Foil Insulation
There have been media reports about deaths associated with the installation of foil insulation in roof spaces.
Foil insulation sheets are not generally used in the ACT. The product is better suited to tropical climatic conditions such as in Queensland, where it is popular because heat reflection is needed under rooflines with no heat retention at night.
However, anyone wanting to use and install this form of insulation should be aware of the electrical safety risk associated with any retro-fitting of heavy aluminium foil in Canberra's roof spaces.
Foil conducts electricity. When foil insulation is installed incorrectly over live plastic cables and equipment, the product can become electrified and dangerous to people working in the roof space and occupants below. For example, death from electrocution has occurred when installers have used metallic fasteners to position the insulation foil sheets and the fasteners have penetrated electricity cables underneath, causing the foil to become 'live'.
As with any insulation, installers of foil insulation must meet relevant Australian standards and have completed a Commonwealth recognised induction training program that includes electrical safety awareness. As part of a range of new safeguards for installers introduced last year under a Federal Government rebate scheme, the use of metallic fasteners with foil insulation was banned.
Homeowners who plan to install additional or first time roofing insulation should engage a licensed electrician to advise the insulation installer about mandatory clearances around light fittings and transformers.
For more information
For more information on foil insulation and potential risks, call ACTPLA on 6207 1923 and ask for the electrical inspectors section.
