Christmas Lighting & Decorantion (Electrical) Safety

As we head into the ‘silly’ season and plenty of us are dressing up our homes and workplaces, it’s a good time to step back and check any electrical equipment you are intending on using/installing, such as Christmas lights.

The Electrical Safety Office has issued some tips to help you out:

ESO has a number of tips about Christmas lights:

• Only use lights outdoors if they are marked as suitable for outdoor use.
• Buy Australian-compliant lights and be wary of purchasing non-compliant lights over the internet from overseas.
• Check old Christmas lights before re-using them.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Don’t alter or modify lights.
• Ensure all lights, extension leads and power boards are suitable for the intended use (e.g. indoor use only or suitable for outdoors).
• Test your safety switch and smoke detector to make sure they are working.
• Always turn off decorative lighting before going to bed or leaving your house or workplace.

Additional information can be found at https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/news/2017/safely-light-up-the-festive-season-with-quality-christmas-lights