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MARCH / NEWSAPRIL2016 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF NECA VICTORIAyour INDUSTRYMAGAZINE IN THIS ISSUE  page 26 The New 2016 Tech Roadshow – The industry event you must attend p 14–15: POPULAR INDUSTRY RELATIONS FAQ - IMPORTANT INFORMATION

NECA MEMBERS SERVICES top reasons to join neca todayNECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 OHS Industrial Human Technical Relations Resources Services Free Apprentices Training Fuel Discount Standards & Mentoring Scheme Legal Advice Insurances RACV Environmental Fleet Care Management Vehicle Lighting EcoSmart Advocacy Discounts Services Electricians Debt Finance Industry Business Collection Information Women’spage Network2

NECA NEWS CONTENTSMAR / APR EDITIONCONTENTSPresident’s Report 4Executive Director’s Report 5A Word from the National CEO 6New Members 7NECA VIC Staff Members News 8 PAGE 14Energy Safe Victoria 9Technical News 10–13Industry Relations News: Top Industry Relations FAQ 14–15 NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016OH&S News: Back to Basics 16–17How To Manage Your Business 18New Product News 19Industry News 21Industry News The Rise of The Batteries 22–25NECA Events: 2016 ‘Tech-Advantage’ Roadshow 26NECA Educations & Careers 29Business Tips: Is Social Media Worth It? 312016 RDO Guide Calendar 332016 Suggested 38 Hour Week RDO Guide 34Recommended Industry Charge Out Rates 35 PAGE 22NECA Victoria PAGE 26 pageNECA News is the official journal of NECA Victoria.Address Level 12, 222 Kings Way, South Melbourne, VIC 3205 3Tel (03) 9645 5533 or 1300 300 031Facsimile (03) 9645 5544Internet www.neca.asn.au/vicE-mail [email protected] expressed by contributors in articles, and reproduced articles arethe individual opinions of such reproduced articles (as the case may be) andnot necessarily those of NECA. The opinions, advice and information containedherein have not been sought by any member or any other person but are offeredsolely in pursuance of the Association and the authors intentions to provide aninformation service.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT PRESIDENT’S REPORT John Cutler NECA VIC President DON’T LEAVE YOURSELF OPEN TO RISKNECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 As individuals in our personal & businesses we became overheated which caused workers to take industrial action face risks every day, many of these arising out of which resulted in an interruption to business. Claim was awarded unforeseeable circumstances. That’s just life, we experience due to loss of earnings the unexpected. In business we HAVE to take risks. If you don’t take risks then you would not get out of bed. The issue Claim: $220,000 is about managing the risks with comprehensive and appropriate insurance that becomes part of the risk mitigation This just proves claims can arise out of an error or omission and management process. It’s vital that we have in place in design, project management, contract administration policies which will minimize the impact when those “oh dear” and consultancy advice, some of which are not covered in a moments occur. Standard policy. “It’s vital that we have in place policies which Case Study Two: Faulty Workmanship: will minimize the impact when those “oh dear” An electrician is contracted to complete the supply and installation of a switchboard on a small commercial factory. Upon completion of moments occur.” the build, the property is handed over by the builder to the customer. A manufacturing business takes up tenancy, and when full I believe it is therefore crucial for all electrical contractors production commences, a fault with the power supply occurs and to have the most comprehensive insurance cover in place. causes a surge, damaging equipment. The tenant’s plant needs From my recent experience, navigating my way through rectification along with replacement of the switchboard. complex and often confusing insurance jargon is difficult Repair of damaged equipment: $15,450 and has the potential to leave my business exposed if I simply Cost to re-install faulty switchboard: $11,540 go with the cheapest price. This is where NECA have stepped Whilst the design specification of the switchboard is sufficient, in to source for our members, a tailored product designed to there are issues found with the workmanship in the manufacture meet the specific needs of electrical contractors. and installation of the board. Under most policies the cost of I have elected to take up an offer from one of our preferred rectification / repairing the faulty work completed is excluded. suppliers who incorporates both Professional Indemnity & Should this scenario be of a concern to you and your business, it is Faulty Workmanship cover in with the Public Liability Cover. vital to look for a policy that has an extension of cover for the costs Below are some examples provided to me which outline the associated with recompleting work up to $50,000. importance of having the extended cover: I have recently reviewed my cover with a NECA preferred supplier Case Study One: and I am now confident I have the right cover in place for my business. I couldn’t recommend enough for you all to take the Professional Indemnity Claim opportunity to review your insurance cover. Don’t leave yourself An air conditioning / heating contractor incurred a claim due to exposed to risk. If you need any assistance contact one of our incorrect advice regarding the positioning of an air conditioning NECA members’ services officer or talk to one of our preferred unit within an open plan office. In hot weather the workplace suppliers today.page4

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORTEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT James Keegan Executive Director, NECA VICINTRODUCING VICTORIA’S NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTORWe are pleased to welcome James What would you say to someone have spent time in Sydney and Hong Kong. NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016Keegan as the new Executive Director thinking about joining the electrical Being based in Hong Kong for 6 years I wasfor NECA Victoria chapter. James has communications industry? able to visit many electrical manufacturingbeen in the industry for many years and sites in China, India, South East Asia. I gothas experiences which will assist NECA Congratulations, you have selected the first hand experience of the importanceVic as we enter our centenary. We took best industry available. We will always need of clear communication, at all levels ofsome time out to get to know the real energy and we are constantly improving the organisation. Some of the best ideasJames Keegan. the safety, reliability and efficiency. If you can come from people on the factory floor. join the electrical industry be prepared for They may not have the formal education butHow did you enter the electrical industry? a life time of learning, rich experiences and they have real experience and knowledge. best of all great people to work with.I was really fortunate to enter a preapprentice program and then gain an Could you please tell us a bit about your What are your first impressions of NECA?apprenticeship with one of the largest time spent in product management?employers of the time Bayley & Grimster. Well my first impression with NECAThe apprenticeship provided some great Early in my career I applied my technical was 35 years ago with the prestigiouslearning experiences which I still draw knowledge with my marketing qualification apprenticeship awards. I was neverupon today, with working in foundaries, and focused on a group of industrial successful however it was clear theymills, automotive production lines, small products which took me into a number of rewarded the best apprentices of the year.manufacturing, large scale commercial industry segments. The opportunity to It is great to see this reward and recognitionconstruction and a fair share of small understand the application and apply the program continues today. I can see a lotcommercial tenancies. standards introduced me to the wonderful of work has been done to bring more value world of business. to our members such as great new toolsWhat did you learn from these like the Technical Knowledge Base (TKB),diverse experiences? What did you do with this the Health Safety Environmental and Quality business knowledge? system (HSEQ) and the plan for the newI learnt, the more I learnt the more I needed NECA Roadshows, 15 locations are plannedto learn. Being in the electrical industry I learnt you could have the best product close to where our members are located.there is always innovation, with products, in the world but unless it answered a realtechnologies and even user experiences. customer need there was little value. What are you expecting to get out of theThe foundation of these skills have been This effectively taught me to listen, NECA Roadshows?taught in the educational institutions listen and listen to the customers.and enhanced with real experience from The customer has great insight and I am keen to meet and listen topeople in the field who have provided some understanding and if you can engage many members, I am eager to understandgreat mentoring. them effectively. how we can best develop solutions to meet their needs in the future. People have Have you always been a Melbourne boy? different needs depending on their stage of business, size, location etc. We need My career and my understanding family to make sure our wide range of offers are have allowed me to pursue many hitting the mark with our members. opportunities outside of Melbourne. I page 5

FROM THE NATIONAL OFFICE FROM THE NATIONAL OFFICE Suresh Manickam NECA CEO A WORD FROM THE CEONECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 By the time you will be reading this Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) In the lead up to the Budget in May, issue of NECA NEWS our conference should provide strict oversight and I have also been meeting with Ministers, in South Africa will be taking place/ monitoring of poorly performing training Shadow Ministers, backbenchers will have happened. We have had an organisations to maintain best practice about a range of electrical industry- excellent response to this event and in this area. friendly policies that are linked to the 260 delegates will be attending/will Government’s call for greater national have attended the event. I will update Advocacy Update innovation to help grow the economy. you on the outcomes in my next update. Each year, the Government calls for As you can imagine much of the talk and industry bodies such as ours to put Infinity cables Campaign debate in Canberra at the moment is forward recommendations that help around the prospect of an early double- boost industry and we are pushing for The Infinity challenge continues and dissolution Federal election and the use a range of things such including mature- we endorse the Australian Competition of legislation to reinstate the Australian age wage-subsidy, home energy and and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Building and Construction Commission safety audits, a reduction in company campaign to alert homeowners to the (ABCC). We have long been an advocate tax and improvements around security dangers of having Infinity cable in for the reintroduction of the ABCC of payment. their homes. These cables (branded and have been calling on the Senate Infinity and Olsen) were recalled by to support this legislative change. So the next couple of months will the ACCC in 2014, having been found to The Building and Construction Industry certainly not be dull and/or uneventful. become more brittle than the standard, (Improving Productivity) Bill was passed compliant cable. The condition of these in the House of Representatives in cables could deteriorate to the point early February. But it has been delayed in where a heat source could spark a fire or the Senate for an Inquiry. NECA has made shock. And where the cable has been in a submission to this inquiry – which can place for five years or more this outcome be found on our website. We believe is now possible. the passage of this legislation is in the national interest and one that Greater VET scrutiny would lead to greater transparency in the building and construction sector. Following media reports around the Unfortunately, it may take an election management practices of an Australia- and a new Senate to secure the passage wide provider of training. NECA is calling of this legislation. on the Government to give greater scrutiny to the Vocational Education and Training sector. We believe that thepage6

NECA VIC WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS NEW MEMBERSNECA Victoria continues to grow with the companies listed below now enjoying the manybenefits that membership provides.Join Date Name Suburb 16/02/16 Fredon Industries Pty Ltd KENSINGTON18/01/16 True South Electrical MALVERN EAST 19/02/16 Embrace Solutions ESSENDON NORTH19/01/16 Concept Electair PAKENHAM 22/02/16 Setches Electrical MORNINGTON20/01/16 Hailes Electrical MCCRAE21/01/16 Teaslec Electrical CROYDON 22/02/16 Alternative Electrical Solutions SUNSHINE NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 WEST22/01/16 NF Electrical Inspectors Pty Ltd CROYDON 23/02/16 Dantone Systems Pty Ltd WEST FOOTSCRAY27/01/16 Electricians by The Bay MENTONE 23/02/16 Laser Electrical Eltham THOMASTOWN1/02/16 Chuck Electrical SEYMOUR 2/03/16 Sean Golonka Electrical Pty Ltd HASTINGS3/02/16 A.T Electrical Contractors Pty Ltd Dingley Village 2/03/16 Hi-Stream Electrical Services Pty Ltd YARRAM4/02/16 Wild Electrics LYSTERFIELD 2/03/16 LV Electrical & Maintenance TRARALGON5/02/16 Caddy Electrical BITTERN 3/03/16 BJS Electrical Services Pty Ltd NIDDRIE9/02/16 Led Saves VERMONT 4/03/16 Longaz ElectricS & Solar Pty Ltd LONGWARRY10/02/16 Blue Light Technologies RESERVOIR 8/03/16 3G Energy Solutions CHELTENHAM11/02/16 Truelight Electrical & Data Pty Ltd FRANKSTON 8/03/16 Michael Wall MOOROOLBARK15/02/16 Sparkn Data & Electrical PORT 9/03/16 Brad Mongta Electrical Services DERRIMUT MELBOURNE15/02/16 WireZ Electrical Contractors LANGWARRIN 9/03/16 LC Electrical Services Pty Ltd ALTONA NORTH16/02/16 MBK Electrical Pty Ltd SWIFTS CREEK 15/03/16 Azzbright Electrical ALTONA NORTH16/02/16 K2 Electrical Solutions MCKINNON18/02/16 NSF Electric LEICHHARDT page 7

NECA VIC STAFF MEMBER NEWS NECA VIC Staff Member News WELCOME TO THE TEAM ANDREW! We would like to introduce Andrew McIlroy to NECA VIC Chapter as Industry Relations Manager. Andrew joins us at the end of March and brings with him years of experience in Industry relations, which will be of a great value to our members. Andrew is an industry expert in wages and conditions, awards, EBAs and non-union agreements, to industrial disputes and unfair dismissal claims. We would like to welcome Andrew to the NECA VIC family.NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY OUR INDUSTRY SPONSORS NECA encourages all our members to support our Industry sponsors Platinum Sponsors Gold Sponsors COMMERCIALpage8

ENERGY SAFE VICTORIAA MESSAGE FROM ESV Paul Fearon Director of Energy Safe VictoriaIn my last column I wrote about the and maintain electrical installationstragic death of a 75-year-old man near and equipment, particularly if theyGeelong in November. The man was are experiencing minor electric shockselectrocuted while attempting to repair or tingles. NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016a pump on a rural property.Two deaths in two months have sharply “It’s never acceptable to try fixingbrought home the problem of farmers andelectrical equipment or getrural workers performing work they are notqualified to do. These people may havearound the problem by addingthought they were saving time or moneybut they paid with their lives. extra fuse wire or bypassing“Ican’temphasiseenoughthat circuitbreakers.”qualified electricians must A slight tingle or fuses blowing regularly Sadly, accidents also happen withperform any type of electrical are signs of a serious problem and they qualified tradespeople. This industryinstallation work.” need to be investigated by a qualified had a tragic start to 2016 when a 24-year- tradesperson. It’s never acceptable to try old apprentice electrician was killed onI can’t emphasise enough that qualified fixing electrical equipment or get around 5 January.electricians must perform any type of the problem by adding extra fuse wire orelectrical installation work. No matter the bypassing circuit breakers. The father of one was working on thereason, there is no circumstance where it roof of the Dallas Shopping Centreis safe or acceptable to perform electrical It’s also crucial for farmers to understand in Melbourne’s north when he waswork when unqualified to do so. that water and electricity can be a fatal electrocuted. It was the first Victorian combination. Before clearing or check a workplace fatality of the year.ESV is about to launch a new campaign pump or float switch, it is essential to turn ESV and WorkSafe are investigating butspecially targeted at farmers and off the pump before entering the water or it is believed an incorrectly terminatedrural workers and we won’t be mincing touching the equipment. or un-insulated active wire causedour words. The title of the campaign is the shock.DIY=DIE. It’s designed to drive home the While farmers are adept at a rangemessage that doing your own electrical of skills, electrical work is not something All RECs are responsible for ensuringor gas work is not only illegal but unlicensed people should ever attempt. that apprentices are adequatelypotentially fatal. ESV’s message is to always call in a supervised and not exposed to live wiring. licensed electrician or a registered Guidelines for apprentice supervisionOur advice to farmers is that they need gasfitter, no matter how remote the were published in the Spring 2015 editionto be very careful about how they manage property or how simple the job may of Energysafe magazine and are also appear to be. available on the ESV website. page 9

TECHNICAL NEWS NECA TECHNICAL NEWS Roy Sands Technical Services Officer, NECA Vic STRONG FOCUS ON SAFE WORK PRACTICES SAVES LIVESNECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 This financial year alone, there have been six fatal electrocutions within the Victorian electrical industry. Frequently, this is incorrectly referred Adhering to existing This shocking statistic highlights the to as the DO NOT WORK LIVE clause. regulations and sound urgent need for all of us to become In reality, there is no such thing basic principles is a obsessed with safe work practices. as a ‘do not work live clause’ that great way to dramatically Not only do we need to look out for our prohibits us from working on live improve our chances of own personal safety, we also have a circuits or equipment. The correct coming home each day moral and legal obligation to ensure the interpretation of this clause is alive and well. safety of those around us. The analysis derived from the combination of both of each incident is an important statements. There are times when opportunity to learn valuable lessons the need to conduct fault finding or which help to us to prevent future a facility’s operational requirements, fatalities. However, adhering to existing make it impossible to isolate the power regulations and sound, basic principles supply. In these instances, working live is a great way to dramatically improve is permitted provided that adequate our chances of coming home alive and precautions are taken to prevent well every day. electric shock or other injury. The Electricity Safety Act 1998 part three (3) clause 43 (4) states that a person carrying out electrical installation work must ensure that – • All electrical circuits or electrical equipment handled in the course of that work are disconnected from the electricity supply; or • Adequate precautions are taken to prevent electric shock or other injury in the handling of electrical circuits or electrical equipment in the course of that work.page10

Regardless of whether we are circumstances and therefore mistakenly TECHNICAL NEWSconducting live electrical work or not, believe that they can safely worklive.there are a few basic principles that any electrical installation. No matter This is incorrect as the safety switch NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016we must follow to ensure our safety: how much you trust your work mates, does not provide protection against everyone makes mistakes. Don’t take faults between live conductors• Never touch a conductor or terminal any chances with your life. (active and neutral). with your bare hands without testing it first to ensure that supply has • Always use the lock out / tag out Safety switch does been isolated isolation procedure prescribed by your not provide protection employer or customer. Remember to against faults between• Always use a test instrument that is complete the attached labels with live conductors well suited to the task: all details especially your name and (active and neutral). contact number. - Installations with circuits located They also do not provide protection in close proximity to each other Unfortunately two recent fatalities against voltages imported into an can have induced or ‘ghost’ have involved apprentices. This raises electrical installation’s earthing system voltages in non-energised concerns in relation to the effective through supply neutral conductor faults. circuits. A meter with a low supervision of electrical apprentices. Remember the use of safety switches impedance function (LoZ) can help In the past, the Energy Safe Victoria is intended only to augment the safety to differentiate between these website contained a very prescriptive provided by basic overload and short ‘ghosts’ and real voltages. table that matched tasks to be circuit protection devices. Never just rely performed by apprentices to the year on a safety switch when working live. - While proximity or non-contact of their apprenticeship and showed the voltage testers do have their place, appropriate level of supervision required. Safety is your primary responsibility they should be used sparingly This table no longer exists and has when working on electrical circuits and only trusted when they been replaced with documentation that or electrical equipment. Whenever indicate that a voltage is present. is aligned to the current competency possible, don’t work live. If it’s not When they indicate no voltage, based training package. This matches reasonably practicable to remove this should be verified with an the task an apprentice is permitted to supply, then a risk assessment needs appropriate tester. perform to his/her level of achieved to be conducted and adequate control competency (stage of training measures must be put into place to• Never assume that your tester is completed) and determines the level of prevent electric shock or other injury in working correctly. It is critical to supervision required – direct, general or the course of the work. test the tester immediately prior broad supervision. to use and then again immediately Your safety and the safety of your work after use. If you fail to test the tester In the coming months, NECA will be mates depends on you. immediately after use, then you can’t running workshops to fully explain the validate your measurement. This must requirements for apprentice supervision Please contact Roy Sands at NECA on become second nature to electrical associated with this competency based 03 9645 5533 for additional information workers and always be part of their training package. you may require on this article or any testing process. technical information you may require. Far too many people including electrical• Never take anyone else’s word that the workers believe that a Safety Switch Need more information? supply has been isolated. Always check (RCCB) will protect them under all for yourself before starting work on • Electricity Safety Act 1998 • Electricity Safety (installation) Regulations • Occupation Health and Safety Act – 2004 • Safe working on or near low voltage electrical installations – AS/NZS 4836 page 11

TECHNICAL NEWS NECA TECHNICAL NEWS Ian Johnson EcoSmart Electrician Manager, NECA Vic CONVERGENCE OF TECHNOLOGIES: POWER-OVER-ETHERNET MEETS LED LIGHTING In this article, Ian Johnson from NECA EcoSmart Electricians examines the impacts of Power-over-Ethernet technology on the future of lighting. Power over Ethernet, or PoE is a way of providing power to electrical equipment through Ethernet cables – the same ones that already form the backbone of most IT networks.NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 Ethernet cables consist of four pairs of twisted copper wires that were originally designed to carry data. Only 2 pairs are actually required for 10/100Mb Ethernetcommunications, which leaves two pairs unused. This led to the idea of using these redundant provide dazzling light output while The power consumption of LED wires to power up low wattage devices. consuming very little power. LED lighting lighting sources is now so low, that we As long as a device consumes a limited is already helping building owners don’t really need mains cables to amount of power (up to about 60W at around the world to significantly reduce power them – standard Ethernet cables the moment), Ethernet cables can be their energy costs and carbon footprints. can do the job. used to provide both power and data But cost savings and greenhouse gas communication at the same time. emission reductions are not the only Using Ethernet cables for lighting PoE technology is commonly used in benefits of low energy lighting. applications offers significant benefits. devices such as data switches, wireless Firstly, data cable is much cheaper access points, IP cameras, intercoms For lighting control to go beyond than regular low voltage lighting cable. and VOIP telephones. simple on/off switching and dimming Only one cable needs to be run to a functions, some form of control system device as it provides both power and “LED lighting is already is required. Installing advanced lighting communication. PoE systems operate systems is expensive, because they at 44–57V DC, so there is no need for a helping building owners generally require both power cables and protective earth conductor or, for that dedicated control cables. There are a matter, a licenced electrician to install around the world to few possibilities for managing control the cabling. An open registration cable signals in lighting control systems: licence is all that is required. significantly reduce • Use of a dedicated hard wired control Philips Lighting are one of the pioneers their energy costs and signal cable network of PoE lighting systems. According to carbon footprints.” the company’s estimates, a wiring • Transmit control signals wirelessly installation for a PoE lighting system using specifically equipped drivers can be as low as 25% of a conventional lighting system. But that’s just the • Transmit control signals over beginning – the real benefits only power cables, using power line carrier communication technology Over the last few years, we have • Transmit control signals through the become evident post installation. witnessed an amazing technological same cable that is use to power the revolution in LED lighting. Today’s LED lights – which is where PoE comes The biggest advantage is the level of luminaires boast exceptional life and into the spotlight intelligence that an Ethernet-basedpage12

lighting control system can bring. ‘The lighting system acts as an Bluhme, Director of City, Environment TECHNICAL NEWSEvery light becomes an intelligent information pathway, enabling workers and Employment at the Municipalitynetwork device with its own IP address. to control and access other building of Albertslund, says: NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016This makes it easy to control and services using their smartphones,monitor lighting through a building’s allowing them to enjoy greater visual ‘The lab will have an intelligentlocal area network or even remotely comfort and productivity.’ ceiling with power over Ethernet,via the Internet. If the light fittings where you replace the traditional lightincorporate presence, temperature, “The biggest advantage is installations based on electricity with aambient light and other sensors, the level of intelligence that data cable. Then you add sensors to thethey can interact with and control an Ethernet-based lighting luminaires so you can register mobileother building systems. control system can bring.” phones and control not only installations in the building but also functions –The future is now – PoE lighting systems Equipped with sensors, the fittings meetings, bookings, movements,already delivering user benefits capture data on room occupancy, and so on. That will be really useful in temperature and humidity. They connect exhibition halls.’Philips has its commercially available to the IT network and interface withPoE lighting control system up and other building systems such as heating, The technology will also be used torunning at the company’s head office ventilation and IT services. So facility power biodynamic lighting, whichin Sydney as well as an installation managers have a single system showing changes throughout the day toin an entirely new office building, how their buildings are being used. simulate daylight, he says.occupied by accountancy firm Deloitte,in Amsterdam. Further developments in PoE lighting Please contact Ian Johnson from NECA technology EcoSmart Electricians on 03 9645 5533.The Philips PoE lighting system can workwith third-party luminaires and talks A Danish, industry-backed, lighting Reference sourcesto any existing control systems that test lab is experimenting with power The author wishes to recognisemay already be installed in a building. over Ethernet as part of its research the contribution & researchThe system is based on a network of into smart lighting. Niels Carsten provided by Philips Lighting,small Ethernet switches, so it can be LUX Review & technical editor –scaled from just a handful of luminaires Robert Bain in the compilationright up to 1,000 fittings. of this articleJeff Cassis, senior VP of global lightingsolutions at Philips Lighting says: page 13

INDUSTRY RELATIONS NEWS Industrial Relations News Alana Costa Employee Relations Advisor, NECA Vic TOP INDUSTRY RELATIONS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 1. How does the travel and fares allowances work? Travel and fares allowances are two separate allowances, each are payable daily when an employee presents themselves for work, starting and/or finishing on a job site.NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 • The travel allowance of $5.78 is paid daily to employees for presenting themselves to work (apprentices are entitled to a proportionate amount – see wage rate bulletin). • The fares allowance of either $18.80 or $3.37 is payable depending on the method of transportation; 1. If an employee is provided with “Employees who start Please note above information is a company vehicle, or is offered reflective of the Electrical Electronic and Communications Contracting Award 2010 transportation by the company to and finish work at an and the applicable allowance rates as of start and/or finish work on site, 1st July 2015 and are subject to change in accordance with amendments. If you the daily payable allowance is $3.37. have an Enterprise Agreement in place you must refer to the terms contained within employers registered office2. If an employer requests an employee that Agreement. to use their own vehicle to start and/ 2. Do I have to reimburse or depot each day, are notor finish on site, the daily payable apprentices’ TAFE fees? entitled to the travel and allowance is $18.80. According to the Electrical Electronic and Communications Contracting Award 2010, Paying both the travel and fares allowance fares allowances.” there is an obligation under clause 12.8 each day, provides the most productivity “Training Costs” for an employer to as employees are not “on the clock” until (Additional payments are applicable reimburse the cost of TAFE fees and they reach the site, and they finish being when an employee is required to travel in any costs associated with prescribed paid upon completion of work on site. excess of the 50km radius- please contact text books (that an employer doesn’t NECA VIC Industry Relations Department for have available to loan to the employee), The travel and fares allowance covers further advice) incurred by an employee in connection employees’ traveling costs for a radius of with training specified in the training up to 50km from the employers’ registered Employees who start and finish work at contract (the apprenticeship). office or depot. Therefore, there is no an employers registered office or depot additional payment owed to employees each day, are not entitled to the travel and when traveling to and from jobs within the fares allowances. 50km radius.page14

An employer satisfies this provision by INDUSTRY RELATIONS NEWSmaking payment for the reimbursementto the apprentice within 6 months of thecommencement of the apprenticeship orthe relevant stage of the apprenticeship.Additionally, as noted in this clause,the obligation to reimburse is onlynecessary when an apprentice candemonstrate satisfactory progress.There is no definition of “unsatisfactoryprogress” in the Electrical Award,however NECA advise that where anapprentice does not display an appropriatelevel of commitment and dedication tothe training and subsequently fails unitsof competency, there is no obligationto reimburse the costs associated withthe failed unit/s.NECA’s best practice advice to employers, “NECAadvisethatatleast If an employee is dismissed and that NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016is to explain to apprentices that onewrittenwarningistobe employee was to make an unfair dismissalreimbursement will take place upon providedtothe employee.” claim against the employer, the Fair Workthe apprentice providing evidence Commission may look at the process thatof payment for the fees, as well as conditions of employment under the has taken place to dismiss the employee.satisfactory progress. This will serve Electrical Electronic and Communications i.e. was the employee consulted regardingas motivation for apprentices’ to Contracting Award 2010, and the National their performance or conduct? Was theresuccessfully complete their off-the- Employment Standards (NES). a clear warning to the employee that ajob training and therefore maximus the termination may follow if the performanceapprentices’ efficiency when on the job. or conduct did not improve?3. Can I offer work experience to The Fair Work Ombudsman website has a Please contact NECA Victoria’s Industry a person prior to offering them handy fact sheet regarding “unpaid work” Relations Department on 9645 5533 for employment as an apprentice? that is downloadable from this link https:// any further information you may require on www.fairwork.gov.au/how-we-will-help/ this month’s article or any other employeeIt is common for NECA employers to be templates-and-guides/fact-sheets/ relations matters of interest or concern toapproached by a young person requesting unpaid-work/unpaid-work your business.unpaid work experience – particularlyduring school holidays. 4. Warnings – how do they work and While we endeavour to provide accurate, do I have to give 3 warnings before up-to-date information and all reasonableGenerally, ‘work experience’ is an terminating employment? care has been taken in the preparationarrangement entered into between of the material contained in this article,a business or organisation and an There is no hard and fast rule when it the reliability and accuracy of theeducation institution to allow a student comes to issuing warnings to employees. information and advice provided cannotthe opportunity to observe and undertake An employer does not have to give be guaranteed and NECA Victoria Chapter,a level of on-the-job experience, three warnings to an employee before a its employees, authors and contributorswithout pay, whilst still attending school. termination takes place. However, NECA expressly disclaim liability for any actNECA advise that employers only take advise that at least one written warning is or omission done in reliance on theon persons who are participating in a to be provided to the employee. Employers information or advice provided or for anyrecognised work experience program, need to follow their termination policy consequences, whether direct or indirect,as to avoid instances where a student regarding how many warnings may need to of any act or omission. NECA Victoriamay be deemed an employee and be given. Chapter are not responsible for the resultssubsequently subject to the minimum of any actions taken or not taken based on the information provided. page 15

OH&S NEWS OH&S NEWS Paul Burgess OH&S Advisor, NECA Vic BACK TO BASICSNECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 The Victorian construction sector has to these more inexperienced workers. according to the SWMS and that the controls in place are adequate. If the over recent months suffered a number of This task induction should be an integral work is not being done in accordance to the SWMS or the risk controls are avoidable workplace fatalities. Whilst we part of your Safe Work Method Statement not adequate, stop the work immediately and review the SWMS to address cannot change what has happened, it is review on site. You do not want to start these shortfalls. an opportunity to pause for a moment answering questions after a workplace Working at Heights and consider some of the basic things we incident with \"I thought...”. Working at heights is an integral part of an electrician's daily work, whether it need to manage to ensure we can prevent is the use of elevated work platforms, harnesses or ladders. As working at a reoccurrence. “Ensure yourworkers height is such a common task that it is havetaskinductions, very easy for complacency to creep in. Safety Inductions When planning the job, consider the We all do site inductions on the larger especiallythe newer,more hierarchy of control for the prevention of sites but on arrival at the smaller sites, falls to ensure that the most appropriate height access equipment for the task you must ask yourself a few questions: is used. Don't try to get away with a ladder when an elevated work platform inexperienced employees.”• Do you spend a minute or two with your is required. workers to go through the site specific House Keeping issues that you may encounter and the If the site is untidy with rubbish and rubble everywhere, it not only impedes potential dangers to watch out for? Safe Work Method Statements your access and productivity but it also • Have you inducted your workers into presents a major safety issue. Your client has an obligation to provide you with a your business? Whilst we're on the subject of Safe safe workplace. • Have you communicated your safety Work Method Statements (SWMS), policies and expectations to them, they are of little value if they are not if your employees don't know what consistently utilized. The SWMS’s are a your expectations are, then it may be vital step in identifying the hazards and a little bit difficult for them to comply. risks associated with the task at hand and ensuring that you have identified Ensure your workers have task all the site specific hazards. And the inductions, especially the newer, more final stage of the SWMS is to ensure that inexperienced employees. To ensure that adequate measures have been put in they fully understand the requirements place to control the risk. and hazards of the task at hand, Review your SWMS on site with your as what the more experienced people workers and monitor the work will like yourself might consider common ensure that the task is being performed knowledge, may be new informationpage16

OH&S NEWSIsolation – • Has the Live Work policy and the Take the time to review your Isolation and NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016are your procedures up to scratch? Isolation and Lock Out / Tag Out Lock Out / Tag Out requirements with your procedures been communicated to crew, make sure they understand yourWorking on, or near live installations your employees, ie in a Company OHS requirements and most importantly makeexposes electrical workers to risks Induction and / or Toolbox Talk? sure they follow your procedures on site.that can, in most instances, be easilyavoided. Today, instances of electrical • Are the isolation and Lock Out / Tag Don’t let the pressure of getting thingsworkers working live simply because Out requirements detailed in SWMS, finished now from the clients to takethe client doesn’t want it isolated, or and have those SWMS been reviewed precedence over the safety and lives ofisolation procedures being ignored for the on site? you and your employees.sake of convenience are unacceptable. • And most importantly are these Should you require any assistance with requirements reinforced on site? any Health and Safety matter please contact the NECA Safety Department onLet’s look at the following hypothetical “Take the timetoreviewyour 03 9645 5533 or [email protected]”electrical incident. IsolationandLockOut/TagOut requirementswithyourcrew.”An employee is working on liveequipment, and receives a fatal shock. If you answered no to any of the above questions then it may well be time• Could you establish that the risk was to consider the consequences prior to not reasonably foreseeable? an incident.• With the benefit of hindsight, did you really have to work live?• Does the company have a policy in place limiting Live Work?• Does the company have an Isolation and Lock Out / Tag Out procedure? page 17

NEW PRODUCT NEWS TACKLE THE ISSUE OF LATE PAYMENTSNECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 Having a healthy cash flow helps your field service business reduce financing costs while making it easier to pay your suppliers, bills, and employees. Many electrical service businesses, however, often find that while their profit and sales are good, their cash flow seems to be constantly low. One of the primary culprits behind cash flow issues is unpaid invoices. But chasing customers for money can be a delicate business. Being stern or demanding can damage the relationship, while being too soft can create its own problems. Don’t wait until your cash flow is so strained your business is at risk. Get in touch with late payers quickly or, better yet, use invoicing software to streamline your invoicing and payment systems. IMPROVED ACCURACY AND EFFICIENCY Preparing handwritten invoices or manually sending simPRO PAYMENTS bills after a job increases the chance that either the employee or customer will make a mistake. With the allinone payment feature in simPRO Service, Invoicing software that creates invoices on the spot simPRO Payments, you can collect payment for automates these tasks and notifies the user if there your services quickly and securely by credit card, are any inaccuracies. without the need for bank merchant facilities. Using software that allows for onthespot payment is even better, as clients can pay before the technician has left the site. This again minimises the risk of incorrect or late payments. SPECIAL OFFER TO NECA VIC MEMBERS When used with the simPRO Connect mobile app, simPRO Payments enables your technicians As an NECA VIC member, you’ll receive one Service to collect payment in the field as soon as a job licence and one Connect licence free for the is complete. lifetime of your membership*. Save a total of $1176 per year! Your customers can also pay you online through the customer portal, by following a link in an * Offer is valid to NECA Victoria Members for one free simPRO emailed invoice, or over the phone. All payments Service office licence and one simPRO are processed through the simPRO system. Connect field licence for the life of their NECA Victoria This ensures prompt payment of your invoices Membership. Should the company cease their NECA Victoria membership, and keeps your cash flow positive, while providing they will be required to pay an access fee to continue their a high standard of service that your customerspage simPRO licences. will appreciate.18

New Product News NEW PRODUCT NEWSCLIPSAL BY SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC OFFERS MORE OPTIONS FOR USB CHARGINGWith so many more connected Ideally suited to new installations in Enhanced USB charging performance NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016devices within the home and hotels, premium commercial spacescommercial buildings, take advantage and residential applications, the plates With BC1.2 Compliance and Cableof Clipsal’s USB charging outlet to get are also easy to retrofit. This means Compensation, the 30USBCM optimisesyour smart devices, and those of your the plates can be used to upgrade the charging voltage and current tocustomers, charged without the need existing Saturn installations with USB minimise the time it takes you to chargeto use a traditional outlet. charging options, or to provide a facelift your portable device. The charger outlets from standard plates to the more include short-circuit, over-voltage andDesigned in Australia for Australian aesthetically pleasing Saturn range. over-temperature protection to ensureconditions and standards Clipsal by your portable device is kept safe.Schneider Electric has announcedan extension to their USB charger For more information about USB outletoutlet options. The extension enhances options, call your local Clipsal andthe Saturn Double GPOs (in all colours Schneider Electric Partner representativeacross the Saturn, Saturn Horizon and on 1300 369 233 or visit clipsal.com/usbSaturn Zen ranges) with the additionof a single 30USBCM charger as astandard reference, and Saturn ZenTwin Dataplate with twin 30USBCMUSB chargers and Smart Shelf.MONITOR ENERGY USE… ANYWHERE, ANYTIMEClipsal by Schneider Electric’s Wiser Link Meter and 5 CT sensors). It is best suited improve the way our customersEnergy Management System lets your for new builds, or major renovations, but it manage and automate their operations.customers measure and monitor their can be retrofitted in most circumstances. Our connected technologies willhome’s energy use anywhere, anytime. reshape industries, transform cities and The app is available to download enrich lives. At Schneider Electric, we callThe system can track usage across from Apple iTunes or Google Play. this Life Is On.electricity, gas and water, and is For more information visit clipsal.com/comprised of an app, an energy monitor, wiserlinktrade www.schneider-electric.comWiser Link MIP (Internet CommunicationModule) and a Wiser Link EM5 Kit (Energy About Schneider Electric Schneider Electric is the global specialist in energy management and automation. With revenues of €25 billion in FY2014, our 170,000 employees serve customers in over 100 countries, helping them to manage their energy and process in ways that are safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable. From the simplest of switches to complex operational systems, our technology, software and services page 19

FEATURE ARTICLE While you’re on the tools, so are we.NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 We know you don’t want to spend your time worrying about insurance, but would your current insurance be enough to see you through? We’ve worked with NECA to develop an insurance solution to meet the specific needs of their members. Our combined Public Liability & Professional Indemnity Policy with an extension for Faulty Workmanship, is essential for Electrical Contractors. So let the experts in trade insurance take care of everything for you. Call your local Adroit Broker today and rest easy knowing you’re in good hands. NECA Contact Damon Edwards on preferred 1300 MY ADROIT (6923 7648) supplier or email [email protected]

Industry News INDUSTRY NEWSSENATE’S LAST CHANGE TO SUPPORT ABCCThe recent announcement that further “The ABCC will be a positive The unacceptable behaviour and NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016debate would be held in the Senate catalyst for change in the activities, as uncovered by theon legislation to re-establish the building and construction sector.” Royal Commission into Trade UnionAustralian Building and Construction Governance and Corruption cannotCommission (ABCC) is welcomed “We believe that the ABCC will be a be allowed to continue. NECA onceby the National Electrical and positive catalyst for change in the again urges the Senate to pass theCommunications Association. building and construction sector Building and Construction Industry that will ensure greater levels of (Improving Productivity) Bill 2013.“NECA believes that the ABCC’s return transparency, encourage lawful activity Ongoing obstruction in the Senateis a crucial step forward for electrical through harsher penalties and reduce and a failure to pass this legislation iscontractors,” says Chief Executive corrupt activities that leads to a more now likely to be resolved through theOfficer, Suresh Manickam. efficient delivery of key infrastructure constitutional mechanism of a double projects, greater economic productivity dissolution election to be held on“Not only have we been a long-term and the creation of more employment Saturday July 2nd.advocate for the ABCC’s return, we have opportunities,” Mr Manickam said.also been calling upon the Senate topass this critical piece of legislation forour sector.”SLASHING RED TAPE GOOD FOR ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORSThe slashing of red tape and Mr Manickam was commenting after Items such as payroll tax harmonisation,administrative burdens is good news for the release of the Federal Government’s threshold harmonisation,electrical contractors says the CEO of Annual Red Tape Reduction Report1, security of payments, the alignment ofthe National Electrical & Communications which highlighted decisions to reduce reporting timeframes and the introductionAssociation, Suresh Manickam. regulatory impacts on business of of sunset provisions are opportunities for $2.5Billion over the last year. the Government to further reduce red tape“Small Business is the lifeblood of the for electrical contractors.Australian economy and the electrical “Whilst progress has been made,communications and contracting industry there’s plenty more work to do 1 To download the full Federal Government’splays a large role in its growth.” to assist the small and medium Annual Red Tape Reduction Report, go to enterprises of our sector .” http://www.cuttingredtape.gov.au/sites/“More than 90% of businesses within default/files/files/2015_annual_red_our sector employ less than 25 staff, tape_reduction_report.pdfcompared with the national average ofjust over 70%,” Mr Manickam said. 2 To download NECA’s policy submission, go to “We are pleased that the Federal http://neca.asn.au/content/government- Government is listening to the concerns submissions of our sector via our representations, policy submissions2 and our overarching 3 To download NECA’s policy manifesto, go to policy manifesto3.” http://neca.asn.au/sites/default/files/ media/Homepage%20box/NECA%20 “Whilst progress has been made, Policy%20Statement%202015.pdf there’s plenty more work to do to assist the small and medium enterprises of our sector,” said Mr Manickam. page 21

THE RISE OF BATTERIES Industry News Glenn Platt CSIRO SAVE IT FOR LATER – THE INCREDIBLE RISE OF BATTERIES Until recently, one of the well-known What’s Changed? For example, houses in NSW that ‘facts’ of the electricity industry installed solar in 2009 were paid is that large-scale energy storage Using large-scale batteries to store 66 cents for every unit of electricity isn’t possible, or at the least, it isn’t electricity isn’t particularly new, their solar system generated. Today, economically viable – and that but traditionally such systems, houses that install solar are only paid without storage, at any instant in time, usually based on lead-acid batteries, 8 cents for any electricity they export complex systems are needed to ensure were bulky, required careful safety to the grid. electricity supply is very carefully procedures, regular maintenance • Electricity tariffs are becoming matched to electricity demand, or else and were very expensive. They were dramatically more complicated. the lights literally go out. Whilst a basic limited to quite niche applications -NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 truism for many decades, things are for example, providing back-up power in Traditionally, houses and small businesses changing dramatically for largescale telephone exchanges, or supporting off- paid the same amount of money for electricity storage has arrived, and grid power systems in very remote areas. the electricity they used, no matter will soon be a commonplace part of our As far as residential battery systems go, when they used it. Today, ‘time of use’ electricity system. these were limited to crazy enthusiasts electricity tariffs are commonplace, - typically old men with beards driving where the amount of money paid for On the day this article is being written, beaten up old Land Rovers, living in mud electricity varies significantly throughout a household battery system made brick houses. For batteries to be at the the day – from 6 cents in the middle by Tesla, one of the world’s largest point of soon being commonplace in our of the night, to 50 cents at peak time, electric car manufacturers (they sold houses and buildings, some significant usually around 6pm. Some utilities are approximately 50,000 cars in 2015 changes have occurred: even rolling out residential ‘demand’ and these cars are now able to drive tariffs, where a customer pays not only autonomously) was installed in a suburban • The price of battery systems has based on the energy (kWh) they use, house in Western Sydney. The head of decreased significantly – reducing but also on their maximum power demand Tesla also runs a company that supplies by around 70% in the past five years, (kW) during the billing period. rockets to the International Space and continuing to fall. Station and started Paypal, so he is fairly Fundamentally, what will drive the well-known for his success. There are • Electricity prices have significantly mass uptake of battery systems is approximately six other large companies increased – in Australia, simple economics – whilst battery producing batteries that are specifically they increased by over 70% between technology has become safer, simpler, designed for installation in Australian 2007 and 2013. and a lot cheaper, consumer electricity houses and buildings, and utilities around bills have become more complicated Australia are rolling out larger-scale • The price of solar generation systems and expensive, driving consumers battery storage systems to support has dropped dramatically, to the point to want to generate and store their their network. What we once considered where the price of electricity from own electricity. Importantly, nobody a fact is now a myth, and large-scale rooftop solar is competitive to the is really expecting the mass uptake of electricity storage is certainly possible, retail price of electricity from the grid, batteries to mean customers become and indeed economical. meaning batteries can now be filled truly independent of the grid – the from cheap, self-supplied electricity. electricity grid is actually a really useful “Largescale electricity storage way to distribute energy to where it has arrived, and will soon Whilst the above changes have occurred is needed. be a commonplace part worldwide, a number of additional changes are unique to Australia. Being completely independent of the Australia will likely be the first country grid would mean a customer needs in the world with the mass uptake of many more batteries and solar panels distributed battery systems: • The incentives or feed-in tariffs of our electricity system.” for solar systems have changed than is economic - it’s only old guys dramatically in the past five years. in Land Rovers who are likely topage22

completely disconnect from the grid THE RISE OF BATTERIES and become entirely self-sufficient. Rather, batteries will be installed in houses and businesses that remain grid-connected. Ultimately, the battery is simply a way of reducing a customer’s electricity costs.“Ultimately, the battery issimply a way of reducing acustomer’s electricity costs.”Considering these significant changes the house, avoiding the house needing “...predicts around 2.4 million NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016in the industry, investment bank Morgan to purchase expensive electricity from Australian homes will installStanley predicts around 2.4 million the grid at that time. solar and battery systemsAustralian homes will install solar and over the next decade or so.”battery systems over the next decade Solar Storingor so, and these systems will have Such benefits could come from thea payback time of less than 10 years. One of the conundrums with solar aggregate response of a large numberCSIRO and even the Australian Energy electricity systems is that they produce of small battery systems (where aMarket Operator have both released their maximum output in the middle of utility might control the batteries inforecasts that suggest around 30% the day, when in many houses nobody people’s houses, in exchange for aof homes or businesses will have their is home and the electricity load is cheaper electricity bill), or alternativelyown battery systems in the not too relatively low. Batteries can solve this by installing a few very large batterydistant future. problem by saving the solar energy systems at key points in the electricity generated in the middle of the day, and network. Both approaches are beingThe opportunity making it available for later in the day trialled by electricity utilities in when the household load is high, and the Australia today.Ultimately, the economic case of using electricity prices expensive.a battery system in a grid-connected The Technologyhouse or business is based around storing An example of this is shown in Figure 1.electricity so it can be used sometime Such a scenario is also described as The battery systems being deployedlater, when it will be most valuable. using the battery to maximise ‘self- today are a far cry from the large bankBroadly, there are two classic ways that a consumption’ - using the battery to of 2V lead-acid wet cells that made upgrid-connected house or business can use make sure that all the energy generated stationary battery systems just a fewbatteries to reduce their electricity costs. by a customer’s solar system is used to years ago. Today’s systems are entirely benefit that same customer, rather than self-contained and maintenance free.Energy Arbitrage supplying the broader grid (and earning Major components of such a system are: very little for it).Arbitrage means to buy something • The inverter/charger. Traditionallywhen it is cheap, and sell it when Battery systems don’t have to just based on large, expensive low voltagethat same thing becomes more benefit the local household or business (24–48V was common) transformer-expensive. Batteries allow a customer - batteries can offer widespread based inverters, today’s systemsto arbitrage energy by charging off benefits to the broader electricity replace these with transformerlessthe grid when electricity is cheap, grid as well, improving power quality inverters operating at significantlyand then discharging to run the loads and reliability and even reducing higher voltages.when electricity is more expensive. electricity costs for those without aFor example, the battery system battery system, by helping avoid thecould be charged at midnight, taking installation of expensive new poles andadvantage of cheap 6 cent grid wires needed to meet peak demand.electricity. Then, later in the day whenelectricity is at 50 cent peak rates, thebattery is used to provide electricity to continued on page 24 page 23

THE RISE OF BATTERIES continued from page 23NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 • The battery cells. Today’s cells existing solar system, as the battery available is how well integrated the are maintenance free, designed to can be added independently of the various components are. In some operate across a wide range of states existing solar installation. systems the battery module is a of charge, and many thousands of separate box from the inverter/charger charge cycles (often 5000 cycles The alternative, adding a DC coupled and other components. This can allow or more). The most common cells are battery to an existing solar installation, flexibility in installation and component lithium-based (a variety of types of often requires the existing inverter selection, but requires greater lithium batteries exist), or advanced to be changed. Each of the particular installation space and effort. lead acid, which use new cell battery cell technologies (from lithium technology to bring the performance to lead acid and even sodium-ion) that The Tesla system is an example of of lithium to lead-acid battery are available have various advantages such a component system - what’s chemistries. Other up-andcoming cell and disadvantages. We’ll provide a interesting is that most Tesla marketing technologies include Zinc Bromine, detailed study of each technology in a material doesn’t show the critical Vanadium Redox and Sodium-ion future article, but for now, it’s sufficient inverter/charger and other components technologies. to say that there’s no single needed to make the battery work. ‘winning’ technology. Alternatively, a number of systems • Battery management system. are appearing that are a completely These are usually split into When considering everything, from cost integrated ‘energy storage system’, two components - a battery to operating temperature range, to power where the batteries, inverter charger management system on the cells rating, depth of discharge, safety and and other components are all in one itself that ensures the cells are not even recyclability, each of the single box. Such systems have simpler excessively charged or discharged, technologies has different attributes. appearance and installation effort, and, separately, intelligence in the Ultimately, the different technologies but can limit flexibility. inverter/charger that communicates are suited to different applications, with the celllevel management to and careful consideration needs to be Challenges ensure optimal battery performance given to get beyond the marketing hype of many manufacturers. It’s clear that battery systems will • A two-way electricity meter. be widespread in Australian homes One of the final differences between the and businesses over the next In operating modes such as solar various battery system technologies storage, the battery system needs to know whether the local site is importing or exporting energy from the grid. It determines this through a two-way electricity meter that can communicate to the battery – these are usually an extra meter operating in addition to the tariff meter for the site. The most common combined battery and solar systems are ‘DC coupled’, where the batteries and solar panel are connected together on a DC bus, and the inverter/charger interfaces this to the electricity grid. An alternative approach that’s starting to appear are ‘AC coupled’ battery and solar systems – in this case, the batteries and solar have their own individual inverters and are linked at the AC bus of the property. AC coupled battery systems are particularly well suited to retrofitting a battery to anpage24

several years, but such systems charge and discharge. For example, been in car batteries for almost THE RISE OF BATTERIESaren’t without significant challenges. if a controller cycles a battery a century), but today lithium-basedSome of the challenges that still need excessively, or operates it at too high technologies are much harder NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016to be solved include: a temperature, this will dramatically to recycle, with no large-scale reduce the batteries’ life. recycling facilities available for• Price. Whilst there’s been incredible Alternatively, an intelligent battery them in Australia. interest around battery technology, management system would adapt and the prices have come down to the ambient temperature and Whilst the challenges above are incredibly over the past few years, aim to reduce battery cycling. significant, grid connected battery they still remain an expensive item. Even more advanced systems would systems are being installed today by Today, a typical battery + solar adapt to local weather forecasts, early-adopters and utilities testing system will cost around $17,000, ensuring the battery can reduce a their benefits. As such systems become installed. Whilst such systems are property’s dependence on expensive more widespread, their price will economic in certain deployments, grid electricity (by charging late continue to decrease, and key issues today the number of households the night before), even if clouds such as their safety and recyclability that have the electricity load and reduce the availability of solar on will be addressed. Certainly there’s no consumption patterns to make a particular day. stopping the growth of this technology such a system financially viable are – for electrical and communications relatively limited. Careful analysis and • Temperature. Battery cells can only professionals of the future, the modelling needs to be carried out to be operated within tight temperature installation and maintenance of grid- decide whether a battery is economic constraints if they are to realise their connected battery systems in homes for a given installation. full life. For example, most lithium and businesses will be regular practice. batteries can only be operated up to• Safety. Experience with laptop fires, 40 degrees Celsius. Such temperature There’s much to these changes, and or even the lithium battery issues constraints pose a significant a future article will review the key that caused Boeing’s 787 aircraft to limitation on where a battery system technologies available today and some be grounded for significant periods of can be installed and operated. of the installation issues to be wary of. time suggest great care needs to be For now though, it’s worth reflecting taken to design batteries for home or • Recyclability. One key question on just how quickly one of the most- business that are safe and reliable. as large battery systems become referenced facts of the electricity Fire risk is actually relatively low if commonplace is what to do when industry – that storage wasn’t possible, the system is designed and installed the battery reaches the end of it’s has been blown apart, and what this correctly – perhaps even less risky life (typically after 10 or more years means for all of our futures. than storing a gas bottle or petrol of operation). Lead-acid battery tank in the house. However, this technology is relatively easy to assumes that the system is carefully recycle (the same technology has designed and installed. Unfortunately, the installation and operation Figure 1. Power flows in a solar storing scenario. The blue line shows a typical residential standards for battery systems, household load profile, with the power generated by the solar system (green line) far exceeding particularly technologies other than the load in the middle of the day. Without a battery, this energy is essentially wasted for lead-acid, have not kept up with the householder. A battery changes this situation. With a battery, the excess energy (the area the pace of technology, and we’re above the orange shading) is charged into the battery during the middle of the day. This stored currently relying on the knowledge energy (the red shaded area) is then used to run house loads during peak electricity prices, and experience of the installer to later in the day when household demand is greatest. underpin the safety of many modern battery systems. Poorly implemented battery systems do represent a significant safety issue, and until standards catch up with the technology, this issue will remain.• Control. Considering the two most common use cases for batteries, energy arbitrage or solar storage, it can be seen that the economic benefits of the battery depend very heavily on the intelligence of the controller that manages battery page 25

NECA EVENTS NECA Events NECA’S INDUSTRY ROADSHOW. IT’S BACK, BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER!NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 Commencing in April, the 2016 NECA members. You can sign up on the what do you need to know about the TechAdvantage Roadshow is scheduled spot at the Roadshow! burgeoning growth of standalone power for 15 locations in both metropolitan and battery storage systems. You cannot Melbourne and major regional centres. With over $25,000 in prizes and afford to miss these vital information giveaways you can browse the exhibition provided to you by industry experts. In conjunction with Energy Safe while enjoying a cool beverage and some Victoria and a number of the industry’s tantalizing food. Prizes include 2 × Eight Each of the trade shows is preceded by leading manufacturers and suppliers Days Bali Holidays worth over $5,000 some exclusive ”Members Workshops”. the Roadshow offers something each and at every Roadshow event there These are Free to members only and for everyone. are over $1,000 in prizes on offer. will cover a range of topics from the emerging issues of Power Factor NECA is releasing their new Technical The seminar series will provide Correction and the new KVa tariffs Knowledge Base (TKB) which is the latest information from Energy through to the opportunities presented revolutionary in providing a one stop Safe Victoria, an expert insight into by system integration and the new shop for all those important standards the latest technology that is about to technologies. and technical information that an hit the market. Together with current electrician needs. Fully searchable, industry hot topics as Power over the Whilst the shows are FREE to members. always current and absolutely FREE to Ethernet and what are the real options, Bookings are essential. Roadshow Locations and Dates Regional locations are in italic LOCATION DATE ADDRESS LOCATION DATE ADDRESS Bulleen April Gippsland- July 13 April Veneto Club, Morwell 13 July Italian Australian Club, 191 Bulleen Road, Bulleen Geelong August 499–501 Princes Drive Morwell Dandenong 20 April Dandenong Club, Gippsland- 3 August 1579 Heatherton Road, Wonthaggi Geelong Racing, Tullamarine 27 April Dandenong Croydon 17 August 99 Breakwater Road, Breakwater Quality Hotel, September Wonthaggi Workmens Club, Bendigo May 7 Melton Hwy, Taylors Lakes Ballarat 7 September 75 Graham St, Wonthaggi 4 May Dingley October All Seasons, 171–183 McIvor Road 5 October Dorset Gardens Hotel, Altona 18 May Strathdale, Bendigo 335 Dorset Road, Croydon Grand Star, 12 October Echuca 25 May 499 Grieve Parade, Altona Nort Mercure Ballarat, Moama Bowling Club, 613 Main Road, Ballarat Shepparton June 6 Shaw St, Moama Dingley International Hotel, 334–348 1 June Boundary Rd, Parklake, Dingley Village 481 Wyndham Street, Shepparton Albury 8 June Commercial Club, 618 Dean St, Albury THE ROADSHOW IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BYpage26

‘TTRELOEHECAECHDT2-SA0RHD1IOCV6WAALNTINADGUES’ TRYMleaaddeinpgomssainbulefabcytuNrEeCrsA,aEndSVsuapnpdlitehresindustry’s NECA EVENTS Your industry...your roadshow! NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 Your opportunity to relax, enjoy, learn and networkFR EE EN T RY* • Energy Safe Victoria - ‘Why safety is critical’ • Solar and Battery Storage - ‘The Way Forward?’ BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL • Power over the Ethernet - ‘Threat or Opportunity?’ BOOK NOW AT www.neca.asn.au/vic • Exhibitors Trade Show • Exclusive Optional Workshopsto all NECA members • ‘What’s New’ Industry Segmentand one guest • The Latest Regulation & Technical Updates(Only $30 for non-members) • Q&A Forum • Business Trivia SegmentIncludes delicious food & drinks plus heaps of • Show Bags & Give Aways plusPRIZES and GIVE-AWAYS.Please remember to make your booking online. over $25,000 in Prizes1 OF 2 BALI HOLIDAYS Each Bali holiday is for 2 people. Book your next holiday online atEACH VALUED AT $5,500 www.luxuryescapes.com.SPONSORED BY For full competition terms and conditions, visit www.neca.asn.au/vic/bali.* Each NECA member is allowed to invite one non-member who must attend with the NECA member to be eligible for free entry. page 27

NECA EVENTS NECA National Excellence Awards Results THREE VICTORIAN PROJECTS WON THE 2015 NECA NATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARDSNECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 State winners from across Australia We would like to congratulate our “These projectsare thebest attended this year’s event at the Victorian winners: andmostinnovativewehave Hilton Brisbane. seenoverthepast12months,” • Argus Technologies Solutions, said Suresh Manickam, State winners from across Australia Private Residence Berwick, winner of NECA CEO.“Theyclearlyenrich attended this year’s event at the Domestic Residence category ourindustryandreinforcethe Hilton Brisbane. strongreputationofoursector.” • Elecorp Group, Mitcham Private Three Victorian projects and two Hospital – Mental Health Unit NECA congratulates all of our 2015 from each of New South Wales, Victoria Court, winner of Contracting winners and wishes to acknowledge Western Australia, Tasmania and Business category the ongoing support of the electrical Queensland received the top national and communications contracting awards in front of 350 industry • Floyd Industries, Supply and sector for making the Awards such a representatives including contractors, Installation of Cogeneration Plant resounding Success. educators and government for the Wangaratta Aquatic Centre, representatives. New South Wales winner of Energy Efficiency and The winning and commended projects and Australian Capital Territory also Environment category are listed below: received commendations on projects that were narrowly beaten by the overall “These projects are the best and most category winners. innovative we have seen over the past 12 months,” said Suresh Manickam, NECA CEO. “They clearly enrich our industry and reinforce the strong reputation of our sector.”page28

NECA Education & Careers NECA EDUCATION & CAREERSNEW LEA AND LEI FACILITIESOver the last couple of months we have “A lot of work and changes have beenbuilt a brand new practical facility implemented over the past 18 months totailored to the requirements of the improve not only the LEI facility but theLicenced Electricians Assessment (LEA) course content, particularly in regard totutorial and the Licensed Electrical the inspectors certification. The revisedInspectors (LEI) tutorial suite. Inspectors training package has now been finalised and scrutinised by ESVIn addition to this facility there is a private to ensure it meets current industrypractice facility for SWP, which allows standards and requirements” said Harry.students to solidify the knowledge andskills required to safely isolate, test, tag, “This builds confidence and can assistdisconnect and reconnect permanentlywired electrical appliances. in reducing stress levels around“Our aim is that students develop their passing the assessment.” preparing them for what they will face as NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016skills and become acquainted with part of their licensing assessment.how the real assessment is facilitated. The new training facility has beenThis builds confidence and can assist in designed to give future inspectors as The SWP facility is available to studentsreducing stress levels around passing the near as possible, a realistic hands on who have completed a tutorialassessment” commented Harry Dreger, experience, to prepare them for what they (during normal business hours).LEA & LEI tutorial teacher. would meet in the field, as well asSO YOUR APPRENTICE HAS FINISHED BUT DOESN'T HAVE THEIR LICENCE!WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOWThe fact is if your former electrical So what are the options? Essentially the licence is only issued for aapprentice doesn’t have their there are 3: maximum of 3 years and is unlikelyelectrician’s licence it can be a big to be renewed. To be eligible theproblem for you (the employer) and the 1. The preferred outcome is for person must have completed(now former) apprentice that can result the apprentice to obtain their their apprenticeship and havein prosecution and fines. A Grade licence. This requires successfully completed the SWP successfully completing the on component of the LEA. While thisElectrical apprentices are deemed by and off the job (trade school) provides some breathing space,Victorian law to be licensed to undertake components of their apprenticeship it’s only for 3 years and theirelectrical installation work under the as well as the Licensed Electrician’s electrical work must be undereffective supervision of a licensed Assessment (LEA) before an effective supervision.electrician for the duration of their application for the licence can beapprenticeship and for the 3 months made to ESV. Tutorials are available 3. Otherwise look for another career.after completion of their apprenticeship. to assist the apprentice is preparing Working unlicensed is illegal for for the assessments. the employer and the worker andIf they don’t have a licence at the end undermines safety and the integrityof that period the law prohibits them 2. A second option is to obtain a of the trade.from doing electrical installation work Supervised Worker’s Licencefull stop. This is not a situation you which will allow the person to workwant to be in. under the effective supervision of a licensed electrician. However page 29

CNBEUCAS AEDUVECRATISOENM&ECNATREERS Cbus Property commercial project, 700 Bourke Street, Melbourne 2015 ROADSHOW ADNECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | |JAMNA/RFE/ BAP2R0126016 3 ways Cbus is building super futures in Victoria 1. Investing in property and development projects through our wholly owned subsidiary Cbus Property1, creating jobs and delivering returns 2. Easy administration for employers, with online options to join Cbus and pay employees’ super 3. Industry–specific super products for members, including insurance cover, financial advice and free access to the Cbus smartphone app Contact Scott for your business super needs Scott LaFerlita Senior Business Development Manager, VIC 0409 934 674 [email protected] 1 Cbus Property Pty Ltd is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cbus and has responsibility for the strategic performance and management of all Cbus direct property developments and investments. This information is about Cbus. It doesn’t take into account your specific needs, so you should look at your own financial position, objectives and requirements before making any financial decisions. Read the relevant Cbus Product Disclosure Statement to decide whether Cbus is right forpage you. Contact 1300 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au for a copy.30 Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262. A4 NECA Vic News BDM Template Apr16_v1.indd 1 4/04/16 3:18 PM

Business Tips BNUECSIANEEDSUSCTAIPTISON & CAREERS TEN THINGS TO CONSIDER WITH SOCIAL MEDIA 1. Social media is about engaging, want to read/see their comments/posts business contacts. You need to make NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | |JAMNA/RFE/ BAP2R0126016 not selling. Engaging means sharing, any more. everyone you ‘reach out to’ feel that they entertaining and informing. Think about are the main person/people you wanted all those people you know who share 5. Measure your success objectively. to talk to. everything they do. Does it generally Don’t try to be too scientific about this entertain or inform you? The best policy or you can a) spend more time measuring 8. Remember that you are building rapport here is to only share things that you your success than generating interesting and building relationships. Be bold think are interesting. What you decide comments/content and/or b) kidding enough to personalise some comments, to share tells people a lot about you, yourself that everything you’re doing but obviously do this subtly. You don’t your business, your interests and/or is ‘amazing’ (or useless, if you’re a want to embarrass anyone in any way. your industry. pessimist). All you should be aiming for And be gracious if anyone does the same is to see more people engaging with you to you. This is all about reciprocity. “Thebest policyhereisto (in a positive way hopefully!). 9. Don’t kid yourself as to your talents as only share thingsthatyou 6. Remember you are one of many a political/economic/social commentator people your contacts engage with on (or comedian)! We all have views of course, but don’t forget that it’s very think are interesting.” a daily basis. If you are hoping this will easy to offend, bore or just look a bit lead to more business and/or more silly by going out on a limb. Always ask yourself what people will think before referral, keep it positive, fun, uplifting and ‘sending’. Your mantra should be: does it inform and/or entertain, and thereby put 2. Avoid following a strict plan: two wherever possible informative and helpful. me in a good light? posts per day, every day, whatever! If the Think about who you are trying reach and 10. Most important of all: remember social media is only one marketing/ content is not interesting, or reflective create content tailored for them. communication tool. The best marketers are those people who of you, it can be a case of one-step- still use all available marketing tools from advertising through to forward-two-steps-back. Aiming for a customer feedback. So even though social media can be fun – and pretty easy “Think about who you arecouple of posts a week is probably a good to keep moving, do keep it in context. gauge, but don’t get bogged down by trying reach and createyour check-list. Quality is more important than quantity. content tailoredforthem.” 3. Develop your own style. Try to avoid 7. Don’t create content for the wrong ‘liking’, ‘sharing’ or ‘commenting’ on people (your boss, your mates or your the same things ,or the same people, wife/husband!). There are others ways religiously. Your contacts will know you can engage with them – or at least what you generally comment on – put them in a different group from your so surprise them by taking a slightly different position. But don’t shock or confuse them of course! 4. Look for a different perspective where you can. Remember that what you are looking to do is stay in front of your contacts in a clever, fun and interesting way. You want people to think “wow, that’s a different angle…that’s clever/fun/interesting” not ”oh dear, he’s/she’s off again”. Think about all the stuff/people you scroll past or the people where you actually switch off their feed (and yes, you can do that without them knowing). Remember why you don’t page 31M

NECA MEMBERS SERVICES OUTSTANDING VALUENECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 Your NECA Corporate Health Plan Health Members First Plan Provider Network NECA Corporate Health Plan has chosen Bupa as its health cover partner - Our national network of hospital giving you and your family access to competitive private health cover that's and extras^ providers can help packaged with exciting features and benefits. reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket expenses. When you join you can look forward to better value with: Save money with our Benefit Bonus - we will treat you like you have been a Bupa member for 3 Member Discounts years from day one so you can claim more back on extras straight away. To benefit, simply take out Platinum, Gold or Silver Extras cover.** Great offers and discounts for ClickFit – An interactive online tool to help you plan and track your food, things like gym memberships, fitness and health. Retail value of $239 annually. Visit bupa.com.au/ movie vouchers and more. Visit corporateclickfit bupa.com.au/MemberExclusives A 2% discount off your health cover+ Great Member If you don't yet have health cover, Bupa has friendly and knowledgeable Support Programs consultants who will be able to guide you through your available options so you can select a cover to best suit your needs. We offer a range of initiatives to assist families to manage their It’s also easy to switch health cover. When you switch to an equivalent level of health for the long term, and live a cover with Bupa, you won’t have to re-serve any waiting periods for services healthier life. that were included under your previous cover.~ Take the first step today and get a free comparison with your current health fund. Or, even if you already have existing Bupa cover, contact Bupa about switching to the NECA Corporate Health Plan health plan and start reaping the rewards today. Take the first step today: 134 135 and quote ID 2111909 bupa.com.au/callmeback user: neca password: healthplan [email protected] Visit your local Bupa centre Kind regards, Matthew Cooper Bupa Corporate Account Manager **Benefit Bonus applies each calendar year and increases after the first 12 months from the start year. Get 2% more back on your extras claims each year, up to a maximum of 10%. Only available on Platinum, Gold and Silver Extras. Existing Bupa customers will start from the Benefit Bonus year of their existing plan or transfer, whatever is greatest. +Discount is reviewed periodically by Bupa and your Company and is subject to change. Must pay by direct debitpage or payroll deduction (if available). Bupa Australia Pty Ltd ABN 81 000 057 590.32

2016 RDO GUIDEFor EBA Victorian Building Industry sites onlyPlease note: This calendar is provided as a guide only. It is recommended that employers check their obligations in accordance with any certified Enterprise Bargaining Agreement or theBuilding and Construction Industry (Fair and Lawful Building Sites) Code 2014. JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL VIC SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SMTWT F S SMTWT F S SMTWT F S SMTWT F S Saturday 19 Dec 2015 Wednesday 27 Jan 2016 Friday 25 Mar 2016 Sunday 10 Apr 201631 1 2 123456 12345 12 Saturday 25 Jun 2016 Sunday 10 Jul 20163456789 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 3456789 Saturday 17 Sep 2016 Sunday 2 Oct 201610 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Wednesday 21 Dec 2016 Monday 30 Jan 201717 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 17 18 19 20 21 22 2324 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 27 28 29 30 31 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST New Year’s Day Friday 1 Jan Australia Day Tuesday 26 Jan SMTWT F S SMTWT F S SMTWT F S SMTWT F S Labour Day Monday 14 Mar Good Friday Friday 25 Mar1234567 1234 31 1 2 123456 Easter Saturday Saturday 26 Mar8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3456789 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Easter Monday Monday 28 Mar15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 ANZAC Day Monday 25 Apr22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Queens’ Birthday Monday 13 Jun29 30 31 26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 31 Friday before AFL Grand Final Friday 30 Sep Melbourne Cup Tuesday 1 Nov SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER Christmas Day Tuesday 27 Dec Boxing Day Monday 26 DecSMTWT F S SMTWT F S SMTWT F S SMTWT F S LEGEND RDO 123 30 31 1 12345 123 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Annual Leave^ Picnic Day^4 5 6 7 8 9 10 2345678 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Public Holiday11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 27 28 29 30 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 ^ If applicable18 19 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 2225 26 27 28 29 30* 23 24 25 26 27 28 29* Public holiday if gazetted by the Victorian Government Contact NECA on (03) 9645 5533 or visit www.neca.asn.au/vic page NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 2016 RDO GUIDE CALENDAR33

2016 SUGGESTED 38 HOUR WEEK RDO GUIDE SUGGESTED 38 HOUR RDO’S FOR 2016NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 Monday 25th January Monday 22nd February Tuesday 15th March Tuesday 26th April Monday 23rd May Tuesday 14th June Monday 25th July Monday 22nd August Monday 19th September Monday 31st October Monday 21st November Friday 23rd December Wednesday 28th December The above table is only a suggested guide as the EBA & Award provide for flexibility between employers and employees in agreeing to the timing of RDO’s Please note: this is provided as a guide only. It is recommended that employers check their obligations in accordance with any certified Enterprise Bargaining Agreement or the Building and Construction Industry (Fair and Lawful Building Sites) Code 2014.page IR ADVICE AT YOUR FINGER TIPS CONTACT EMPLOYEE RELATIONS TEAM ON 9645 5533 OR [email protected]

RECOMMENDED INDUSTRY CHARGE OUT RATES RECOMMENDED INDUSTRY CHARGE OUT RATES(these rates are exclusive of GST)These recommended rates replace those previously issued. Operative: 1 October 2014TRADESPERSON Ordinary time Time & a half Double time Double time & a half Composite or Per hour ($) Per hour ($) Per hour ($) Per hour ($) 6 day rate 209.78 Per hour ($)CONSTRUCTION Mechanics and 126.38 154.18 181.98 228.20 134.84 NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016EBA Part B fitters - EW5 137.47 167.71 197.96 146.67Refer notes below 240.49 Electrician special 144.87 176.74 208.62 246.61 154.57SERVICE & class - EW7 148.56 181.25 213.93 228.60 158.51MAINTENANCE 137.71 168.01 198.31 241.05 N/AEBA Part A Electronic 145.21 177.15 209.10 N/ARefer notes below tradesperson: 253.46 152.68 186.28 219.87 259.66 N/A - EW8 156.42 190.84 225.25 N/A - EW9 Mechanics and fitters - EW5 Electrician special class - EW7 Electronic tradesperson: - EW8 - EW9 APPRENTICES Ordinary time Time and Double time Double time Composite or a half and a half 6 day rate 1st year Per hour Per hour Per hour Per hour 2nd year $ Per hour $ $ 3rd year $ $ 52.17 4th year 48.90 70.41 81.17 70.91 66.46 59.66 95.71 110.33 89.32NOTES: General 83.71 81.09 120.54 138.96 92.581. Materials: Supplier's trade price plus 86.77 102.13 124.95 144.04 105.86 20 per cent2. Motor vehicle charge: $1.15 cents It is recommended that this be at cost plus Service work 20 percent. per kilometre 1. It is recommended that a service3. The gazetted industry workers 2. The actual cost of site supervision and fee of 75 percent of the appropriate re-drafting expenses shall be additional recommended hourly charge out rate be compensation average has decreased to the above rates. charged in addition to the charge for time from 2.724% to 2.628%. worked. As an alternative, a minimum 3. It is recommended that contractors charge for labour of one hour should beConstruction / installation work include an adjustment factor for projects charged with all travelling time to be1. The actual cost of site allowances and of duration in excess of six months eg. by charged as time worked. anticipated CPI other site-specific payments shall be Variations on contract additional to the above rates. 4. The composite or 6 day rate is based on 46 hours, Monday to Saturday. Refer to 'Recommended industry unit rates for variations on contracts' published by NECA. page 35

NECA VICTORIA MAGAZINE | MAR / APR 2016 Want an easy, low risk way of bringing skills in For all the great benefits that come with employing an your business? apprentice, unless you’ve got lots of spare time on your hands then it can be a challenge to get it happening... That’s where we come in with a low risk option. 1300 827 832 apprenticeships | traineeships | trainingpage necaeducation.com.au36 ABN:53 054 944 366 | TOID:21098