In recent years there have been a number of fires in NSW caused by thermal ceiling insulation being located too close to heat generating electrical equipment, such as downlights.
Downlights operate at temperatures up to 370 degrees C. If downlights are covered by insulation these temperatures can cause the insulation or other building material to ignite.

Householders who have safety concerns about insulation installed under the Federal Government’s Home Insulation Program are encouraged to call 13 17 92 to arrange a safety inspection.

Anyone who has safety concerns about insulation installed by any other means should contact a licensed electrician to undertaken a safety check.

Other precautions

There are other precautions you can take to prevent fires. Always use a licensed electrical contractor to install heat generating electrical equipment. This will ensure the equipment is:

• installed in accordance with the requirements of Australian Standard AS/NZS3000 (also known as The Wiring Rules)
• not installed near structural timber such as roof, ceiling or floor beams
• not in contact with any existing insulation.