The Queensland Government has reappointed Keith McKenzie in the role of Commissioner for Electrical Safety for a further three years.
Mr McKenzie (pictured) started his electrical career in 1986 and has served on a range of boards and committees in apprentice training, work health and safety and Australian standards. He has also been a member of the Electrical Safety Board and Electrical Licensing Committee since 2011.
In the role of Commissioner, Mr McKenzie also chairs the Electrical Safety Board, Electrical Licensing Committee, the Electrical Safety Education Committee, and the Electrical Equipment Committee.
Mr McKenzie’s reappointment comes just months after the Government launched updated guidance and a campaign to keep sparkies safe at work.
The updated Safe Working and Supervision Guide for Electrical Apprentices, which outlines essential safety procedures for electrical apprentices, employers, and supervisors, was launched by the Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie in February.
“I’ve seen first-hand Keith’s invaluable combination of experience, knowledge and a passion for safety with important initiatives such as the Safe Working and Supervision Guide for Electrical Apprentices and the new regulations making it mandatory to de-energise roof spaces before electrical work,’’ Mr Bleijie said.
“Every Queenslander deserves to get home after a safe shift at work.
“I have every confidence that Keith will continue to deliver strong leadership and valuable insight in his ongoing role.
“Our entire Government wishes him the very best and is looking forward to continuing our collaborative work together.”
Mr McKenzie said he and the Electrical Safety Office (ESO) would look to build on the hard work of the past four years.
“I enjoy providing my expertise on apprentice training, workplace health and safety and Australian standards and I will continue to do that,” Mr McKenzie said.
“I’ve always strongly believed it is a privilege to train an apprentice. They are the future of the electrical industry, and ensuring they start their careers with a strong understanding of safety is crucial.”
National Electrical Communications Association (NECA) CEO, Oliver Judd said NECA endorsed the reappointment of Mr McKenzie.
“During his tenure, Keith McKenzie has been a strong advocate for electrical safety and approached his role with integrity and a spirit of even handedness,” Mr Judd said.
“I have worked with Keith for more than 15 years and during his tenure as ESO Commissioner, he has always represented the best interest of the industry, striving for the best in electrical safety.
“Keith has been a great advocate for the improvement of electrical safety in the industry.
“He has always approached his role ethically and with the best interests of all participants.
“NECA is very pleased with his reappointment.”
Master Electricians CEO, Kate Raymond said Mater Electricians welcomed the reappointment of Mr McKenzie.
“Mater Electricians Australia welcomes the reappointment of Keith McKenzie as the Queensland Commissioner for Electrical Safety.”
“Keith has championed safety for all workers in the electrical industry and worked alongside industry to improve outcomes for all,” she said.
