Electrical equipment in hazardous areas

Do you have electrical equipment in a hazardous area at your workplace?

Electrical Safety Office inspectors are visiting Queensland workplaces and will take enforcement action if they identify un-managed fire and explosion risks. This action can include compliance notices or immediately prohibiting the use of electrical equipment in hazardous areas until risk controls are implemented and verified.

There is an increased risk of fire and explosion when electrical equipment is installed in hazardous areas (a three-dimensional space in which an explosive atmosphere is or may be expected to be present or form).

Ensure that any electrical equipment installed in hazardous areas are electrically safe. This includes selection, installation, inspection and maintenance programs. All electrical equipment in these areas must be installed by competent licensed electrical workers and inspected by Queensland Electrical Safety Accredited Auditors.

Use our self-assessment tool (DOCX, 0.36 MB) to identify if you have electrical equipment in a hazardous area and the steps you need to take.

View the hazardous areas webpage to find out more, including a list of common industries with hazardous areas.