Whyalla Council is helping SA Power Networks spread the message about localised electrical safety issues, with low voltage shocks being one of the targeted risk areas.
Every year around 1,000 customer reports are received by SA Power Networks for small shocks (or tingles).
These are an indication there is something wrong either with the electrics in the home or business, or on the network side.
SA Power Networks attends and investigate all shock reports with aim of ensuring the fault is rectified.
Over the past year, customer trials have been implemented using SMS messaging, to gauge the level of unreported shocks in the community and to raise awareness of the potential risks.
Whyalla Norrie was the location of the first regional campaign and SA Power Networks propose to undertake further targeted engagement in other areas of Whyalla to ensure community safety.
From the trials, it is evident that many customers are not aware of the danger signals and who to report the issue to.
SA Power Networks has developed a new electricity safety campaign as part its ongoing community safety program, focusing on guiding the public on what to do if they experience shocks in the home, come across downed powerlines, or are involved or attend traffic incidents involving electricity infrastructure.
If customers experience a zap or tingling sensation when touching an electrical appliance or tap at home they should immediately call SA Power Networks on 13 13 66 to organise a free inspection.
Other resources
For further information on community safety please watch this short video https://bit.ly/33zdYkf,
visit the SA Power Networks website https://bit.ly/3fBT4Wj,
or scan the QR code underneath
So what should I do?
Have you ever experienced a shock or tingling sensation while touching a kitchen or bathroom tap or an appliance like a kettle or toaster?
It could be a sign that a property’s electrical system has a damaged earth connection, causing issues in the electricity supply and resulting in metal objects such as pipes, taps and appliances to become live with very low-level electricity. Left unattended, it may become a serious issue.
If you experience any issues you should:
- Immediately let SA Power Networks know on 13 13 66, available 24/7
- Don’t touch the appliance, or location again, until confirmed as safe
- A crew will attend to conduct a free inspection to determine if it is a problem with the network connection, or whether it is on the consumer side
- To ensure ongoing safety, the power may be temporarily disconnected
- Depending on the cause, SA Power Networks will either fix the issue, or let you know if you need to arrange your own electrician.
The bottom line is simple. If you get any shocks or tingles at your property, don’t hesitate - give SA Power Networks an immediate call.
Follow these handy tips to ensure the safety of yourself and others around your home or workplace: safety around your property
- Keep cords in good condition, making sure you replace any that are frayed or brittle.
- Fix broken switches or power points (and keep them covered until repaired).
- Keep portable appliances like radios, heaters, phones and hairdryers away from the shower or bath.
- Switch off and unplug any appliances that cause you to feel a tingle when touched and refrain from using taps and showers until assessed as safe by an electrical tradesperson.
- Make sure no spray cleaners or solvents are sprayed on switches or sockets.
- Switch off an appliance before it’s unplugged.
- Ensure all electrical appliances are double insulated or earthed.