Death Trap Rebate
The federal government has stopped the use of foil insulation under its rebate program after four deaths, citing fears others will be electrocuted.
Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett announced the suspension after electricians warned houses were being turned into potential death traps by faulty installation of metallic insulation.
Mr Garrett said safety for householders and installers was “an absolute priority” under the government’s Home Insulation Program, which offers rebates for home insulation.
“Metallic foil is conductive and when installed incorrectly, without undertaking the mandatory risk assessments and in breach of clear program requirements, this product can be dangerous,” the minister said in a statement today.
He said there was still evidence of installers using dangerous practices, despite a ban last year on the use of metal fasteners for foil insulation.
“That is why we have taken steps today to suspend the use of foil under this program,” he said.
The suspension follows calls from Master Electricians Australia to have the government’s $1200 rebate withdrawn for foil insulation.
Tags: Absolute Priority, Australia, Breach, Dangerous Practices, Death Trap, Death Traps, Deaths, Fears, Federal Environment Minister, Federal Government, Foil Insulation, Home Insulation, Insulation Program, Master Electricians, Metal Fasteners, Metallic Foil, Peter Garrett, Rebate Program, Rebates, Risk Assessments
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