Afleveringen
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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.
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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.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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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.
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In this episode of Current Conversations powered by Master Electricians Australia, hosts Kate Raymond and Matt Duncan of MEA are joined by Brian Richardson – Director, Electrical Equipment Safety, Electrical Safety Office QLD, discussing key aspects of equipment safety.
They cover identifying safe electrical products through the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM), the responsibilities of importers and suppliers under the Electrical Safety Act, and the importance of using registered products. They also explore challenges with overseas and second-hand electrical items, the risks involved, and the procedures for ensuring compliance with Australian safety standards. The episode emphasises the critical role of licensed electricians and the dangers of DIY electrical work, concluding with important reminders to install and regularly test safety switches on all circuits.
Time-stamped Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Current Conversations
00:13 Meet the Hosts and Guest: Brian Richardson
00:31 Understanding Equipment Safety
00:49 Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM) Explained
03:37 Importing Electrical Equipment: What You Need to Know
04:09 The Electrical Equipment Safety System (EESS)
08:22 Ensuring Safety with Imported Products
20:12 Second-hand Electrical Products: Safety Tips
26:36 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
Produced by The Podcast Boss.
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In this episode of Current Conversations, hosted by Kate Raymond and Matt Duncan of Master Electricians Australia, special guest Matt Kummerow, Operations Manager at ChargeHub Australia, discusses the burgeoning topics of electric vehicle (EV) chargers and the concept of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology.
The conversation delves into current capacities and challenges for home and workplace EV charging, the potential of vehicle-to-home solutions, and issues surrounding dynamic tariff pricing and the readiness of Australia's infrastructure. The episode also highlights the complexities of installing EV chargers in multi-residential buildings and the importance of load management and user authentication systems. The discussion wraps up with the latest regulations and advancements ensuring the widespread adoption of EV infrastructure in new constructions.
Time-stamped Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Current Conversations
00:12 Meet the Hosts and Guest: Matt Kummerow
00:44 Understanding EV Chargers and Vehicle-to-Grid Technology
06:06 Challenges and Solutions for Home and Workplace EV Charging
06:45 Dynamic Load Management in Apartment Buildings
17:42 Fact or Fiction: Debunking EV Charging Myths
23:22 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Produced by The Podcast Boss.
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In this episode of Current Conversations, powered by Master Electricians Australia, host Kate Raymond (CEO of MEA) is joined by Jordon Carlisle, Workplace Relations Manager, MEA, Penny Cornah (CEO of Master Plumbers Association of Queensland), and Tenille Riley (Women in Trades Manager with Busy at Work) to discuss female participation in the construction sector and trades in particular.
They examine successful strategies like ambassador programs and female-led mentoring and explore the importance of overcoming cultural challenges and biases. They also discuss the potential impact of targeted government policies and the power of social media in changing perceptions. The conversation highlights the need for realistic, sustained efforts and collaboration across industry bodies to achieve meaningful change.
Time-stamped Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Current Conversations
00:13 Meet the Hosts and Guests: Penny and Tenille
00:34 Challenges and Solutions for Women in Trades
00:45 Penny's Insights on Plumbing Industry
01:48 Tenille's Approach to Attracting Young Girls
05:32 Gender Pay Gap and Industry Retention
08:03 Government Policies and Their Impact
09:23 Flexibility and Cultural Shifts in Trades
11:39 Addressing Bias and Barriers
17:39 Fact or Fiction: Hiring Female Apprentices
21:26 The Importance of Grit and Resilience
22:26 Shifting Employer Mindsets
22:48 Increasing Female Participation in Trades
26:20 The Role of Social Media in Engaging Youth
27:57 Addressing Workplace Challenges for Women
28:44 Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion
32:14 Promoting VET Pathways
35:43 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
Produced by The Podcast Boss.
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In this episode of Current Conversations, powered by Master Electricians Australia (MEA), CEO Kate Raymond and Field Support Manager Ross Lockhart host special guest Francis, the Head of Projects at Kuga Electrical.
The discussion centres around Kuga Electrical’s focus on large commercial solar projects, their growth trajectory, and the intricacies of the solar industry. Francis provides insights into the company's commitment to quality, safety standards, and the evolving nature of the solar sector.
They explore the differences between residential and commercial electrical work, the critical importance of safety measures, and the role of innovative practices, including battery integration and EV charging. The episode also highlights the challenges of maintaining safety and compliance in a rapidly changing industry, emphasising the value of thorough training and documentation.
Time-stamped Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Current Conversations
00:12 Meet the Hosts and Guest: Francis Futsek
00:41 Kuga Electrical: A National Footprint
01:13 Focus on Solar and Safety
04:34 Challenges in the Solar Industry
06:46 Tips for Entering the Solar Industry
20:24 Safety Equipment and Maintenance
26:31 Fact or Fiction: SWMS in Solar Jobs
27:22 Key Takeaways and Conclusion
Produced by The Podcast Boss.
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In this episode of Current Conversations, hosted by Kate Raymond CEO and Jordon Carlisle, Workplace Relations Manager, from Master Electricians, the discussion centres around the history and evolution of unions in Australia.
Special guest Michael Wright, National Secretary of the Electrical Trades Union (ETU), delves into the historical significance of events like the Eureka Stockade in shaping the union movement. The conversation also touches upon significant milestones in Australian labour rights, including the inception of long service leave, weekends, and leave entitlements.
They examine the impact of enterprise bargaining on industries and discuss the complex landscape of modern industrial relations. The episode further explores current challenges and opportunities within the industry, emphasising the importance of collective efforts in building a fair and sustainable future for workers and industry alike.
Time-stamped highlights
00:00 Introduction to Current Conversations
00:12 Meet the Hosts and Guest: Michael Wright
00:26 The History of Unions in Australia
00:43 The Eureka Stockade and Its Impact
01:38 Australia's Unique Union Movement
02:17 The Role of the Labor Party and Class Systems
04:28 Indigenous Rights and Union Advocacy
09:13 Enterprise Bargaining and Industrial Relations
17:09 Fact or Fiction: Employer Bargaining Rights
18:40 Long Service Leave and Other Entitlements
22:34 Modern Award System and Its Challenges
27:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Produced By The Podcast Boss
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In this episode of Current Conversations, hosted by Kate Raymond and Matthew Duncan from Master Electricians Australia, the focus is on surge protection devices (SPDs). Joined by Nikhil from Schneider Electric, the discussion delves into the functionality and importance of SPDs to protect your home and business. Nikhil explains the different types of SPDs (type 1, type 2, and type 3), their roles, and the considerations for selecting the right SPD based on environment and electrical characteristics. The podcast also covers practical aspects such as installation, costs, and the necessity for SPDs in modern smart homes to protect valuable appliances from voltage surges caused by external and internal sources. Essential for electricians and homeowners alike, the episode emphasises the preventive benefits of SPDs despite them not being mandated by current wiring rules.
00:00 Introduction to Current Conversations
00:11 Meet the Hosts and Guest
00:34 Understanding Surge Protection Devices (SPDs)
01:07 Sources and Types of Surges
02:20 Selecting the Right SPD
04:36 Installation and Maintenance of SPDs
12:24 Fact or Fiction: SPD Requirements
14:01 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Produced By The Podcast Boss
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In the first episode of Current Conversations, hosted by Kate Raymond, CEO of Master Electricians Australia, and Ross Lockhart, Field Support Manager, special guest Leo Ward shares his vast experience as a safety expert and employer representative on the Queensland Electrical Safety Board. The discussion centres on developing apprentices, supervising young workers, and ensuring safety standards are met in an evolving industry.
From the role of national licensing to the challenges of apprentice training, this episode dives deep into strategies for mentoring, the importance of post-trade education, and how innovative initiatives, like a Wiggles safety campaign, are making electrical safety approachable for all.
Key Topics and Themes:
• Apprentice Training and Supervision: Challenges, methods, and innovative approaches to build skillsets and confidence in young and mature-aged apprentices.
• National Licensing Debate: The push for consistent standards and its potential impact on the industry.
• Mentorship Challenges: Identifying and supporting mentors who can guide apprentices effectively.
• Electrical Safety Standards: The importance of having easy access to and understanding Australian standards like AS3000 and 4836.
• Practical Training Programs: Importance of creating structured, goal-oriented training plans tailored to specific industries.
• The Role of Employers and Trainers: How leadership and structured mentoring can shape the future of the industry.
Time-Stamped Highlights:
• 00:00: Introduction by Kate Raymond and Ross Lockhart, welcoming guest Leo Ward.
• 00:41: Leo discusses his role on the Queensland Electrical Safety Board and its focus areas.
• 01:22: Insights into the national aspect of electrical safety standards and initiatives like the Wiggles’ safety campaign.
• 03:02: Challenges with state-specific regulations and apprentice supervision ratios.
• 05:00: Balancing apprentice training with business needs and practical supervision tips.
• 09:09: The value of creating customised training plans for apprentices.
• 15:10: Discussion on young workers, risk assessments, and testing competencies in the field.
• 18:00: Importance of accessible safety standards for all electricians.
• 23:20: Leo highlights free mentoring training courses for supervisors and their benefits.
• 30:50: Final takeaways on the significance of structured training, mentoring, and continual development in the electrical industry.
About Our Guest:
Leo Ward is an experienced safety advocate and employer representative on the Queensland Electrical Safety Board. Based in Cairns, he has decades of hands-on experience in mentoring apprentices, managing teams, and contributing to the development of safety policies and standards in the electrical industry.
Key Takeaways:
• Mentorship Matters: The quality of an apprentice’s training depends heavily on the capabilities of their mentor.
• Structured Training Plans: Customised, transparent training goals help apprentices stay focused and feel valued.
• National Standards and Licensing: A harmonised approach could streamline processes and improve safety nationwide.
• Post-Trade Education: Continuous learning ensures tradespeople stay current with new technologies and safety requirements.
• Practical Experience Counts: Hands-on training, coupled with theoretical understanding, builds competent and confident electricians.
Links and Resources:
• Master Electricians Australia
• Australian Standards: Information on accessing critical documents like AS3000, 3017, and 4836.
• Mentoring Training: MCCOOO99 micro-credential courses for apprentice supervision.
• Wiggles Electrical Safety Campaign
Tune in now to learn how to inspire and train the next generation of electricians while maintaining top safety standards.
Produced by The Podcast Boss.
