Electricians could face prosecution

Unqualified contractors carrying out major electrical work in homes will soon face criminal prosecution as a result of new consumer protection legislation which will come into effect later this year.

From Oct 1, it will be a criminal offence for anyone except a registered electrical contractor to carry out significant electrical work in residential premises.

Anyone convicted of such an offence will face a possible jail term of up to three years as well as a maximum fine of €15,000.

Minor works such as changing switches, sockets, or light fittings are not covered by the legislation.

However, for example, it will be illegal for anyone other that a registered electrical contractor to carry out work on a fuse board in someone’s home.

The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) said there was a need for the new restrictions as electrical installations in the home can kill if not properly installed and maintained.

The CER pointed out that five people on average are killed each year in their home from either direct contact with electricity or from fires with a suspected electrical cause.

It has already taken three successful prosecutions against unregistered workers on gas supplies to homes.

All registered electrical contractors are insured and must issue customers with a certificate of conformance.

“This will improve safety standards for customers and reduce the risk of electrical accidents from substandard work, saving lives and protecting property,” said one of the CER commissioners, Paul McGowan.

- www.safeelectric.ie