORE(7Am-10Am) 10TRINDERAVE (07)54432633 (07)54437811L&H NAmBOUR 17mITCHELLST (07)54411011 (07)54760490L&H•* NERANG(7Am-11Am) UNIT1,102-110SPENCERRD (07)55273511 (07)55782577L&H NOOSA UNITS1&2,8ACTIONST (07)54497666 (07)54499868L&H• REDCLIFFE(7Am-11Am) 83ANZACAVE (07)32844171 (07)32847090L&H ROCKHAmPTON 215FARmST (07)49265233 (07)49284170L&H•* ROCKLEA(8Am-12Pm) 30mEDWAYST (07)38484433 (07)38484633AUS SALISBURY UNIT2&3,241EVANSRD (07)32727355 (07)32742977L&H* SLACKSCREEK 3347PACIFICHIGHWAY (07)32087555 (07)32095030L&H• SUmNERPARK(7Am-10Am) 1/57SPINEST (07)33764488 (07)32740028L&H• SURFERSPARADISE(7Am-11Am) UNIT1,11STRATHAIRDRD (07)55702911 (07)55382744L&H•* TOOWOOmBA(7Am-10Am) 5-7mARKELEESTREET (07)46343966 (07)46348161L&H•* TOWNSVILLE(7Am-11Am) 301BAYSWATERRD (07)47755866 (07)47254289L&H YEPPOON 25TANBYRD (07)49383795 (07)49383805

northern territory Branch phone FaXL&H• ALICESPRINGS(8Am-12Pm) UNIT1/9WHITTAKERST (08)89522878 (08)89529395L&H•* DARWIN(8Am-12Pm) UNIT2,524STUARTHIGHWAY (08)89843900 (08)89843839AUS • GOVE(8Am-12Pm) 13JOHNFLYNNDR (08)89878011 (08)89873460L&H• KATHERINE(8Am-12Pm) 60CRAWFORDST (08)89722033 (08)89722136 L&H• PALmESTON UNIT1,28TOUPEINRDPALmESTON (08)89844077 (08)89472286

south australia Branch phone FaXL&H* ALLENBYGARDENS 134GRANGERD (08)82415622 (08)82415364L&H BERRI 25JELLETTRD (08)85821900 (08)85823194L&H• CLOVELLYPARK(8Am-12Pm) 1258-1260SOUTHRD (08)82779844 (08)82777464L&H•* GLYNDE(8Am-12Pm) 25GLYNBURNRD (08)83378177 (08)83650609L&H KILKENNY CNRREGENCYRD&HUmPHRIESTCE (08)82687755 (08)82683964L&H KLEmZIG 300NORTHEASTROAD (08)83691416 (08)83691407L&H•* KURRALTAPARK(8Am-12Pm) 504SOUTHRD (08)82974566 (08)83711070L&H• LONSDALE(8Am-12Pm) CNRALDERSHOT&O'SULLIVANBEACHRDS (08)83841555 (08)83842323L&H mOUNTBARKER LOT20DIAGONALRD (08)83912899 (08)83912610L&H* mOUNTGAmBIER 201COmmERCIALSTWEST (08)87259244 (08)87254507L&H NURIOOTPA 7RAILWAYTCE (08)85623388 (08)85623301L&H PORTADELAIDE 2CLEAVEST (08)83412744 (08)83412774L&H• PORTLINCOLN(8Am-12Pm) 63mORTLOCKTCE (08)86822633 (08)86830071L&H PORTPIRIE CNRWANDEARAHRD&GREYTCE (08)86323411 (08)86326088AUS ROXBYDOWNS 16GOSSEST (08)86713111 (08)86713206L&H• SALISBURYSTH(8Am-12Pm) 5PENTLANDRD (08)82817022 (08)82816923AUS WHYALLA 8COOKST (08)86459177 (08)86457089AUS WINGFIELD 203CORmACKRD (08)83595744 (08)83598944

western australia Branch phone FaXL&H ALBANY 52SANFORDRD (08)98416566 (08)98422525L&H•* BALCATTA(8Am-12Pm) REARUNIT,75ERINDALERD (08)92402429 (08)92402430L&H BELmONT 85BELmONTAVE (08)94775688 (08)94795058AUS•* BOULDER(8Am-12Pm) 172BOULDERRD (08)90213877 (08)90217509AUS BROOmE UNIT1/15BLACKmANSTREET (08)91925599 (08)91925940AUS• BUNBURY(8Am-12Pm) UNIT2,17DENNINGRD (08)97912944 (08)97912943L&H BUSSELTON 6NEVILLEST (08)97521211 (08)97521207AUS• CANNINGVALE(8Am-11Am) 211BANNISTERRD (08)94551344 (08)94551582L&H•* EmBLETON(8Am-12Pm) 20EmBLETONAVE (08)92725344 (08)92719226AUS GERALDTON(8Am-11Am) 270PLACERD (08)99212444 (08)99643480AUS• JOONDALUP(8Am-12Pm) UNIT1,43WINTONROAD (08)93012978 (08)93014208AUS• KARRATHA(8Am-12Pm) LOT1415CRANECIRCLE (08)91851922 (08)91441101L&H• KELmSCOTT(8Am-12Pm) UNIT1,17GILLAmDR (08)94951800 (08)94951627L&H KENWICK UNITS12&13,1808ALBANYHWY (08)94598122 (08)94931374L&H KUNUNURRA 39BANDICOOTDR (08)91681060 (08)91681069L&H• mALAGA(8Am-12Pm) UNIT1,1890BEACHRD (08)92496644 (08)92493445L&H• mANDURAH(8Am-11Am) LOT6,63RESERVEDR (08)95819286 (08)95819352L&H• mIDLAND(8Am-12Pm) 37FARRALLRD (08)92501366 (08)92744579L&H•* mYAREE(8Am-12Pm) 80mCCOYST (08)93301244 (08)93304595L&H•* OSBORNEPARK(8Am-12Pm) 41GUTHRIEST (08)94465400 (08)94453950AUS PORTHEDLAND LOT1421HARDIESST (08)91733288 (08)91733285L&H• ROCKINGHAm(8Am-12Pm) UNIT2,2PICKARDAVE (08)95921588 (08)95921931L&H WANNEROO 9BENEFICIALWAY,WANGARAESTATE (08)93025966 (08)93025988AUS* WELSHPOOL 27ACOLINJAmIESONDR (08)94513433 (08)94514942

new south wales Branch phone FaXL&H* ALBURY 474mACAULEYST (02)60415055 (02)60415051L&H* ALEXANDRIA UNIT2,6-8HUNTLEYST (02)93180755 (02)96985132L&H* ARTARmON 13/87RESERVERD (02)94393066 (02)94393471L&H BALLINA 33SHEATHERST (02)66864955 (02)66867441L&H BANKSTOWN 1AmARIGOLDSTREET,REVESBY (02)97720300 (02)97720400L&H BATHURST 122BENTINCKST (02)63315966 (02)63316344L&H BLACKTOWN UNIT1,3CHICAGOAVE (02)96223777 (02)96217243L&H•* BROOKVALE(8Am-12Pm) UNIT4H,9-13WINBOURNERD (02)99385288 (02)99055289L&HT* CAmPBELLTOWN 1BROSEST,CNRBLAXLANDRD&ROSEST (02)46254599 (02)46254697L&H•* CARDIFF(8Am-12Pm) 33mUNIBUNGRD (02)49545288 (02)49565940L&H* CASTLEHILL UNIT1,2CNRANELLA&VICTORIAAVE (02)96341322 (02)96344904L&H COFFSHARBOUR 1/9SECCOmBECL (02)66512611 (02)66514757L&H DUBBO CNRCOBBORARD&KINGST (02)68823188 (02)68842200L&H•* FYSHWICK(8Am-12Pm) UNIT4,3BARRIERST (02)62805532 (02)62392275L&H• GOSFORDWEST(8Am-12Pm) UNIT1,16ENTERPRISECLOSE (02)43250517 (02)43232717L&H GOULBURN 21BRADLEYST (02)48222377 (02)48222364L&H• GRIFFITH(8Am-12Pm) 3FAVELLST (02)69623911 (02)69641663L&H* HURSTVILLE UNIT3,61-63FORESTRD (02)95881166 (02)95881133L&H INVERELL 231-233BYRONST (02)67223311 (02)67222237L&H LISmORE UNIT1,36-38WYARALLAHRD (02)66212756 (02)66222915L&H•* mITCHELL(8Am-12Pm) UNIT2,67-71VICARSST (02)62429655 (02)62429635L&H NEWCASTLE 218mAITLANDRDISLINGTON (02)49621077 (02)49621099AUS NEWCASTLE 3REVELATIONCLOSE,TIGHESHILL (02)49612022 (02)49622062L&H* NOWRA 59GRAHAmST (02)44217077 (02)44231791AUS ORANGE UNIT1&316ASHST (02)63624944 (02)63613468L&H ORANGE UNIT5,176-180mARCHST (02)63621888 (02)63613720L&H PAmBULA 35BULLARAST (02)64956088 (02)64956020AUS PARKES 24-26DALTONST (02)68626100 (02)68626074L&H•* PARRAmATTA(7Am-12Pm) 564CHURCHST (02)98907855 (02)98907866L&H• PENRITH 96BATTST (02)47315744 (02)47215147L&H* RYDALmERE 18PIKEST (02)96841755 (02)96381641L&H TAmWORTH 103KABLEAVE (02)67665511 (02)67662420L&H•* TARENPOINT(8Am-12Pm) UNIT5,120-126TARENPOINTRD (02)95255099 (02)95401464L&H•* TWEEDHEADS SHOP2B,13GREENWAYDRIVE (07)55231334 (07)55232064L&H* WAGGAWAGGA UNITS1&2,91COPLANDST (02)69214224 (02)69217414AUS WETHERILLPARK UNIT1,468-470VICTORIAST (02)96047811 (02)97251809L&H• WINDSOR(8Am-12Pm) UNIT2,3BLACKmANCRES (02)45775300 (02)45877094AUS WOLLONGONG 185BERKELEYROAD,UNANDERRA (02)42712214 (02)42714456L&H WOLLONGONG CNRKENNY&WESTST (02)42293088 (02)42266735

victoria Branch phone FaXL&H•* AIRPORTWEST(8Am-12Pm) UNIT1,95-97mATTHEWSAVE (03)93386266 (03)93380658AUS BALLARAT UNIT4,5CARAVANST (03)53399022 (03)53399287L&H• BALLARAT(8Am-12Pm) 12ARARATST (03)53321871 (03)53332519L&H•* BAYSWATER(8Am-12Pm) LOT12,260CANTERBURYRD (03)97290388 (03)97205195L&H• BENDIGO(8.30Am-11.30Am) 19DEBORAHST (03)54431611 (03)54413960L&H• BULLEEN(8Am-12Pm) 204BULLEENRD (03)98521899 (03)98522262AUS CAmPBELLFIELD 366BARRYRD (03)93577933 (03)93577822L&H CASTLEmAINE UNIT1,2-4RAILWAYAVE (03)54722553 (03)54721145L&H• COBURG(8Am-12Pm) 35ESSEXST (03)93544533 (03)93544526L&H• DANDENONG(8Am-12Pm) FACTORY1,LOT22GREENSRD (03)97934166 (03)97931068AUS DOVETON UNIT3,37PRINCESHIGHWAY (03)97917600 (03)97911639L&H•* FRANKSTON(8Am-12Pm) UNIT1,37WELLSRD (03)97769755 (03)97769534AUS GEELONG 304THOmPSONSRD (03)52781822 (03)52721976L&H* GEELONG 200LATROBETCE (03)52223899 (03)52299217L&H HAmILTON 15PECKST (03)55724861 (03)55725314L&H• HOPPERSCROSSING(8Am-12Pm) 94OLDGEELONGRD (03)97425911 (03)97488722L&H HORSHAm 13SLOSSST (03)53822388 (03)53820368L&H KINGLAKE 10mAINROAD(ATTHEREAROF) (03)57861038 (03)57865257L&H• LILYDALE(8Am-12Pm) 424-426mAINRD (03)97395500 (03)97395330L&H•* mILDURA(8Am-11Am) 270ETIWANDAAVE (03)50221044 (03)50221804L&H mOORABBIN(8Am-12Pm) 255-257WICKHAmRD (03)95558511 (03)95532215L&H• mORNINGTON(8Am-12Pm) 45TYABBRD (03)59770100 (03)59770105L&H* mORWELL 9CHICKERELLST (03)51344028 (03)51339738L&H mULGRAVE 36GEDDESST (03)95603100 (03)95600291L&H• NUNAWADING(8Am-12Pm) UNIT2,38-42ROOKSRD (03)98735922 (03)98723413L&H PORTLAND 4KUNARACRES (03)55234133 (03)55217611L&H* PRESTON 44QUINNST (03)94805588 (03)94847027L&H•* RINGWOOD(8Am-12Pm) CNRmOLANST&YALLOURNPDE (03)98791111 (03)98706083L&H SALE 22BONDST (03)51447944 (03)51432548L&H SCORESBY 71RUSHDALEST (03)97641277 (03)97641354L&H SHEPPARTON 9CALLISTERST (03)58214922 (03)58313530L&H•* SOUTHmELBOURNE(8Am-12Pm) 142DORCASST (03)96971599 (03)96965958L&H• SUNSHINE(8Am-12Pm) UNIT6,34mCINTYRERD (03)93125111 (03)93125177AUS SUNSHINEWEST UNIT11-12,180-198FAIRBAIRNRD (03)93151018 (03)93151272L&H SWANHILL 4QUEENST (03)50323292 (03)50331542L&H•* THOmASTOWN(8Am-12Pm) 26DALTONRDTHOmASTOWN (03)94640664 (03)94642391L&H• TRARALGON(8Am-12Pm) 89PRINCESST (03)51748655 (03)51761980L&H WANGARATTA 22-24CHISHOLmST (03)57221033 (03)57221329

tasmania Branch phone FaXAUS BURNIE 20WELLINGTONST (03)64314366 (03)64319404L&H DEVONPORT 31DONROAD (03)64241152 (03)64241371AUS HOBART 6LAmPTONAVE (03)62727244 (03)62726973L&H•* HOBART(8Am-12Pm) 170-172ARGYLEST (03)62342666 (03)62311221L&H•* LAUNCESTON(8Am-12Pm) 25FREDERICKST (03)63314955 (03)63344165


62

MasTer Electricians Australia is the leading accreditation body for the electrical industry in Australia. Our accreditation represented by the Master Electrician’s logo has become the hallmark that inspires trust for electrical contractors and consumers nationally.

Drawing upon our origins and the traditions we share with the Electrical Contractors Association, one of the longest-standing industry associations of its kind, Master Electricians Australia has established itself as a national leader by being a forward-thinking and entrepreneurial accreditation brand.

The national industry accreditation that we have established anticipated industry changes and is a global benchmark for best practice and is seen as a model to be adopted internationally.

While a qualification can make an electrician, our accreditation is only achieved by the best electrical contractors across the country. The accreditation standards are above established industry standards and forward looking to meet the needs of the future.

Accreditation through Master Electricians Australia marks businesses as the leaders in their industry nationally. It is a mark of excellence, communicating trust, security and reliability.

Consumers who engage a Master Electrician know they are engaging a contractor that meets the most stringent standards of safety and ethics delivering the highest levels of quality, and reliability.

MALCOLM RICHARDS Group CEO

2 new brands. A new energy to lead and connect.

Master Electricians Australia leads and connects.

We lead nationally and in doing so connect accredited electricians to opportunity.

the last word

Tested by Dakar. Judged by the experts.

www.volkswagen-commercial.com.au

New Volkswagen Amarok “Backs up its on road prowess with almost formidable ability

off it... You can sum it up in one sentence: Nothing stopped the Amarok”(Glenn Torrens –

4X4 Australia, July 2011). Recently awarded Delivery Magazine’s 2011 ‘Ute of the Year’ the

Amarok is the first in its class to be awarded a 5 star ANCAP safety rating. The Amarok

also features “smarter technology... and it costs less” (Ernest Litera – RoyalAuto, August

2011, RACV Senior Vehicle Tester). Isn’t it time you judged the new Amarok for yourself?

See your nearest Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle dealer now.

the master electrician magazine spring 2011

Documents

master electrician magazine

electrical industry

pp4240222346 spring

spring edition

australia post publications

general news

best seller

safety lawsapprentices