Public warning over illegal electrical work

EnergySafety is warning the public to be cautious of dealing with businesses that do not hold current electrical licences after allegedly prosecuting a man over numerous charges involving unlicensed and unsafe electrical work.

The electrical and gas safety regulator for Western Australia said that Wei Liu, trading as Jackson Northair Services, may even still be continuing to carry out illegal electrical work despite being successfully prosecuted by EnergySafety in the Perth Magistrates Court earlier in February (adjourned for sentencing until 8 April).

Liu reportedly pleaded guilty to eight charges of carrying out electrical work without the authorisation of an electrical worker’s licence or permit; two charges of carrying on business as an electrical contractor without holding an electrical contractor’s licence; and two charges of wrongfully representing himself as the person being referred to in an electrical licence.

He had allegedly placed advertisements seeking electrical work in the ‘Australian Asia Business Weekly’ and ‘Oriental Leisure & Living Newspaper’ without holding an electrical contractor’s licence, as well as used another person’s electrical contractor’s licence details, without their knowledge or authorisation.

Director of EnergySafety Ken Bowron said there was imminent danger when unqualified and inexperienced workers were repetitively performing electrical work and not adhering to standards or regulations.

“In Western Australia, the law requires that all electrical work is carried out by a person who holds the relevant electrical licence,” Bowron said.

“Unlicensed electrical work is prohibited due to the risks to public safety. If electrical work is required, it is essential that you view the original electrical worker’s licence and ensure it is current.

“Consumers can also check that a licence is current by conducting a free online licence search on the Energy Safety website at www.energysafety.wa.gov.au.”

If consumers or businesses are concerned about illegal electrical work being carried out, they are advised to contact EnergySafety on (08) 6251 1900 or email energysafety@commerce.wa.gov.au.

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