Better safety standards needed after three insulation deaths 
 

The Hon Greg Hunt MP
Shadow Minister for Climate Change, Environment and Water

I am deeply saddened by news of the third death of an installer operating under the Federal Government’s Home Insulation Program.

It raises deep questions about the need for better training under the Government’s scheme.

A 19-year old man died from suspected heat-stroke on the weekend after installing insulation during Sydney’s heatwave conditions.

It follows the deaths of a 16-year old teenager last week and a 25-year old man last month in Queensland from reported electrocution. These are all deep human tragedies.

This is on top of concerns about roof fires caused by improperly installed insulation. NSW fire authorities are reporting double the number of such fires compared with last year.

Only today, one senior industry expert told me of his fears of even more fires.

I would urge Mr Garrett to release better safety and training standards under his program now.

There are thousands of installers climbing around Australian roofs who lack sufficient training on safety and proper installation.

Mr Garrett was specifically warned by industry about safety, waste and rorting issues when he was setting up the scheme early this year.

It is time for an urgent inquiry that examines the safety risks of the Government’s Home Insulation Program.

It is time the Minister announced a comprehensive plan to secure the safety of installers and home owners taking part in his costly insulation program.