Your property’s electrical switchboard needs to remain accessible so that power can be isolated quickly when required.
Furniture, stored items, boxes, shelving or other obstructions placed in front of a switchboard can make it difficult for occupants, electricians or emergency personnel to safely access the switches.
Keeping the area around a switchboard clear is an important part of maintaining a safe electrical installation.
Why Does Switchboard Access Matter? #
In an electrical emergency, being able to quickly reach the switchboard can be extremely important.
Clear access allows the main switch or other electrical protective devices to be operated without having to move obstacles first.
An obstructed switchboard can:
- Delay isolation of electrical power
- Make electrical maintenance more difficult
- Restrict safe access for electricians
- Create additional hazards during an emergency
- Prevent quick access to circuit breakers and safety switches
Energy Safe Victoria also identifies the importance of areas around electrical work being clear of obstructions and allowing easy access and exit.
How Much Clearance Is Required? #
The Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules AS/NZS 3000 contain requirements for access to switchboards.
For domestic electrical installations, the applicable requirements include maintaining an accessible working space in front of switchboards. The referenced requirements in AS/NZS 3000 address the space needed to access and operate switchboard equipment safely.
The exact requirements can depend on the switchboard, its construction and the installation circumstances.
If you’re unsure whether an obstruction is affecting the required access, a licensed electrician should assess the installation.
Common Switchboard Obstructions #
During rental property inspections, switchboards can sometimes become difficult to access because of everyday household items.
Examples include:
- Cupboards or shelving
- Storage boxes
- Furniture
- Bins
- Cleaning equipment
- Tools
- Garage storage
- Garden equipment
- Household appliances
- Items stored directly in front of the switchboard
Even if the switchboard itself is in good condition, restricted access can create a safety problem.
Switchboards in Garages and Storage Areas #
Garages are a common location for residential switchboards, but they can also become storage areas.
It is important not to use the space directly in front of a switchboard for storing boxes, tools or other items.
A clear area should be maintained so the switchboard can be reached without having to move heavy or bulky objects.
What About Rental Properties? #
Victorian rental properties are required to undergo prescribed electrical safety checks every two years by a licensed or registered electrician.
These checks cover the property’s electrical installations, fixtures and fittings.
Maintaining clear access to the switchboard makes it easier for the electrician to safely inspect and test the electrical installation.
Property owners and rental providers should also avoid storing items in front of switchboards or allowing tenants to use the area as a permanent storage space.
What Happens If a Switchboard Is Blocked? #
If a switchboard cannot be safely accessed, the obstruction should be removed.
If there are concerns about the location or installation of the switchboard itself, a licensed electrician should assess the situation.
Do not attempt to move, modify or alter electrical equipment yourself.
Electrical work and modifications should only be carried out by appropriately licensed electrical workers. Energy Safe Victoria confirms that electrical workers must be appropriately licensed or registered for electrical work.
Keep Your Switchboard Area Clear #
A simple way to improve electrical safety is to make sure there is always a clear path to the switchboard.
Don’t use the area in front of the switchboard as storage.
Keeping the switchboard accessible means the main switch, circuit breakers and safety switches can be reached quickly when they are needed.
Book an Electrical Safety Inspection #
Rental Safety Inspections provides professional electrical safety inspections for rental properties throughout Melbourne and surrounding areas.
Our licensed electricians inspect switchboards, safety switches (RCDs), electrical installations, fixtures and fittings to help identify electrical defects and safety issues that may require attention.
Contact Rental Safety Inspections today to arrange your electrical safety inspection.
