A Wake-Up Call for Every Workplace
A recent prosecution by SafeWork NSW has underscored the serious consequences of neglecting workplace safety.
In February 2022, an apprentice electrician was fatally electrocuted while working in a roof space. His employer, Tiger Electrical Solutions Pty Ltd, failed to ensure that power to the property was properly isolated before work began.
The District Court of NSW fined the company $300,000 and required it to fund a safety education project. The ruling made one thing clear: no business can afford to take shortcuts when it comes to safety compliance.
While this tragedy occurred on a worksite, its lessons extend far beyond the trades. Whether you’re managing a construction team, a maintenance contractor, or a corporate office, the same principles of Work Health and Safety (WHS) compliance apply. Every organisation, regardless of size or sector, has a legal and moral obligation to protect its people.
What Went Wrong
The investigation found several serious failings in the company’s safety management system:
- Workers were not properly trained or supervised when entering high-risk environments like roof spaces.
- The business failed to verify that electrical systems were de-energised before work began.
- Safety documentation, including Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), was inconsistently distributed.
- Supervisors reduced paperwork to “simplify” processes—an approach the court condemned.
The judge’s message was clear: simplicity can never come at the expense of safety. Processes can be efficient, but they must also be complete and enforceable.
Key Lessons for Employers and Contractors
This case is a reminder to all business owners—whether you oversee electricians, builders, office staff, or maintenance crews—that safety compliance is everyone’s responsibility.
1. Provide every worker with access to current SWMS documents.
All team members, including subcontractors and apprentices, must understand the risks and control measures for their specific tasks.
2. Enforce strict isolation procedures for electrical work.
Lock-out/tag-out systems and power verification should be mandatory before anyone enters a ceiling, roof space, or confined area.
3. Complete and document risk assessments before each job.
Pre-task hazard checks save lives. These should never be rushed or treated as a formality.
4. Supervise new and apprentice workers appropriately.
A strong safety culture depends on guidance and accountability. Junior workers need active oversight to learn and apply correct procedures.
5. Never limit or “simplify” safety resources.
While it’s important to keep systems user-friendly, omitting critical information or procedures can be catastrophic.
These steps apply equally to a team of electricians on site and to a facilities or operations manager overseeing contractors within a corporate setting. Every business has the same core duty of care.
Beyond Compliance: Building a Safety Culture
At Masula Compliance, we believe WHS compliance should not be viewed as paperwork—it’s about people. True safety management is built on culture, communication, and consistency.
For contractors and tradies, this means creating systems that are practical, clearly documented, and integrated into day-to-day operations. For corporate environments, it means ensuring that your safety procedures cover both direct employees and external contractors who work on your premises.
A proactive approach to compliance doesn’t just meet legal requirements—it demonstrates care, builds trust, and helps prevent tragedies like this from ever happening again.
Compliance is not about bureaucracy. It’s about respect for life, professionalism, and responsibility.
How Masula Compliance Can Help
Whether you manage a trade business, a school, or a corporate office, Masula Compliance can help you strengthen your WHS systems, train your team, and reduce risk across every level of your organisation.
Our consultants assist businesses in:
- Reviewing and updating WHS management systems
- Developing and implementing Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)
- Conducting risk assessments and gap analyses
- Delivering tailored safety training and leadership workshops
- Safety is not optional—and it’s never too early to take action.
Contact Masula Compliance today to review your WHS framework and make sure your systems protect every worker, on every site.