Electrical safety in the cleaning industry
As a result of incidents notified to the Electrical Safety Office (ESO), the following guidance has been provided to help prevent electric shock, equipment failure and other avoidable hazards within the cleaning industry.
In the cleaning industry, workers rely heavily on portable electrical equipment such as:
- vacuums
- polishers and scrubbers
- extractors
- carpet shampoo machines
- steam cleaners
- extension cords and power boards.
This equipment is frequently moved through wet areas, tight spaces and high‑traffic walkways which has led to extension cords and leads being exposed to increased wear and electrical risk.
Recent incidents notified to the ESO have included cleaners using backpack vacuums - receiving electric shocks and burns to parts of their bodies.
Electrical safety laws require immediate notification for any serious electrical incident or dangerous electrical event in Queensland and this includes shocks and burns. The Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 require a Test and tag regime that aligns with the Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760. However, this should be viewed as a minimum requirement, and businesses should adopt a risk-based approach to the frequency and type of testing they conduct.
To reduce these risks, cleaners and employers should follow these electrical safety practices:
Inspect, test and tag equipment
Cleaning tools that are regularly moved during use, such as vacuums and polishers, are considered “specified electrical equipment.” Under the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013, this equipment (including extension cords) must be inspected, tested and tagged at intervals matching the type of work environment. Only a competent person may perform testing and tagging.
Remove damaged cords from service immediately
Any extension cord or equipment lead showing signs of wear, such as fraying, exposed conductors, loose plug connections or overheating, must be removed from service right away. A system for removing damaged electrical equipment from service should be implemented and universally understood.
Protect cords from damage
Extension leads and flexible cables must be located and protected so they are not damaged by foot traffic, vehicles, doors, sharp edges or exposure to liquids. The ESO notes that cords should be kept clear of water and protected with covers or ramps where needed to prevent crushing or cutting.
Use of safety switches (RCDs)
Portable cleaning equipment should always be connected to a functioning safety switch. Safety switches offer vital protection by cutting power instantly if a fault occurs in the cord or equipment. They are especially important when cleaners work in damp areas where electrical risk is higher. Read more information on safety switches.
Avoid unsafe adaptors
The ESO warns against the use of double adaptors and piggyback plugs for certain tasks because they can lead to overloading and overheating. Cleaners should instead use approved power boards with overload protection or plug equipment directly into socket outlets.
Keep cords clean, dry and properly stored
Because cleaning environments frequently involve moisture, chemicals and contaminants, cords should be wiped clean, kept dry and stored neatly off the floor. Leads should be uncoiled fully during use to prevent overheating and damage to internal wiring.