insulation installed

CSIRO has delivered a risk profile analysis to the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficency on the Home Insulation Saftey Program.

Risk profile analysis: guidance for the Home Insulation Safety Program

CSIRO’s top experts in risk analysis were commissioned by the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency to give specialist advice on the scope, design, size and development of the inspection and rectification program for non-foil insulation installed under the Home Insulation Program.

  • 20 April 2011 | Updated 30 October 2012

What did CSIRO do?

CSIRO has conducted a risk analysis for the Home Insulation Safety Program which examined the extent of insulation related fire incidents that occurred prior to the commencement of the Home Insulation Program (HIP), as well as the rate at which fire incidents are now occurring in homes with insulation installed under the HIP.

CSIRO has also developed a risk profiling tool to better understand what factors can contribute to a fire safety risk in insulated homes.

What risk factors did CSIRO identify?

CSIRO’s risk profiling tool helped identify houses with a higher relative risk based on the following factors:

  • insulation material type
  • state or territory in which installation occurs
  • existence of previous insulation
  • number of down lights
  • exhaust fans
  • heatlamps.  

The report showed that the risk of a fire can vary across households. The level of risk is increased by the presence of roof fittings such as down lights, heat lamps and exhaust fans. 

Over time, insulation can move in the roof space and come into contact with these items or electrical circuits.

Pests can also move insulation in the roof space can also increase the risk of an insulation related fire incident.

Where can I get more information?

For more information about the Home Insulation Safety Program [external link] visit the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency's website or call their enquiries line on 1800 057 590 within Australia.

See a copy of CSIRO's report [external link].