Installer compliance is key to insulation safety training
01/Dec/2009
The Insulation Council of Australia and New Zealand welcomes the Federal government’s improved safety standards and training requirements for insulation installers as another important step in the professional development of the industry.
Mr Dennis D’Arcy, ICANZ CEO said that requiring every person who installs insulation to undergo boosted training, and meet minimum skill requirements, highlights that all individuals have a responsibility to ensure a safe working environment and that work is completed to the required standards.
“The Energy Efficiency Home Package has a full range of appropriate standards and installation requirements
“When done correctly in compliance of these standard, installing insulation is as safe any other building trade. As with all building occupations, individual installers and insulation contractors must also take responsibility in applying their training, supervision and experience to ensure the safety of their employees and themselves.
“Education and awareness are very important parts of this process. Requiring risk assessments to be conducted prior to installation will help to ensure individuals keep safety front of mind,” Mr D‘Arcy said
“ICANZ has been a leading advocate of better standards in installation, product and OH&S. Ensuring a safe working environment and minimising the risk of injury must be a priority for everyone involved in the industry,” Mr D‘Arcy said
“In only ten months, this extremely popular program has insulated over 700,000 homes under the Federal Government’s Energy Efficient Homes package. It has also highlighted the need for every installer to undergo appropriate installation and OH&S training,” Mr D’Arcy said.
Installed correctly, the right insulation is safe, and will noticeable improve the comfort and well-being of occupants.
On average ceiling, insulation can deliver household energy savings every year of around $200 and reductions of 1.65 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per household. This has major implications in addressing Australia’s growing greenhouse emissions, generated by the increasing cost of household energy use, especially in a carbon economy.
“Reputable insulation manufacturers and installers offer life time warranties on the thermal, installation and fire safety performance of the insulation. Consumers can play their part by requesting these warranties before committing to having the insulation installed,” Mr D’Arcy said.
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Media inquiries: Glenn Schaube: 0439 320 151 GRS Communications
