WorkSafe New Zealand has published new guidance on what must be done to make sure imported buildings or parts of a building (for example a bathroom pod) are electrically safe before they are connected to an electricity supply.

Buildings or parts of a building imported into New Zealand often have wiring and fittings such as power points and lights (known as an ‘electrical installation’) already built in. Wiring and electrical fittings installed overseas may not be electrically safe or meet required New Zealand safety standards. Unsafe wiring and fittings can lead to an increased risk of electric shock or fire.

Who this guidance is for

This guidance is written for importers and electrical workers.

Examples of imported buildings

Imported buildings include buildings that are intended to be used in a permanent or semi-permanent position. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • container homes
  • tiny houses
  • kiosks
  • sleepouts or cabins
  • bathroom pods.

Electrical safety for low voltage electrical installations in imported buildings