Electricity is an essential part of our lives. If used wisely, electricity is a safe and economic energy source.

Remember - always treat electricity with respect.

All electrical work must be carried out by a licensed electrician. Before any electrical work commences on your home ask the electrician for the following:

• Ask to see the electrician's licence (ensure that it is correct)
• Ensure that the electrician will give you a Certificate of Compliance

The licensing of electrical workers and contractors is the responsibility of the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs (OCBA).

The Technical Regulator is responsible for the monitoring and regulation of safety and technical standards in the electricity supply industry, electrical installations and electrical appliances.

Safety and technical Standards have implications for electricity customers, the general public, and those working in the electricity supply industry. The consequences of non-compliance include personal injury (shocks), electrocution (fatalities), and property damage (mainly fires, with bushfires a special concern in South Australia).

An electrical installation is defined in the Electricity Act 1996  as a set of wires and associated fittings, equipment and accessories installed in a place for the conveyance, control, measurement or use of electricity that is , or is to be, or has been, supplied for consumption in the place, but does not include:

• Electricity infrastructure owned or operated by an electricity entity; or
• Any wires, fittings, equipment or accessories connected to and beyond any electrical outlet at which fixed wiring terminates (other than any such outlet used to connect sections of fixed wiring).

The Technical Regulator administers and audits the Electrical Certificate of Compliance scheme for the electrical contracting (electricians) industry to ensure the safety of consumers' installations. This system assures consumers that the work performed on their installations complies with the Electricity Act 1996  and that appropriate technical standards are followed by the electrical worker.

This section provides general information on consumer electrical safety (including safety switches) and Certificates of Compliance.