the master electrician magazine autumn 2009
DESCRIPTION
The leading electrotechnology publication for electrical and communications contractorsTRANSCRIPT
themaster
MISSION SUCCESSSuper data centre unveiled
WOMEN IN CONTRACTINGLeading from the front line
ECONOMIC DOWNTURNThe facts about redundancy
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MASTeR eLeCTRiCiAnS
RACinGON THE
RIGHT TRACK
we puT The new
MeRCedeS-Benz ViTO TO The TeST
2 www.masterelectricians.com.au
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the master electrician : AUTUMN 09 3
The devastation caused by the Victorian bushfires and North Queensland floods has shown that compassion is well and truly alive in the community. Many were quick to offer support with donations and supplies coming in from all
over the globe. Fundraising events were held across Australia as well as worldwide locations including Papua New Guinea, New York and Los Angeles. The electrical industry was not without a heart. Master Electrician Matt Electric offered their services and financial support. You can read more about their contribution to those affected on page 10.
We follow up our last issue which featured a survival guide to the economic downturn, with a useful article on how to deal with redundancies. As many businesses face the real prospect of downsizing it is important that the decision to lay off staff is carried out correctly. Turn to page 39 to read about the facts of redundancy.
In tough economic times, business owners are encouraged to collaborate with others to share information. The ECA and Master Electricians Annual Conference will assist contractors keen to pick up useful knowledge in surviving the economic crisis. The event also includes presentations covering green opportunities, cultural safety and how to keep your business family-owned. More information can be found at www.masterelectricians.com.au
Jessie BadgerAssociAte editor
Editor’snotEWelcome to the third issue of The Master Electrician magazine.
Disclaimer: The statements and opinions expressed in this publication are offered solely in pursuance of the objects of the electrical and communications association and master electricians australia to provide an informative service to contractors in the electrical industry on legal, commercial and other issues and problems related to the industry. The electrical and communications association and master electricians australia are not aware that any person intends to act or rely upon such statements and opinions contained in this publication or the manner in which it might be possible to do so. The electrical and communications association and master electricians australia issues no invitation to any member or other persons to act or rely upon such statements or opinions or any of them and it accepts no responsibility for any of them. it intends by this provision to exclude, to the extent permitted by law, all liability for any such statements and opinions. The master electrician magazine can be viewed online at www.masterelectricians.com.au
Editorial Contacts & Contributors
General EnquiriesmAsTER ElECTRICIANs AusTRAlIA
57 Berwick Street, Fortitude Valley
PO Box 2438, Fortitude Valley BC
Queensland 4006
pHONE 1300 889 198
fAx 07 3251 2400
EmAIl [email protected]
wEb www.masterelectricians.com.au
AbN 97 131 416 183
EdITOR Malcolm Richards
AssOCIATE EdITOR Jessie Badger
AdvERTIsING ENquIRIEs Jessie Badger
pHONE 1300 889 198
fAx 07 3251 2400
EmAIl [email protected]
dEsIGN ANd pRINT POMO 07 3844 3873
kEEpup-to-datE
yEarly subscriptions
(4 issuEs) just $38.50
09AU
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N
MASTeR eLeCTRiCiAnS
RACinGON ThE
RIGhT TRACkREAD MORE pAGe 18
MiSSiOn SuCCeSS
SUPER DATA CENTRE UNVEIlED
READ MORE pAGe 8
wOMen in COnTRACTinG
lEADING FROM ThE FRONT lINE
READ MORE pAGe 13
www.masterelectricians.com.auor call 1300 889 198
contents04 up front with the regulators
10 the master electricians helping rebuild Victoria
14 securing business finance
21 meet a master electrician
22 letter of the law
27 news from distributors
30 the buzz
32 the interview
36 technical talk
38 workplace relations
42 news from head office
44 gadget guide
46 test drive
48 events calendar
49 your best (or worst) day on the job
49 your best (or worst) photo
50 last wordCOVER PhOTO: Andre Borell
4 www.masterelectricians.com.au
victoria
Energy Safe VictoriaThe Victorian electrical industry had an exceptional response in restoring power to bushfire ravaged communities
much of Victoria’s electricity supply network
was badly damaged in the “Black
Saturday” bushfires of 7 February 2009. Parts
of the distribution infrastructure were totally
destroyed and thousands of properties in the
bushfire ravaged areas were left without power.
“The response by Victoria’s electricity industry
to the disaster was quite exceptional and credit
must go to everyone involved – including the
linespeople who restored the damaged network
and hundreds of electricians who volunteered
their time to get people back on supply both
successfully and quickly,” said Victoria’s Director
of Energy Safety, Mr Ken Gardner.
Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) also responded
quickly to the situation by introducing a
number of important initiatives to facilitate the
reconnection process.
“As the electricity safety regulator, ESV
wanted to do all it could to help relieve some of
the suffering of the bushfire victims and support
the efforts of the amazing number of volunteer
electricians who came forward to restore
supplies,” Mr Gardner said.
ESV initiatives included supplying hundreds
of certificates of electrical safety free of charge
to contractors and electricians working in the
bushfire areas.
Proposed changes to the electricity safety
regime were also brought forward allowing
Licensed Electrical Inspectors holding a G class
licence to inspect the installation of generators.
Information on the safe connection of
generators to electrical installations is available
on the ESV website at www.esv.vic.gov.au
ESV also announced it would permit builders’
poles to be used to connect properties in bushfire
affected areas to the electricity supply, and
remain in place for 12 months. Poles can only
be used where there is not enough vegetation to
pose a risk of fire.
Electricians coming from interstate to help the
restoration process in the fire damaged areas
can obtain a Victorian licence for a period of six
months at no cost to them.
A large amount of electricity and gas safety
advice was provided by ESV in media releases
and also in flyers for emergency authorities to
distribute around the areas which suffered from
the bushfires.
“We wanted to help as much as we could. At
the same time safety could not be compromised
regulatorsup front with the
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5the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
– hence the need for other electrical safety
regulatory requirements to remain in place, with
the integrity of the certification system also being
maintained,” Mr Gardner said.
NEW south WalEs
Office of Fair Tradingpilot dispute resolution services for builders and tradespeople
from 1 March – 1 June 2009, the NSW Office
of Fair Trading is piloting an expanded service
which enables licensed builders and tradespeople
to be able to access its free dispute resolution
service if a dispute occurs with a consumer over a
residential building issue.
Where a consumer and trader are unable to
resolve their dispute, Fair Trading will attempt to
mediate an outcome that is suitable to all parties
concerned. Fair Trading realises there is a greater
chance of successfully resolving a dispute where
there is early intervention and building inspectors
who are trade qualified and highly experienced.
This expanded service is available across
NSW to licensed traders from all home building
licence classes. It represents a significant gain
for licensees who will have access to services
previously available only to consumers.
If a home building licensee is in dispute with
a consumer, they should contact Fair Trading
on 13 32 20 or visit a Fair Trading Centre. In
response to the trader enquiry, Fair Trading will
contact both parties to clarify the nature of
the dispute and to seek agreement, from both
parties, to participate in this intervention.
Depending on the nature of the matter, the
possible outcomes could be:n That the matter may get resolved at the
outset with a Fair Trading officer contacting
both the trader and consumer;n If the matter involves defective and/or
incomplete work, it will be referred for a
possible on-site mediation with a Fair Trading
building inspector. If it is determined that
there is defective or incomplete work, the
Building Inspector may issue an order against
the home building licensee.n If the dispute is solely in relation to the
payment of outstanding monies or a
progress payment, licensees will be advised
to lodge a claim with the Consumer, Trader
and Tenancy Tribunal (CTTT).
Trader to trader home building disputes will
continue to be handled by the CTTT.
south australia
SafeWork SAnew safety standard proposed for insulation installers
a mandatory safety standard for installing
insulation has been earmarked by the Rann
Government after two house fires in SA were
blamed on incorrectly installed insulation recently.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Gail Gago says
feedback on a proposed new safety standard is
now being canvassed from installers and related
industry associations.
WhERE A cONSUMER ANd TRAdER ARE UNABlE TO
RESOlVE ThEiR diSPUTE, FAiR TRAdiNG Will ATTEMPT TO
MEdiATE AN OUTcOME ThAT iS SUiTABlE TO All PARTiES
cONcERNEd
6 www.masterelectricians.com.au
“A safety standard is clearly warranted after
the Metropolitan Fire Service attributed two roof
space fires in Adelaide to incorrectly installed
blow-in insulation,” says Minister Gago.
“It is obvious that a voluntary standard is
not providing the level of protection that South
Australians deserve and we will work with the
bulk insulation industry to introduce a workable
arrangement that offers greater safety.
“The standard will be further supported by
a potential penalty of up to $10,000 for any
breaches of the standard.”
Working in conjunction with the Office of the
Technical Regulator, The Office of Consumer and
Business Affairs (OCBA) is developing a safety
standard that is based on the voluntary Australian
Standard ‘Thermal insulation of dwellings – bulk
insulation – Installation requirements’. OCBA
proposes to introduce this safety standard under
section 23 of the Trade Standards Act 1979
by midyear.
WEstErN australia
EnergySafety WA electrical contractor fined over unsafe electrical work
an electrical contractor has been fined
$10,000 over an incident in 2006 in which a
worker received an electric shock when a drilling
rig mast came into contact with high voltage
power lines.
Jeremy Paul Blakiston Fowler (then trading as
Electro Power Services) pleaded guilty to failing
to ensure that the workplace was safe and was
fined in the Perth Magistrates Court.
In May 2006, Western Power had contracted
Outback Power Services to perform works and
construct a voltage regulator at Eneabba. Electro
Power Services had then been contracted by
Outback Power to supervise drilling works to be
performed by a drilling contractor.
On May 17, Mr Fowler and the drilling
contractor were engaged in drilling holes with a
drilling rig underneath power lines. The position
in which the drilling contractor chose to place the
rig required him to raise the mast very close to
the power lines.
In repositioning the rig, the lefthand outrigger
was raised and the mast tilted towards the power
lines. The mast touched the power lines and the
drilling contractor received an electric shock and
was thrown backwards from the drilling rig.
The court heard that no formal prestart
meeting had been held before the work
commenced, and that the drilling contractor was
not given any directions for the work, with the
exception of where the holes were required to
be placed.
Mr Fowler had not checked whether the
power lines were live, assuming they were. He
was the person in control of the workplace, and
so responsible for the drilling contractor’s safety.
WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said
that the case once again illustrated the vital
importance of taking every possible precaution
when working with or near electricity.
“Over the past five years, 17 Western
Australians have died as a result of electrocution,
eight in workplaces and nine outside of
workplaces” Ms Lyhne said.
“Electricity is one of WorkSafe’s operational
priority areas, and a lot of time and resources are
directed towards lessening the toll and educating
people on how to work safely with electricity.
“The employer involved in this case was an
experienced electrical contractor who held all
the relevant qualifications to supervise the work
being performed that day.
“He really should have known better than to
allow a worker to perform tasks so close to live
power lines, but he did not advise the worker to
approach the job in any other way or discuss any
other options with him.
“The worker was extremely lucky to have
escaped any serious injury in this incident, and
the case should serve as a reminder to anyone
who has control of a workplace that they have
a duty of care to ensure that the workplace is as
safe as is practicable.”
Further information on working with electricity
can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe
on 08 9327 8777 or on the website at www.
worksafe.wa.gov.au.
OVER ThE PAST FiVE yEARS, 17 WESTERN AUSTRAliANS hAVE diEd AS A RESUlT OF ElEcTROcUTiON, EiGhT iN WORkPlAcES ANd NiNE
OUTSidE OF WORkPlAcES
7the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
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quEENslaND
Electrical Safety OfficePay your electrical worker licence renewal on-line
queensland electrical worker licence holders can now pay their licence renewals on-line
using a credit card or BPAy.
The on-line payment system through the Electrical Safety Office website accepts all major
credit cards including American Express and will speed up the delivery of licence renewals.
You can complete your worker renewal form and pay on-line via the website at
www.eso.qld.gov.au/eli/EWRenewalFind.jsp .
Just follow all the prompts and a tax receipt will be issued at the end of the process.
Feedback on the new system is welcome and you can call the Electrical Safety Office
on 1300 650 662.
Rewarding safe work practices
queensland businesses of all sizes can nominate for Workplace health and Safety’s 2009
Work Safe Awards from 28 April.
The awards recognise businesses, individuals, associations, partnerships and other
organisations that show a commitment to excellence in workplace health and safety.
There are six categories, including ‘best solution to an identified electrical safety issue’,
which recognises excellence in developing and implementing a solution to electrical
safety issues.
Entries for this award could include:n a product solutionn engineering innovationn a training programn an awareness raising activityn a risk control measure that reduces the risk of electrocution and electrical-related injury.
Entering is easy, and can be done by mail, or by visiting www.worksafe.qld.gov.au and
completing the online entry form. Entries close 5pm 31 July 2009 so be quick.
The website also contains more information about the awards, as well as details of
previous winners.
Working near live parts as dangerous as working live
electrical workers know the dangers of working live, but working near live parts whether
low or high voltage can be just as dangerous.
The risks associated with working near exposed live parts are the same as those associated
with live electrical work.
If you make contact, either directly or through any conducting medium, you put your
life at risk.
Even insulated parts can be hazardous for electrical workers in some circumstances, so
taking risks with exposed parts is asking for trouble.
Treat all exposed parts in switchboards, equipment control panels and similar situations as
live unless they are tested and proven otherwise.
This means doing a risk assessment and using appropriate safety controls.
Evaluating the risks and developing controls helps you develop safer work practices, and
most importantly, it means you get to go home at the end of the day.
It is vital for employers to provide adequate information and training to their workers so
they can identify hazards, assess risks in the course of their electrical work and apply a safe
system of work.
Stay safe. Use a safe system of work, turn the power off, and test before working on or
near live exposed parts.
8 www.masterelectricians.com.au
Australia’s newest, purpose-built
data centre is complete and fully
operational with five highly-secured
floors, its own back-up power supply
and almost 7000m² of storage area.
In a joint venture with Suncorp, the Springfield
Land Corporation commissioned the $220 million
Polaris Data Centre to house the information of
large government and corporate customers.
The original plan was for a 500m² data centre
that would house the IT infrastructure of Greater
Springfield – a purpose built housing estate in
Brisbane’s west. However, booming demand
for off-site data storage soon saw Polaris
grow into a much larger commercial facility,
servicing a range of customers in the private and
government sectors.
All these clients rely on their operating systems
and the information in their databases to
function. It is mission-critical information.
Storing and protecting this information is
a costly and highly strategic operation, often
outsourced to off-site data centres such as the
Polaris Data Centre.
The Polaris Data centre is configured to be n +
2. This means, when n is the data currently being
stored, the same problem can occur three times
before any information is lost.
Springfield Land Corporation executive general
manager of commercial projects Chris Schroor
said construction was a multiparty project.
“This is an electrical and mechanical building
so during construction these components were
very important.
“We used Theiss to construct the building and
maintained a collaborative and open relationship
with them and our other suppliers including
electrical engineers Richard Flanagan and
Company,” Mr Schroor said.
ElEctrical ENgiNEEriNg
While the building has to be secured from
perpetrators, it also has to secure power supply.
The Polaris Data Centre provides sophisticated
power and cooling services that must operate at
all times – even when local distributors experience
power outages.
Richard Flanagan and Company chief executive
officer Richard Flanagan said it was an enormous
logistical and technical challenge to outfit the
building with its power back up system.
“There are two sources of power that
guarantee supply to the building at all times.
“The primary source of power is from two
11,000 Volt substations that receive separate
supplies from ENERGEX.
“The back up supply is generated by
six Uninterrupted Power Systems (UPSs)
housed on the fifth level of the building,” Mr
Flanagan said.
8
accomplishedMaster-planned mission:
9the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
feature : PO
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IS
The two sources of power, ENERGEX and UPS,
work in conjunction with one another to ensure
a complete back up of the building’s systems and
ultimately the clients’ information.
“The ENERGEX power is reticulated to two 6 x
3MVA transformers within private substations in
the ground floor of the building.
“Through a series of bus ducts the system
reticulates the power from these private
substations to six main switch boards also located
on the ground floor.
“From here the power is reticulated up to the
different data-storage floors of the building,” Mr
Flanagan said.
“The six 2.4MVA Piller UPSs on level five of the
building are always in circuit should the ENERGEX
power fail, securing the power supply to the
data centre.”
Mr Schroor said in one year the Polaris Data
Centre will have only 21 minutes of downtime.
“There is enough diesel and water stored
on-site for the data centre to run for 48 hours
independently of the power grid.
“When the data centre is operating at full
capacity it is essentially a 20 Megawatt power
station,” Mr Schroor said.
thE fiNishED proDuct
The Polaris Data Centre opened in January
when customers including the Queensland
Government, Suncorp, Ipswich City Council,
British Gas, NEC, and Citec moved in.
The Queensland Government uses the Polaris
Data Centre as a hosting platform to store
mission-critical information such as criminal
records and licensing information.
The occupancy rate of the Polaris Data Centre
climbed towards 100 per cent even before it
was complete.
Mr Schroor said the data centre was built
with a look to the future with inbuilt upgrading
systems relatively simple to initiate.
“We can add additional modules to the
system to double the capacity without disrupting
the operations of the data centre.
“We can do a full upgrade and add
new generators and chillers and no current
information will be affected in any way,” Mr
Schroor said.
The supply to the building is currently 800MW
per square meter but it can be upgraded to
1500MW per square metre with little effort,
increasing its capacity to operate storage and
cooling facilities.
“The Polaris Data Centre is built to be modular,
flexible, and scalable to take advantage of
tomorrow’s requirements,” Mr Schroor said.
9
Master Electricians Richard Flanagan and company have helped create one of Australia’s largest, most secure and technically excellent data centres.
Emily clark investigates …
Want access? There are five levels of security clearance to get onto a data floor of the Polaris Data Centre.
The building’s security system includes:n 24 hour physical presence securityn Full internal and external CCTV n Bullet-proof roomsn Swipe access to liftsn Fingerprint scannersn Weighted man-trap cylindersn And if you want to get in the front door you have to provide photo identification to prove
you’re one of the pre-authorised visitors.
Got cables?The electrical outfitting of The Polaris Data Centre required: n 2 kilometres of bus ductn 71 tonnes of fire-rated sub-main cablen 16 tonnes of high-voltage cablen 30 tonnes of TPS and XLPE cablen And numerous kilometres of cable tray and ladder.
10 www.masterelectricians.com.au
The Master Electricians helping
rebuild Victoria
When devastating fires engulfed Victoria recently Australians quickly launched into action, donating everything from money to food and even blood.
11the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
feature : RE
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Master Electricians Matt
Electric recognised the
need of Victorian residents
and sought to assist both
financially and by providing services
where possible.
These victims must first recover from
their ordeal before they can move forward
and re-build their lives. That is why the
thousands affected by this tragedy need
members of the public to help make
the process as painless and stress-free
as possible.
Matt Electric acted immediately when
tragedy struck, contacting disaster
recovery organisations and offering their
services to assist bushfire victims.
They have also pledged one dollar
for every hour each technician from the
company works in Victoria for the rest
of 2009.
Matt Electric’s commercial manager
Scott Lyall said the company wants to assist
as much as possible to help communities
recover from the devastating bushfires.
“We estimate our ‘dollar for hour’
pledge will equate to somewhere between
$20,000 and $30,000 in total.
“We are currently talking with the
various authorities and charities about the
best way for us to provide services as and
where they are needed,” Mr Lyall said.
Because the fires were among the
worst in Australia’s history, there is little
precedent for the recovery process.
However, difficult times and events
have historically brought out the best
in Australians – both individuals and
businesses – and the Victorian fires have
proved no different.
Want to
helpa good cause?
1. To support the victims of the
Victorian bushfires or the Country Fire
Authority, please visit www.redcross.
org.au or www.cfa.vic.gov.au.
2. To support RACQ Careflight, please
visit www.careflightrescue.com.au or
phone (07) 5503 5800.
Seeking Experienced Electrical Tradespeople
Are you confident and enjoy interacting with tradespeople?
SafetyConnect is a comprehensive Safety Management System designed to help busy contractors effectively manage and meet their obligations under all state legislation.
As our numbers continue to grow we are seeking facilitators who are motivated and committed to delivering SafetyConnect services to the industry.
SafetyConnect Facilitator contracts offer flexible hours allowing you to schedule meetings around other work commitments.
For more details visit www.masterelectricians.com.au
Interested? Contact Master Electricians Australia
1300 889 [email protected] www.masterelectricians.com.au
“In these economic conditions, and with
unpredictable situations occurring like these
bushfires, it is important for individuals and
companies alike to dig deep.
“If there is any room whatsoever for you or
your company to help either in donated time or
money, these groups and causes all need our
assistance.
“Our donations are the lifeblood of these
organisations,” Mr Lyall said.
In addition to supporting the victims of the
Victorian bushfires, Matt Electric has been
involved with several community organisations
in Queensland, including the Palm Beach
Currumbin Rugby Football Club, The Palm Beach
AFL Junior Football Club, and RACQ Careflight.
Time and materials are also routinely donated to
various surf lifesaving clubs and related charities.
Matt Electric’s managing director Matthew
Hanley said the company is only too happy to
assist these groups and others in need.
“Our company is fortunate enough to be in a
position where we can help others achieve their
goals, and further assist those in need.
“We don’t think twice about committing
ourselves to a cause like the Victorian bushfire
victims. We are there to provide aid and services
where needed,” Mr Hanley said.
Mr Lyall said that even in times of crisis or
economic strain, it is important any electrical
work is conducted by a professional.
“At Matt Electric, we are about safety first.
“If members of the public aren’t sure about
anything electric, it’s important they contact a
licensed electrician.
“There are many dangers when it comes to
electrics, and doing it yourself isn’t worth the
risk,” Mr Lyall said.
To learn more about Matt Electric, its
services or charitable activities, please visit
www.mattelectric.com.au.
12 www.masterelectricians.com.au
Administered byMalcolm V. Leeke & Co. Chartered Accountants
8 McIlwraith Street PO Box 42 Everton Park Brisbane QLD 4053
Phone 07 3506 7788 Fax 07 3506 7700 Toll Free 1300 200 123
Email [email protected] Website www.cirt.com.au
CIRT HELPS YOU TO REDUCE THE DRAIN ON YOUR COMPANY’S CASH FLOWCIRT was established in 1990 to provide redundancy benefits to the electrical industry.
CIRT allows employers to contribute money each month on behalf of their employees. That way if a redundancy occurs, the CIRT contributions form either part or all of any redundancy payment and the employer can include the money already contributed as part of the redundancy payment. CIRT provides benefits for the following situations: redundancy, retirement, leaving the industry, severe financial hardship, total and permanent disability, death. Contact CIRT now for all your industry redundancy needs.
Supported by
GooGle to Help electricity customers track power usaGeGoogle said it would use its software skills to help consumers track their home energy usage and thereby lower demand and the global warming emissions that come from producing electricity.
The move is part of Google’s effort to pump hundreds of millions of dollars into renewable energy, electricity-grid upgrades and other measures that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Google PowerMeter is currently being tested by employees and is not yet available to the public.
www.foxnews.com
diFFicUlT TiMES ANd EVENTS hAVE hiSTORicAlly
BROUGhT OUT ThE BEST iN AUSTRAliANS – BOTh
iNdiVidUAlS ANd BUSiNESSES – ANd ThE VicTORiAN FiRES
hAVE PROVEd NO diFFERENT
It’s no secret – good managerial and leadership
skills are the keys to a successful business.
Talent, skill, and experience are important in
our business, but they are expected when you
work for a Master Electrician. Trudy Scott, the
Managing Director of Pulse Electrical in Brisbane,
told The Master Electrician the secret behind her
company’s continued success is determination.
“From day one, we have been determined to
create a future for our business that we ourselves
want to live in. After all, if we don’t create our
future, somebody else will just do it for us,”
she said.
Trudy and her husband Robert started out as
most electrical contracting businesses do – as a
husband and wife team. While Rob worked long
days on site, Trudy was busy raising two children,
working full-time as Queensland’s only female IT
Manager for Main Roads, and doing the business
accounts at night.
“Having a career was always important to
me, and I was empowered by the position I had
achieved at Main Roads,” Trudy said.
“But at the end of the day, it was just work – I
didn’t own it and I never would. What Rob and
I were chasing was a sense of ownership in our
jobs; something that would not only grow the
business, but help us to grow as individuals also.”
An educational seminar for entrepreneurs gave
Trudy and Rob the vision they needed to take Rob
Scott Electrical to the next level. And in 2003,
after much research and financial investment,
Rob Scott Electrical became Pulse Electrical.
“Professional and educational seminars are
crucial for our industry. Discussing new ideas
and winning business strategies with like-
minded people are the most important business
development activities a manager can undertake.
I regularly attend seminars and conferences on
behalf of Pulse, because as a woman, I enjoy
the experience of furthering my education and
business skills in a social environment,” Trudy said.
Today, Trudy and Rob have turned their vision
into reality and they are the directors of a multi-
skilled team of more than 90 people based at
four different branches across Queensland.
“Knowing I’m responsible for such a large
team inspires me to push myself, because I know
that I’m not just working for myself, I’m working
to improve our business and the jobs of more
than 90 people,” she said.
“However, we were determined to retain the
close-knit team environment we had when we
first started Pulse. Team meetings and constant
communication with each other have helped us
to sustain our personal team environment. It also
helps everyone to understand how their roles
contribute to our overall success.”
During the economic downturn Trudy insists
that it has never been more important to
know who you are and what you stand for as
a company.
“We spent a long time building our Code
of Honour, which has become the central idea
behind everything we do; it’s who we are as a
company, its why our team members are so loyal,
and it’s often the reason why customers choose
us over other contractors,” she said.
The Pulse Electrical Code of Honour lists
several rules which its team members must
follow, including: work with the game in mind,
never abandon a team mate in need, danger or
trouble, and only make agreements that they are
prepared to keep.
During her career, Trudy has learnt that there is
nothing more important than keeping a healthy
balance between work and family.
“Sometimes work does clash with family time.
But if you and your business are in good physical,
mental, and financial shape, then I’ve found that
you can get through anything,” she said.
Trudy keeps her business in shape by keeping
her team up-to-date with the latest industry
knowledge, by holding regular team-building
activities, and by getting her different teams
together to review the year and plan for the future.
“As a Managing Director of Pulse, it’s my
responsibility to keep the communication flowing
through the business and through our teams on
the front line. My front line team also helps me
to keep our business relationships strong and the
business goals in check. Naturally, the women at
Pulse do this flawlessly!” she joked.
Good managerial and leadership skills are
the keys to a successful business, but, Trudy
adds, “These skills are only useful if you have
established a mutual trust and respect with your
partner and team members. Trust and support
are essential.”
Trudy Scott is a woman who knows how to hard-wire a business for success. Gemma Ward reveals how Trudy uses her leadership skills to boost her business and employee morale.
leading from the front line
13the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
feature : lEA
diN
G FR
OM
ThE
FRO
NT liN
E
14 www.masterelectricians.com.au
The economic climate might have you thinking it will be difficult to access credit, but The Master Electrician
discovered banks are standing firm on their policies for business customers.
financein a tough environment
A rumour is moving around the
Australian banking industry
suggesting banks are changing their
credit policies and suspending lending
to business customers.
While it’s true that big businesses around
Australia are having difficultly securing corporate
loans in the midst of the global financial crisis,
the credit situation for small business customers
is completely different.
According to Commonwealth Bank Chief
Operating Officer for local business banking
Bernard Tanner, now is the time for contractors
to look at their finance options.
“Small business finance opportunities
still very much exist,” Mr Tanner told The
Master Electrician.
“All banks are out there, at the moment,
trying to be proactive in reaching small
business customers.
“I would encourage any business owner to
come in and talk to their bank,” Mr Tanner said.
Mr Tanner insists the million-dollar debts of
Australia’s big businesses will not affect small
business credit policies.
“Small business operators have less debt and
therefore have less risk, especially when they are
borrowing against equipment and vehicles or
have some other security,” he said.
If you are an electrical contractor considering
your finance options, Mr Tanner recommends the
best place to start is to simply meet your local
business banker.
“The first thing we do is sit down for a face-to-
face conversation about a customer’s business and
what things they are looking for from their bank.
“We don’t just meet large corporate
clients. We are interested in sole-traders and
owner-operators and we’re interested in
their businesses.”
Once you are comfortable with your business
banker and have introduced them to your
business, they will discuss the different financial
products available and which will best suit your
individual situation.
The Commonwealth Bank recommends three
financial products to electrical contractors: a
working overdraft, asset finance, or a larger loan.
Each of these products is suitable to different
situations. The reason your business needs
finance will generally determine which product
is best for you.
For example, if a business needs a new
workshop a larger loan facility would be best, but
if it needs some working capital until an invoice is
paid, a working overdraft would be most suitable.
Once you and your bank have determined the
financial facility that is most suited to your needs,
the application process will begin.
Finance applications are generally assessed
on three criteria: cash-flow, current and future
income, and any assets the business holds.
Mr Tanner said the best thing an electrical
contractor can do to help the application
process is effectively identify their income
and expenses.
n Working overdraftn Asset financen larger loan
n cash-flown current and future incomen Assets
Financial products
Application criteria
securing business
15the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
feature : SE
CU
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G B
US
INE
SS
FINA
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E
“Banks need to be sure businesses can cover
the finance repayments.
“For employees, they provide their contract
and a copy of their pay slips but for electrical
contractors they are working to create
employment for themselves.
“We need to sit down and understand their
processes so the bank can make an informed
estimate of the future income stream,” Mr
Tanner said.
“We look at historical tax returns and for proof
that the business is up and running.”
The bank will assess the business’s assets to
determine any potential finance security.
If there is security on the loan, the risk to the
bank is lower and therefore the finance attracts a
lower interest rate.
“That is why the asset finance facility is so
relevant to electrical contractors,” Mr Tanner said.
“Contractors can keep their equipment and
vehicles up to date by borrowing for them and
they will receive a lower interest rate because the
materials they buy are security for the finance.”
Mr Tanner said even if no business assets exist,
owner-operators can use other personal assets to
secure business finance.
“Residentially secured debt is less risky than
commercial debt.
“For small business owners, the equity in their
home can be used as security against their business
finance without any day-to-day integration of the
customer’s business and personal banking.”
The application process will differ from
business to business but the most important
advantage you can give your business is to
develop a professional relationship with your
business banker.
“We want to understand our customers’
businesses so we know when their tools may
need upgrading and how important the upgrade
is to their business,” Mr Tanner said.
“Furthermore, we want to know about their
goals and aspirations for their business, where
they are at and where they want to be.”
If your bank knows what you are planning
or what struggles may arise it can support you
through the changes.
“In difficult times, we encourage businesses to
get in contact with their bank early.
“If this environment is affecting your business
get into your bank and have that conversation,”
Mr Tanner said.
“Constant communication with your
business banker will support the growth of your
business.”
Hazardous area and
HigH Voltageinstallation
audits
3 ESO Compliance Audits3Area Classifications3Risk Assessments3Pre-installation/design review
Call Steve Downey on
1300 724 744to arrange an inspection
www.jantec.com.au
18 www.masterelectricians.com.au
Master Electricians are backing race
car driver Andre Borell in the 2009
Genuine Ford Parts Australian
Formula Ford Championship.
The future star of Australian motorsport
has graduated to one of the most competitive
series in Australia after two successful years in
the Queensland State Championship. Many
of the world’s top drivers have come through
the ranks of Formula Ford to score major
international successes, such as Formula One
driver Mark Webber.
Borell kicked off the championship series at
the chaotic Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park
in March. After engine trouble in the practice
Andre was at a disadvantage from the start. The
qualifying session saw cars crashing and bringing
out red flags on two occasions. He finished 17th
in the first race and crashed out in the second but
his hopes remain high for future rounds.
“I’m confident of scoring points and running
in the Top 10. From Tasmania onwards we’ll start
aiming for podiums”
Andre drives a Van Diemen RF06 and
although the British marque has suffered
from a lack of numbers on the grid, Borell
remains confident.
newwatts
Master Electricians take to the grid
19the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
“I know there is nothing wrong with the Van Diemen. The company
has been around for a long time, and knows what they are doing when it
comes to building Formula Fords,” Borell said.
Master Electricians Australia have partnered with Andre to invest in
the young star’s future as well as promoting the Master Electricians brand
according to Master Electricians CEO Malcolm Richards.
“The Master Electricians brand is all about raising the bar on quality
and safety. Our partnership with Andre will help to raise awareness of the
importance of electrical safety in the community,” Mr Richards said.
watts new
: MA
STE
R E
lEC
TRIC
IAN
S TA
kE
TO Th
E G
RID
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Call 1300 139 467 or visit www.simPRO.com.au
21the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
in this edition’s Meet a Master Electrician, we introduce you to kieran Francis, a fellow Master Electrician and manager of Manfield colair in Nhulunbuy, Northern Territory.
It’s a little known truth, but city suit-types are
jealous of electricians. And after listening to
Kieran Francis rave about his trade, you can
understand why.
“As electricians, we have freedoms that city
suits will never have. We have the freedom to
work anywhere in Australia, the freedom to
instantly see the results of our work, and the
freedom to be in a stable job and booming
industry during these tough times,” Kieran said.
Kieran has come a long way from his days
as an apprentice at ABB Australia. During his
career, he has worked all over Australia and is
currently the manager of Manfield Colair in the
Northern Territory.
“When I was first starting out in the trade, I
was constantly looking for ways to learn from
the older guys. I took every opportunity that
came my way and I believe it’s because of my
hard work that I’ve achieved the great job I have
today,” he said.
In his current position, Kieran is responsible for
leading 30 electrical tradespeople to deliver on
site electrical support to Rio Tinto’s Gove alumina
refinery and mine. During his day, Kieran is also
responsible for managing contracts and ensuring
that on site OH&S objectives are met.
“I enjoy the satisfaction of working with
my team to overcome the daily challenges we
encounter on site. Working with people who enjoy
their job just as much as I do is rewarding in itself,
and I think we deliver a higher quality of work and
service to our customers because of this,” he said.
Working on the $1.8 billion Bechtel LNG
pipeline and power station project in Darwin
was a great professional experience for Kieran.
His next goal: to help pioneer renewable energy
technologies and encourage renewable energy
projects in Australia.
“Renewable energy is an area in our trade which
is still in its early stages of development, but it’s
the way of the future. It’d be a great professional
achievement to be involved in bringing renewable
energy projects and technologies to life and to
our local communities,” Kieran said.
As a senior electrician, Kieran encourages
Manfield Colair and other electrical contracting
businesses to continue to employ apprentices
during these tough times.
“It’s never been more important for us to
take charge of our industry and support our
apprentices; they’re the future of our industry. It’s
up to us to ensure that when the economy turns
around, there are top quality tradespeople ready
to get to work,” he said.
As for Kieran’s choice to work in the NT, “You
can’t beat it for work-life balance, and a great
fishing trip. It’s the place to be!”
Being a Master Electrician certainly has
its perks! Newtagsadvert180x81.pdf 16/04/2009 2:04:04 PM
electrician
meet a
masterNAME:
Kieran francis
COMPANy:manfield Colair
meet a m
aster electrician : kIE
RA
N FR
AN
CIS
22 www.masterelectricians.com.au
It is important to determine if your company is
insolvent because:
1. If it is, you as a director, will be personally
liable for the debts of the company… so you
could lose everything you own; and
2. It assists you as the directors, to formulate a
plan to avoid insolvency, save the business
and your employees’ jobs and to avoid issues
with creditors, lenders and the Tax Office.
As directors you need to be aware of the
company’s financial position and know whether
it has crossed the line from “Financial Distress”
to “Insolvency”.
Insolvency can be difficult to establish at any
given point in time. In essence, the question you
as the directors must ask is:
Is the company able to pay all of its debts as
and when they become due and payable?
The answer will not always be clear. So, to help
you get the right answer, McKays Solicitors have
prepared the following checklist. Depending on
your answers to these questions, you may need
to seek professional advice urgently.
The attached guide is indicative of insolvency
and is not a definitive test. One to two indicators
may not necessarily indicate insolvency but
if the indicator persists you should see your
accountant. More than two indicators or
persistent indicators means your company is
probably insolvent and you should contact your
solicitor, together with your accountant and an
insolvency practitioner, to get the best advice to
move forward.
For more information contact McKays Solicitors
on 07 3223 5900 or visit www.mckayslaw.com.
letterof the lawis my
company insolvent?
insolvency indicatorsBanks
1 Exceeding overdraft limits and unable to obtain further credit n
2 No access to alternate finance or ability to raise equity n
creditors3 increasing debt - (liabilities greater than assets) n
4 Statutory demands & legal action n
5 creditors unpaid and outside of usual terms of trade n
6 Poor cash flow n
7 issuing post dated cheques & dishonoured cheques n
Suppliers8 Suppliers demanding payment before supply n
9 Suppliers stop supply n
losses / Stock / Maintenance10 Ongoing unsustainable losses n
11 Falling Stock levels n
12 Postponement of essential maintenance n
key debtors13 Unrecoverable loans Owed to company n
14 key debtor goes broke n
ATO15 ATO demands from overdue taxes n
Financial Records16 incomplete Financial Records n
NUMBER OF TickS:
Lawrence & Hanson branches are the longest established supplier of electrical product in Australia and that means you can be confident you’re dealing with an organisation that knows its stuff.
That knowledge is applied to build our core-range of the most commonly used products in each of our branches nationwide. Our range consists of all major Australian as well as international brands to ensure you get the right product for your application, when you need it. However we don’t just rely on our experience, we work with you to fine tune our range at the local level to give you the best possible choice of quality products to keep your business powering on.
L&H Tweed Heads Shop 2B, 13 Greenway Dr Tweed Heads NSW 2485 T: 07 5523 1334 F: 07 5523 2064
expanding our commiTmenT To you THe conTracTor
wiTH THe opening of
L&H Tweed Heads
L&H fortitude Valley Cnr Commercial Rd & Leopold St Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 T: 07 3257 4263 F: 07 3854 1897
and THe re–opening of our
L&H FORTITUde VaLLeY
BrancH
www.lawrenceandhanson.com.au
1743 MasterElect advert.indd 1 12/3/09 5:56:33 PM
reliabilityquality safetyFor more details visit www.masterelectricians.com.au
Introducing an exc iting new service
Phone 1300 889 198 to take advantage of the new vehicle purchasing deal.
New Service.As an ECA member or Accredited Master Electrician, you now have access to the full range of commercial and private vehicles at special prices via our partnership with AP Group Ltd, which includes free window tinting and a customer rewards program. In addition, you can also utilise one of the most competitive finance packages available, specifically tailored to your needs for the purchase of vehicles or equipment.
Specialist Network. Let us do all the hard work for you. We will source the right vehicle at the right price utilising our network of member fleet specialists we have put in place covering almost every vehicle brand. We know the needs of an electrical contractor when it comes to buying that new (or pre-owned) vehicle and we can really save you both time and money.
Finance Packages. The other part of ECA and Master Electricians Fleet Services is the great finance packages that are now available to you. While we are sourcing a fantastic price on your next vehicle, we can provide advice, options and quotes on a range of financing products. ECA and Master Electricians Fleet Services remains up to date on issues such as GST, taxation changes and market movements so we can deliver the right package. We always suggest that your accountant is involved in this process and will deal directly with their office if need be, saving you more time.
One Stop Shop. The best part about all this? ECA and Master Electricians Fleet Services is a “one stop shop”. Your phone or email enquiry will be handled by one person who will see it from the vehicle and finance pricing stage, right through to coordinating delivery, finance paperwork and settlement. Where possible, we can come to your home, office or even work site with any paperwork that needs signing.
from $22,650 DRIVE AWAYMitsubishi Express
* Some illustrations for display purposes only. * Pricing may be subject to change due to manufacturer bonuses.* Commercial finance over 60 months with 30% balloon payment to approved applicants.
Finance at $85 per week*
from $32,590 DRIVE AWAY
Toyota Hiace LWB
Finance at $146 per week*
from $39,490 DRIVE AWAYFord Transit Mid Roof
Finance at $146 per week*
from $34,420 DRIVE AWAYVW Transporter T5 SWB
Finance at $127 per week*
GREAT FLEET PRICINGHolden Colorado
SAVE THOUSANDS!Ford Ranger
FANTASTIC DEALSMazda BT50
COMPETITIVE PACKAGESNissan Navara
GREAT PRICESToyota Hilux
ECA and Master Electricians Fleet Services.
reliabilityquality safetyFor more details visit www.masterelectricians.com.au
Introducing an exc iting new service
Phone 1300 889 198 to take advantage of the new vehicle purchasing deal.
New Service.As an ECA member or Accredited Master Electrician, you now have access to the full range of commercial and private vehicles at special prices via our partnership with AP Group Ltd, which includes free window tinting and a customer rewards program. In addition, you can also utilise one of the most competitive finance packages available, specifically tailored to your needs for the purchase of vehicles or equipment.
Specialist Network. Let us do all the hard work for you. We will source the right vehicle at the right price utilising our network of member fleet specialists we have put in place covering almost every vehicle brand. We know the needs of an electrical contractor when it comes to buying that new (or pre-owned) vehicle and we can really save you both time and money.
Finance Packages. The other part of ECA and Master Electricians Fleet Services is the great finance packages that are now available to you. While we are sourcing a fantastic price on your next vehicle, we can provide advice, options and quotes on a range of financing products. ECA and Master Electricians Fleet Services remains up to date on issues such as GST, taxation changes and market movements so we can deliver the right package. We always suggest that your accountant is involved in this process and will deal directly with their office if need be, saving you more time.
One Stop Shop. The best part about all this? ECA and Master Electricians Fleet Services is a “one stop shop”. Your phone or email enquiry will be handled by one person who will see it from the vehicle and finance pricing stage, right through to coordinating delivery, finance paperwork and settlement. Where possible, we can come to your home, office or even work site with any paperwork that needs signing.
from $22,650 DRIVE AWAYMitsubishi Express
* Some illustrations for display purposes only. * Pricing may be subject to change due to manufacturer bonuses.* Commercial finance over 60 months with 30% balloon payment to approved applicants.
Finance at $85 per week*
from $32,590 DRIVE AWAY
Toyota Hiace LWB
Finance at $146 per week*
from $39,490 DRIVE AWAYFord Transit Mid Roof
Finance at $146 per week*
from $34,420 DRIVE AWAYVW Transporter T5 SWB
Finance at $127 per week*
GREAT FLEET PRICINGHolden Colorado
SAVE THOUSANDS!Ford Ranger
FANTASTIC DEALSMazda BT50
COMPETITIVE PACKAGESNissan Navara
GREAT PRICESToyota Hilux
ECA and Master Electricians Fleet Services.
KEEP YOUR POWER ON!KEEP YOUR POWER ON!CALL US FOR ALL YOUR GENERATOR NEEDS!
RENTALS - NEW & USED SALES
WE SPECIALISE IN PROVIDING PETROL AND DIESEL GENERATOR SETS.FROM 500 WATTS TO 3,000 KVA
As the manufacturer, we are easily able to modify standard specifications
and produce a tailor-made unit if necessary.
www.genelite.com.au
And our keen prices are well-renowned.
• QLD 07-3277 8626 •• WA 08-9300 6168 •
27the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
from distributorscitipoWEr aND poWErcor
CITIPOWER AND POWERCOR WIN EMERGENCy RECOVERy AWARD
citiPower and Powercor have won a prestigious
international award for its emergency response
to the major, gale force wind storms that rocked
Victoria in April 2008.
The “Emergency Recovery Award,” presented
annually by US based Edison Electric institute
(EEi), recognises exceptional efforts in restoring
power services disrupted by severe weather or
other natural events.
Following an international nomination process,
a panel of judges chose citiPower and Powercor
as winners, acknowledging their exceptional
efforts to restore 99.9 per cent of customers
impacted by sustained power outages after just
one day.
The wind storms were among the worst the
state has ever seen, bringing hundreds of trees
down across power lines and contributing to
major impacts for rail networks, the closure of
major arterial roads and thousands of calls to the
State Emergency Service.
The 130 kilometre-per-hour winds affected
around 400,000 electricity customers across
Victoria, of which 140,000 are supplied by
citiPower and Powercor.
“citiPower and Powercor worked tirelessly
to execute the challenging effort to bring their
customers back on line,” said EEi President
Thomas R. kuhn.
“The company’s actions offered a terrific
example of our entire industry’s determination to
restore power safely and as quickly as possible.”
newsnew
s from d
istributors : W
hAT’S
hA
PP
EN
ING
IN y
OU
R IN
DU
STR
y
KEEP YOUR POWER ON!KEEP YOUR POWER ON!CALL US FOR ALL YOUR GENERATOR NEEDS!
RENTALS - NEW & USED SALES
WE SPECIALISE IN PROVIDING PETROL AND DIESEL GENERATOR SETS.FROM 500 WATTS TO 3,000 KVA
As the manufacturer, we are easily able to modify standard specifications
and produce a tailor-made unit if necessary.
www.genelite.com.au
And our keen prices are well-renowned.
• QLD 07-3277 8626 •• WA 08-9300 6168 •
28 www.masterelectricians.com.au
ENErgyaustralia
APPRENTICES TO ThE FORE IN UPPER hUNTER “BACkyARD BlITz”
As many as 20 EnergyAustralia apprentices are presently involved in an electrical “backyard blitz” for residents and businesses in the Upper hunter townships of Scone and Aberdeen in New South Wales.
The apprentices are gaining hands-on experience in a $33 million project that involves development of a new regional substation at Scone and a new, high-voltage power line between Aberdeen and Scone.
The second, third and fourth-years are among 153 apprentices presently being trained as line workers, cable jointers, electrical mechanics, motor mechanics and fitter/machinists at EnergyAustralia’s Wallsend and Muswellbrook training facilities.
EnergyAustralia’s Executive General Manager Engineering, Geoff lilliss, said many of the apprentices involved in the Scone-Aberdeen upgrade would be delivering improved electricity supply to their own community’s doorsteps.
“This work will benefit more than 6000 customers in Scone and surrounding areas such as Gundy, kayuga, Segenhoe, Parkville, Wingen and Bunnan,” Mr lilliss said.
“So for many of these young people, it represents something of a backyard blitz.
German tHief electrocuted wHile stealinG copper cablesThe charred body of a 32 year old man was found in Germany. Police say the man died and burned beyond recognition because of a 10,000 volt electric shock.
A set of cable cutters and a pile of stolen cables were found beside his body which led Police to believe that he tried to steal a live copper cable. One of his hands was severed from his body from the shock.
he was indentified because the finger prints on this hand were already on record.
www.newsrightnow.org
ENErgEX
ENERGEX AGREES TO lAND SWAP FOR FUTURE POWER SUBSTATION IN WIThCOTTENERGEX has recently purchased land in
the township of Withcott in Queensland that
will house a new substation in future years to
accommodate the on-going residential and
industrial growth in the area.
ENERGEX originally had land to construct a
new station adjacent to the existing electricity
network near the Warrego highway, however
ENERGEX has worked with the lockyer Valley
Regional council to source a more community-
friendly site.
The $1.3 million substation will now be located
500m north from the intersection of Roches Rd
and Warrego highway in an industrial area.
The substation will benefit the community by
providing improved power supply to 1500 homes
and businesses in the lockyer Valley area.
sp ausNEt
ElECTRICITy POlES CONNECTING SChOOlS TO ThE WEBin a Victorian first, SP AusNet, east Gippsland’s
local electricity provider together with VERNet,
Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services Board
and East Gippsland institute of TAFE (EG TAFE)
have worked together to use electricity poles to
expand fibre optic cable to east Gippsland.
This cable extension runs along the existing
electricity network and connects EG TAFE to
broadband as well as making fibre optic cable
available to the wider education sector in
the region.
SP AusNet spokesperson Natasha
Whalley said the connection was a significant
achievement, connecting the two regional towns
of Bairnsdale and lakes Entrance, providing
the education sector with critical connectivity
requirements across the region, which directly
benefits local communities.
“it’s a great win for the local communities, the
local TAFE and also the emergency services, as
this new fibre optic cable will be used to improve
and upgrade computer connections in this
region for all parties involved,” Ms Whalley said.
VERNet chief Executive Officer Roger Tanton
said collaboration had been the making of
this project.
“Fibre networks are becoming a foundation
of modern economies. This project shows
that by getting together the private and public
sectors, we can make this more affordable,”
Mr Tanton said.
aurora ENErgy
TASMANIAN INVENTION DETECTS POTENTIAlly lEThAl ElECTRICAl FAUlTSTasmania’s Aurora Energy has launched
a device invented by its employees to
detect a dangerous electrical fault that has
challenged the electricity industry worldwide
for decades.
The world-first invention – named cablePi
(as in private investigator) – detects a broken
neutral fault, a relatively common but potentially
lethal problem.
The cablePi was tested successfully by Aurora
employees with an initial roll out for residents of
South hobart and Smithton. Aurora will provide
the free devices to more than 200,000 Tasmanian
customers and many industries later in the year.
The cablePi is a small device, about the size
of a typical air freshener, which can be plugged
into a normal electrical power point to detect
broken neutrals.
“Broken neutrals are potentially life-threatening
and have the capacity to direct dangerous
voltages into household objects,’’ Aurora chief
Executive Officer dr Peter davis said at the
launch in hobart.
The device is considered so promising that
Aurora Energy, has set up a subsidiary company
Ezikey Group Pty ltd, licensed to commercialise
the international patent for the product.
29the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
news from
distrib
utors : Wh
AT’S h
AP
PE
NIN
G IN
yO
UR
IND
US
TRy
PO Box 1109Milton, Qld 4064
Ph: 1300 366 648 Web: www.specsuper.com
30 www.masterelectricians.com.au
buzzthe
dEspITE THE pREssuRE, AGENT GETs AwAy wITH 10,000 dATA REAdINGs
Fluke recently tried their hand at video
animation, Batman style, to showcase its
latest digital Multimeter.
complete with ominous music and
chiselled characters, the impressive video is
set in a secret industrial complex and shows
our heroes dodging an armed security team.
The mission – to capture 10,000 readings
using the Fluke 289 industrial Trending
digital Multimeter.
in an effort to promote the Multimeter’s
features, the video shows how the Fluke
289 dMM can be attached to a circuit and
collect information while the operator is
busy elsewhere.
According to Fluke, in today’s environment
of decreased staffing and greater work load,
having the Fluke 289 dMM is like having
another electrician on staff. The user can later
review the saved data on the meter’s large
display to spot anomalies and identify trends.
The collected data can also be downloaded to
a Pc, where FlukeView Forms software allows
you to create custom graphs and reports.
View the video at http://assets.fluke.com/
demos/fluke_spy.asp
pROduCTIvITy plACEmENT
pROGRAm
As part of the Skilling Australia for the Future
initiative, the Australian Government aims to
provide 701,000 training places nationally
under the Productivity Places Program (PPP).
The PPP is essentially training delivered to
job seekers and existing workers to either enter
the labour market or further develop skills. The
training places are industry-driven to meet
critical skill shortages and provide training for
expected emerging skills.
The relevant State and Territory training
authorities have been working with the
Australian Government to implement the
program to determine the qualifications that
are a priority within specific geographical
regions. Many training authorities have worked
closely with their industry Skills councils and
consulted key stakeholders to determine
these qualifications.
There are hundreds of qualifications
listed for the PPP which include business,
telecommunications, training and assessment,
gas, energy supply and electrical.
The training places have been separated
to meet the needs of two specific groups that
are funded under the PPP to access training.
These groups are:
n Job seekers, and,
n Existing workers.
Of the total 701,000 training places allocated
309,000 will be delivered to job seekers and
392,000 delivered to existing workers.
There are also 10,000 Structural Adjustment
Places for those workers who receive a
separation notice in industries affected by the
slowing economy. individuals who are affected
need to approach the Office of the Minister for
Education to access these places.
Although the initiative is an Australian
Government commitment, each State/Territory
is responsible for administering the PPP. Go
to www.masterelectricians.com.au for a list of
contact information for each State/Territory.
detailed information on the Productivity
Places Program nationally is available from the
department of Education, Employment and
Workplace Relations at: www.deewr.gov.au/
Skills/ProductivityPlaces
here’s the latest news and information from the electrotechnology industry across Australia.
the buzz : IS
SU
ES
AFFE
CTIN
G y
OU
R IN
DU
STR
y
buzzthe
EcA and Master Electricians Australia have teamed up this year to hold the
ultimate event for electrical and communications contractors. Set amid the tropical
location of darwin, attendees will hear from renowned speakers on economic
survival, green opportunities, cultural safety and how to keep your business
family-owned.
held from August 28 – September 1, the event promises to be value for money
with a host of activities including:n Business and Technical Sessionsn Trade Expon Jumping crocodile cruisen Fishing charter Expeditionn Go karting championshipn Territory Wildlife Tourn And more!
For more information visit www.masterelectricians.com.au or
contact 1300 889 198.
2009 Electrotechnology Annual Conference
31the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
cHina rolls out new electric busesBattery powered buses that can cover 188 miles on one charge and recharge in 20 minutes will hit the roads in China in June.
Seventy of the 24-passenger buses, powered by lithium-ion batteries will be put to use in Jilin province in northeastern China.
The new buses cost about US$73,145 each.
www.upi.com
Erik, 52 has made a personal decision to retire
early, to spend more time with his family and
to focus on his family’s business interests.
he leaves clipsal in an outstanding market
leadership position with 75 percent of the
electrical accessories market, market leadership
in home automation and equal leadership share
of the data communications market.
Since taking over the reigns of clipsal
Australia in February 2006, Erik has delivered
excellent results for stakeholders, pioneered
new markets, achieved market leadership in
many categories, integrated key acquisitions,
and always with a complete customer focus
in mind.
“i have been fortunate to be part of a
dynamic and innovative industry. i have enjoyed
building exceptional relationships with electrical
wholesalers and contractors, and working with
many talented people within the company. As
clipsal embarks upon a new era in a new home
at Gepps cross, i wish the company every
success for the future.”
Erik has also played a crucial role in the
delicate transition of clipsal from a family
business (Gerard industries) to become part of
parent company, Schneider Electric.
“i would like to thank Erik for his many
contributions to the business in the Pacific region
and beyond,” said lionel Finidori, Managing
director, Schneider Electric Pacific Zone.
Erik Scholz is succeeded by General
Manager, Pacific iSc (installation Systems and
control), damien cummins.
Clipsal’s changing of the guardAfter 17 years with Clipsal Australia including three years at the company’s helm, executive General Manager, erik Scholz is leaving.
If you have something to submit, please email [email protected]
32 www.masterelectricians.com.au
interviewwith Joe Hockey
in our Summer edition, The Master Electrician spoke with deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard about the Government’s response to the global financial crisis. last month we crossed the political divide to speak with Shadow Treasurer Joe hockey – a key member of the Opposition’s leadership and policy group.
33the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
the interview : W
ITh JO
E h
OC
kE
y
interviewwith Joe Hockey
hoW havE you sEttlED iNto your rolE as
shaDoW trEasurEr?
I’m really enjoying the challenge. The majority
of my professional and political career has been
within the economics and finance sphere so this
is quite a natural transition. The economy is at
the front and centre of Australian politics and
so it’s a great privilege to be appointed to this
central role.
What WoulD bE your NumbEr oNE priority if
you bEcamE thE trEasurEr?
I think the number one priority has to be to
protect Australian jobs. So far not a single
action of the Rudd Labor Government has
delivered Australians the job protection or job
security they were promised. First we had the
$10.4 billion December cash-splash that was
meant to create 75,000 new jobs. Then we
had the $15.2 billion COAG package that was
to create 133,000 jobs, the $4.7 billion Nation
Building Package to create 32,000 and finally
the $42 billion Nation Building and Jobs Plan to
protect up to 90,000 jobs.
That’s more than $72 billion dollars of taxpayer
money committed on a promise to protect or
create Australian jobs. However, what we’ve
actually seen is that during this period is over
80,000 Australians lose their full-time jobs – a far
cry from the 330,000 jobs that the Government
promised its policies would create.
The best way to protect jobs is to create
incentives for businesses to continue to employ.
The Coalition believes that reducing the cost
of employment to employers is integral to
protecting and creating jobs for Australians, and
we’ll continue with policy initiatives that aim to
achieve this.
hoW Do you ratE thE govErNmENt’s EcoNomic
stratEgy DuriNg this global fiNaNcial
crisis?
I think the greatest challenge at the moment is
for the Government to demonstrate they actually
have a well-considered economic strategy and
not just a political one. If you look at the decisions
made by Kevin Rudd and Wayne Swan since
their election you can clearly identify a number
of instances where the Government has made
the global financial crisis worse for Australians.
For example, when Kevin Rudd and Wayne
Swan talked up inflation in early 2008, interest
rates increased. This effectively put the brakes
on the Australian economy at a time when, with
the global financial crisis looming, we should
have been going for growth. Their rhetoric also
terrified thousands of Australians who, fearing
that interest rates would continue to rise, fixed
their home loans and are now stuck paying rates
of around 9 per cent.
Then came the bungled mess of the bank
deposit guarantee, which created huge
distortions in credit markets, catalysing a major
run on cash and mortgage funds and ultimately
left over 200,000 Australians without access to
their retirement savings. Now we have the $42
billion stimulus package which in my opinion, is
badly targeted and not money well spent. What’s
more, every cent of the package is coming
from borrowed money which will leave future
generations with billions of dollars of debt. We
were one of the best-placed countries going into
this downturn and I fear that the Government’s
actions will leave us worse off heading out of it.
hoW has your family’s small busiNEss
backgrouND hElpED to shapE your viEWs of
hoW govErNmENt shoulD opEratE?
Coming from a small business background has
solidified my belief that small business really is the
engine room of the Australian economy. I think
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34 www.masterelectricians.com.au
that it is vitally important that this engine room
doesn’t suffer neglect. The role of Government
should ultimately be to make it easier for small
businesses to do business with appropriate but
not excessive levels of regulation. I don’t think
that the Rudd Labor Government is effectively
delivering policies to help support small business
owners ride out this economic downturn.
What aDvicE Do you givE busiNEss oWNErs,
particularly thosE struggliNg as a rEsult
of EcoNomic coNDitioNs?
Three words: Keep on trying. I think it’s important
to believe that you can ride out these tough
times. I remember as a young boy the 1974
recession when my father, who ran a small real
estate business, came home one day and said to
us: “I don’t think we’re going to make it.” But
my mother refused to have a bar of this and said
that failure was simply not an option. We would
all work together and do whatever was required
to make it through. I think it’s messages of hope
like these that are crucially important in both
good times and bad.
What arEas of thE australiaN EcoNomy
rEquirE thE most urgENt attENtioN
or rEform?
I think one of the biggest problems facing our
economy at the moment is the lack of credit
flow, particularly to small business. The problem
is that it’s difficult to get credit flowing when
there is such a complete lack of confidence
in the system. Late last year when Kevin Rudd
told Australians that things were going to get
worse before they got better, he took a cricket
bat to the confidence of Australian consumers
and business. The Government needs to start
injecting confidence back into the system with
both its actions and its words and quit scaring
Australians with its rhetoric of doom and gloom.
hoW WEll Do australiaNs kNoW thE “rEal”
JoE hockEy? is thErE aNothEr siDE to you
apart from your public pErsoNa?
I like to think it’s very much “What you see is
what you get” when it comes to my public
persona versus the ‘real’ Joe. I think Australians
like to see a real person and I like to think that’s
how I come across.
hoW Do you likE to uNWiND aWay from
public lifE?
At the moment I’m in training for a walk up Mt.
Kilimanjaro in July with the Humpty Dumpty
Foundation – a charity that raises money to
purchase equipment for children’s hospitals
across Australia. In politics it can be hard to find
time to unwind, but when I do have some down
time I like to spend it with my family, including
my wife Melissa and my two children Xavier
and Adelaide.
the interview : WITh JOE hOCkEy
i ThiNk ThE GREATEST chAllENGE AT ThE MOMENT iS FOR ThE GOVERNMENT TO
dEMONSTRATE ThEy AcTUAlly hAVE A WEll-cONSidEREd
EcONOMic STRATEGy
two brotHers killed by electrocution at foam party in turkisH HotelTwo Israeli tourists, brothers aged 18 and 14, were electrocuted to death at a foam party in the Turkish resort town of Antalya.
During the party, a foam machine short-circuited, causing the brothers’ death and injuring others.
www.haaretz.com
35the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
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36 www.masterelectricians.com.au
Mandatory electrical testing
procedures are often the final task
completed and are vital to ensuring
our electrical obligations are met.
Electricians who install electrical equipment have
an obligation to ensure that, once the electrical
equipment is completely installed, they test to
ensure it is electrically safe.
The Earth Fault Loop Impedance test is
conducted to ensure the disconnection of supply
occurs in the required time if a fault of negligible
impedance (dead short) occurs between the
active conductor and any exposed conductive
part or the protective earthing conductor within
the installation.
For disconnection to occur, the impedance of
the earth fault loop from the supply transformer
to the fault and back to the supply transformer,
“Zs”, must be low enough to cause a current to
flow which will ensure the protective device will
operate within the required time.
To ensure disconnection takes place the
Electrical Contractor is now required to verify the
fault loop impedance at the most distant point of
the circuit under test.
Clause 8.3.9.3 of the wiring rules describes the
two basic methods of verification for Fault Loop
Impedance.
a) Isolate the circuit under test and connect
the circuit active conductor to the circuit
protective earthing conductor at the origin
of the circuit (switchboard). Then at the
most distant point on the circuit, measure
the resistance between the active and
earth conductor. The value obtained (Rphe)
should not exceed the value given in Table
8.2 for the conductor size and associated
protection device.
b) Where supply is available the Fault loop
impedance may be tested with an appropriate
test instrument and the result verified by Table
8.1. The use of a test instrument has the
advantage of including all factors, such as bad
connections and back e.m.f.s’ generated by
adjacent lines and other loads on the system.
Appendix B in the wiring rules provides a
detailed description of the principle of Automatic
Disconnection of Supply (B4.1) and the Earth
Fault Loop (B4.4), calculation (B4.5) and
measurement (B4.6). Table B1 offers a guide to
maximum circuit lengths based on conductor size
and protective device rating.
ECA members and Accredited Master
Electricians can contact the Technical Team on
1300 889 198 for any enquiries on Fault Loop
Impedance.
technicaltalkUnderstanding
Fault loop impedance
Illustration of the system from the supply source to a building
37the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
technical talk : ThE
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EMONASydneyTel 02 9519 3933Fax 02 9550 1378
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BrisbaneTel 07 3275 2183Fax 07 3275 2196
AdelaideTel 08 8363 5733Fax 08 8363 5799
PerthTel 08 9361 4200Fax 08 9361 4300
email [email protected] web www.emona.com.au
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how far have we progressed with the digital Television ‘revolution’?
More than a decade has passed
since the then Minister for
Communications, Richard Alston,
announced in 1998 that Australia
would adopt digital television.
in 1999 this decision was further enhanced
by the government’s decision to adopt high
definition Television (hdTV).
The present federal government, through
Minister Stephen conroy, announced in October
last year: “The digital television switchover is a
challenge on the scale of the 1966 decimal
currency change...”
it was at this time that the Government
announced the switchover timetable,
commencing in Mildura/Sunraysia in January
next year and scheduled for full completion
nationally by the end of 2013.
Now that the country has a timetable and
a government commitment, everyone in the
industry can move forward and prepare for
the change.
however, as service providers, we are currently
in the position to pick up on the knowledge and
skills needed for what should be an opportunity
for business growth.
The government recognises that more than
42 per cent of Australian homes have a digital-
ready television – including connections to pay
TV source – with many having more than one.
did you know that digital TV was officially
launched in January 2002 in metropolitan
centres, and rolled out in regional areas by 2004?
how many presently work on legacy analogue
television cabling systems for their Free-To-Air
(FTA) content?
it is very likely that digital TV Broadcasting is
already available in your area, and that customers
are not aware of what to do to make use
of it.
What’s more important is the possibility that
they will lose the analogue signals they currently
tune into due to the government’s mandate to
turn off analogue broadcasts by 2013.
The timing for the switchover is different for
each area. information can be obtained from
the Australian Government’s web site at www.
digitalready.gov.au.
hdTV heralds a new era of high quality
picture and sound content, improved information
services and more programming. however,
customer experience will be affected by the
ability of their equipment to receive the broadcast
signals properly due to the new frequencies in
use for digital TV.
it is possible that many households will have
to re-equip their TV cabling and antenna systems
to receive the digital signals successfully. This
may include upgrading the antenna, or the
whole system.
Any new system should be capable of
supporting PayTV signals, and may therefore
need PayTV supplier approved cabling
and connectors.
The free-to-air (FTA) broadcasters formed an
organisation to improve the awareness of FTA
digital TV in Australia that can be accessed at
their website: www.freeview.com.au.
At this site you will find information on
programming and you can observe the difference
between standard definition channels and high
definition channels.
high definition channels contain the higher
quality sound and video content promised by
hdTV, and require high definition-capable set top
boxes to receive them.
Ultra high definition (also called Super high
definition) is currently under development and
planned for Japan in 2015, although there are
still many very high technological hurdles to
be jumped.
Other useful links:dtB equipment
http://www.dtvforum.info/
AcMA http://www.acma.gov.au/WeB/
stANdArd/pc=Pc_91870
38 www.masterelectricians.com.au
workplace
In December 2008, the Federal Commissioner
of Taxation announced a draft ruling to amend
the definition of ‘ordinary times earnings’
(OTE) under the Superannuation Guarantee
(Administration) Act 1992 (Cth) (the Act). The
draft ruling expected to apply from 1 July 2009,
will mean employers have to pay their employees
superannuation on regular overtime and parental
leave. The Act defines OTE as:
(a) The total of:
(i) Earnings in respect of ordinary hours of
work other than earnings consisting of a
lump sum payment of any of the following
kinds made to the employee on the
termination of his or her employment:
(A) A payment in lieu of unused sick leave;
(B) An unused annual leave payment, or
unused long service leave payment,
within the meaning of the Income Tax
Assessment Act 1997; and
(ii) Earnings consisting of over-award
payments, shift-loading or commission; or
(b) If the total ascertained in accordance with
(a) would be greater than the maximum
contribution base for the quarter, the
maximum contribution base.
This definition remains unchanged under
SGR 2009/2.
sgr 2009/2
SGR 2009/2 replaced draft ruling SGR 2008/
D2. Originally under the draft ruling ‘ordinary
hours of work’ will include the employee’s
regular and customary hours of work, even
if they are regarded as overtime. This means
that employers will now have to make
superannuation contributions for regular and
systematic overtime. However SGR 2009/2
provided that employers are not required to pay
superannuation on overtime earnings due to the
fact that overtime does not extend to ordinary
hours of work.
Under SGR 2009/2 superannuation
contributions remain similar to now, OTE is still
calculated on the employee’s ordinary hours of
work. The main changes under SGR 2009/2 are:n SGR 2009/2 extends OTE to bonuses which
do not relate to performance, i.e. Christmas
bonuses. This means that superannuation
must now be contributed for any kind
of bonus. n SGR 2009/2 states periods of paid leave
is ordinary time pay. SGR 2009/2 is yet to
deal with the status of payments made to
an employee on parental leave. The Federal
Government announced on May 12, 2009
that it intends to clarify the superannuation
guarantee in relation to these payments.
implicatioNs for EmployErs
Employers will need to consider the impact
the draft ruling will have on their business,
particularly if the employees are working large
amounts of regular or systematic overtime.
relationsProposed Super changes could cost Business Millions
39the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
workp
lace relations : RE
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Business owners are starting to see
the effects of the global economic
downturn on their businesses, from
higher product costs to loss of work.
Many employers will be faced with decisions
regarding the viability of their businesses
and the need to downsize. Employers will
be faced with cost cutting, restructuring
and redundancy.
In April 2009 the number of people looking
for work increased to 630,000 and the
unemployment rate increased to 5.5 percent
according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
What is rEDuNDaNcy?
Redundancy is a situation when a position
within an organisation becomes unnecessary
due to downsizing, economic reasons,
technology changes, reorganisation and mergers
or takeovers.
Implementing redundancies is a stressful situation
for employers and employees which can be made
worse if the situation is handled incorrectly.
Redundancy relates to the position, not
the employee. An employer may dismiss an
employee and allocate the work he or she was
performing amongst remaining employees. This
is a legitimate redundancy because the job being
undertaken has been broken up and is no longer
being performed by one person.
rEquirEmENts bEforE makiNg aN EmployEE
rEDuNDaNt
Prior to selecting employee/s to be made
redundant, consultation must take place. The
consultation process involves discussing the
situation with the employees to ensure they
understand the direction that the company is
heading towards and possibly to establish if any
of the employees are agreeable to volunteer
The Facts about Redundancy
40 www.masterelectricians.com.au
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for redundancy or if the employees are willing
to accept a different position (which may mean
less pay).
In addition, employers should also consider
their redundancy obligations under the
relevant industrial instrument, their contractual
obligations, potential industrial risks (i.e. union
activity) and penalties for breaches.
implEmENtiNg a rEDuNDaNcy stratEgy
Determining which position/s should be made
redundant is a difficult decision. Employers
should implement a redundancy selection
process to help alleviate any undue pressures. The
redundancy selection process should consider:n The needs of the business.n The skills, experience, knowledge, training
and ability of the individual.n Behaviour and attitudes including
n Commitment to achieving goals and
targetsn Supportiveness of fellow employeesn Action Focusn Cost Consciousnessn Ability to handle changen Positive view of the company
n When all else is equal, length of service.n Selection criteria should be objective and non-
discriminatory.
n Selection criteria should be measurable against
and directly related to work requirements.
Under the Workplace Relations Act 1996
(Cth) employers intending to terminate 15 or
more employees on the basis that their positions
become redundant, an obligation exists to
contact both Centrelink and the relevant Union(s)
and provide information on:n the reason for termination;n the numbers and categories of employees
to be terminated and employees likely to be
affected by the terminations; andn the time period over which the terminations
are going to take place.
This provision is not applicable to employers
who are sole traders and unincorporated trusts
and partnership. Sole traders and unincorporated
trusts and partnerships should see their relevant
State legislation for their obligations in relation
to redundancy.
altErNativEs to rEDuNDaNcy
There are alternatives to making employees
redundant, these include:n Pay-cuts;n Change in the nature of employment (e.g. full
time to part time or casual);n Leave without pay or n Leave on low pay.
These alternatives may only be used when
there is agreement between the employer and
employees, as employees cannot be forced to
take unpaid leave or pay cuts.
Remember, procedural fairness must be
exercised towards employees being made
redundant. To avoid possible disputes and
claims, redundancies must be based on genuine
operational reasons. Under the Workplace
Relations Act 2006 (Cth) the Australian Industrial
Relations Commission does not have jurisdiction
to hear unfair dismissal claims if the termination
of employment is a genuine operational reason.
Recently the Workplace Ombudsman fined
a New South Wales Manufacturing Company
$22,900 for failing to pay more than $80,000
in redundancy entitlements. It is imperative
that employers handle redundancies correctly
and legally.
proposED iNDustrial rElatioNs laWs
The redundancy provisions will change under
the Fair Work Act set to commence on the 1 July
2009. The Act provides that employers will have to
consider alternative employment arrangements
prior to making employees redundant. Where
employers don’t consider alternative employment
arrangements, employees will be able to bring an
unfair dismissal claim.
Why become a Master Electrician?
Consumers trust the ‘Masters’ brand, and are more likely to choose a Master Electrician over the competition. Buyers equate Master Electricians with experience, quality, reliability and integrity.
Through our extensive advertising to public and industry on the benefits of using a Master Electrician, you will be in demand from the public, builders, principle contractors and government.
When you become a Master Electrician, you get the following benefits:n Use of the Master Electrician brandingn A strong point of difference over your competitorsn Increased recognition by public and industry
Master Electricians Accreditation also provides you with unlimited access to:n A wiring rules hotlinen A large technical and standards advice teamn Industry training and educationn Employment and workplace relations advicen Expert advice on commercial and business mattersn Regular up-to-date news and informationn Networking opportunities with industry supporters, suppliers, other allied trades and associated organisations.
Master Electricians deliver the highest levels of quality, electrical safety, integrity and energy advice.
To find out how you can become a Master Electrician call 1300 889 198 or visit www.masterelectricians.com.au
quality safety reliability
Are you a Master Electrician?
08351_ECA_ME_FP.indd 1 25/2/09 9:22:17 AM
42 www.masterelectricians.com.au
sEcoND rEport oN harmoNisED safEty laWs
rElEasED
Master Electricians Australia is actively involved in
the preparation of the new Occupational health
& Safety (OhS) harmonised laws for Australia.
The latest report from the panel responsible
for the process lists a number of key items for
our industry.
The report recommends that unions not be
given the power to prosecute for an OhS offence
or breach, with a section allowing any party to
seek review of any decision not to prosecute.
Also of interest are changes, for most states,
to the “duty of care” requirements. The panel
has strengthened personal liability provisions
putting an unequivocal obligation on officers and
the like, with the aim of achieving a reasonable
approach to the “duty of care framework”. The
recommendations call for duties of care to be
imposed on all work recipients. Each work
participant would have a clearly stated duty of
care, while those conducting a business or
undertaking will maintain their level of care as
owed in current legislation.
Occupational health and Safety matters will
permit unions the right of entry to a premises to
consult and inspect safety breaches, documents
and records. Prior notice will be mandatory with
a minimum of 24 hours notice to be given to gain
right of entry. While this right currently exists in
some states, there are some changes included
for most.
Generally all employers should be happy
with the recommendations. Employer focus
should now be on maintaining the existing
recommendations and guaranteeing a smooth
transition as the implementation process moves
forward, and Master Electricians is active in this
area. Unions will be expected to energetically
oppose this report and its recommendations
due to the loss of rights to prosecute and the
expansive approaches to right of entry.
More detailed versions of this commentary
can be obtained from the Master Electricians
website at www.masterelectricians.com.au
or by calling Master Electricians Australia on
1300 88 91 98.
NEW vEhiclE purchasiNg DEal
Accredited Master Electricians and EcA
Members can now take advantage of a great
new arrangement negotiated by us, to get
fantastic deals on the purchasing and financing
of new and used vehicles.
The AP Group ltd, a publicly listed company,
who has dealers across multiple states in
Australia, and represents almost every vehicle
brand, is our partner in the new EcA and Master
Electricians Fleet Service.
To make things as simple as possible, all you
have to do is call head office asking for Fleet
Services, and we will take it from there, arranging
for one point of contact to work through your
vehicle and financing requirements with you.
you will be able to take advantage of a wide
range of benefits, including ultra competitive
pricing, free window tinting, and a customer
rewards program.
don’t forget, this arrangement is only open
to Accredited Master Electricians, and EcA
Members. To see some current hot deals, turn
to page 24 for just a sample of what is available.
newsfrom head office
43the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
news : FR
OM
hE
AD
OFFIC
E
NEW act is baD for busiNEss
The recent inquiry held by the Senate committee
looking into the new Fair Works Act, has failed to
recognise the negative impact the new Act will
have on businesses both large and small.
in its submission to the inquiry, Master
Electricians Australia (MEA) raised concerns in
the following areas:n The abolition of individual agreement making,
whereby the employer has the ability to
negotiate terms and conditions directly with
individual employees,n The introduction of flexible working
arrangements as a right of employees who
care for school aged children,n The reintroduction of unfair dismissal laws,n The increased right of entry powers for union
officials,n changes to agreement making laws which
allow matters not pertaining to the employer/
employee relationship to be included in
agreements.
The concerns MEA has is not out of step with
other industry associations across the country.
The committee’s disregard for these issues
and the government’s subsequent passing of
the Fair Works Act, means that companies and
businesses will be less likely to employ new
staff at a time when the business community is
already very nervous. The new Act does nothing
to help create new jobs.
newsfrom head office
Ampere Electrical Manufacturing Co. Pty. Ltd.168-176 High St, Prahran, Vic. 3181. Tel (03) 9510 4333, 9510 2428 Fax (03) 9510 5940Toll Free 1800 AMPERE (1800 267 373)www.ampere.com.au
Who else would you trust!
CR
OF
T/A
MP
ER
E M
E1/
3P
For accurate,reliable controlTime switches &Hour metersAustralia’s leading range of daily,weekly and yearly time switchesand hour run meters.
Hour Run MeterBW22.15
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Daily/Weekly/YearlyTime Switch SC98
Daily/Weekly/YearlyTime Switch SC48
oHio teacHer admits to ZappinG studentsDin D’Ettore, a science teacher in Mount Vernon, Ohio, admitted giving some of his students a high-voltage, static-electricity shock using a Tesla coil device to inspire them to learn about science.
D’Ettore maintains participating students agreed to take part in the demonstration and were informed beforehand of a temporary mark that is occasionally caused by the device.
www.upi.com
44 www.masterelectricians.com.au
gadgetguide
HPM Linear Soft-toucHSmooth as suede, hPM has launched a brand new range of linea Soft-Touch colours, with a beautiful suede-feel finish. The new colours include rich earthy tones perfect for neutral interiors, as well as bright accent colours ideal for cheerful kitchens, children’s rooms and design-focused interiors. All products are available in standard mounting.
www.hpm.com.au
BenQ nScreenFollowing a highly successful launch internationally, BenQ has announced the Australian release
of the nScreen – the clever integration of a computer inside a high definition (hD) widescreen lCD with a 16:9 aspect ratio.
Dubbed a ‘net-top’ distinguishing it from the traditional desktop PC, this ingenious new product comes in two models, the 18.5” i91 and the 21.5” i221. The nScreen consists of a slimline lCD display, keyboard and mouse and requires the user to follow three easy steps; simply plug it in and switch it on and navigate a simple installation process to get online.
www.benq.com.au
WD tV™ HD MeDia PLayerWestern Digital’s TV hD Media Player turns your USB drive, into an hD media player. Connect your USB hard drive to this device and play crisp hD movies, listen to high-quality digital music, and watch slideshows of your family photos on your TV. There’s no limit to the size of your media collection; just add more drives for more movies. Supports Full hD 1080p video playback and navigation. Also works with cameras, camcorders, and portable media players that can be recognized as mass storage devices.
www.westerndigital.com.au
cirLock uniVerSaL Lockout DeViceMade in Australia, Cirlock’s Universal lockout Device for miniature circuit breakers is handy and easy to use. Simply attach to the toggle of the circuit breaker in the off position, place padlock and tag and the breaker is locked out. The device is able to securely lock out the majority of Australian used miniature circuit breakers.
www.cirlock.com.au
Master Electricians staff sampled some of the latest gadgets and are giving you the good oil on the best stuff!
If you have something to submit, please email [email protected]
45the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
workplace relations : c
liMATE
ch
AN
GE
For more details visit www.masterelectricians.com.au
28th August to 1st September 2009 Darwin, Northern Territory
jump to successA CONFERENCE FOR SERIOUS CONTRACTORS
If you’re serious about the success of your business then don’t miss this essential conference for electrical and communications contractors
Featuring presentations on:
Visit www.masterelectricians.com.au to register
How to keep your business in the familyKen Bridges of B&R provides an insight into running a successful family business.
Buck the recessionBT Financial Group’s Chief Economist shows us how to defy the recession, while our legal and financial planning gurus will get your business boom-time ready.
Go green to keep you out of the redIndustry is looking towards alternative resources and despite the song it is that easy being green.
Electrical safety from the sourceHow to avoid safety breaches and disciplinary action – real life examples from the electrical regulator.
The BIG NAMES give you the lowdownBring your technical questions and have them answered by leading experts at the technical sessions.
Trade ExpoStay up to date with the latest products and services entering the market.
But it’s not just about business. Take part in these activities:n Jumping Crocodile Cruise
n Fishing Charter Expedition
n Go Karting Championship
n Territory Wildlife Tour
46 www.masterelectricians.com.au
test driveW
hen I returned the Mercedes-
Benz VITO 111CDI to the
dealership after my test drive,
I was running a fair bit late.
It wasn’t because of traffic, and I didn’t have
car troubles, I just didn’t want to give it back!
Without sounding like a salesman, I can honestly
say there wasn’t any aspect of this van I wasn’t
impressed with.
The ViTO’s list of standard features reads
more like a Mercedes luxury car than a work
van: Air conditioning, cruise control, Power
Steering, Speed limiter, cd player, ABS, ESP,
Electric Mirrors and Windows... the list just goes
on. Aside from all that, there are also enough
extras to allow you to customise your vehicle
to your specific needs. dual-cab, fully sealed
bulkhead, side windows, alloy wheels and
many more features are available factory-fitted.
The ViTO is also only one of two commercial
vehicles in Australia to have a 4-star ANcAP
safety rating.
So how does it drive? your first impression
when you get in the driver’s seat, is that it doesn’t
feel like you’re in a van. The seating position is
comfortable, the footwell is spacious, and the
dash and instrumentation are both functional
but stylish.
i drove the 111cdi which is the middle of the
range, 2.1l Turbo-diesel, producing 85kW and
almost 300 ‘torques’ (to use a Jeremy clarkson-
ism). The ViTO also comes in a less-powerful
109cdi, a more powerful 115cdi. The top of
the range is the super-quick 120cdi (150kW
@ 3800rpm, 440Nm @ 1600-2400rpm). All
Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles are now
diesel-engined, and in an age where a diesel
powered car can win the le Mans 24hr, this
doesn’t mean they are slow.
The handling, once again, is not van-like at
all. it rides well, absorbs bumps, but can handle
some punishment in cornering. The brakes
respond well, and the ESP (Electronic Stability
Program) will get you out of sticky situations.
So, what’s the negative? The short answer: i
didn’t find one. yes the cost is slightly more than
other vans, but the ViTO is simply in a league
of its own. With services only required every
30,000km (yes, that’s not a typo), you simply
can’t go wrong.
Vehicle supplied by Mercedes-Benz
Commercial – Rocklea
Master Electricians Racing driver Andre Borell puts the Mercedes ViTO to the test.
47the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
test drive : M
ER
CE
DE
S-B
EN
z V
ITO
test drivevehicle detailsmake & model Mercedes Benz Vito 111CDI
Engine 2.1 l Diesel, 4-Cylinder In-line, Double Overhead Camshaft (Turbo Charged & Intercooled)
power 85kW @3800rpm
Torque 290Nm @1600-2600rpm
fuel Consumption 8.1l/100km
Abs / Airbag / Esp yES / yES / yES
Transmission 6spd Manual or 5spd Auto
Cost (on-road) $40,990.00
“yOUR FiRST iMPRESSiON WhEN yOU GET iN ThE dRiVER’S SEAT, iS ThAT iT dOESN’T FEEl likE yOU’RE iN A VAN.”
PICTURED BElOW: FORMUlA FORd chAMPiON ANdRE BOREll
48 www.masterelectricians.com.au
phone 1300 EGROUP | www.electrogroup.com.au
We take the stress out of employing ApprenticesAll of the Benefits of Apprenticeswithout the usual concerns
• No recruitment concerns
• Flexible placement options (3mths to 4 yrs)
• Provision of uniforms, tools, PPE & regulatory training
• Job ready, skilled Apprentices
electrogroupapprenticeships and training
JUNE093rd June State of Origin 1 ANZ Stadium, Sydney
13th – 15th Junenational Tradesmans expo – perthBurswood dome
14th Junehawkesbury Blokes dayhawkesbury hospital Grounds, Windsor
16th – 18th JuneQueensland Safety Show & Queensland Materials handlingBrisbane convention and Exhibition centre
19th – 21st JuneGoing Green expoRNA Showgrounds, Brisbane
19th – 21st JuneV8 Supercars – SKYCiTY Triple Crownhidden Valley Raceway
23rd JuneState of Origin 2Telstra dome, Melbourne
JULY0910th – 12th JulyV8 Supercars – dunlop Townsville 400Townsville 400
15th JulyState of Origin 3Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
15th – 17th JulyCediA expoconvention and Exhibition centre, Sydney
AUGUST0931st July – 2nd AugustV8 Supercars – norton 360 Sandown ChallengeSandown
21st August – 23rd AugustV8 Supercars – Queensland RacewayQueensland Raceway
26th AugustSkillsdMC national ConferenceFour Seasons hotel Sydney
eventswhat’s on autumn
2009
49the master electrician : AUTUMN 09
best d
ay on the job : A
lES
SO
N lE
AR
NT Th
E h
AR
D W
Ay
your best(or worst) photo
The latest wiring rules requires the addition of overcurrent protection. There has been some confusion that the distributors service fuse fulfils this requirement, but in most cases does not. The distributors service fuse generally provides short circuit protection. Overload protection must be provided at the main switchboard or in accordance with
clause 2.5.1.1 AS/NZS3000:2007. The picture shown (taken in india) is probably not the best example of compliance…
A lesson learnt the hard wayyour best (or worst) day on the job
See our website for our full range of LOCKOUT / TAGOUT equipment www.cirlock.com.auPh 07 5445 2910 Fax 07 5445 8612 Email: [email protected]
CONTRACTORS LOCKOUT KITS Available from most Electrical Wholesalers
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See our website for more information on Lockout / Tagout Equipment
Early in 1976 as a young tradesman not long out of my time, I was confident that I knew everything. so when asked by my Chief Engineer to investigate an electrical problem a friend of his was experiencing, I was quick to accept.
When it was explained to me that the
person involved was receiving a shock
when using his Victa motor mower in his
front yard i was devastated, and complained
bitterly that this was an incredible waste of
my time.
Go and investigate the situation i was told in
no uncertain terms. So together with an elderly
installation inspector, Greg, whom i regarded as
too old to know anything at all, i set off to the
job. As we drove i continued to complain about
being assigned such a ridiculous investigation.
Eventually Greg had heard enough and told me
“just shut up, we’ve been given the job and we’re
going to do it!”
Upon arrival at the job site Greg took the
lead and decided to do a complete test of the
installation starting with main earth continuity. he
handed me the smart end of the trailing earth
and asked that i attach it to the earth electrode.
This was located at the front of the house beside
the rain water down pipe. As i went to attach the
clamp it brushed against the down pipe, next
thing i knew the world was a very dark place and
full of sharp objects. i regained consciousness
thirty feet from the down pipe and in the middle of
a very well tended rose garden.
Our investigation found that the entire roof
of the house was alive, as a result of a flashing
slowly cutting into the mains, this meant that the
down pipe was alive, and touching the greener
and moister grass at its outlet onto the front yard.
consequently when the householder pushed the
mower across this area which was at a higher
potential than the rest of the yard, he received an
electric shock.
A classic case of Step Potential.
So i learnt three important lessons that day.
First i discovered step potential, secondly i learnt
to shut my mouth and just get on with the job, and
third, although it took me another thirty years to
absorb, i did not know everything.
Submitted by E. Horne, Brisbane.
If you have a story you’d like to share email [email protected]
50 www.masterelectricians.com.au
Master Electricians Australia (MEA)
met with the Deputy Prime
Minister and other business
leaders in Canberra recently.
Attending the Budget reading by the
Australian Treasurer, I was privileged to sit with
the Hon Julia Gillard, Deputy Prime Minister
for dinner to discuss important issues affecting
electrical contractors across Australia.
High on the agenda of our discussions was
the training of apprentices, and the allocation
of funding to registered training organisations
(both public and private), including for
example the amending of the Productivity
Placement Program to provide better training
to electrical and communications apprentices.
Allocation of incentives to employers taking
on apprentices was also something the
Deputy Prime Minister took an interest
in, and has sought further information
from MEA.
The Budget Dinner was also an
excellent opportunity for MEA to talk to
business leaders from all states about
the benefits of using a Master Electrician
when requiring electrical work done on
their projects.
Master Electricians
Australia speaks with
Deputy Prime Minister
last word : MAlCOlM RIChARDS
New ProTag Optima SystemAustralia’s Most Compact Appliance
Testing and Tag Printing System.
Call EMONA Instruments on tel: 1 800 632 953 email: [email protected] or www.protag.com.au
The new ProTag Optima System tests portable appliances and RCDs,
and prints test tags in a compact system weighing only around 2kg.
No interface cables between the tester, printer and scanner provide
maximum mobility on construction sites, factories and workshops.
Light weight, wireless, battery powered and with logging of visual
inspections and risk assessments, the Optima System guarantees
greater efficiency, huge time savings and a lower cost per tag.
last word
MAlCOlM RIChARDSChief Executive Officer
Benning Installation Tester
EXTREME SAFETYA Division of the SILGLEN GROUP PTY LTD
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Telephone (07) 3282 0911Email [email protected]
Web www.extremesafety.com.au
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Testing & Calibration Services
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• Insulated Tools 1000V
• Voltage Testers and Instruments
NEW: Testing & Calibration Service!
www.extremesafety.com.auYOUR SAFETY IS OUR BUSINESS
Tested, Tagged, Approved!
Are you a Winner?simPRO Users are! 5 awards at the 2008 ECA awards presentation were won by simPRO users. Congratulations to all our winning simPRO Users!
simPRO partners with Master Electricians
to support up and coming local racer Andre Borell in his bid to win the
2009 Formula Ford Championship.
Watch out for the car on tv!
With simPRO Mobile, faster invoicing is as easy as 1 - 2 - 3:1. Complete job card with digital pen2. Tick ‘send’3. Receive the job card instantly
and invoice
Invoice Faster = Get Paid Sooner.From $60 per month - No Contracts.Now with over 200 users amongst your competitors, are you getting left behind?
Isn’t it time you talked with us about simPRO? Call us today on
1300 139 467
Master Electrician of the YearLUKE PRITCHARD – Prestige Power
President’s AwardTOM BIRT – Minelec
Excellence in Safety Management AwardMATT ELECTRIC
Women in Contracting Business Woman of the Year DEBRA HARLE – Harle’s Electrical
Business Student of the Year BRETT HUGHES – Power Safe Electrical
Quality.Safety.Reliability.
15 Minute Scheduling and Billing: simPRO now allows scheduling & billing to increments as low as 15 minutes to give you greater control Client Management Portal:
simPRO now allows your clients to have their own login access so they can view project status, approve quotes and book jobs all online.
Updates
We’re Going Racing...
1 2 3
Kit Builds: Build unlimited Kits to reduce estimating time by quickly adding predetermined Take offs, included assemblies parts and labour to quotes.
Linked Materials: Link any Material parts to an Item so you never miss one of those associated parts that often gets overlooked.
Acorn Software proudly supports the Master Electrician program and now
offers a great discount on simPRO lite for your �rst year. Call our of�ce on
1300 139 467 for details.