FOIL insulation has led to four deaths and the federal government has stopped the use of it after its rebate program.

The rebate program introduced by the government has been in for around four months.

While Australians want their houses to be cooler in the hot summer months, electricians warn that they are turning houses into potential death traps.

Federal environment minister Peter Garrett said that safety was a priority.

“Metallic foil is conductive and when installed incorrectly, without undertaking the mandatory risk assessments and in breach of clear program requirements, this product can be dangerous,” the minister said in a statement today.

He said there was still evidence of installers using dangerous practices, despite a ban last year on the use of metal fasteners for foil insulation.

“That is why we have taken steps today to suspend the use of foil under this program,” he said.

“Based on the outcome of these discussions I will consider what additional steps will be required if foil insulation is to remain eligible for a rebate under the Home Insulation Program,” he said.

“As I have said consistently, safety is the absolute priority under this program.”

- with theage.com.au