For Gowri Kunasegaran, an administrative executive with EMA’s Inspectorate Department for over 20 years, one of the common questions she gets from members of the public is: “My newly renovated flat has already been inspected, so why are there still frequent power trips?”

She explained, “Often, if the caller has engaged a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW) to install the electrical wiring, the fault may lie with a faulty appliance. In such cases, I’ll try to help them narrow down the possible cause.”

However, not all issues can be resolved over the phone or via email. In cases where specific advice is needed for the electrical installation, consumers will be advised to engage an LEW to address the issue on site.

According to Jeremy Chin, Principal Engineer at the Inspectorate Department, a good rule of thumb is that one will need to engage an LEW if the works require drawing a new electrical connection from the circuit. If it is simply about connecting an appliance such as a lighting fixture to an existing electrical point, then engaging an LEW is not necessary.

“For example, if you want to shift or extend an electrical point, you must engage an LEW. The LEW will also need to apply to SP Services to inspect the completed electrical works. This applies whether you are relocating a single power point or rewiring the entire home.”

Another reason to engage an LEW is to avoid future electrical problems. Jeremy shared, “Engaging an LEW helps prevent safety hazards such as electric shocks or equipment damage, while ensuring the work meets safety standards – protecting both property and lives.”

Gowri agreed, “Engaging unlicensed electrical workers may seem to save costs upfront, but it can result in hazardous installations that put lives at risk and violate safety regulations. In the end, it backfires as more money is spent to fix the problems.”

Another common query received is how they know if the electrical worker whom they engaged is licensed and why they are charging an arm and leg for their services.

To this, Gowri recommended that consumers check with the company in advance if the person they are sending is an LEW. “You can also ask to see their licence card when they arrive at your home. The information of our licensed workers is also available online for public verification,” she added.

As for the seemingly high charges, Gowri explained that it could be due to comparisons with past experiences, where contractors who charged lower rates may have sent non-licensed workers to do the job.

Jeremy also explained that LEWs operate in a competitive market, and consumers are encouraged to request for quotations from a few LEWs to compare prices and scope of work. This helps to ensure transparency and allows consumers to make informed decisions based on their needs and budget.

Zuraidah Rohani, a 30-year veteran at the department, has received many enquiries about RCCBs, especially after the announcement was made where it is mandatory for all homeowners to have an RCCB installed in their homes by 1 July 2025 after a two-year grace period.

While most homes already have an RCCB installed, a small number still lack this protection, leaving them vulnerable to electrical hazards in the event of a current leakage.

To help raise awareness of this requirement, EMA has been working closely with stakeholders to educate homeowners about the need for RCCBs.

“Many were unsure on how to go about testing whether their RCCBs are working properly. Some of them did not even know that they should be testing their RCCBs regularly. So I would usually guide consumers to perform the three-step test, apart from teaching them how to locate their RCCB,” Zuraidah shared.

Jeremy further stressed on the importance of an RCCB. “The RCCB detects electrical leakage current in your home’s electrical installation. Once detected, the RCCB will operate and cut off power supply immediately. Without an RCCB, the electric current could pass through and cause electric shocks, and that can be fatal.”

Jeremy said that many electrical incidents stem from improper use of appliances and worn-out cables. “Please refrain from using appliances with damaged or exposed cables. Avoid overloading your circuit with too many multi-plugs. And when buying appliances, always look for the SAFETY mark,” he advised.

For the Inspectorate team, working at EMA has deepened their appreciation towards the importance of electrical safety. This has pushed them to not only ensure greater safety practices in their own homes but also encourage others to do the same. Here are their top personal tips.

Gowri: “If you see bare wires in electrical installations – whether at home or public places – do not ignore them. For residential properties, do contact an LEW immediately as these professionals are qualified to inspect and rectify potential electrical hazards. For issues in public areas, report them promptly to EMA with specific location details. This will enable us to notify and coordinate with the relevant agencies for swift resolution.”

Jeremy: “Test your RCCB regularly. If it doesn’t trip during testing, or if it frequently trips without an obvious cause, please engage an LEW to conduct a further check.”

Zuraidah: “Electric water heaters can be a serious risk if not installed properly. One of the key safety considerations is to have a proper connection point. While the water heater itself can be installed without an LEW, you must engage an LEW if your home does not have a dedicated connection point for the water heater. Water heaters should never be plugged into a standard three-pin socket.”