Government reverses 'lethal' electrical rule change after inspectors' warnings

The government has reversed a rule change following warnings from electrical inspectors that homes and businesses would be exposed to a new lethal risk.The Electrical Inspectors Association said the removal of the Protective Earth Neutral (PEN) protections could render entire systems "lethal, possibly with multiple injuries or fatalities" even when they were operating normally.Energy Minister Simon Watts said he was taking the feedback seriously.WorkSafe commissioned an independent review by an international expert to provide assurance on its advice to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, which instituted the rule change.On Thursday the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment said while WorkSafe has provided advice on how the risks associated with PEN switching could be managed, there remained significant concern within the sector about whether it can be used safely.It said due to differing views the switching ban was being reinstated while further work was done on risks and benefits.