The world of entertainment and events is a complex web of technicalities, and electrical safety is a critical thread that binds it all together. The recent ENTECH Roadshow's 2026 EnTalks in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth highlighted a range of issues that are not only concerning but also potentially life-threatening. The keynotes, delivered by a masked tech expert, shed light on a disturbing reality: the routine performance of 'illegal electrical work' during maintenance, despite the existence of a Restricted Electrical Licence akin to that held by plumbers and air-conditioning installers.
The primary concern, however, revolves around the grey imports of equipment, particularly those outside the Electrical Equipment Safety System (EESS). These imports, without the necessary Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM), pose significant risks. They can void insurance coverage and, in extreme cases, lead to prison time if someone is injured. The keynote speakers, held across various cities, revealed a startling lack of awareness regarding RCM and a disturbing trend of equipment being purchased online and imported without proper compliance or testing.
One particularly terrifying example involved new powerCON TRUE1 connectors that readily pulled off pre-made cables during their first use, exposing crew to bare, energised wires. An entire batch of these cables was found to be defective, with almost all on one rig failing at first use. This incident underscores the potential for serious accidents and injuries, especially in the entertainment industry, where lives are at stake.
The keynote sessions also brought to light the tragic deaths of performers and stagehands due to electrical faults. From a Brazilian singer killed on stage in 2024 after a wet fan contacted a faulty cable to an Argentinian singer who died from a faulty microphone, these incidents are a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadows of the entertainment industry. While electrical fatalities in workplaces are well-documented in Australia, they tend to occur in construction, electrical trades, and industrial settings, not in the entertainment and events sector.
One of the more recent concerns is the 'electronic Certificate of Compliance' (eCoC) issue. South Australia has implemented a state-based legal requirement, mandating that every temporary electrical installation be certified by a licensed electrician before it can be energised. This requirement, administered by the Office of the Technical Regulator, imposes a significant cost burden on the industry. While it has been in place since 2023, it has only been known to be implemented at the Adelaide Showgrounds and by the city council.
The eCoC requirement, if adopted more widely, would mean that an attending electrician would need to test and sign off on every piece of equipment before power is live at any show. This could potentially impose a massive cost burden on the industry, as it would require a licensed electrician to be present at every bump-in and bump-out, testing gear and signing off on every single show of any size. The consequences for failing to submit an eCoC include warnings, expiation notices, disciplinary interviews, and potential legal action under section 61 of the Electricity Act 1996, with penalties of up to $5,000.
The keynote sessions also raised concerns about international touring equipment, with many expressing frustration over the lack of Test and Tag compliance. This issue is further complicated by the exposure of the Perth HPC venue's dual safety protocols, which exempt international crew from the strict White Card policy imposed on local crew. One particularly worrisome anecdote involved a broadcaster who encountered a venue demanding that they test-tag all their equipment specifically for the duration of a single event, an impost far beyond the standard and any legislation.
To address these issues and contemplate lobbying for an entertainment Restricted Electrical Licence, a discussion group has been established by Julius Grafton. This group, accessible via the provided link, aims to explore the concerns and advocate for the necessary changes to ensure the safety of the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, the entertainment and events industry must take a hard look at its electrical safety protocols and address the gaps that have been exposed. The lives of performers, stagehands, and crew depend on it, and the potential cost burden on the industry should be a strong motivator for change. It is time for a comprehensive review of electrical safety standards and a push for stricter compliance measures to protect those who bring joy and entertainment to audiences across the country.
