Dangerous cable identified at nine Auckland sites

Energy Safety, part of WorkSafe New Zealand, has issued a warning about non-compliant and unsafe thermoplastic-sheathed (TPS) cable being supplied and sold in New Zealand

The cable is marked “EESS 150102-0” and comes in a white or yellow-coloured sheathing. Testing has shown that the cable insulation will become brittle and fracture within a few years of installation and carries a significant electric shock and fire risk.

Master Electrician’s chief executive Neville Simpson says that, when made properly, cable insulation could be expected to have a lifespan of 40 to 50 years.

“Our message to industry following this incident is that it highlights how important it is to use reputable suppliers and wholesalers to ensure products are compliant.”

An Energy Safety spokesman said the cable had been identified in nine building sites across Auckland, including an apartment complex under construction, and that they were working with building owners and developers to remedy the situation. The spokesman said that as far as he was aware, “most parties were working to replace the faulty cable”.

Lyon Electrical Ltd, the company identified as the main importer and installer of the cable, was placed into voluntary liquidation on 2 August. Derek Ah Sam and Paul Vlasic of Rodgers Reidy are administering the liquidation.

The first liquidators report indicated that the company could owe creditors as much as $2 million, including $1,163,748 to unsecured creditors.

Companies Office records lists Ben Lyon as the sole shareholder and director of Lyon Electrical Ltd. Any affected parties seeking compensation will likely have to file a creditors claim form. The cut-off date for applications is Friday, 15 September 2017.