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CONTEN TS 04 Out and about

08 Auslec @ QME

10 Harmonisation of OHS laws — what are the major changes

14 Motorsport — dangerously safe?

18 Product cut

22 Branching out

28 Can your business afford the flu this winter?

34 Gravity sucks … even underground

Published By

L&H GroupA.B.N. 19730 781 473456 Lower Heidelberg Road, Heidelberg VIC 3084 AustraliaPh: +61 3 9243 3555www.auslec.com.au

EditorPaul StathisPh: +61 3 9381 2952pstathis@westwick-farrow.com.au

ArtNathaniel EckstromPh: +61 2 9487 2700neckstrom@westwick-farrow.com.au

Associate PublisherGavin Karthaus Ph: +61 3 9381 2952gkarthaus@westwick-farrow.com.au

Production ManagerJulie WrightPh: +61 2 9487 2700jwright@westwick-farrow.com.au

Produced on behalf of L&H Group by

A division of Westwick-Farrow Media.

A.B.N. 29 001 621 861

Cnr. Fox Valley Road & Kiogle Street,(Locked Bag 1289) Wahroonga NSW 2076 AustraliaPh: +61 2 9487 2700

ISSN 1837-8021

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without the permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Copyright L&H Group. Opinions expressed are those of individuals and are not necessarily those of the publisher. All information is believed to be correct at time of publication. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders.

All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us. Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary safety devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide. Further, all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them.

Welcome.

Well, here we are with Issue 3 of

Auslec Solutions. Thanks to all of you

who have taken the time to give us

feedback on this magazine through

our nationwide branch network. We’re

delighted to hear so many positive

comments about our magazine.

At Auslec, we pride ourselves on being at the

forefront of innovation and customer excellence and

I believe this is exemplified by our ongoing commit-

ment to our Connections Reward Program.

Connections is a unique program within the electri-

cal industry, culminating in the opportunity to attend

Traders 500 — a fantastic forum for you, our customer,

to see and learn about new products and technolo-

gies, discuss your needs with expert suppliers and

enjoy the network offering that only an event like

this can provide.

This innovative approach has been developed over 11

years and has seen the Connections program develop

to what it is today — over 5000 of our loyal customers

attending a national trade show. Check out Out and

About starting on page 4 for more info.

As we enter into winter, many of us will invariably

be struck down with the dreaded flu. On page 28,

we look at the impact that flu can have on not only

individuals but business as well — thankfully, we also

look at ways to help combat this annual threat.

Would it be possible to survive a 500 km/h car crash

(is it possible to even go 500 km/h in the first place?!)?

Unbelievably, this is exactly what Phil Lamattina did

when his Top Fuel dragster and the track decided to

part company. Flick to page 14 for a fascinating look

at the safety measures involved in some of today’s

top motorsport categories.

Well, all that and more in another bumper issue of

Auslec Solutions. And don’t forget to let us know what

you think — through your local Auslec branch — or

email us at solutionsmag@auslec.com.au

Best regards,

Robin Norris

Chief Executive Officer

L&H Group

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and about

*outLending a hand to CanTeenIn 2009, L&H and Auslec commenced

a relationship with CanTeen – a national

support organisation for young people living

with cancer.

A cancer diagnosis is traumatic at the

best of times, but perhaps even more so

for young people. At this stage of their lives

they will already be experiencing issues

relating to their identity, independence,

relationships and career; and while cancer

is not a death sentence, it can mean the

start of a long process of painful treatment

and years of uncertainty.

Impressed by the marvellous work of

this charity, L&H donate a percentage of

sales from all private-brand products to this

worthwhile charity.

In 2010, CanTeen implemented a number

of new initiatives which have been funded

partly by L&H’s donations, made possible only

by the ongoing support of loyal customers. A

new website for cancer patients who have

finished their treatment – www.nowwhat.

org.au – has been recently launched and has

proven to be extremely beneficial in helping

patients and their families who are nearing

the end of their treatment.

Also recently launched is the ‘Raise

More Than a Sweat’ campaign, specifically

aimed at people or groups who compete in

fun runs, triathlons and other challenging

pursuits as an avenue to help raise all-

important funds. Encouraged to dedicate

efforts to someone they may know who

is living with cancer or to the memory

of someone they may have lost, this is

a valuable and positive way to celebrate

the life or show support for a loved one,

while helping CanTeen make a difference

for the future.

Check out www.canteen.org.au for more

information.

L&H 500 – Gentlemen, start your engines!

2010 marks the third year in a row that

L&H Group has held the naming rights

for the L&H 500 at Victoria’s magnificent

Phillip Island.

Kickstarting the endurance component

of the V8 Supercars series, the L&H 500

is a gruelling 500 km test of man and

machine against one of world motorsport’s

toughest and best circuits. With top speeds

nearing 300 km/h, the 4.5 km track is

circumnavigated in around one and a

half minutes. The seaside track has been

upgraded to include a new pit lane exit

that extends further into the main straight,

creating a new high-speed exit point closer

to turn one, meaning fast and furious action

for drivers and spectators alike.

Universally recognised as a ‘driver’s

circuit’, the Phillip Island round is eagerly

anticipated by the L&H-sponsored FPR team

as well. Team driver Mark Winterbottom

says: “Wind direction plays a big part here;

you get understeer in and oversteer out,

or vice versa, depending on which way it’s

blowing. Turn 4 is a good passing corner and

the biggest brake on the track, which gives

you a chance to make up time.”

Over 900 guests of L&H and Auslec will

not only be watching the on track action

but they will have the chance to experience

this great race up close and personal

through interactive tours conducted by Ford

Performance Racing. Pit lane and garage

tours are an absolute highlight of the day.

Mark Winterbottom and Steve Richards

enjoyed successful podium finishes in last

year’s L&H 500 and are looking to repeat

that success in 2010.

L&H and Auslec Ford Fiesta promotionL&H and Auslec recently ran an incentive

promotion in conjunction with Clipsal with five

Ford Fiesta cars up for grabs.

Customers were encouraged to purchase

$550 worth of Clipsal products as featured

in Issue 90 of The Electrical Contractor on

one invoice to be automatically entered in to

the draw.

With multiple entries allowed, customers

wasted no time in stocking up on Clipsal product to increase their chances of winning. Five

very happy winners have recently taken the keys to their new sets of wheels.

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*out

and aboutConnections: Traders 500 and Podium 2010

Welcome to the team …Our Western Australian operation recently

welcomed the addition of three new

faces to the team in Scott Tomlinson –

State Sales Manager, Paul Halse – Sales

Manager and Angelo D’Ovidio – Sales

Manager.

Aus lec i s a customer- focused

organisation and prides itself on delivering

industry-best service. You don’t become

the leading value-added business-to-business distributor of electrical, safety and MRO

products without quality people with superior technical expertise. Auslec understands

that great people make a great company.

Connections Australia is a rewards program

designed to reward customers for their

ongoing support. Connections not only

gives qualifying customers the opportunity

to attend exclusive events with other

members of the electrical industry, it also

provides access to training and development

courses, networking opportunities, special

members-only offers and much more.

As part of the Connections program, the

largest electrical industry event of its kind in

Australia will again take place in 2010 — the

Traders 500 trade show brought to you by

L&H and Auslec.

This ‘free to industry personnel’ event

will be held in each state from September

to December this year and will feature the

electrical industry’s leading manufacturers

and suppliers.

Visitors will be amazed at this year’s

impressive ‘world’s biggest branch’, where

they will be able to trial and purchase

products as well as discuss their upcoming

project needs with technical experts from

over 70 leading suppliers. On top of that,

visitors have the chance to win the L&H

Ford Performance Vehicle GT-P — simply

by attending.

Running in conjunction with Traders 500

Podium is the annual, invite-only Podium

concert that promises a memorable evening

with other members of the electrical industry

while rocking out to the irrepressible Jimmy

Barnes. Jimmy’s career as both a solo

performer and as the lead vocalist of the

legendary band Cold Chisel has made him

one of the most popular and bestselling

Australian music artists of all time.

Joining Jimmy will be Jason Singh from

Taxi Ride and together they will belt out

some of Australia’s best rock hits in some

of the coolest venues in Oz — The Quarry

Amphitheatre in Perth, The Trak Cinema in

Melbourne, the Coffee Club Auditorium in

Brisbane and the Adelaide Entertainment

Centre.

Big boost for energy efficiencyThe peak industry body for electrical

contractors, NECA, has welcomed the

federal government’s commitment to

growing the nation’s renewable energy

capabilities. Demonstrated by the $652.5

million Renewable Energy Future Fund

announced in this year’s Budget, it is

anticipated that this fund will continue

to support the growth of the industry,

of which electrical contractors are major

contributors.

Designed to encourage the take-up

of industrial, commercial and residential

energy efficiency, the fund will assist

Australian businesses and households to

reduce their energy consumption.

NECA CEO James Tinslay said: “We

are encouraged by the government’s

commitment to energy efficiency and how

this will benefit both electrical contractors

as well as the consumer.

“Much of the work around renewable

energy requires licensed electricians. As an

industry association, we are encouraging

our members to undertake training and

install technologies which provide a

financial and environmental benefit for

consumers. It is our hope that these

initiatives will provide real energy-efficient

outcomes for residents and business.”

NECA has been prominent in the

development of the EcoSmart Electricians

training and accreditation program designed

to encourage and support electrical

contractors to provide energy-efficient

solutions to their customers.

The EcoSmart Electricians Program to

date has trained over 1200 electricians

and has around 300 accredited contractors

nationwide, who are providing real energy-

efficient solutions. Training focuses on

both energy generation and demand

enabling accredited contractors the

ability to provide truly energy-efficient

solutions.

Contact your local Auslec branch

for more information on the EcoSmart

Electricians training program.

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and about

*out Young gun shooting high

Online training solutions for fall protection and confined spaces

Auslec is excited to announce that Fujitsu

Racing’s Michael Caruso will again partner

them under a personal sponsorship

arrangement for the remainder of the 2010

V8 Supercars Championship Series.

“I’m really excited to have Auslec

back onboard,” said Caruso. “They’re

involvement in V8 Supercars is already

significant, so it’s fantastic that they are

continuing their interest with our sport.

“It’s great to have backing, not only

from a major Australian company, but,

more so, the chance for me to become

involved in the Auslec business structure

and getting to work with their clients. To

get an opportunity for more corporate

speaking and appearances is really

exciting and I’m looking forward to being

able to share my passion for V8 Supercars

nationwide with the company.”

Martin Dench, Group Marketing

Manager of L&H Group adds: “Working

with Michael again is a great thing for

our business. We’ve supported him

throughout his development and we are

pleased to again be working with one of

Australia’s best young drivers in the V8

Supercars series.

“As an ambassador for our Auslec

brand, Michael wi l l be spending

considerable time with some of Australia’s

largest companies and representing our

business as we continue our growth. It

is a credit to Michael on how well he

went last year and has continued that

on in 2010”.

2010 has also seen Caruso making

further appearances on the Seven

Network’s V8Xtra program whi le

also being a nominated V8 Supercar

driver representative for various CSA

announcements and the V8 Supercars

Australia Supersafe program.

Visit www.michaelcaruso.com.au.

Bigger and better …Auslec Wollongong branch has recently relocated to bigger and better premises in Berkeley

Road, Unanderra. Fifteen staff headed up by branch manager Graeme Sneddon made the

smooth transition earlier this year.

Speaking to Auslec Solutions, Graeme said: “We believe this move will help cement

us as the number-one Industrial solutions provider in our market within the Illawarra area.

Customers such as BlueScope Steel, BHP Billiton, Gujarat NRE and Port Kembla Coal rely

heavily on us as a one-source solution for their maintenance repair and operational supply

requirements.”

Being solutions focused is critical to the

ongoing success of Auslec.

Far more than just a supplier of product,

Auslec can now facilitate online training

requirements after teaming up with one

of the world’s leading manufacturers of

fall protection, confined space and rescue

equipment, Capital Safety.

Capital Safety has just launched its new

Online Learning Height Safety Awareness

Unit of Study. In conjunction with Electrain,

individuals and companies can be provided

with a nationally recognised training course,

now available for partial completion in an

online format.

The Online Learning Height Safety

Awareness Unit of Study covers the basic

height-safety awareness theory in line with

AS/NZS 1891.4:2009. Participants will be

introduced to content covering height safety

issues such as the hierarchy of control, basic

legislative requirements, fall prevention,

work positioning and fall arrest components

including: anchor systems, fall protection

harnesses, connecting means and rescue

planning.

Online Learning fall protection training

enables employers to provide training in an

alternative learning environment, with the

added advantage of being able to provide the

theory component of courses accessible to

anyone at any time.

Course completion times can be reduced by

up to 65% compared to face-to-face learning

while still allowing workers to receive the

same standard of height-safety training.

Contact your nearest Auslec branch for

more information or to enrol.

Taking place every two years, QME is a

must-attend event for the national min-

ing, construction and materials handling

communities.

Mackay, Queensland, from 27 to 29

July this year is where Auslec will again

present their abilities and expertise in

the electrical, industrial and safety con-

sumables markets to the 10,000-plus

expected visitors. Stand number 1270

will showcase a myriad of solutions

that will assist customers in growing

their knowledge, their business and

their bottom line.

One such solution on display will be

temporary power switch-rooms manu-

factured by Energy Contracts.

These containerised, high-quality,

modular switch-rooms provide cost- and

time-saving answers to your temporary

power requirements. All switchboards

are constructed to Australian

Standards from the modular Cu-

bic panel-board system ensuring

full Type Test compliance and

are presented in ISO-standard

sea-worthy containers designed

to suit Australia’s harsh climatic

conditions. The design of these

unique switch-rooms incorpo-

rates emergency lighting, vermin

protection and container internal

climate control by virtue of two

integrated split-system air con-

ditioners. The ability to manage

the internal ambient temperature of

the containers results in cost savings

by avoiding the necessity to over-size

switchgear and busbars to meet de-

rating factors.

Also on display will be the Connex

quick-connect electrical fitting for use

with any 34 mm spigot-mounted lighting

fixture. It incorporates the use of state-

of-the-art materials, ensuring extreme

durability, strength and reliability, and

is designed to allow the removal and

replacement of the light fitting in less

than 60 seconds.

The Auslec stand will be the place to

stop by to discuss your communications

needs too. L&H Group’s specialist Com-

munication Distribution division, Pacific

Datacom, can assist with all your busi-

ness’s structured cabling infrastructure

(SCS) requirements. On display will be

19-inch equipment racks, UPS systems,

active networking equipment, network

copper/fibre test and termination equip-

ment, as well as optical-fibre and copper

networking cables.

Designed in Australia for Australian

conditions, the Rittal RiMine range of

enclosures will be available to test on

site. All enclosures include numerous

features such as IP66 rating, door stays

to reduce the chance of accidents and

lockable handles for security and safety.

A selection of Rittal’s world-famous

Climate Control Solutions will also be

featured to round out the accessories

and options available to finetune your

selection.

For those looking to streamline their

business's clothing needs, Smarter

Clothing, the specialist uniform sourc-

ing business of L&H Group, will be on

hand to discuss the benefits in creating

customised, hassle-free uniform solu-

tions by offering an unrivalled range of

manufacturers and flexibility in ordering

options.

AMS from Smarter Clothing is the

unique proprietary online system de-

veloped to give complete control over

what clothing is purchased, by whom

and how much they purchase.

The AMS guarantees to reduce

uniform spend by controlling set em-

ployee entitlements to match garment

life cycles, managing the ‘entitlement

cycle creep’ and the ability to supply

any choice of brand preference.

Learn about these and other solutions

at QME 2010 by visiting Auslec/Law-

rence & Hanson at Stand #1270.

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Nothing but HEAVY DUTY.®

It means an obsessivecommitment to our coreusers who swear by ourproducts every day.

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Auslec.red:Layout 1 19/5/10 9:26 AM Page 1

Harmonisation of oHs laws - wHat are tHe major cHanges?

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National employers are currently required

to comply with different OHS Acts for

each state and territory and 70 industry

or hazard-specific Acts that regulate OHS.

From January 2012, OHS laws across the

states and territories (with the exception

of WA) will adopt one national model

Act. Its purpose is to impose uniform

OHS obligations on business throughout

Australia and to reduce the burden of

compliance with multiple and different

obligations across state borders.

The model legislation will consist of a

principal OHS Act supported by regulations

and codes of practice that can be readily

adopted around Australia. The core duties

imposed on employers are not likely to

change greatly.

To assist in better understanding the

implications of the new OHS laws, we

spoke with Andrew Douglas, principal

lawyer of Douglas LPT and expert in

workplace law, to outline the key issues

you’ll have to address with this transi-

tion. His comments form the remainder

of this article.

Let’s start by considering the good

things about the new Act:

One system across all states and ter- ·

ritories;

Removal of NSW’s and Queensland’s ·

‘reverse-onus’ prosecutions which deem

employers liable unless they can prove

otherwise;

Clearer definitions of key words; ·

Penalty system that places OHS ‘front ·

and centre’, along with ‘sentencing

tariffs’ that are predictable throughout

Australia;

Less onerous recruitment; ·

Less OHS infrastructure; ·

Strong focus on OHS management ·

systems as a first line of defence.

Now the less-desirable effects:

The model Act opts for an ‘aspirational’ ·

approach to workplace safety, as demon-

strated by the objects of the draft Act: “The

principle that workers … should be given

the highest level of protection from hazards

and risks as is reasonably practicable.”

This will likely result in a more onerous

interpretation of employers’ core duty to

do whatever is reasonably practicable to

provide a safe workplace.

The positive duty which will now be ·

imposed on officers (such as directors) is

likely to represent a massive impost on

businesses’ time, skill and resources.

The punitive aspects don’t discrimi- ·

nate between the sizes and resources

of business;

The model Act remains complex, duties ·

are broad and all-embracing and there is

little positive guidance offered to employers

regarding how the duties are to be applied

in a real context.

The new landscape will require:

High training and infrastructure costs; ·

Robust and defensible OHS manage- ·

ment system;

Improved reporting and documented ·

processes evidencing the OHS manage-

ment system.

Employers’ primary duty

The core duty which will be imposed on duty

holders is to take ‘reasonably practicable’

steps to minimise risks to health and safety.

‘Reasonably practicable’ involves the highest

level of protection for workers - it is likely

that courts will more readily find a breach.

This represents the law as it currently is

in states other than NSW and Queensland,

albeit of a lower threshold. The changes

will make it easier for employers in NSW

and Queensland to escape liability when

they have been charged with the offence

of failing to provide a safe workplace, but

more likely in other states that they will

breach the duties.

Penalties

The new Act imposes significant penalties

for the breach of OHS duties and provides

a greater range of sentencing options

than those which currently exist, including

adverse-publicity orders, training orders,

compensation orders and corporate proba-

tion. Safe Work Australia has proposed other

penalties for other offences (Categories

4-7), but it is not yet known if these will

be adopted.

Director/manager OHS liability

The Act imposes a positive obligation

on ‘officers’ to exercise due diligence to

ensure that the company in which they

hold office meets its safety obligations.

This requires them to be proactive in

taking steps to ensure the company

complies with its OHS obligations. This is

likely to be interpreted as a stronger obliga-

tion on managers and directors to involve

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Category Description Maximum penalty

1 Most serious cases - breach of primary duty involving

recklessness and serious harm (fatality or serious

injury) to a person or a risk of such harm.

Corporation - $3 million

Individual - $600,000 Imprisonment - up to five years

Workers and other persons - $300,000 Imprisonment -

up to five years

2 Breach of primary duty where serious harm or risk

of it without element of recklessness.

Corporation - $1.5 million

Individual officers - $300,000

Workers and other persons - $150,000

3 Breach of duty that doesn’t involve high risk of

serious harm.

Corporation - $500,000

Individual officer - $100,000

Workers and other persons - $50,000

The new act imposes

significant penalties

for the breach of OHS

duties and provides

a greater range of

sentencing options

© iStockphoto.com/Alex Slobodkin

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themselves in workplace health and safety

matters. In most states, directors and certain

managers are currently liable if a company

breaches its statutory obligations and that

breach is attributable to the officer failing

to take reasonable care. That test requires

the prosecution to demonstrate negligence

on the part of the officer. The new test

will involve more onerous obligations on

‘officers’.

In NSW, Tasmania and Queensland,

directors and managers are currently

deemed to have committed an offence

if the entity in which they are directors

or managers contravenes OHS laws,

subject to the defence of having used

due diligence or not being in a position

to influence the conduct of the company.

The new provisions are likely to slightly

ease director and manager liability in those

states, as the prosecution will bear the

onus of demonstrating a failure to exercise

due diligence. Importantly, the Act broadly

defines ‘officer’ and will include directors,

persons who make or participate in making

decisions that affect a substantial part of

an entity’s business or undertaking, persons

who have the capacity to significantly affect

an entity’s financial standing and receiv-

ers, managers and liquidators of an entity.

Although broad, it may reduce the scope

of liability in NSW and Queensland, which

currently allows any person concerned in

the company’s management to be charged

with a breach of OHS legislation. The new

provisions mean that some managers won’t

be liable as officers unless prosecution

can prove they had the capacity to affect

a substantial part of the company’s busi-

ness. It’s not yet clear how this test will

be interpreted, however all employees can

potentially be liable under the provisions

which impose duties on ‘workers’. So,

any supervisor or manager who fails to

take reasonable care to avoid actions that

adversely affect the health and safety of

other persons can be charged.

OHS liability of employees/workers

Duties will be owed to (and by) all ‘workers’

in a business. The Act will adopt a broad

definition of worker, which will include any

person who works, in any capacity, in or

as part of the business or undertaking. This

broad definition will catch labour-hire em-

ployees and other contractors. Contractors

were previously covered by OHS legislation,

both as duty holders and people to whom

duty was owed.

Union right of entry

The union right of entry provisions in the

model Act involve an expansion of the rights

of unions to enter workplaces as compared

to the current situation in NSW, SA, Tas-

mania and the Commonwealth. The model

Act gives unions the power to investigate

incidents and to consult and advise work-

ers in relation to OHS matters. On entry,

officials have the power to inspect systems

of work, plant, substances and records. It is

proposed that no prior notice of the entry

will have to be provided where there is a

suspected contravention of the Act, however

at least 24 hours’ notice must be given for

proposed entry to advise and consult with

relevant workers.

HSRs and committees

The new Act will continue to provide for

the election of HSRs and health and safety

committees. The powers and functions of

representatives will be uniform throughout

Australia and will include a right to issue

Provisional Improvement Notices where a

contravention of the Act is identified, and

power to direct that unsafe work cease.

How uniform will laws be?

While the harmonisation of OHS laws is

likely to lift the compliance burden for busi-

nesses operating throughout Australia, the

laws will still be subject to interpretation

by state regulators. Inspectors and pros-

ecutors in each state may take a different

approach to the application of the laws in

their jurisdiction. Additionally, the legisla-

tion includes ‘jurisdictional notes’ in the

Appendix to appease the different states.

These notes set out the provisions of the

Act which will require individual drafting

by the states and territories (eg, definition

of dangerous goods and high-risk plant)

which means that some provisions will

differ as between jurisdictions. The model

Act should mean that OHS compliance is

a less complex affair for national employ-

ers. However, as in the past, all employers

will have to satisfy the Work Safe Regula-

tor which operates in its own jurisdiction,

which means that careful attention should

be paid to the information and guidelines

which emanate from that body.

”

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‘ R e a s o n a b l y

p r a c t i c a b l e ’

involves the highest

level of protection

for workers - it is

likely that courts

will more readily

find a breach.

It’s obvious they can’t Tango, but you can.

Pierlite is a member of the Gerard Lighting Group.

If you’re looking for a robust and economical Floodlight that is easy to install, look no further than Philips TANGO. With a choice of two sizes ranging from a compact 70watt to an impressive 400watts, together with selection of asymmetric or symmetric optical distributions, the Philips Tango makes the ideal choice for general security area and architectural lighting applications. For more information contact your local Auslec branch.

IP65Galvanised

trunnion bracket.

motorsport - dangerously safe?

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Most of us love watching motor racing,

whether it’s Formula 1, V8 Supercars,

drag racing or another category; and

it’s often the spectacular crashes that

really thrill us. Whenever motorsport is

in the news, the two things always high-

lighted are the winner and the crashes.

Naturally, we want our favourite driver

or car to win, but we also get a ‘buzz’

out of seeing wheels and bits of metal

splattering across the track as a crash

occurs, often confident in the knowledge

that the driver isn’t injured.

So how is it that a race car driver can

walk away from a 300 km/h crash, while

the average motorist can get killed in an

80 km/h crash on the streets? Basically,

it comes down to safety measures that

are appropriate to the environment. Race

teams are acutely aware of the risks

they’re exposed to, so they’re prepared

well in advance. The drivers have the

right skills and safety gear to minimise

the effects of a crash, while the teams

and venues have the ability to respond

immediately to any incident.

Auslec Solutions recently spoke with

pro drag racing champion Phil Lamattina

and the Ford Performance Racing (FPR)

team to learn more about motorsport

safety.

Drag racing

Phil Lamattina’s ‘workplace’ is one of

the most hazardous you could find.

Travelling in a vehicle that launches from

stand-still to over 500 km/h in a matter

of seconds has a very high likelihood

of serious injury or death if something

goes wrong.

Phil is alive today, thanks to the im-

portance his team places on safety. In

2007, Phil experienced a horrific crash

at Willowbank Raceway in Queensland,

when the chassis of his top-fuel drag-

ster broke apart at around 500 km/h,

catapulting him and what was left of his

machine into the air for 200 m, before

slamming into a barrier and exploding

into flames.

In spite of such a frightening crash,

Phil walked away from the wreck with a

few bruises and burns to just one finger.

Phil doesn’t put his survival down to

luck, but rather to being well prepared

for a crisis well in advance: “I honestly

believe that my HANS (head and neck

support) device saved my life. The de-

vice sits on my shoulders and attaches

to the helmet with tethers, helping my

neck support my head and helmet under

extreme conditions. During the impact,

it stabilised my helmet and prevented

my head from thrusting forward as the

car decelerated. It distributed all the

impact into my chest, which is supported

through the seat belt.

“You see, wearing a helmet more than

doubles the weight of your head and, in

the event of a severe impact, your neck

can’t support that extra weight. I know

of drivers who died in crashes without a

scratch on them. The extreme forces of

a crash thrust the head forward violently,

while the body is securely strapped in,

causing the spinal cord to snap at the

base of the brain.

“A lot of racers don’t like wearing

HANS devices because they find them

uncomfortable and restrictive while driv-

ing. I was of the same opinion initially,

but once I understood what it did and

got used to wearing it, it was okay. It’s

not mandated by the Australian National

Drag Racing Association, but for me, it

was a lifesaver.”

Phil’s team makes safety their highest

priority. They believe it’s vitally important

to understand the purpose of safety gear

before they use it.

“Whenever we, as a team, decide on

any safety gear — be it a HANS device,

helmet, fire-retardant suit, boots or

gloves for me, or the appropriate safety

gear for the crew at the track — we

take the time to learn how it works and

why it does what it does,” states Phil.

“They’re all designed to protect you,

so it’s worth taking the time to get the

most protection possible out of them,

and it really doesn’t take much effort

to learn about the gear.

“Racers spend a lot of money to get

the very best performance possible from

their car and their team, but unfortu-

nately, too many compromise on safety,

which is strange, because it’s such an

insignificant cost compared to what’s

spent on their cars.”

Right from the start, Phil’s team did

considerable research into safety gear

and decided to buy the very best they

could find, and Phil is living proof —

literally — that it works.

Incidentally, Phil’s best quarter-mile run

is 4.59 seconds and his fastest speed

is an astonishing 536 km/h.

V8 Supercars

FPR, likewise, places safety as its high-

est priority. Auslec Solutions visited the

FPR facility in Campbellfield, Victoria, to

discuss safety with some key members

of the team.

Senior Brand Manager Louise Iozzi

comments that safety is a priority in

all aspects of FPR’s operations, not

just on race day: “We practise safety

at the track, in the workshop and in

manufacturing.

“All of the guys working here in the

‘garage’ are also our pit crews at races.

They not only understand the cars, but

they understand how to work safely and

cooperatively with each other here and © iS

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Travelling in a vehicle

that launches from

stand-still to over 500

km/h in a matter of

seconds has a very high

likelihood of serious

injury or death if

something goes wrong

© iStockphoto.com/Andrey Prokhorov

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at the race track. Some of the crew

have designated tasks that are critical

to everyone’s safety — things like the

‘dead-man-handle’ that enables the

operator to instantly shut off fuel dur-

ing refuelling; fire extinguishers at the

ready; spill containment kits to prevent

spillages; and a jack that lifts the entire

car off the ground when other pit crew

are working on the car that’s the last

thing to be cleared before the driver

leaves the pits. And we’re constantly

reviewing our procedures to ensure

everyone’s safe.”

Not long ago, the FPR team changed

its clothing standards after an incident at

a race when Gary, one of the pit crew,

received burns to his legs from exhaust

flames as a car drove out of the pits.

While CAMS (Confederation of Australian

Motor Sport) regulations stipulate strict

safety gear and apparel on race days,

they allow pit crews to wear shorts

during practice and qualifying, which

Gary was wearing at the time. However,

since that incident, it is mandatory for

all FPR crew to wear long trousers at

all times to avoid similar injuries. While

Gary appreciated the greater protection,

he lamented where the next race is

being held: “Darwin’s weather is not

exactly suited to long pants, but the

extra protection is worth it.”

If it’s tough for the pit crew to be

covered ‘head to toe’, spare a thought

for the drivers. For their protection,

they wear a heavy fire-rated cover-all

suit, fire-resistant underwear and socks,

heavy gloves and boots, balaclava and

helmet. It might not be as comfortable

as the jeans and T-shirt that we often

drive around in, but it provides the right

degree of safety for that hazardous

environment.

FPR driver James Moffat cites heat as

one of the biggest problems that drivers

have to contend with during a race: “It

can be 60˚C in the cabin during races,

and a driver can lose about 2 kg in

sweat. So hydration and controlling body

temperature are vital to drivers.

“The cars have sizeable water contain-

ers behind the driver’s seat and they’re

always being refilled at pit stops. We

drink lots of water. In some races, like

the notoriously hot Clipsal 500, we

wear ‘cool-suits’ that pump chilled wa-

ter around our bodies. These are vital,

because without them, the excessive

heat creates real problems. At the 2007

Clipsal 500, one driver’s cool-suit failed

and the heat caused him to pass out

and crash into a barrier.”

Louise adds that safety is also a

priority for event organisers and track

management: “They know it’s a danger-

ous sport and they build and maintain

the track with safety as a priority. For

example, tight turns have long run-offs

and the 40 km/h pit-lane speed limit is

meticulously monitored for driver com-

pliance. The circuits are also assessed

after each race to improve safety for the

drivers, pit crews and spectators.

“At pre-race meetings before every

race, detailed safety information is

presented by the course management

to the teams. Everyone attends — driv-

ers, team management, race engineers

— to learn about the track conditions,

changes to it since the last race, what

can and can’t be done at that specific

race, new safety measures, new pen-

alties, etc.

“In addition to this, at each V8 Su-

percar race, there are plenty of fire

marshals who are ex-fire brigade and

a specialist trauma doctor in case of

any serious accidents.”

FPR Senior Brand Manager Samantha

Redfern adds that V8 Supercars takes

safety beyond the race track: “The V8

SuperSafe program takes an important

message to young drivers, by getting

icons of the sport to speak with them

about safe driving. V8 Supercar drivers

Mark Winterbottom and Michael Caruso

talk about taking measured — not fool-

ish — risks and taking precautions like

wearing appropriate safety gear. We’re

confident their message can make an

impression on these young guys to help

them drive safely on the streets.”

So the next time you’re watching a

motor race, you can be confident that

while the drivers and their teams put

their lives in extreme dangers, the smart

guys have taken appropriate measures

to be safe, in spite of the spectacular

crashes they may encounter.

”

“Racers spend a lot of

money to get the very

best performance

poss ib l e f rom

the i r ca r and

their team, but

unfortunately, too

many compromise

on safety, which is

strange, because it’s

such an insignificant

cost compared to

what’s spent on

their cars.

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ERTHE NEW RADIO/MP3 AND BATTERY CHARGER

WORKSITE RADIO CHARGER• All DEWALT Chemistries• All DEWALT Voltages

Power to charge 7.2v - 18v

• Plays and Charges MP3 players & mobile phones

• I mproved Reception & Sound Quality

• 2 x 240V power sockets(Does not include Mobile Phone, MP3 Player or Leads)

1 CHARGER

DeWALT 8pp A4 brochure.indd 2 6/05/10 2:46 PM

*productcutAv a i l a b l e f r o m & r e c o m m e n d e d b y Auslec . U s e t h e locator at www.auslec.com.au to f ind your nearest branch.

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18 PULLwiRE SwiTCHESThe Steute safety pullwire switches offer diverse means to guard conveyers, where

it is often more effective to use a cable attached to a pullwire switch installed

along the hazard area than individual emergency-stop devices. In the event of

an emergency, a ‘stop’ command initiated from any point along the pullwire will

cause guarded machinery to shut down.

Different configurations are available to suit individual applications; such as

pullwire switches with one- or two-sided actuation, watertight collars, emergency-

stop buttons on the body of the limit switch, tension indicators, thermoplastic/cast

iron enclosures and limit switches with stainless steel components for particularly

arduous applications.

All accessories required for installation are readily available, including PVC-covered

steel cable, tension springs, wire supports and tensioning devices.

SOfT SHELL jACkETThe Soft-Shell Knit is a 300 gsm ‘3-in-1’ high-visibility jacket that features

a polyester/jersey shell, bonded with a showerproof membrane and micro

polar fleece lining. Not only are these garments wind and rain proof, they

also supplied in high-visibility yellow/navy and orange/navy.

The jackets are available as a half-zip jacket with vertical zip chest

pocket, side pockets, reflective piping and adjustable rubber cuffs; or

a full-zip jacket that has the same features, but is also supplied with

3M8906 reflective tape for day/night wear, a two-way zip-front closure

and a zip-off hood.

The jackets are available in a wide range of sizes, from S up to 5XL.

fOOT SwiTCHESThe Steute GF and GFS range of footswitches are designed for use in

the manufacturing and mining industries on presses, punching machines,

cranes and general machine-control applications.

The products can be tailor made to suit specific environmental conditions

and mechanical duty applications without requiring large lot sizes.

Footswitches are normally mounted on machines and plant where hand

operation is not possible, such as start/stop operations and production

processes. Analog operation is also available for speed control.

The footswitches are available in versions with multiple pedals and can

be mounted with a guard to protect against unintentional actuation. All

footswitches are equipped with slow or snap action contacts. Variants

are available with pressure point, potentiometer, Hall sensor and latching

elements.

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LED EMERGENCy LiGHTThe Stanilite Excel LED Legend emergency light is designed

to significantly reduce running and maintenance costs

while providing high-visibility and remaining architecturally

pleasing with a slimline design.

The high emergency classification of the fitting eliminates

the need for an adjacent emergency luminaire and therefore

reduces overall project costs.

The fitting consumes only a quarter of the power of

conventional 8 and 10 W fluorescent edge lights and needs

to be replaced far less frequently, with a 50,000-hour life.

These factors reduce both emissions during operation and

landfill from fewer expired lamps.

The fitting is also offered in a range of solutions with

Nexus LX and RF monitoring options available.

MOTOR SOfT STARTERAltistart 22 is a soft starter to complement the Schneider Electric

ATS01 and ATS48 soft starters for asynchronous motors. The unit is

intended to assist in easing stress on mechanical components and

electrical networks.

Significant space and cost reductions have been achieved by

integrating a bypass contactor, making it a quicker and simpler upgrade

to existing Star Delta starters.

The ATS22 also includes complete protection for the motor, starter

and application via customisable protection settings.

Available from 7.5 to 315 kW, the unit is well suited to a wide range

of applications including centrifugal pumps, fans, screw compressors

and material handling.

PROfiNET SAfETy CONTROLLERSPhoenix Contact offers a complete range of safety

solutions, from simple safety relays to high-end Profinet

Safety controllers for the most demanding automation

applications.

The PSR-TRISAFE-M master module includes all the

proven features of the existing PSR-TRISAFE-S series

and can be easily expanded using both safe and standard

extension modules.

The master module provides one device for all machine

safety functions including an easy and user-friendly

logic ‘wiring’ with just a click of the mouse. Flexible

system extension and Fieldbus interface options are

also available.

*productcutAvailable from & recommended by Auslec. Use the locator at www.auslec.com.au to find your nearest branch.

TEMPORARy METAL ROOf ANCHORThe DBI-SALA temporary roof anchor is

designed for use on various metal roofs

in residential, commercial and industrial

applications.

The device provides a 15 kN fall-arrest-rated

anchor point to protect users from falls, while

complying with safety regulations. Its portability

allows tradespeople to take it with them to

different jobs.

In a few simple steps, the anchor is installed

and ready for use; no need for tools or to

remove roof screws. The anchor’s bottom

angle simply slides under roof sheeting, with

the main post resting in the pan. The locking

cams are then pushed into place, providing a

secure connection. The anchor is now ready

to connect a fall-arrest system to it. Complete

the steps in reverse for removal.

fACE SHiELD wiTH CHiN GUARDThe VC107 UniSafe face shield is widely

used for grinding, cutting and polishing

and features a high-gloss brow guard

with improved ratchet action headgear

that provides quick, smooth headband

adjustment, while the gloss finish enhances

appearance and ease of cleaning.

Attached to the brow guard is a

polycarbonate high-impact, wide-flare

visor, complete with integrated chin guard

for added protection.

The 175 mm drop visor protects the

chin, upper neck and side of the face

without impacting on head movement

and vision.

The design allows convenient, quick and

secure assembly with the total combination

meeting high-impact requirements.

While in use, the face shield lift-up

friction system can be easily adjusted

and finetuned to facilitate one-hand

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HAND SANiTiSiNG wiPESWith the annual flu season upon us, Pryme has released its new

Refresh Hand Sanitizing Wipes that are designed to kill 99.9% of

germs on contact.

Available in 70- and 200-count canisters, these wipes are ideal

for an industrial or office environment as they are gentle on hands

because they contain moisturisers and vitamin E.

By removing bacteria and dirt, sanitising wipes help reduce the

risk of infection and cross-contamination, which in turn can minimise

absenteeism during the cold and flu season.

Wingfield is a suburb just north of

the Adelaide Central Business District

and close to the industrial zone of

Port Adelaide. It is predominately

a ‘commercial’ landscape, with a

wide variety of business types and

industries.

Mirroring that diversity, the Auslec

branch in Wingfield is set up to cater

for the wide-ranging needs of its

diverse customer base that is both

local and regional.

Branch Manager Nick Hollobone

points out: “Our branch services

customers throughout metro Adelaide

right through to the most remote sites

throughout the state.

“Because of that breadth

of customer needs, the team

we’ve built here at Auslec

Wingfield is likewise diverse

and dynamic, which has al-

lowed us to quickly tailor our

business offerings to satisfy

our customers’ needs.

“Not only are our custom-

ers’ needs diverse, they’re

frequently changing too, so

we need to keep our services,

skills and product range in step

with their changes as well.”

As an example of this, the branch

implemented a ‘Mining, Oil & Gas’

team a couple of years ago in

response to the growth in this

particular sector. Since its com-

mencement, having a focused team

has enabled the branch to meet the

demanding expectations of its mining

customers.

Nick adds that, in doing so, the

team has developed further skills

that provide benefits to clients:

“We’ve also had to anticipate what

their needs would be in the near and

mid-term future, so we can carry the

right products and stock levels to

support them. To give you some idea

of what that translates into, we have

6500 SKUs in our inventory.”

Other sectors that the branch sup-

ports include construction, defence,

industrial and electrical.

Nick elaborates: “In addition to

mining, we have a strong focus on in-

dustry, defence and special projects,

such as the nearly complete ‘Northern

Expressway’ project that’s being built

in Adelaide at the moment.

“Our branch has 13 staff and,

between us, we have the collective

experience of 146 years in working in

and supporting industry. The enables

us to maintain very high levels of

support to our specialist custom-

ers, who typically have demanding

requirements. We understand their

needs are often urgent and complex,

so we endeavour to build close

relationships with these customers,

so we can better understand their

requirements and anticipate what

support they need.

“Our support is not just for our

larger customers. We also maintain

a strong focus on the needs of

the many industrial and electrical

contractors throughout Adelaide

and much of South Australia, who

are our customers. Good service is

good service; so when any of our

customers need our support and

products from our broad offerings

of electrical, safety and industrial

equipment and tools, we deliver the

best we can to all of them.”

Wingfield, South AustraliaBranch Manager — Nick HolloboneBranch/warehouse floor space — approx 2100 m2

Stock: 6500 SKUs , Number of staff — 13

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P: (08) 8359 5744E: auswingfield@auslec.com.auA: 203 Cormack Rd, Wingfield SA 5013

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*productcutAvailable from & recommended by Auslec. Use the locator at www.auslec.com.au to find your nearest branch.

iNDUSTRiAL CABLESThe Olex range of specialised industrial cables for the

demanding Australian market has been expanded with

the comprehensive ‘Nexans Sourced’ range that includes

flexible, control and specialist application cables.

Meeting local and international standards, these cables

are backed by the technical knowledge and experience

of the world’s largest cable manufacturer and supported

locally by Olex.

The new range includes Titanex H07 single and multicore

flexible cable; H07VVH6-F PVC flat cable; VCVH6-F screened

and unscreened PVC flat cable; Buflex X’Prem control and

reeling cable; Rheyhalon control cable; Rheyflat-N screened

and unscreened rubber flat festoon cable and Boitalyon R

PVC pendant overhead crane cable.

DETACHABLE DiSPLAy MULTiMETERThe Fluke 233 True-RMS Remote

Display Digital Multimeter offers more

flexibility for use in unusual measurement

scenarios, through a display that can

be detached from the instrument and

viewed remotely.

Place the removable display where

it can be seen and then put the meter

where it’s convenient - no more juggling of

leads and the meter while stretching into

a tight spot. Measurements can be taken

in hard-to-reach places, where machines

or panels are physically separated from

a limit or isolator switch, or in user-

prohibited areas such as cleanrooms or

hazardous areas.

By providing more control in difficult

test situations, the remote display

multimeter helps operators work more

productively, conveniently and safely.

HAzARDOUS-AREA GLANDSTwo new glands have been added to the

Alco range to meet the requirements of the

industrial mining market, where mechanical

protection is required on PVC cables in

hazardous locations.

The ALCHUW-LTA range is suitable where

an ‘Anaconda’ is required, for example, where

EXME solenoids with tails are provided and

in adaptable-type applications to existing

conduit systems.

The ALCHUW-H range is applicable where

smooth-bodied conduit is suitable to hazardous

environment location for mechanical protection

for PVC cable.

SAfETy RELAyThe G1502S multifunctional safety relay features relay outputs

suitable for the protection of operators and machinery.

Features include safety outputs with switch-off delay of

0.25-10 seconds, e-stop with cross-fault monitoring and optional

simultaneity monitoring and connection of mechanical safety

switches and fail-safe sensors.

The relay can be used for monitoring in safety applications in

conjunction with different electro-sensitive protective equipment.

It has several multifunctional self-detecting and self-monitoring

inputs and short-circuits proof outputs. The simultaneity monitoring

of inputs, the functions ‘monitored’ or ‘automatic start’ and two

delayed contacts can be set. It can also used with two-hand

controls to EN574 type IIIC in conjunction with electronic sensors

or mechanical switches.

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24 wORk PANTSThe Hero range of cargo trousers and shorts offer not only a

relaxed and casual look, but also provide the durability of 260 gsm

middle-weight cotton duck weave.

Available in both dark navy and black, these garments have

numerous features, including heavy-duty adjustable waist buckle,

right leg cargo pocket, fashion knee pleats, concealed back cotton

mesh air-flow vents, left side tool or mobile phone pocket and a

heavy-duty plastic key ring on the waistband.

The pants are available in sizes ranging from 72R up to 132R.

HAND SANiTiSERDeb InstantFOAM hand sanitiser utilises the power of Deb

Foam technology.

With no sticky gelling agents or water required, the refreshing

foam formula sanitises hands quickly and effectively and helps

to reduce the incidence of absenteeism in the workplace

during the flu season.

The hand sanitiser is available in a range of sizes and packaging

types, including personal sized 47 and 250 ml dispensers,

through to a 1 L dispenser and a 1 L cartridge.

*productcutAvailable from & recommended by Auslec. Use the locator at www.auslec.com.au to find your nearest branch.

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SURGE-PROTECTED POwER MANAGERDesigned specifically for power conservation, the Green Power Surge

Protector will automatically cut off stand-by power three minutes after

devices connected to it have been switched off. It is also equipped

with ‘always on’ outlets for continuous power to certain devices.

The eight outlet unit can be operated using any IR remote, avoiding

the clutter and confusion of too many controllers.

Features include fireproof-seal surge protection, 800 V clamping,

60˚ rotating power cord, LED light indicator and RJ11 and RJ45

combo 1-in/1-out with 1.8 m telephone cable.

The unit is available in white (model GP8ESSP) and black

(model GP8ESSPBK).

RESPiRATORSThe Advantage 400 Series respirator provides a simple, three-

component design that provides easy donning and doffing in

a form that is both comfortable to wear and highly effective

in performance.

For any respirator to provide effective protection against

contaminants, it must be worn correctly. This respirator features

a silicone mask and a range of wearer-friendly attributes that

makes it comfortable to wear, thereby ensuring it is worn

correctly.

The mask and its filter range are suited to steel mills, foundries,

bagging operations, drilling rigs, construction, cement plants,

welding operations, painting, coatings, chemical manufacturing,

shipping, transportation and agricultural applications.

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DECONTACTOR SySTEMSMarécha l Decontac to r sys tems a re des igned

a s p o w e r f e e d e r s f o r i n d u s t r i a l p r o d u c t i o n

lines. The DSN6 series is rated to 690 V, 63 A,

50 Hz and 3P+E+4 aux.

The system comprises a socket, plug and load-break

switch in one compact set that is available with two, four

or six auxiliary contact pins for ‘electrical interlocking’ and

to transfer auxiliary signals.

The sockets are fitted with a ‘dead front’, so ‘live’

parts aren’t visible and can’t be touched. The plugs are

keyed to only mate with like-keyed sockets. Contact

pins feature split-tunnel terminals that are unaffected by

thermal cycling, shock or vibration, while the contact-pin

tips are made from 85% pure silver and 15% nickel to

provide high conductivity and arc resistance.

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DRUG ALCOHOL AND TOxiC ELEMENT TESTiNGThe latest initiatives in the fields of drug, alcohol and toxic-element testing are available

from Aquarian Industries.

These products are intended for pre-employment or regular testing and can assist

with occupational, health and safety obligations in a wide range of industries including,

mining, construction, agriculture, transport and warehousing.

The product range includes handheld breathalysers, wall-mounted solutions at site

entry points and alcohol interlocks for machinery and automotive applications (eg,

forklifts, tractors, trucks).

An independent service for on-site drug and alcohol testing compliant to Australian

drug and alcohol testing standards (AS 4308 and AS 4760) is also available.

LiGHTwEiGHT SAfETy GLASSESThe sporty ‘super fit’ safety glasses offer a comfortable,

universal fit and all-round protection – key factors in

increasing wearer acceptance.

The glasses combine a thin 1.2 mm high-performance

lens for superior optical performance with a lightweight

frame that weighs just 20 g, for all-day wearing.

Lens replacement compatibility creates cost saving and

rationalisation opportunities, while ensuring that the right

protection is worn for the right task.

The glasses are also compatible with a range of

other PPE items, including safety helmets and half-face

respirators.

*productcutAvailable from & recommended by Auslec. Use the locator at www.auslec.com.au to find your nearest branch.

ELECTRiCAL ENCLOSURE fOR HARSH ENViRONMENTSThe RiMine sloped-roof enclosure range brings together

German-engineered quality, reliability and leading-edge

technology to suit the requirements of the Australian

market.

This robust enclosure is designed to be strong and

resilient to withstand the harsh mining environment and

safeguard valuable electrical components.

With features including an IP66 rating, optimum

mounting area with depth-adjustable mounting plate and

a triple-point locking system, the enclosure is available

either painted or unpainted in 316-grade stainless steel

and in five different sizes to suit many applications.

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wEATHERPROOf fLUORESCENT LUMiNAiREThe Pierlite BWP/T5 is an energy-efficient, vandal-resistant T5

weatherproof fluorescent luminaire that is conveniently packed

with lamps.

The range features modular gear tray, 20 mm cable entry

with PG8.5 gland, along with stainless steel clips for ease of

installation and maintenance.

The luminaire is IP65 rated and constructed with a rugged

polycarbonate body assembly and to meet arduous lighting

requirements in adverse industrial conditions.

The fitting is available with a choice of an energy efficient

14 W or a 2 x 28 W electronic circuits.

BRAiDED fLExiBLE ExTENSiON CORDSThe Electcable EXT-EWA-xM braided flexible extension cords are available in 5-30 m lengths

in 5 m increments and feature a 15 A triple-insulated, braided flex cable with 10 or 15 A

clear plugs and sockets.

The braided shield is earthed when the cord is in use, providing a safety feature for

applications where OHS duty of care is essential.

The cable utilises extra-soft flex to avoid tangles and the tinned-copper braid provides an

80% shield over the inner sheath. The braid also offers extra strength and durability.

The insulated active and neutral plugs and sockets feature heavy-duty strain relief, safety

shroud and neon on/off indicator.

The cords are also available with 56 series plugs and sockets.

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CONfiNED SPACES GUiDANCEMSA has produced a 27-page booklet

that explains, in detail, what constitutes a

confined space and why such environments

may be hazardous.

Confined spaces include pits, tanks,

pipes, tunnels, wells, boilers, vessels

and manholes. Recognising and planning

appropriately for confined space work can

mean the difference between a job well

done and a disaster.

As part of that planning, MSA is available

to discuss appropriate equipment needs

such as self-contained breathing apparatus

sets, gas detectors and entry and retrieval

equipment.

The booklet is available free from MSA

or your local Auslec or L&H branch.

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Winter is a challenging time for businesses,

with an estimated 1,500,000 lost work days

each year in Australia due to flu alone. What

can you do to protect yourself, your staff

and your business from being adversely

affected by it?

To present you with some helpful

guidelines in mitigating the impact of

flu, we spoke to two industrial hygiene

experts, Pryme Australia Marketing Man-

ager Adrian Burton and Stoko Skincare

North America Product Line Director Ron

Shuster at the recent Safety in Action

show in Melbourne.

flu facts

Burton points out some facts about flu:

Influenza is a highly contagious and 1.

potentially deadly disease that can be spread

through coughing or sneezing.

Influenza isn’t the same as a cold. It’s 2.

from a virus and can cause debilitating

complications such as pneumonia, especially

in the elderly and other ‘at-risk’ groups.

Influenza causes 2500 deaths, 80,000 GP 3.

visits and 15,000 hospitalisations in Australia

each year.

1.2 million Australians aged under 65 4.

years are in ‘at-risk’ groups.

People with a chronic disease have 40 5.

times the risk of death from influenza. A

combination of heart and lung disease

increases this risk 800 times.

Only 42% of ‘at-risk’ groups under 65 are 6.

vaccinated annually.

Only 20-50% of healthcare workers, 7.

who are at greater risk of contracting

and spreading influenza, are vaccinated

annually.

15% of influenza-related deaths and 60% 8.

of hospitalisations are in ‘under-65 at-risk’

groups.

10% of all workplace absenteeism 9.

associated with illness is due to influenza.

10. Annual vaccination is the single, most-

effective measure to prevent influenza.

Surfaces most likely to be sources

of contamination

When an infected person sneezes or

coughs, droplets containing germs are

released, spreading the virus. These germs

invariably land on doorknobs, desks and

other surfaces that can come into contact

with other people. Those germs can live on

those surfaces for up to two hours, so, if

a person touches a surface with germs on

it then touches their mouth or nose before

washing their hands, the flu or cold germs

can spread to unsuspecting victims.

Proper handwashing essential

Burton advises that, while there are still

no known cures for the cold or flu virus,

we can take steps to avoid getting sick or

spreading germs to others:

Wash hands often with soap and clean, 1.

preferably warm, running water for 15-20

seconds. Note that water alone will not kill

any germs on skin surfaces.

Work soap into a lather, rubbing hands 2.

together vigorously. Friction helps to remove

dirt and micro-organisms. Wash around and

under rings, fingernails and cuticles.

Rinse hands well under running water.3.

Dry hands thoroughly using a clean paper 4.

towel.

Always wash or sanitise after coughing,

sneezing or blowing your nose, after going

to the bathroom, before preparing or eating

food, before and after tending to someone

who is sick and after handling an animal,

animal waste or garbage.

A handwashing and sanitising program is

a proven method in reducing sick days lost

to colds and flu. There is a wide range of

hand cleaners to suit personal preferences

and different spaces. Hand cleaners such as

Stoko Gel, Stoko Spray and Stoko Refresh

foaming instant hand sanitiser can be used

to rid hands of germs, killing 99% of com-

mon germs that cause disease.

Shuster adds that authorities like the

World Health Organization and The Cent-

ers for Disease Control advise that proper

handwashing is the single, most-important

action we can perform to help stop the

spread of diseases.

In a recent Bradley Corporation survey,

1020 participants were asked whether the

swine flu threat had changed the frequency

of their handwashing. Surprisingly, 54%

indicated they didn’t wash their hands more

frequently, even during the pandemic.

In another report by the London School

of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 404 com-

muters were analysed for micro-biological

contamination on hands. The results were

astonishing: 28% of people were found to

have faecal bacteria on their hands (a failure

to wash hands after using the bathroom) and

46% didn’t wash their hands for the recom-

mended duration for proper cleansing.

Dispensers: bulk-fill vs sealed

systems

Shuster points out that simply providing

hand cleansers and sanitisers is, in itself, not

sufficient to mitigate the spread of influenza

and other viruses and germs. The means of

dispensing must also be considered.

Hand-cleanser dispensers are manufac-

tured from plastic or metal and are avail-

able in an assortment of shapes, sizes and

mounting configurations. While they all serve

the common purpose of providing soap for

handwashing, there are significant hygienic

reasons to choose a sealed dispensing

system over a bulk-fill system.

Bulk-fill dispensers

At first glance, bulk-fill dispensers have

appeal:

Product flexibility – With no specific ·

cartridge or packaging system needed to fit

the unit, a company may buy any type of

hand cleanser without obligation to brand

or packaging type.

Ease of refilling – With some exceptions, ·

locking mechanisms aren’t required, giving

housekeeping staff easy access to refilling

the unit. Minimal training is required to

maintain the unit.

Reduced waste and costs – No disposal ·

empty cartridges or bags and no residual

product left in the dispenser.

If cleanser is being delivered by a bulk-fill

dispenser, users are, however, at risk of

washing with bacteria-laden soap. Hands

provide the perfect transport vehicle to

spread infection. Research has shown that

bulk-filled soap systems that are exposed

to outside elements can become contami-

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Germs invariably land

on door knobs, desks

and other surfaces that

can come into contact

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nated and are potential breeding grounds

for a host of bacteria, which collect inside

the dispenser and flow with the soap onto

unsuspecting hands.

According to a Building Services Man-

agement (US magazine) article, one-in-four

refillable (bulk-fill) hand-cleanser dispensers

in public rest rooms are contaminated.

Unknowingly dispensed along with soap,

patrons were exposed to organisms like

Klebsiella pneumoniae (causes pneumonia

and bronchitis) and Serratia marcescens

(causes wound, eye, urinary-tract and res-

piratory infections).

These same ‘advantages’ of bulk-fill sys-

tems cause the system to be a breeding

ground for germs:

Product flexibility – no control over qual- ·

ity of product being poured into reservoir

of a bulk-fill dispenser. It is exposed to

airborne contaminates every time the cap

is unscrewed; unwashed hands touching

the refill bottle cap and bottle neck intro-

duce dirt and germs into it; and inserting

tubing to transfer soap into bulk container

introduces contaminants. Mixing various

brands of liquid cleanser that weren’t

formulated to go together can also cause

skin irritations.

Ease of refilling – Mixing various brands ·

of cleansers can result from cleaning per-

sonnel layering products in the bulk-fill unit.

The same ‘ease-of-refilling’ statement also

equates to ‘difficulty-in-cleaning’. Completely

emptying the unit and removing it from the

mounting surface makes it nearly impos-

sible to properly clean. Repeated use of

the same dirty valve system contaminates

the product. Also, because the units don’t

seal well, the product inside is exposed

to the circulating air in the lavatory, which

includes mould and fungi. A dark environ-

ment (closed container) and high water

content (product) contribute ideal growing

conditions for bacteria.

Reduces waste and costs – House- ·

keeping personnel, eager to comply with

budget cuts, often dilute hand cleansers

with water to stretch the supply of product.

This changes its viscosity and, in cases of

antibacterial products, negatively impacts the

‘time-kill’ properties of the soap. Watered-

down product can also cause dispensing

problems, such as dripping, which wastes

product and produces potential slip-and-fall

hazards on floors.

Sealed systems

Keeping the product uncontaminated inside

the dispenser is important for the health of

users. Hygienic, sealed systems offer the

best protection from external contaminates,

ensuring no contact with potentially germ-

ridden surfaces. Benefits include:

Eliminating the problem of mixing brands 1.

of products or diluting product with water.

If the refill is a collapsible bag filled with 2.

cleanser, the bags are immediately sealed

against potential contamination, ensuring

safety, cleanliness and hygiene.

Each bag is supplied with its own fresh 3.

pump, virtually replacing the system each

time the dispenser is refilled (also true for soft

plastic bottles with individual pumps).

Soap is manufactured and filled in clean 4.

production conditions and the bottle sealed. In

many countries, antibacterial hand cleansers

and instant hand sanitisers are regulated as

drug products. A sealed dispensing system

ensures the soap maintains the strict

specifications mandated by regulators.

Collapsible bags and bottles eliminate the 5.

spillage and wastage associated with refilling

bulk-type dispensers.

Beware of ‘sealed’ systems that require

the dispensing nozzle to be saved and

transferred from the empty unit to the

new, filled unit. By touching the nozzle

with hands, product build-up on the nozzle

and inability to clean it can contaminate

the soap.

”

“The world Health

Organization and The

Centers for Disease

Control advise that

proper handwashing

is the single, most-

important action we

can perform to help

stop the spread of

diseases.

Summary

While it’s challenging to change old

habits, studies show that it’s time

for ‘old dogs to learn new tricks’.

Practising proper hand hygiene,

avoiding touching the ‘T-zone’ of

the face (mouth, nose, eyes) and

learning to contain sneezes/coughs

are positive habits that will reduce

the transmission of illnesses in the

workplace. To provide optimum

health benefits from proper hand-

washing, hand cleanser must be

protected from contamination. A

sealed, hygienic dispensing system

is superior over difficult-to-clean

bulk-fill soap dispensers.

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Available from & recommended by Auslec. Use the locator at www.auslec.com.au to find your nearest branch.

SAfETy PADLOCkSThe Xenoy safety padlocks feature a non-conductive, non-magnetic

and spark-proof lock body and dielectric nylon shackle, making

them suitable for electrical lockout/tagout applications.

A key-retaining feature ensures padlocks aren’t left unlocked,

while a nylon ball-bearing locking mechanism means there are

no springs to jam.

Weighing just 55 g, the padlocks are rated for extreme conditions

with a -46 to 177˚C temperature range and are resistant to harsh

chemicals and corrosion. They are available in a variety of UV-

resistant colours for fast visual identification of work teams. They

are supplied with permanent, write-on danger ID labels, allowing

users to customise on site or to have them factory laser engraved

with company or site logos.

CORROSiON RESiSTANT LADDERSThe CorrosionMaster range of

single ladders and step platforms

is designed for use in harsh

environments such as mining sites,

chemical plants and other harsh

processing applications that are

too corrosive for traditional steel,

aluminium or timber styles.

The ladders are constructed from

fibreglass that will not rust, rot or

corrode.

A ‘st rongbox’ construct ion

technique provides lightweight

strength, rigidity and electrical

resistance, while stainless steel

fittings provide resistance to extreme

corrosion.

Fixed ladders are also available for

corrosive, potable and wastewater

environments.

SAfETy GOGGLEThe uvex carbonvision is a lightweight

safety goggle that weighs 43 g to provide

comfortable, all-day eye protection.

Utilising carbon technology, the goggle

is one of the most innovative products

in the uvex eyewear range, featuring an

injection-moulded face guard for a positive

seal and splash-proof protection. Its flexible,

soft components adapt to different facial

shapes, ensuring the robust frame is

properly balanced for all-day wearing.

The low-profile goggles are available in

a choice of two lens coatings - THS anti-

fog (both sides) and supravision extreme

(HC3000 anti-scratch outside, THSng anti-

fog inside) and compatible with half-face

masks, helmets and bump caps, to assist

in providing employees with a full head

protection system.

iNSULATED GLOVESThe Ninja Ice insulated gloves feature a two-layer insulated liner

and HPT coating that creates a spongy, soft, durable, flexible

coating that repels liquids to provide a firm wet or dry grip.

The ‘winter lining’ makes the gloves suitable for use in cold

temperatures such as in cold storage and outdoor winter-use

construction, utilities and commercial fishing and agriculture. It

is also treated with ‘actifresh’ for increased comfort.

The HPT coating formulation remains soft and flexible in

temperature as low as -50˚C.

The gloves are available in sizes M to 2XL and supplied in

packets of six pairs.

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fiBREGLASS PLATfORM LADDERThe FPL003-I is a heavy-duty, industrial-grade fibreglass

platform ladder that has a 150 kg load capacity.

The ladder features a 900 mm handrail that is compliant to

OHS requirements, non-slip treads and platform surface and

a resin bracing system for extra strength and safety.

The ladder is available in 600, 900, 1200, 1500, 1800 and

2400 mm heights, with a wheel kit available as an option

for the ladder.

ExPANDABLE SAfETy BARRiERThe Hi-Vis Expandable Barrier is designed for use as

a high-visibility safety barrier to highlight the presence

of any hazards in the work area and to create safe

work zones.

The highly visible and lightweight barrier is quick and

straightforward to deploy in the workplace to enhance

safety, while its concertina construction makes it easy

to collapse and store when not in use.

iNfRARED CAMERAThe i5 is a small and lightweight infrared camera

that weighs just 340 g. It is easy to use and

requires no former experience.

The camera is designed for ‘point-shoot-detect’

operation to obtain high-quality infrared images that

will immediately provide the infrared information

required.

The highly accurate camera is fully automatic and

focus free and is supplied with SD card storage

and reporting and analysis software.

Other infrared cameras available in the range

include the i40 handheld Thermal Cam 16k colour

LCD, i50 Thermal Cam 16k colour LCD PIP (three

steps) and i60 Thermal Cam 16k colour LCD PIP

(scaleable).

*productcutAvailable from & recommended by Auslec. Use the locator at www.auslec.com.au to find your nearest branch.

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LATEx-COATED GLOVEThe Ninja Flex is a latex-coated nylon glove that

features a 15-gauge 100% nylon shell, lightweight

latex crinkle coating with high abrasion resistance

and Actifresh-treated lining.

The ergonomically designed glove is available in a

variety of colours and in XS to 2XL sizes. They are

supplied in 12 pairs per pack.

Applications for the glove include assembly,

brickwork, recycling and working with glass and

sheetmetal.

SAfETy HELMETThe TA560/570 unvented/vented Type 1 safety helmets are

light, comfortable and supported by a considerable range of

approved accessories, providing a total head, eye, face and

hearing protection system.

The venting options allow users to maximise comfort/cooling and

to select the most appropriate product for the task at hand.

Quick and easy accessory attachment utilising the safety helmet

lateral slots broadens product use and on-the-job convenience.

The 6-point harness offers personalised adjustments to

ensure product stability and security even in the most trying

conditions.

Enhancing the product are multiple colours and the opportunity

to apply company logos, reflective tapes, approved transfers

and stickers.

The helmet is suited to industries such as mining, construction,

forestry and heavy engineering.

NOiSE MONiTORThe 3M NI-100 Noise Indicator alerts users to potentially

dangerous noise levels, helping identify areas where hearing

protection may need to be worn. Users simply clip the

noise indicator to a shirt or jacket; its LED delivers a clear

indication when noise levels exceed a potentially hazardous

threshold.

The device’s small size and lightweight design makes

it suitable for workers in a variety of industries and its

rechargeable battery operates for up to 200 hours.

The device is also an effective training tool within a noise

management program (consult AS/NZS 1269 series) to help

ensure workers know when and where to wear hearing

protection.

Historically, underground mining hasn’t

required the use of fall-arrest equipment

on work platforms attached to Integrated

Tool Carriers (ITs) or explosives-charging

operations using specialised charge

machines (Charge-up Rigs) where the

risk of falling was deemed negligible.

In fact, to those unfamiliar with un-

derground mining, the very notion of

fall restraint while underground may

seem strange.

One reason for this is because ITs

and charge machines are not technically

classified as elevated work platforms

within the AS2550.10:2006 ‘Mobile

elevating work platforms’ standard.

Historical incident data also shows

that fall-arrest equipment hasn’t been

necessary in this application and that

extra controls have been implemented

to prevent work platform detachment

and fail-to-safe systems.

The risk of falling from one level to

another has always been an identified

hazard when working around open holes

including stope-voids, ore-passes, shafts,

raises and winzes, as has the risk of

falling from specialised fan-hanging work

platforms with no handrails.

In June 2008, under its continual im-

provement program, Auslec Welshpool

customer Barminco Limited began a

review of all working-at-height activities

to prepare for the pending release of

the revised AS1891.4:2009 ‘Industrial

fall-arrest devices — Selection, use and

maintenance’ standard.

Barminco’s review recommended the

continued use of fall-prevention meas-

ures already in place and the introduction

of increased fall-prevention strategies

that included engineering controls for

some open-hole applications, engineer-

ing control for purpose-built fan-stage

and significantly, the introduction of

fall-restraint equipment applied to all

work conducted at height.

The main area requiring extra controls

was working from work platforms at-

tached to ITs, charging operations and

air-leg ladder rising. This would affect

all Barminco operations in Western

Australia, Queensland, Tasmania, Ghana

and Egypt. The over 250 employees that

regularly work at height, including service

crews and charge-up and air-leg miners,

would need to be trained and kitted out

with fall-prevention equipment.

Trials of fall-arrest equipment began

at St Barbara’s Marvel Loch Gold Mine

and Barrick Kanowna Belle Gold Mine,

where drop tests were conducted from

work-platforms and open-stopes. With

various fall-arrest and restraint systems

trialled, it became apparent that fixed-

length and retractable lanyards were

not suitable for work from platforms

underground.

In January 2010, the WA State Mining

Engineer issued a directive to all mines

that extra and appropriate fall-prevention

measures be put in place for all work

conducted from elevated work platforms

underground.

Jason Brown and Paul Richardson,

from specialist PPE designer and manu-

facturer Sperian Protection, provided

expert guidance on suitable equip-

ment selection and then made design

changes to Sperian standard products

to meet Barminco’s requirements for

tamper-proof, fall-restraint lanyards for

work platforms and open-hole work.

Sperian also worked with Barminco

to produce its ‘Prevention of Falls’

Procedure.

Ongoing trials of a lower-body har-

ness and short-restraint lanyard provid-

ing a comfortable, practical solution for

air-leg miners is currently being devel-

oped by Sperian for Barminco which,

after final risk assessment, will result

in industry-first best practice.

Barminco’s introduction of fall-pre-

vention equipment worn in fall-restraint

configuration for underground mining

purposes now ensures the risk of

injuries from falling from height is

practically eliminated from their opera-

tions; keeping in line with their goal of

ensuring all employees go home to

their families safe and sound.

Gra

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The original Masterpact M chassis is kept (no intervention on the switchboard structure)

Masterpact NW adapted for the "Plug & Play" solution

Masterpact M

30 minutes* to retrofit your air circuit breaker on your main switchboard!Was your air circuit breaker installed before 2003? The "Plug & Play" solution delivered by Schneider Electric enables a fast and simple retrofit of your existing Masterpact M device to the latest technology of Masterpact NW. The existing Masterpact M chassis is retained. Busbar and cable connections are not disturbed, only the circuit concerned needs to be isolated (for as little as 30 minutes*).

* Typical time for simple installations Need more information?Contact your local Auslec or L&H branch

Give your switchboard a new lease on life with "Plug & Play"

Fast and easy implementation

Certified "Plug & Play" solution

Continuity of service guaranteed

www.schneider-electric.com.au Electrical Contractors LicencesSchneider Electric (Australia) Pty Limited is licensed under the relevant state electrical safety acts: QLD: 66116; NSW: 150195C; VIC: 17615; SA: PGE210184; WA: EC008813; NT: C2356

Think LED Lighting, Think Philips

High efficiency sustainable downlight solutionsIn our endeavor to meet the needs of our customers, we are constantly pushing the limits. Our innovation pipeline is delivering new, responsible forms of lighting that improve people’s experience of light. LED lighting offers energy-saving solutions that help us create a sustainable future.

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For more information contact Philips on 1300 304 404 or lightingsalesdesk@philips.com

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