Energy type: 
Electricity
 
Event summary: 
WorkSafe Energy Safety were notified of a house fire from FENZ. The fire appeared to have started in the laundry by a dryer that was working at the time.
 
Accident ID: 
190523-10
 
Accident date: 
20 May 2019
 
Site: 
Domestic
 
Environment: 
Building
 
Voltage: 
230
 
Equipment: 
Tumble dryer
 
Accident type: 
Fire
 
Casualty: 
Non-fatality
 
Injury: 
No injury
 
Property damage level: 
Extended to multiple rooms
 
Outcome of investigation: 

The fire started internally from an undetermined failure. Other sources of ignition from around the scene were discounted due to the burn patterns obtained by Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ). The 18-month-old dryer was mounted on the wall, cleaned frequently, and ducted outside correctly.

WorkSafe Energy Safety completed a proactive documentation audit on the dryer and was satisfied that it met the requirements under the Electricity (Safety) Regulations 2010. We have noted all the details and will continue to monitor the make and model for any further incidences.