ETT Report Reveals Majority of NI Electrical Workers Suffer Electric Shocks

An alarming 80% of electrical workers in Northern Ireland have experienced electric shocks on the job, with nearly three-quarters of incidents going unreported, according to the ‘Ending Shock Silence’ report by ETT.

The findings, unveiled at the organisation’s annual ‘Stay Connected’ NI Electrical Industry event at Galgorm Resort & Spa, shed light on critical safety failings within the industry, highlighting what ETT has termed a culture of ‘shock silence.’

The report summarises the findings of a survey completed by almost 350 electrical workers from across Northern Ireland, with 80% revealing they have experienced an electric shock at work and 40% reporting at least three shocks in their careers to date.

It’s alarming to note that of those who have experienced an electric shock, 89% sustained an injury and almost all (95%) required time off work. This statistic highlights the severity and impact that such incidents can have on a person’s life & livelihood.

Despite the frequency of electric shock incidents, almost three-quarters were not reported to employers. This trend of underreporting has been termed ‘shock silence’ by the charity, with the survey finding company culture, ineffective reporting procedures, and time pressures as the three most common reasons staff failed to report an electric shock at work.

Speaking at the report launch, the HSENI Deputy Chief Executive, Dr. Bryan Monson, added: ‘HSENI is deeply concerned about the alarming number of electrical workers experiencing electric shocks and related injuries, as revealed by the findings of the Ending ‘Shock Silence’ report. HSENI fully supports the Electrical Training Trust in their vital work to highlight these dangers and implement strategies to prevent such incidents.’

The report has already sparked important conversations and actions. One of the key findings from the report is the failure to carry out safe isolation procedures using ‘lock-off’ kits – a key safety measure in electric shock prevention. Following the electric shock survey and findings, ETT is delighted to announce the partnership with Electrical Safety First to provide free safe isolation ‘lock-off’ kits to approx. 450 1st year L 3 electrical installation apprentices in NI.

ETT want to engage with industry to create an action plan to not only target underreporting, but to significantly reduce the number of electric shocks occurring in the first place. Industry stakeholders including employers, suppliers, electrical workers, clients and colleges are encouraged to actively engage with ETT to ensure all views are heard. To obtain a copy of the Ending ‘Shock Silence’ report, or to get involved in the industry-led working group developing the action plan, email info@ett-ni.org.