DODGY ELECTRICS SPARK CONCERNS
Queensland Health blasted over wiring
WHISTLE BLOWERS have prompted an urgent inspection at Queensland Health’s Bohle Distribution Centre after evidence emerged of substandard electrical practices.
The Bulletin obtained photos of an electrical cable at the Bohle Distribution Centre that was last tested on July 6, 2008, as well as tangled cords plugged into a loaded powerboard hanging above the floor.
Following inquiries by the Bulletin, Queensland Health sent an electrician to the centre to investigate whether the building was fitted with a residual current device ( RCD), commonly known as a safety switch, or if tagging and testing was still required.
Under Worksafe Queensland safety regulations, service work electrical equipment requires testing at least every 12 months or to be connected to a safety switch.
The Bulletin was told that, while the building did have an RCD, all equipment that had not been tested within the last 12 months had now been inspected and tagged for additional compliance.
Queensland Health said more power outlets would also be installed to accommodate a recent increase in required electrical hardware.
Health Support Queensland chief operating officer Stuart Rodney said the extra power outlets would reduce the need for powerboards.
“The Department of Health will work closely with The Townsville Hospital and Health Service to ensure electrical appliances at the Bohle Distribution Centre are appropriately tagged and tested,” he said. “Queensland Health actively encourages staff to report workplace hazards to their line managers.”
The Australian Workers’ Union Northern District organiser Peter Ward said Queensland Health’s approach to safety at its facilities was “too relaxed”.
“They are supposed to test and tag equipment every 12 months, this is obviously to stop people getting electrocuted,” he said. “This is how people get killed. Operational officers have received severe electric shocks in the past from faulty equipment.”
The Australian Workers’ Union Northern District recently staged a protest over the safety hazards by placing a skeleton on Sturt St with a sign stating “waiting for safety at Queensland Health”.
Mr Ward said it was a way to draw attention to the issue.
“I hope the message on the skeleton is able to effect the changes necessary to comply with Queensland Health’s safety regulations,” he said.
The Bohle Distribution Centre is a major facility that distributes medical goods across North Queensland.