In this episode of Current Conversations, powered by Master Electricians Australia, host Kate Raymond, CEO of Master Electricians Australia, and Jordon Carlisle, Workplace Relations Manager, MEA chat with Penny Cornah, CEO of the Master Plumbers Association of Queensland.

They explore the friendly rivalry between plumbers and electricians, discussing workplace banter and its potential mental health impacts. The conversation delves into significant industry challenges, such as licensing issues, security of payment, unfair contract terms, the impact of insolvencies, and the skills shortage affecting both trades. The episode also highlights the collaborative efforts of electricians and plumbers to advocate for better industry regulations and support from the government.

Time-stamped Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Current Conversations

00:12 Meet the Hosts and Guest: Penny Cornah

00:26 Plumbers vs. Sparkies: The Rivalry

01:31 The Impact of Banter on Mental Health

03:27 Collaboration Between Trades

06:45 Addressing the Skills Shortage

14:01 Challenges in Contracting and Procurement

24:11 The Importance of Licensing

27:09 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Produced by The Podcast Boss.

In this episode of 'Current Conversations', powered by Master Electricians Australia, CEO Kate Raymond and Technical Support Manager Matthew Duncan discuss the complexities of EV charger installations with guest Alex Foster, Director, Foster’s Services and MEA Board Director.

They delve into the unique challenges faced in public spaces and residential areas, including supply limitations and space constraints. The conversation covers future-proofing homes, solar balancing, and dynamic load management in multi-residential spaces. They also explore the viability of vehicle-to-grid technology, ensuring charger safety, and the practicality of using different lengths and types of charging leads. The episode concludes with insights into solar-powered public charging solutions and tips for EV owners.

Time-stamped Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Current Conversations

00:12 Meet the Hosts and Guest: Alex Foster

00:35 Challenges in Public EV Charger Installations

01:55 Residential EV Charger Installation Issues

02:45 Future-Proofing Homes for EV Charging

04:57 Solar Balancing and Smart Charging

07:56 Public Charging and Solar Carports

08:51 Vehicle-to-Grid Technology

09:50 Fact or Fiction: EV Charging Safety

10:48 The Importance of Charging Leads

14:44 Conclusion and Takeaways

Produced by The Podcast Boss.

In this episode of Current Conversations, powered by Master Electricians Australia (MEA), host Kate Raymond—CEO of MEA—alongside Ross Lockhart, MEA’s Field Support Manager, and special guest Leo Ward, Managing Director, Power and Data Support Services, discuss the evolution of safety measures in the electrical industry.

Key topics include the dramatic improvements in safety protocols over the past few decades, largely influenced by advancements in technology and legislation, particularly from the mining sector. The conversation highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring safety through effective training, the implementation of lockout/tagout procedures, and the importance of collaboration among contractors and within the broader industry. The episode emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, practical training, and open communication to mitigate risks and foster a safe working environment for all electrical professionals.

Time-stamped Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Current Conversations

00:11 Meet the Hosts and Guest: Leo Ward

00:34 Evolution of Safety in the Electrical Industry

03:19 Importance of Lockout Tagout Procedures

05:06 Training and Practical Experience

06:01 Regulations and Safety Awareness

09:05 Complacency and Electrical Safety

12:59 Advanced Safety Procedures and Communication

14:28 Exploring Better Processes and Safety

14:50 Educating and Collaborating with Contractors

17:45 Challenges in Ceiling Spaces and Safety Standards

21:19 Importance of Lockout Tagout Procedures

26:30 Final Thoughts and Industry Collaboration

Produced by The Podcast Boss.