Work Health and Safety (Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace) Code of Practice 2015 (Cth)

Work Health and Safety (Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace) Code of Practice 2015

made under the

Work Health and Safety Act 2011, section 274 (Approved Codes of Practice)

1 Name of instrument

This instrument is the Work Health and Safety (Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace) Code of Practice 2015.

2 Commencement

This instrument commences on the day after it is registered on the Federal Register of Legislative Instruments.

3 Code of Practice Approval

I approve the Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace Code of Practice. I am satisfied that this code of practice was developed by a process described in section 274(2) of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

Michaelia Cash
Minister for Employment

17 December 2015

Date

MANAGING ELECTRICAL RISKS
IN THE WORKPLACE

Code of Practice

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOREWORD
1.      INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................. 7
1.1     What are electrical risks?......................................................................................................... 7
1.2     Who must manage electrical risks?......................................................................................... 7
1.3     What is required to manage electrical risks?........................................................................... 8
PART A:......................................................................................................................................... 11
GENERAL ELECTRICAL SAFETY AT THE WORKPLACE............................................. 11
2.      THE RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS......................................................................... 12
2.1     Identify the hazards................................................................................................................ 12
2.2     Assess the risks...................................................................................................................... 12
2.3     Control the risks...................................................................................................................... 13
2.4     Review the control measures................................................................................................. 14
3.      SPECIFIC HAZARDS AND RISK CONTROL.............................................................. 15
3.1     Unsafe electrical equipment and electrical installations at the workplace............................. 15
3.2     Inspecting and testing electrical equipment........................................................................... 16
3.3     Inspecting and testing equipment – construction and demolition sites.................................. 19
3.4     Residual current devices (RCDs).......................................................................................... 20
PART B:........................................................................................................................................ 24
ELECTRICAL WORK................................................................................................................. 24
4.      MANAGING THE RISKS OF ELECTRICAL WORK................................................... 25
4.1     What is electrical work?......................................................................................................... 25
4.2     Identify the hazards................................................................................................................ 25
4.3     Assess the risks...................................................................................................................... 26
4.4     Control the risks...................................................................................................................... 27
4.5     Review the control measures................................................................................................. 27
5.      RISK CONTROLS – WORKING DE-ENERGISED...................................................... 28
5.1     General principles – verification of de-energised electrical equipment................................. 28
5.2     Safe work method statements............................................................................................... 29
5.3     Work on cables (including cutting cables).............................................................................. 29
6.      LOW VOLTAGE ISOLATION AND ACCESS............................................................... 30
6.1     Securing the isolation............................................................................................................. 31
6.2     Altering isolation for testing, fault finding and re-energising................................................... 35
6.3     Restoring power..................................................................................................................... 35
6.4     Leaving unfinished work......................................................................................................... 36
7.      RISK CONTROLS – ENERGISED ELECTRICAL WORK......................................... 37
7.1     Prohibition on energised electrical work................................................................................. 37
7.2     Planning and preparation........................................................................................................ 37
7.3     Carrying out energised electrical work................................................................................... 39
7.4     Leaving unfinished work......................................................................................................... 43
7.5     Particular energised electrical work—testing and fault finding.............................................. 43
8.      RISK CONTROLS – WORKING NEAR ENERGISED ELECTRICAL PARTS...... 44
8.1     Planning and preparation........................................................................................................ 44
8.2     Working near energised electrical parts................................................................................. 44
8.3     Implementing risk control measures...................................................................................... 45
8.4     Reviewing risk control measures........................................................................................... 45
9.      TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT.............................................................................................. 46
9.1     Inspection and testing............................................................................................................. 46
9.2     Ladders, scaffolds and similar equipment.............................................................................. 46
9.3     Insulating barriers and insulating mats................................................................................... 47
9.4     Test instruments..................................................................................................................... 47
9.5     Personal protective equipment (PPE).................................................................................... 48
9.6     First Aid................................................................................................................................... 49
10.    HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTRICAL WORK........................................................................ 50
APPENDIX A – MEANING OF KEY TERMS.......................................................................... 51
APPENDIX B – ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF NON-PORTABLE AND PORTABLE RCDS.................................................................................................................................... 52
APPENDIX C – RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTRICAL WORK................................ 55
APPENDIX D – PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS CHECKLIST................................................ 60

FOREWORD

This Code of Practice on how to manage electrical risks in workplaces is an approved code
of practice under section 274 of the Work Health and Safety Act (the WHS Act).

An approved code of practice is a practical guide to achieving the standards of health, safety
and welfare required under the WHS Act and the Work Health and Safety Regulations (the
WHS Regulations).

A code of practice applies to anyone who has a duty of care in the circumstances described
in the code. In most cases, following an approved code of practice would achieve compliance
with the health and safety duties in the WHS Act, in relation to the subject matter of the code.
Like regulations, codes of practice deal with particular issues and do not cover all hazards or risks that may arise. The health and safety duties require duty holders to consider all risks associated with work, not only those for which regulations and codes of practice exist.

Codes of practice are admissible in court proceedings under the WHS Act and Regulations.
Courts may regard a code of practice as evidence of what is known about a hazard, risk or
control and may rely on the code in determining what is reasonably practicable in the circumstances to which the code relates.

Compliance with the WHS Act and Regulations may be achieved by following another method, such as a technical or an industry standard, if it provides an equivalent or higher standard of
work health and safety than the code.

An inspector may refer to an approved code of practice when issuing an improvement or prohibition notice.

This Code of Practice has been developed by Safe Work Australia as a model code of practice under the Council of Australian Governments’ Inter-Governmental Agreement for Regulatory
and Operational Reform in Occupational Health and Safety for adoption by the Commonwealth, state and territory governments.

Scope and application

This Code provides practical guidance for persons conducting a business or undertaking on managing electrical risks in the workplace. It applies to all workplaces where a person conducting
a business or undertaking:

has management or control of electrical equipment, including electrical installations, or
carries out electrical work on or near energised electrical equipment, including electrical installations.

This Code also applies to construction and demolition sites, except if a requirement of the Code
is dealt with in AS/NZS 3012:2010 Electrical installations—Construction and demolition sites.
In that case you must comply with AS/NZS 3012:2010. Further information about construction
work can be found in the Code of Practice: Construction Work.

This Code does not apply to:

electrical work on extra-low voltage electrical equipment, including extra-low voltage electrical installations
electrical work on high voltage equipment after switching, isolation, short circuiting and earthing, subject to summary guidance in Chapter 10 of this Code
the manufacture of electrical equipment
automotive electrical work
work that is not electrical work carried out on telephone, communication and data systems
work carried out by or on behalf of an electricity supply authority on the electrical equipment controlled or operated by the authority to generate, transform, transmit or supply electricity
repair of consumer electrical equipment when unplugged from any electrical socket outlet.

‘Extra-low voltage’ means voltage that does not exceed 50 volts alternating current (50 V a.c.)
or 120 volts ripple-free direct current (120 V ripple free d.c.).

This Code is divided into two parts dealing with:

Part A (Chapters 2-3): general electrical safety at the workplace, including electrical installations, requirements for inspecting and testing electrical equipment, and requirements for residual current devices in certain high-risk environments
Part B (Chapters 4-9): health and safety risks associated with electrical work.

How to use this Code of Practice

In providing guidance, the word ‘should’ is used in this Code to indicate a recommended course
of action, while ‘may’ is used to indicate an optional course of action.

This Code also includes various references to provisions of the WHS Act and Regulations which set out the legal requirements. These references are not exhaustive. The words ‘must’, ‘requires’ or ‘mandatory’ indicate that a legal requirement exists and must be complied with.

INTRODUCTION

1.1 What are electrical risks?

Electrical risks are risks of death, electric shock or other injury caused directly or indirectly by electricity. The most common electrical risks and causes of injury are:

electric shock causing injury or death. The electric shock may be received by direct
or indirect contact, tracking through or across a medium, or by arcing. For example,
electric shock may result from indirect contact where a conductive part that is not
normally energised becomes energised due to a fault (e.g. metal toaster body, fence)
arcing, explosion or fire causing burns. The injuries are often suffered because arcing
or explosion or both occur when high fault currents are present
electric shock from ‘step-and-touch’ potentials
toxic gases causing illness or death. Burning and arcing associated with electrical equipment may release various gases and contaminants
fire resulting from an electrical fault.

Even the briefest contact with electricity at 50 volts for alternating current (V a.c.) or 120 volts
for direct current (V d.c.) can have serious consequences to a person’s health and safety.
High voltage shocks involving more than 1000 V a.c. or 1500 V d.c. can cause contact burns
and damage to internal organs.

Electric shocks from faulty electrical equipment may also lead to related injuries, including falls from ladders, scaffolds or other elevated work platforms. Other injuries or illnesses may include muscle spasms, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, collapse and unconsciousness.

Workers using electricity may not be the only ones at risk—faulty electrical equipment and poor electrical installations can lead to fires that may also cause death or injury to others.

Key terms used in this Code are defined at Appendix A.

1.2 Who must manage electrical risks?

A person conducting a business or undertaking has the primary duty under the WHS Act
to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that workers and other persons at the workplace
are not exposed to electrical risks arising from the business or undertaking. This duty requires eliminating electrical risks or, if that is not reasonably practicable, minimising the risks so far
as is reasonably practicable.

The WHS Regulations include more specific requirements for managing electrical risks at the workplace. For example, all persons conducting a business or undertaking have duties to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that electrical equipment and installations at the workplace
are without risks to health and safety of persons.

Persons conducting a business or undertaking with management or control of a workplace have
a duty to ensure effective residual current devices (RCDs) are used in certain high-risk environments as defined in the regulations.

Persons conducting a business or undertaking carrying out electrical work must comply with
the prohibition on electrical work on energised electrical equipment subject to certain exceptions. These persons may also have duties under local electrical safety laws.

Persons conducting a business or undertaking should ensure electrical installation work is carried out by qualified persons and testing and compliance requirements are met.

Designers, manufacturers, importers, suppliers, and installers of electrical equipment and installations that could be used for work must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that they are without risks to health and safety. Designers and manufacturers of electrical equipment or installations must ensure they are designed and manufactured so that electrical risks are eliminated or, if this not reasonably practicable, minimised so far as is reasonably practicable.

Officers, such as company directors, have a duty to exercise due diligence to ensure that the business or undertaking complies with the WHS Act and Regulations. This includes taking reasonable steps to ensure that the business or undertaking has and uses appropriate resources and processes to eliminate or minimise electrical risks at the workplace.

Workers must take reasonable care for their own health and safety and not adversely affect the health and safety of other persons. Workers must comply with any reasonable instruction and cooperate with any reasonable policy or procedure relating to health and safety at the workplace. This means that if electrical equipment is provided by the person conducting the business or undertaking, the worker must use it in accordance with the information, instruction and training provided on its use.

Duty holders may have additional legal obligations under state or territory electrical safety legislation.

1.3 What is required to manage electrical risks?

Regulation 147 A person conducting a business or undertaking must manage risks to health
and safety associated with electrical risks at the workplace.

Regulation 34-38 In order to manage risk under the WHS Regulations, a duty holder must:

identify reasonably foreseeable hazards that could give rise to the risk
eliminate the risk, so far as is reasonably practicable
if it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the risk, minimise the risk so far as is reasonably practicable by implementing control measures
maintain the implemented control measure so that it remains effective
review, and if necessary revise, all risk control measures so as to maintain, so far as is reasonably practicable, a work environment that is without risks to health and safety.

The hierarchy of risk control is described at Section 2.3 of this Code.

This Code includes guidance on how to manage electrical risks in the workplace by following
a systematic process that involves:

identifying hazards
if necessary, assessing the risks associated with these hazards
implementing and maintaining risk control measures (e.g. inspecting and testing electrical equipment, using RCDs), and
reviewing risk control measures.

Guidance on the general risk management process is available in the Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks.

Consulting your workers

Consultation involves sharing of information, giving workers a reasonable opportunity to express views and taking those views into account before making decisions on health and safety matters.

Section 47 A person conducting a business or undertaking must consult, so far as is reasonably practicable, with workers who carry out work for the business or undertaking and who are (or are likely to be) directly affected by a work health and safety matter.

Section 48 If the workers are represented by a health and safety representative, the consultation must involve that representative.

Consultation with workers and their health and safety representatives is required at every step
of the risk management process. By drawing on the experience, knowledge and ideas of your workers you are more likely to identify all hazards and choose effective risk controls.

Consulting, cooperating and coordinating activities with other duty holders

Section 46 A person conducting a business or undertaking must, so far as is reasonably practicable, consult, cooperate and coordinate activities with all other persons who have a work health or safety duty in relation to the same matter.

Sometimes you may have responsibility for a health and safety matter along with other business operators who are involved in the same activities or who share the same workplace. In these situations, you should exchange information to find out who is doing what and work together in
a cooperative and coordinated way so that all risks are eliminated or minimised so far as is reasonably practicable.

For example, if you engage an electrical contractor to carry out electrical work at your workplace you should consult with the contractor on how (in general) the work is to be carried out and
in particular how risks to their health and safety and that of others at the workplace are to be managed while the work is carried out. You should also cooperate with the electrical contractor (e.g. instructing on and ensuring compliance with ‘no go’ zones’) to ensure electrical safety
of everyone at the workplace.

Further guidance on consultation is available in the Code of Practice: Work health and safety consultation, cooperation and coordination.

Information, training, instruction and supervision

Section 19 A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the provision of any information, training, instruction or supervision that is necessary
to protect all persons from risks to their health and safety arising from work carried out.

Regulation 39 You must ensure that information, training and instruction provided to a worker is suitable and adequate having regard to:

the nature of the work carried out by the worker
the nature of the risks associated with the work at the time the information, training or instruction is provided
the control measures implemented.

You must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the information, training and instruction is provided in a way that is readily understandable by any person to whom it is provided.

Formal or on-the-job training may be appropriate depending on the circumstances. Examples
of training are:

induction training—to ensure new starters or workers new to a job are trained on safe systems of work and other relevant health and safety matters
supervisor and management training—to ensure that safety issues are appropriately managed at the workplace
work-specific training—to ensure that workers carrying out particular work are trained
on any electrical and other risks specific to the work, as appropriate
ongoing or refresher training—to ensure that any training on work health and safety
matters is repeated as appropriate on a periodic basis
emergency procedure training—to ensure workers know what to do in the event of an emergency, for example procedures to follow if a person receives an electric shock
first aid training—to ensure appropriate procedures are followed for administering first aid,
for example proper treatment for electric shock
electrical rescue and resuscitation training for safety observers.

Special needs of workers should be taken into account in deciding the structure, content and delivery of training, including literacy levels, work experience and specific skills required to carry out the work.

PART A:

GENERAL ELECTRICAL SAFETY AT THE WORKPLACE

THE RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS

2.1 Identify the hazards

Identifying hazards involves finding all of the tasks, situations and sequences of events that could potentially cause harm.

Hazards arising from electrical equipment or installations may arise from:

the design, construction, installation, maintenance and testing of electrical equipment or electrical installations
design change or modification
inadequate or inactive electrical protection
where and how electrical equipment is used. Electrical equipment may be subject to operating conditions that are likely to result in damage to the equipment or a reduction in its expected life span. For example, equipment may be at greater risk of damage if used outdoors or in a factory or workshop environment
electrical equipment being used in an area in which the atmosphere presents a risk to health and safety from fire or explosion, for example confined spaces
type of electrical equipment. For example, ‘plug in’ electrical equipment that may be moved around from site to site, including extension leads, are particularly liable to damage
the age of electrical equipment and electrical installations
work carried out on or near electrical equipment or electrical installations, including electric overhead lines or underground electric services, for example work carried out in a confined space connected to plant or services.

Exposure to high electromagnetic fields may also present a potential hazard for workers with some medical conditions, for example pace makers. You must inform workers and other persons at the workplace of any potential electromagnetic hazards at the workplace that may affect a medical condition. You must also manage risks to health and safety arising out of electromagnetic hazards, including eliminating the risk so far as is reasonably practicable. If that is not reasonably practicable you must minimise the risk so far as is reasonably practicable.

Potential electrical hazards may be identified in a number of different ways including:

talking to workers and observing where and how electrical equipment is used
regularly inspecting and testing electrical equipment and electrical installations as appropriate
reading product labels and manufacturers’ instruction manuals
talking to manufacturers, suppliers, industry associations, and health and safety specialists
reviewing incident reports.

2.2 Assess the risks

Risk assessment involves considering what could happen if someone is exposed to a hazard (consequence) and the likelihood of it happening.

For work on energised electrical equipment, the WHS Regulations require that a risk assessment be prepared in writing by a competent person; for more information see Part B of this Code.

A risk assessment can help determine:

the severity of an electrical risk
whether existing control measures are effective
what action you should take to control an electrical risk
how urgently the action needs to be taken.

To assess the risk associated with electrical hazards consider:

What is the potential impact of the hazard?

oHow severe could the electrical hazard be? For example, direct contact causing electrocution, fire or explosion causing serious burns or death.
oHow many people are exposed to the hazard?

How likely is the hazard to cause harm?

oCould it happen at any time or would it be a rare event?
oHow frequently are workers exposed to the hazard?

Other factors that may affect consequence and likelihood include:

the conditions under which the electrical equipment is used, for example wet conditions outdoors or confined spaces
work practices and procedures, for example isolation, to carry out maintenance
the capability, skill and experience of relevant workers.

2.3 Control the risks

Once hazards have been identified and the risks assessed, appropriate control measures must be put in place.

The ways of controlling risks are ranked from the highest level of protection and reliability to the lowest. This ranking is known as the hierarchy of risk control. You must work through this hierarchy to choose the control that most effectively eliminates or minimises the risk in the circumstances, |so far as is reasonably practicable. This may involve a single control measure or a combination
of two or more different controls.

Elimination

The most effective control measure is to remove the hazard or hazardous work practice.
By designing-in or designing-out certain features, hazards may be eliminated.

Substitution

Replacing a hazardous process or material with one that is less hazardous will reduce the hazard, and hence the risk. For example, it may be reasonably practicable to use extra-low voltage electrical equipment such as a battery-operated tool rather than a tool that is plugged into mains electricity.

Isolation

Preventing workers from coming into contact with the source of an electrical hazard will reduce the relevant risks.

Engineering controls

Use engineering control measures to minimise the risk, for example installing residual current devices to reduce the risk of receiving a fatal electric shock.

Administrative controls

Administrative controls involve the use of safe work practices to control the risk, for example establishing exclusion zones, use of permits and warning signs.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

PPE includes protective eyewear, insulated gloves, hard hats, aprons and breathing protection. Most forms of PPE are not relevant to minimising electrical risks in workplaces, except in relation
to energised electrical work.

Administrative controls and PPE do nothing to change the hazard itself. They rely on people behaving as expected and require a high level of supervision. Exclusive reliance on administrative controls and PPE must only occur where other measures are not reasonably practicable or as an interim control while the preferred control measure is being implemented.

You should check that your chosen control measure does not introduce new hazards.

2.4 Review the control measures

The controls that are put in place to protect health and safety must be reviewed regularly to make sure they work effectively.

Regulation 38 A person conducting a business or undertaking must review and as necessary revise a control measure in the following circumstances:

when the control measure does not control the risk it was implemented to control so far as
is reasonably practicable
before a change at the workplace that is likely to give rise to a new or different risk to health
or safety that the measure may not effectively control
if a new relevant hazard or risk is identified
if the results of consultation indicate that a review is necessary
if a health and safety representative requests a review.

The following questions will help you evaluate how well you are currently managing electrical risks in your workplace:

Do you talk to your workers about electrical safety? Do any relevant new work methods
or equipment have the potential to make work safer in your workplace?
Are procedures for identifying electrical hazards in the workplace effective?
Are electrical safety procedures followed? Do you encourage your workers to report electrical hazards?
Do you regularly inspect and maintain your electrical equipment to identify safety problems?
Do you fix or rectify identified electrical hazards in a timely manner?

SPECIFIC HAZARDS AND RISK CONTROL

There are a number of things you should do to manage the risks to health and safety associated with electrical risks at the workplace including:

Ensure power circuits are protected by the appropriate rated fuse or circuit breaker to prevent overloading.
If the circuit keeps overloading, don’t increase the fuse rating as this creates a fire risk due to overheating; instead ensure the circuit is not re-energised until the reason for the operation has been determined by a competent person.
Arrange electrical leads so they will not be damaged. So far as is reasonably practicable, avoid running leads across the floor or ground, through doorways and over sharp edges, and use lead stands or insulated cable hangers to keep leads off the ground. In many heavy industries, cable protection ramps are used to protect cables.
Don’t use leads and tools in damp or wet conditions unless they are specially designed for those conditions.
Ensure circuits where portable electrical equipment can be connected are protected by appropriate RCDs (as required by the WHS Regulations) that are properly tested and maintained.
If RCDs, circuit breakers or other over current protective devices including fuses are triggered into operation, ensure circuits are not re-energised until the reason for the operation has been determined by a competent person.
Ensure RCDs are effective by regular testing.

3.1 Unsafe electrical equipment and electrical installations at the workplace

Regulation 149 A person conducting a business or undertaking that has management or control
of electrical equipment must ensure that any unsafe electrical equipment at the workplace is disconnected (or isolated) from its electricity supply and, once disconnected, is not reconnected until it is repaired or tested and found to be safe or is replaced or permanently removed from use.

Electrical equipment is unsafe if there are reasonable grounds for believing it to be unsafe.

You should implement a safe system of work to deal with potentially unsafe electrical equipment
at the workplace. This could include:

requiring workers (if competent to do so) to undertake a check of the physical condition of the electrical equipment, including the lead and plug connections, prior to commencing use
taking the electrical equipment out of service if in doubt as to safety, including at any time during use
putting reporting arrangements in place to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable,
that supervisors or line managers are advised if a worker takes electrical equipment out
of service for safety reasons.

Unsafe electrical equipment must be disconnected or isolated from its electricity supply. It must not be reconnected unless it is repaired by a competent person or tests by a competent person have confirmed it is safe to use. Alternatively, it could be replaced or permanently removed from use.

Unsafe electrical equipment should be labelled indicating it is unsafe and must not be used. This
is to prevent inadvertent use before the electrical equipment can be tested, repaired or replaced.

3.2 Inspecting and testing electrical equipment

Inspecting and testing electrical equipment will assist in determining whether it is electrically safe.

Regular visual inspection can identify obvious damage, wear or other conditions that might make electrical equipment unsafe. Many electrical defects are detectable by visual inspection.

Regular testing can detect electrical faults and deterioration that cannot be detected by visual inspection.

The nature and frequency of inspection and testing will vary depending on the nature of the workplace and the risks associated with the electrical equipment.

Lower-risk workplaces include those workplaces that are dry, clean, well-organised and free of conditions that are likely to result in damage to electrical equipment, for example an office, retail shop, telecommunications centre, classroom, etc. Electrical equipment commonly used in these types of lower-risk workplaces includes computers, photocopiers, stationery or fixed electrical equipment. A key source of information on dealing with the inspection and testing of electrical equipment is the manufacturer’s recommendations.

In this section a reference to ‘inspection’ or ‘testing’ excludes repair of electrical equipment.

Inspecting and testing electrical equipment—other than equipment used in specified higher-risk operating environments

Not all electrical items need to be inspected and tested under Regulation 150—for legal requirements see Sections 3.3 and 0 of this Code, which deal with inspection and testing requirements for electrical equipment used in specified higher-risk operating environments. Electrical equipment used in lower-risk operating environments does not require inspection
and testing or ‘tagging’.

Guidance on inspecting and testing electrical equipment in lower-risk operating environments
is included in AS/NZS 3760:2010 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment
(if covered by that Standard) and may also be included in the manufacturer’s recommendations.

AS/NZS 3760:2010 sets out indicative inspection and testing intervals for certain electrical equipment, including RCDs, used in a variety of different operating environments.

In addition to regular testing, electrical equipment should also be tested:

after a repair or servicing that could affect the electrical safety of the equipment (i.e. undertaken by the person carrying out the repair or servicing before return to service)
before its first use if bought second-hand.

Inspection and testing of electrical equipment may involve, in part:

looking for obvious damage, defects or modifications to the electrical equipment, including accessories, connectors, plugs or cord extension sockets
looking for discolouration that may indicate exposure to excessive heat, chemicals
or moisture
checking the integrity of protective earth and insulation resistance
checking that flexible cords are effectively anchored to equipment, plugs, connectors and cord extension sockets
looking for damage to flexible cords
checking that operating controls are in good working order i.e. they are secure, aligned and appropriately identified
checking that covers, guards, etc. are secured and working in the manner intended by the manufacturer or supplier
checking that ventilation inlets and exhausts are unobstructed
checking that the current rating of the plug matches the current rating of the associated electrical equipment.

Note that AS/NZS 3760:2010 specifically excludes medical devices and electrical devices in patient care areas. For more information see AS/3551:2004 Technical management programmes for medical devices or AS/NZS 3003:2011 Electrical Installations – patient areas.

New equipment

Brand-new electrical equipment that has never been put into use (i.e. other than second-hand equipment) does not have to be tested before first use.

Brand-new electrical equipment, however, should still be visually inspected to ensure that no damage occurred during transport, delivery, installation or commissioning.

If the electrical equipment is required to be tested regularly for safety, take the necessary steps
to ensure that it does not miss its first required test.

The date the electrical equipment was placed into service should be recorded (e.g. on the record
of installation or elsewhere). The electrical equipment may also be fitted with a tag stating:

that the equipment is ‘new to service’
the date of entry into service
the date when the first electrical safety test is due
that the equipment has not been tested.

Fitting a ‘new to service’ tag is an administrative task that can be carried out by an appropriately trained in-house person.

Alternatively, a different system may be put into place to ensure the electrical equipment is properly inspected and tested as required (e.g. the new electrical equipment can be included in the next round of electrical testing carried out at the workplace).

Inspecting and testing equipment-regulatory requirements for specified higher-risk operating environments other than construction or demolition sites

Regulation 150 A person conducting a business or undertaking with management or control of electrical equipment must ensure that the electrical equipment is regularly inspected and tested by a competent person if the electrical equipment is:

supplied with electricity through an electrical socket outlet (‘plug in’ equipment), and
used in an environment in which its normal use exposes the equipment to operating conditions that are likely to result in damage to the equipment or a reduction in its expected life span.

This includes conditions that involve exposing the electrical equipment to moisture, heat, vibration, mechanical damage, corrosive chemicals or dust.

You must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that electrical equipment is not used if the equipment is required to be tested under these requirements but has not been tested. Possible actions may include the storing of equipment in locked areas to prevent use or the use of ‘lock out’ labels and tags.

Inspection and testing requirements apply in relation to:

certain higher-risk workplaces in which electrical equipment is exposed to operating conditions that are likely to result in damage to the equipment or a reduction in its expected life span
construction and demolition sites (see Section 3.3 of this Code).

These operating environments have the potential to seriously affect the safe operation of electrical equipment. This includes conditions that involve exposing the electrical equipment to moisture, heat, vibration, mechanical damage, corrosive chemicals and dust. Examples include wet or dusty areas, outdoors, workplaces that use corrosive substances, commercial kitchens and manufacturing environments.

A risk assessment can help determine whether electrical equipment is being used in any of these operating environments at a particular workplace.

For guidance on appropriate inspection and testing intervals, seek the advice of a competent person (see below). Further guidance may be included in AS/NZS 3760:2010 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

As a general rule electrical equipment used in the specified higher-risk operating environments should be tested at least once every 12 months. More frequent testing may be required, for example in relation to:

electrical equipment used in manufacturing and workshop environments (e.g. at least once every 6 months)
commercial cleaning equipment (e.g. at least once every 6 months)
hire equipment (e.g. at least once every 3 months).

Hire equipment

Persons conducting a business or undertaking hiring out electrical equipment must ensure the equipment is inspected at the commencement of each hire and tested every three months.

The person conducting a business or undertaking using the electrical equipment hired out must ensure that, for the period of the hire, the equipment meets all applicable inspection and testing requirements under the WHS Regulations and this Code.

Competency requirements for those carrying out inspection and testing of electrical equipment

Inspection and testing of electrical equipment must be carried out by a person who has acquired, through training, qualification or experience, the knowledge and skills to carry out the task (i.e. be
a ‘competent person’). Inspection and testing of electrical equipment must be carried out by a competent person who has the relevant knowledge, skills and test instruments to carry out the relevant inspection and testing. The person carrying out any testing of electrical equipment should also be competent to interpret the test results of any equipment they use. For example, a person carrying out testing under AS/NZS 3760:2010 must be:

a licensed or registered electrician (whichever applies), or
in some jurisdictions, a licensed electrical inspector, or
a person who has successfully completed a structured training course and been deemed competent in the use of a pass-fail type portable appliance tester and the visual inspection of electrical equipment.

The training should be designed to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that on completion successful participants:

can use the relevant test equipment safely and effectively
understand electrical risks and appreciate the role that inspection and testing plays in ensuring electrical safety
understand AS/NZS 3760:2010 and AS/NZS 3012:2010 (if testing equipment for construction or demolition sites)
understand the legal requirements relevant to the work.

Some kinds of electrical testing must only be carried out by a licensed electrician or electrical inspector under local electrical safety laws. For example, testing requiring the dismantling of electrical equipment should only be carried out by a licensed electrician.

Additional or different competencies may be required for more complex kinds of testing outside the scope of AS/NZS 3760:2010.

If in doubt, advice should be obtained from a person qualified and experienced in electrical equipment testing, for example an electrician, electrical contractor, electrical inspector, specialist testing provider or relevant regulator.

Recording results of testing

Regulation 150 A record of testing must be kept until the electrical equipment is next tested, permanently removed from the workplace or disposed of. A record of testing must specify the following:

the name of the person who carried out the testing
the date of the testing
the outcome of the testing, and
the date on which the next testing must be carried out.

The record may be in the form of a tag attached to the electrical equipment tested.

Log book or other similar form of record

The record of testing may take the form of a log book, database, register or a similar kind of record, or a tag. Log books and similar records have the advantage of:

ensuring there is a permanent record of inspection and testing (for example, as a backup
if tags are damaged or removed)
facilitating internal audit
allowing more detailed information to be recorded.

Tag

If the record of testing is a tag, it should be durable, water resistant, non-metallic, self-adhesive
or well-secured, incapable of re-use and have a bright, distinctive surface.

The tag may also be colour-coded to identify the month in which the testing was carried out.

A tag may not include all of the required information. In that case, the rest of the required information must be recorded elsewhere and kept for the relevant period of time.

If a tag is not used you should ensure that tested electrical equipment is marked or labelled
so that records of testing can clearly identify the relevant equipment.

3.3 Inspecting and testing equipment – construction and demolition sites

Regulation 163 A person conducting a business or undertaking that includes the carrying out of construction work must comply with AS/NZS 3012:2010 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites.

AS/NZS 3012:2010 applies as if any term that is defined in that Standard and that is also defined
in the WHS Act or Regulations has the same meaning as it has in the WHS Act or Regulations.

If there is any inconsistency between the Standard and Part 4.7 of the WHS Regulations then
it is sufficient that the person complies with AS/NZS 3012:2010.

3.4 Residual current devices (RCDs)

The risk of electric shock often results from people making contact with unprotected energised parts of electrical equipment and earth. Contact with energised parts may occur by touching:

bare conductors
internal parts of electrical equipment
external parts of electrical equipment that have become energised because of an internal fault
metallic or other conductive equipment that has inadvertently become live.

Contact with earth occurs through normal body contact with the ground or earthed metal parts.

Serious injuries and fatalities may be prevented by the use of properly installed and maintained residual current devices RCDs, commonly referred to as ‘safety switches’. An RCD is an electrical safety device designed to immediately switch off the supply of electricity when electricity ‘leaking’ to earth is detected at harmful levels. RCDs offer high levels of personal protection from electric shock.

RCDs work by continuously comparing the current flow in both the active (supply) and neutral (return) conductors of an electrical circuit. If the current flow becomes sufficiently unbalanced, some of the current in the active conductor is not returning through the neutral conductor and
is leaking to earth. RCDs are designed to quickly disconnect the electricity supply when they sense harmful leakage, typically 30 milliamps or less. This ensures an electrical leak is detected and the electricity supply is disconnected before it can cause serious injury or damage.

While RCDs significantly reduce the risk of electric shock they do not provide protection in all circumstances. For example, an RCD will not trigger off electricity supply if a person contacts both active and neutral conductors while handling faulty plugs or electrical equipment and electricity flows through the person’s body, unless there is also a current flow to earth.

When RCDs must be provided for use in workplaces

Regulation 164 A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that any electrical risk associated with the supply of electricity to ‘plug in’ electrical equipment is minimised by the use of an appropriate RCD in certain higher-risk workplaces.

The following requirement only applies if it is reasonably practicable to provide an RCD in the higher risk workplaces:

If electricity is supplied to the equipment requiring an RCD through a socket outlet not exceeding 20 amps the RCD must have a tripping current that does not exceed 30 milliamps.

This does not apply if the supply of electricity to the electrical equipment:

does not exceed 50 volts alternating current, or
is direct current, or
is provided through an isolating transformer that provides at least an equivalent level of protection, or
is provided from a non-earthed socket outlet supplied by an isolated winding portable generator that provides at least an equivalent level of protection.

Construction and demolition sites

You must comply with AS/NZS 3012:2010 in relation to RCD requirements for construction and demolition sites.

RCD requirements only apply in relation to workplaces where electrical equipment supplied with electricity through a socket outlet (plug-in electrical equipment) is used or may be used in certain higher-risk workplaces. These are workplaces with operating conditions where:

the normal use of electrical equipment exposes the equipment to operating conditions that are likely to result in damage to the equipment or a reduction in its expected life span, including conditions that involve exposure to moisture, heat, vibration, mechanical damage, corrosive chemicals or dust
electrical equipment is moved between different locations in circumstances where damage
to the equipment or to a flexible electricity supply cord is reasonably likely
electrical equipment is frequently moved during its normal use
electrical equipment forms part of, or is used in connection with, an amusement device.

Common examples of electrical equipment requiring an RCD include:

hand-held electrical equipment, for example drills, saws, hair dryers, curling wands and electric knives
electrical equipment that is moved while in operation, including jackhammers, electric lawn mowers, floor polishers and extension cords
electrical equipment that is moved between jobs in ways that could result in damage to the equipment, for example electric welders, electric cement mixers, portable bench saws and extension cords.

Additional RCD requirements may be included in AS/NZS 3000:2007, local building and electrical safety laws.

Other legal requirements

Additional RCD requirements may be included in local building and electrical safety laws.

Non-portable (or ‘fixed’) and portable RCDs

Non-portable (or ‘fixed’) RCDs are RCDs that are installed at either the switchboard (see Figure 1) or a fixed socket outlet (see Figure 2).

Non-portable RCDs installed at the main switchboard protect the wiring connected to the RCD and electrical equipment plugged into the protected circuit.

Non-portable RCDs installed at a fixed socket outlet provide protection to electrical equipment plugged into the outlet.

Figure 1: Switchboard RCD unit Figure 2: Fixed socket outlet RCD unit

Portable RCDs are generally plugged into a socket outlet and, depending on design, may protect one or more items of electrical equipment.

Figure 3: Portable RCD fitted directly to power cable Figure 4: Portable RCD protected power board

Classes of RCDs

RCDs are classified in AS/NZS 3190:2011 Approval and test specification – Residual current devices (current-operated earth-leakage devices). The two relevant types are:

Type	Description	General Guidance – Use
Type I	Type I RCDs have a residual current rating not exceeding 10 milliamps and a tripping time within 30 milliseconds.	Type I RCDs are the most sensitive and are required for electrical equipment that is directly connected to people, for example patients in hospitals or dental practices.
Type II	Type II RCDs have a residual current rating greater than 10 milliamps but not exceeding 30 milliamps and a tripping time within 300 milliseconds.	Type II RCDs are most suitable for personal protection against injury including electric shock.

Requirement for ‘appropriate’ RCDs

The WHS Regulations require ‘appropriate’ RCDs to be selected and used in the specified higher-risk operating conditions. If an RCD is required, the RCD must have a tripping current that does
not exceed 30 milliamps if electricity is supplied to the equipment through a socket outlet not exceeding 20 amps.

The WHS Regulations do not prescribe whether RCDs must be non-portable or portable.
The most ‘appropriate’ RCD will depend on the workplace environment.

To assist with proper selection, further information about the advantages and disadvantages
of different kinds of non-portable and portable RCDs is described in Appendix B.

You may need to seek technical advice from a competent person about the kinds of RCDs that are appropriate for your workplace.

However, for construction and demolition sites you must comply with AS/NZS 3012:2010.

Additional requirements for the installation of non-portable RCDs may also apply under local building and electrical safety laws as set out in AS/NZS 3000:2007 Electrical installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules).

Inspecting and testing RCDs

Regulation 165 A person with management or control of a workplace must take all reasonable steps to ensure that residual current devices used at the workplace are tested regularly by
a competent person to ensure the devices are working effectively.

A record of testing (other than daily testing) must be kept until the device is next tested
or disposed of.

AS/NZS 3012:2010 applies in relation to construction and demolition sites.

Persons with management or control of a workplace must take all reasonable steps to ensure that RCDs used at the workplace are tested regularly by a competent person. This requirement covers RCDs used in all operating environments including non-portable (or ‘fixed’) RCDs.

If an RCD is tested and found to be faulty it must be taken out of service and replaced as soon as possible.

Requirements for inspecting and testing electrical equipment used in certain higher-risk workplaces which could, for example include portable RCDs, are explained in Section 0 of this Code.

For guidance on approval and test specifications, see AS/NZS 3190: Approval and test specification – Residual current devices.

Testing new portable RCDs

A new portable RCD unit should be tested by pressing the ‘trip test’ button to ensure the RCD
is effective.

PART B:

ELECTRICAL WORK

MANAGING THE RISKS OF ELECTRICAL WORK

The WHS Regulations do not modify, supplement or otherwise change licensing or registration requirements (whichever applies) under electrical licensing laws.

Regulation 146 You must take all reasonable steps to ensure that electrical work that is required to be undertaken by a licensed or registered electrical worker is undertaken by a worker that meets the relevant licensing or registration requirements.

4.1 What is electrical work?

Electrical work means:

connecting electricity supply wiring to electrical equipment or disconnecting electricity supply wiring from electrical equipment
installing, removing, adding, testing, replacing, repairing, altering or maintaining electrical equipment or an electrical installation.

Electrical work does not include:

work that involves connecting electrical equipment to an electricity supply by means of a flexible cord plug and socket outlet
work on a non-electrical component of electrical equipment if the person carrying out the work is not exposed to an electrical risk
replacing electrical equipment or a component of electrical equipment if that task can be safely performed by a person who does not have expertise in carrying out electrical work (e.g. replacing domestic fuses or light bulbs)
assembling, making, modifying or repairing electrical equipment as part of a manufacturing process
building or repairing ducts, conduits or troughs where electrical wiring is or will be installed if:

othe ducts, conduits or troughs are not intended to be earthed
othe wiring is not energised, and
othe work is supervised by a licensed or registered electrical worker

locating or mounting electrical equipment, or fixing electrical equipment in place, if this task is not performed in relation to the connection of electrical equipment to an electricity supply
assisting a licensed electrician to carry out electrical work if:

othe assistant is directly supervised by the licensed electrician, and
othe assistance does not involve physical contact with any energised electrical equipment

carrying out electrical work, other than work on energised electrical equipment, in order to meet eligibility requirements in relation to becoming a licensed electrician.

Electrical work does not include work on electrical equipment that is operated by electricity at extra-low voltage except:

electrical equipment that is part of an electrical installation that is located in an area in which the atmosphere presents a risk to health and safety from fire or explosion
in relation to electrical equipment that is part of an active impressed current cathodic protection system within the meaning of AS 2832.1:2004.

4.2 Identify the hazards

See Section 2.1 of this Code.

4.3 Assess the risks

A risk assessment involves considering what could happen if someone is exposed to a hazard and the likelihood of it happening. Risks associated with electrical work may arise from:

the properties of electricity. Electricity is particularly hazardous because electrical currents are not visible and do not have any smell or sound
how and where the electrical work is carried out. Electrical work may be carried out in difficult conditions, including in wet weather conditions, confined spaces and in atmospheres that present a risk to health and safety from fire or explosion
the competence of the persons carrying out the electrical work.

If energised or ‘live’ electrical work is proposed to be carried out, a risk assessment must be undertaken before the work starts and it must be carried out by a competent person and recorded. For more information about energised electrical work, see Section 7 of this Code.

The following risk factors associated with carrying out electrical work should be considered:

sources of electrical risks, including energy levels at the workplace
the nature of the electrical work to be carried out
potential or actual high fault current levels (i.e. risks associated with arc flash)
availability of isolation points
work practices
the type of plant, machinery and equipment to be used
availability of suitable test instruments
availability of properly rated PPE
the workplace and working environment, for example:

owet weather conditions
oin and around trenches, pits and underground ducts
oladders, scaffolds, portable pole platforms, elevating work platforms, poles and towers
oconfined spaces
oability to safely rescue persons

the competence of people carrying out the work, noting that licensing requirements may apply for the electrical work under local electrical safety laws.

Also consider individual workers’ needs, for example:

Is the worker experienced in, and have they been properly trained for, the working conditions?
Is the worker physically fit for the proposed work, for example are they able to climb to heights to work on an overhead conductor or are they mentally alert and not fatigued?
Does the worker have a visual or hearing impairment, for example do they have a visual colour deficiency or hearing loss?
Does the worker take any medication that may increase their vulnerability to work in electrical environments?
Is the worker working excessively long hours?
Does the worker suffer from claustrophobia?

Appendix C may be used to assist with identifying hazards and assessing risks in carrying out electrical work.

4.4 Control the risks

Once hazards have been identified and the risks assessed, appropriate control measures must be put in place. Electrical safety generally depends on appropriate training, work planning, and correct testing procedures and techniques.

The ways of controlling risks are ranked from the highest level of protection and reliability to the lowest. This ranking is known as the hierarchy of risk control. You must work through this hierarchy to choose the control that most effectively eliminates or minimises the risk in the circumstances, so far as is reasonably practicable. This may involve a single control measure or a combination of two or more different controls.

Elimination

The most effect control measure is to remove the hazard or hazardous work practice. For example, working de-energised rather than energised eliminates significant electrical risks. That is why the WHS Regulations prohibit energised electrical work subject to certain exceptions.

Substitution

Replacing a hazardous process or material with one that is less hazardous will reduce the hazard, and hence the risk. For example, it may not be reasonably practicable to eliminate energised electrical work altogether; however, even if it is necessary (for one of the legally permissible reasons) to work on an energised electrical part, it may be possible to de-energise the surrounding parts.

Isolation

Preventing workers from coming into contact with the source of the electrical hazard will reduce the relevant risks.

Engineering controls

Use engineering control measures to minimise the risk, for example insulation, guarding and installing residual current devices to prevent electric shock.

Administrative controls

Administrative controls involve the use of safe work practices to control the risk, for example the provision of suitable and adequate training, establishing exclusion zones, use of permits and warning signs.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

PPE includes protective eyewear, insulated gloves, hard hats, aprons and breathing protection. The PPE should be rated for the work to be done. If working on energised equipment, the PPE must be able to protect the user from the maximum prospective energy available at the work site.

However, administrative controls such as procurement and personnel policies and procedures are very important in relation to electrical risks, as they will help to ensure that electrical work is carried out by a qualified electrician as required by law.

You should check that your chosen control measure does not introduce new hazards.

4.5 Review the control measures

See Section 2.4 of this Code.

RISK CONTROLS – WORKING DE-ENERGISED

Electrical work (whether energised or de-energised) must only be carried out by appropriately licensed or registered electrical workers.

For more information about the applicable electrical licensing or registration laws contact the local regulator in the relevant jurisdiction.

5.1 General principles – verification of de-energised electrical equipment

Regulation 152-156 A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that electrical work is not carried out on electrical equipment while the equipment is energised, subject to the prescribed exceptions discussed in Section 7 of this Code.

These provisions do not apply to work carried out by or on behalf of electricity supply authorities
on the electrical equipment, including line-associated equipment, controlled or operated by
the authority to generate, transform, transmit or supply electricity. This exemption does not
extend to the electricity generation sector.

A person conducting a business or undertaking carrying out electrical work must ensure that, before electrical work is carried out on electrical equipment, the equipment is tested by a competent person to determine whether or not it is energised.

The person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that:

each exposed part is treated as energised until it is isolated and determined not to be energised, and
each high-voltage exposed part is earthed after being de-energised.

A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that electrical equipment that
has been de-energised to allow for electrical work to be carried out cannot be inadvertently
re-energised.

The safe work principle ‘TEST FOR ‘DEAD’ BEFORE YOU TOUCH’ must be applied at all times.

Even if the electricity supply is believed to have been isolated, it must be assumed that all conductors and electrical components are energised until they have been proven de-energised.

Testing for ‘dead’ must be undertaken as appropriate for the duration of the electrical work.
Testing is undertaken prior to touching, taking into account all relevant factors including the
nature of the conductor, nature of the isolation, nature of work, if there has been a change
or the area has been left idle (unattended) for a period.

The testing method (including the tester used) must be safe and effective. The electrical
worker carrying out the testing must understand testing procedures and be competent in the
use of the tester.

Panel voltmeters should not be used as the only method of determining whether an electrical
part is de-energised.

If voltage testers are used they should be tested for correct operation immediately before use
and again after use to confirm that the instrument is still working. This check should be considered to be part of the ‘TEST FOR ‘DEAD’ BEFORE YOU TOUCH’ safe work principle.

If there are any exposed conductors in the immediate work area they should be separated by design or segregated and protected with insulated barricades, insulated shrouding or insulated material to prevent against inadvertent or direct contact.

For more information about testing instruments see Chapter 9 of this Code.

5.2 Safe work method statements

Regulation 161 A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that electrical work on energised electrical equipment is carried out in accordance with a safe work method statement.

Safe work method statements are required in relation to prescribed ‘high risk construction work’, in addition to energised electrical work. For more information about safe work method statements see Section 7.3 of this Code and for ‘high risk construction work’ see the Code of Practice: Construction work.

5.3 Work on cables (including cutting cables)

Where work is to be carried out on a cable, the cable should be de-energised.

Cables must be treated as energised and the procedures for working on energised electrical equipment followed until positive tests can be made that prove the cable is de-energised.

If the cable’s connections are exposed the connections and attached live parts should be proved to be de-energised and identified before work starts.

Cutting cables presents particular risks. Both ends of the cable should be checked for isolation prior to cutting. Schematic diagrams or ‘as built’ diagrams should be checked carefully to establish secondary or metering circuits in multi-cored cables prior to cutting.

Additional precautions should be taken to ensure insulated or covered cables are de-energised, whether the cables are low voltage, high voltage or control cables.

For example, the action of cutting a multi-core control cable is likely to create a risk if secondary current from a current transformer is present. This risk may not be initially apparent; that is, the cable cutters may not be damaged when the cable is cut. A high voltage may develop across the open-circuited secondary winding causing an electric shock, arcing or a fault at a later stage.

Depending on the situation, alternative precautions may include:

using a cable spiking or stabbing device that is fit for purpose
a combination of proving it is de-energised and physically tracing the cable.

LOW VOLTAGE ISOLATION AND ACCESS

Working de-energised on low voltage electrical equipment or circuits requires the electrical equipment or circuits to be effectively isolated from all relevant sources of electricity supply.
This may be done using opening switches, removing fuses or links, opening circuit breakers
or removing circuit connections.

The standard steps in low voltage isolation are:

Consultation	· consulting with the person with management or control of the workplace (e.g. in relation to the timing of the work) and notifying any other affected persons as appropriate
Isolation	· identifying the circuit(s) requiring isolation · disconnecting active conductors from the relevant source(s), noting there may be multiple sources and stand-by systems/generators/photovoltaic systems as well as auxiliary supplies from other boards · if a removable or rack out circuit breaker or combined fuse switch is used it should, if reasonably practicable, be racked out or removed then locked open and danger tagged
Securing the isolation	· locking the isolating switch(es) where practicable or removing and tying back relevant conductors to protect the person(s) carrying out the electrical work
Tagging	· tagging the switching points where possible to provide general information to people at the workplace
Testing	· testing to confirm the relevant circuits have been de-energised and any other relevant conductors in the work area
Re-testing as necessary	· for example, if the person carrying out the work temporarily leaves the immediate area, checks and tests must be carried out on their return to ensure that the electrical equipment being worked on is still isolated to safeguard against inadvertent reconnection by another person · for example, if a wire changes its status when cut, which can occur because it is lifted from earth.

The effectiveness of isolation procedures relies on:

isolation points being readily available/accessible and being suitable for the type of isolation (switching) being conducted
the necessary hardware
having isolation procedures documented and accessible to electrical workers in the workplace
the provision of instruction, information and training of electrical workers involved with the electrical equipment
appropriate supervision to ensure safe work procedures, including isolation procedures,
are followed.

Safe isolation procedures (including the use of locks and tags discussed below) should be developed in consultation with relevant workers. If the workers are represented by a health and safety representative, the consultation must involve that representative.

6.1 Securing the isolation

Regulation 156 A person conducting a business or undertaking must ensure that electrical equipment that has been de-energised to allow electrical work to be carried out on it is not inadvertently re-energised while the work is being carried out.

For work on low voltage electrical equipment or circuits, ensure that the correct point of isolation
is identified, an appropriate means of isolation is used and the supply cannot be inadvertently
re-energised while the work is carried out.

A fundamental principle is that the point of isolation should be under the control of the person
who is carrying out the work on the isolated conductors.

Tagging systems should also be used at the point(s) of isolation where possible for general information.

The isolation should be secured by locking off and tagging the electrical equipment as follows.

Instruction, information, training and supervision

Appropriate instruction, information, training and supervision must be provided to ensure that electrical equipment that has been de-energised to allow electrical work to be carried out is not inadvertently re-energised. This includes appropriate instruction, information and training on isolation procedures to everyone who may be affected at the workplace.

Locking off

Isolation points should be fitted with control mechanisms that prevent the electrical equipment from being inadvertently re-energised. The control mechanism should require a deliberate action to engage or disengage the device. It should be able to withstand conditions that could lead to the isolation failing, for example vibration.

This may include switches with a built-in lock and lock-outs for switches, circuit breakers, fuses
and safety lock-out jaws (sometimes called ‘hasps’).

All circuit breakers, switches and combined fuse switch units should be locked off to secure the isolation where possible. See
Figure 5 for examples of locking-off methods incorporating danger tags.

Alternative controls may include an additional component, for example a clip, screw, bolt or pin that can be inserted to prevent a switch from being operated. These types of controls should be used in conjunction with additional control measures, such as danger tags and permit systems.

If more than one person is working on the same de-energised electrical installation, individuals should ensure their own personal lock is applied to the isolation point, otherwise the principles
of tagging apply (see below).

No-one should operate an isolator or knowingly use equipment where the isolator has a control mechanism attached.

In situations where isolation points are accessible by other persons at the workplace ensure,
so far as is reasonably practicable, that the isolation method or system is not able to be inadvertently or easily compromised.

Figure 5: Locking off methods incorporating danger tags

Danger tagged locking off hasp Danger tagged circuit breaker locking off devices

Tagging systems

Danger tags

Isolation involves using suitable warning or safety signs as well as locks or other controls to secure the isolation.

Where possible, a tag should be attached to normal locks (as shown in
Figure 5) at all points of isolation used to de-energise electrical equipment from its electricity supply.

A tag does not perform the isolation function.

Danger tags are not required when using dedicated personal isolation locks.

Danger tags are used for the duration of the electrical work to warn persons at the workplace that:

the electrical equipment is isolated or out of service
the electricity supply must not be switched back on or reconnected
reconnecting electricity may endanger the life of the electrical worker(s) working on the equipment.

The danger tag should:

be durable and securely fixed to the isolator
clearly state the warning, including any warning about specific hazards relating to the isolation (for example, multiple points of supply)
be dated and signed by the worker or workers involved in carrying out the work or, where appropriate, by the supervisor in charge of the workers
be attached in a prominent position on each isolation point (i.e. the point or one of many points used to isolate electrical parts) or device
only be removed by the signatories to the tag. If unavailable and unable to return, measures must be put in place to manage risks associated with removing the lock or tag (e.g. thorough investigation to ensure all workers and others at the workplace are safe).

If the work is incomplete, for example at a change of shift, the last person removes their danger tag or lock and replaces it with a warning tag e.g. out of service or caution.

When work is resumed, the person in charge of the work removes the warning tag (out of service or caution) and each person then applies their danger tag and/or lock.

When work is finally completed, each person removes their danger tag and/or lock.

Where a formal permit system is used, all reasonable steps must be taken to ensure that the designated sign-on and tagging procedures are followed.

Out of service tags

Out of service or caution tags are used to identify electrical equipment that is not safe to use
or fit for purpose. The out of service or caution tag should:

be durable and securely attached
clearly state the nature of the defect or reason why the electrical equipment is unsafe
be attached on a prominent position on each isolation point
only be removed by a competent person after fixing or rectifying the defect and making
the electrical equipment safe, or replacing with a danger tag in preparation to work on
the equipment.

Figure 6: Example of a danger tag and out of service tag

Testing

Testing must be carried out to confirm the relevant circuits have been de-energised and the status of any other relevant conductors in the work area.

Bonding conductors

For guidance on bonding conductors if electrical equipment is isolated at a remote location or there is a risk of induced voltage being present, see AS/NZS 4836.

6.2 Altering isolation for testing, fault finding and re-energising

It may be necessary to change an isolation point to allow for testing or fault finding on energised parts, for example testing that may be required before returning electrical equipment to service
and commissioning new electrical equipment.

Any testing or fault finding on energised parts must be carried out in accordance with requirements for energised electrical work, which are discussed in Section 7 of this Code.

If electricity supply is restored to part of the circuit then safe procedures for restoring electricity supply must be followed.

6.3 Restoring power

All reasonable steps must be taken to ensure that restoring electricity supply following isolation does not pose risks to health and safety at the workplace. For example:

appropriately terminating all conductors
carrying out appropriate testing on any new, altered or repaired electrical equipment,
for example tests for insulation resistance, earth continuity, polarity, correct connection
and function testing
removing safeguards, including temporary bonds and short-circuiting devices
notifying all workers working on the electrical equipment and other affected workers
at the workplace that electricity is to be restored
taking precautions as appropriate to ensure that other electrical equipment is not inadvertently energised
following procedures for removing any locks (or other control mechanisms), tags, notices and safety signs
carrying out a visual inspection to ensure that all tools, surplus material and waste has been removed from the workplace.

When electricity is restored tests must be carried out to confirm that polarity is correct, actives are switched and, where applicable, phase sequences are correct before electrical equipment is used. For further information refer to AS/NZS 3017:2007 Electrical installations – Verification guidelines.

6.4 Leaving unfinished work

If work is left unfinished, the workplace must be left in a safe state including, for example, by:

terminating any exposed conductors
physically securing any exposed conductors or surrounding metal work
tagging, taping off the electrical equipment and the workplace area
informing affected persons at the workplace the work is not complete and advising of potential hazards
taking any necessary precautions to ensure that electrical equipment cannot become inadvertently re-energised
ensuring that the status of switchboards and electrical equipment are clearly and correctly labelled
handing over adequate information to workers taking up the unfinished work to allow them to continue the work safely.

RISK CONTROLS – ENERGISED ELECTRICAL WORK

7.1 Prohibition on energised electrical work

Regulation 152 and 157 A person conducting a business or undertaking carrying out electrical work must ensure the work is not carried out on energised electrical equipment unless:

it is necessary in the interests of health and safety that the electrical work is carried out while the equipment is energised (e.g. it may be necessary for life-saving equipment to remain energised and operating while electrical work is carried out on the equipment), or
it is necessary that the electrical equipment to be worked on is energised in order for the work to be carried out properly, or
it is necessary for the purposes of testing to ensure the equipment is de-energised as required by regulation 155, or
there is no reasonable alternative means of carrying out the work,

These requirements in relation to energised electrical work do not apply to work carried out by or on behalf of electricity supply authorities on the electrical equipment, including line-associated equipment, controlled or operated by the authority to transform, transmit or supply electricity. These authorities may be covered by separate electrical safety requirements.

High voltage means voltage that exceeds low voltage.

APPENDIX B – ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
OF NON-PORTABLE AND PORTABLE RCDS

Non-Portable and Portable RCDs	Advantages and Disadvantages
Non-portable RCDs	Non-portable (or ‘fixed’) RCDs are installed at either the switchboard or a fixed socket outlet.
Non-portable RCDs installed at the main switchboard	Non-portable RCDs will protect all the wiring and electrical equipment plugged into the relevant circuit(s).
Advantages	· provide permanent and secure protection against electrical faults, including protection against fixed-wiring faults as well as electrical equipment faults · are more secure as they are usually inaccessible except to any person who holds the key to the switchboard · may be cost-effective if the existing switchboard can accept the installation without major modification and RCD protection is required on circuits supplied from the main switchboard · are usually adaptable as these RCDs can be installed in new, modified or existing electrical installations.
Disadvantages	· a fault in one piece of equipment may unnecessarily shut down entire operations. In some cases this could create greater risks associated with uncontrolled cessation of a work process · fault detection and isolation may be complex because the RCD protects all sockets past the point where it is installed and may be tripped at any point · installation may be costly if the pre-existing switchboard requires modification.
Non-portable RCDs installed at a socket outlet	These non-portable RCDs are installed at selected locations and provide protection to electrical equipment plugged into the outlet. Socket outlets protected by non-portable RCDs should be labelled, for example by stating ‘RCD Protected’ or similar. This will indicate to the person using the socket outlet that a non-portable RCD is fitted.
Advantages	· protection against electrical shock is permanent · suitable for areas where the work environment is used in many different ways or difficult to control, including public places · readily accessible for testing and re-setting. This can be a safe and cost-effective alternative if the switchboard option is not reasonably practical · adaptable, as these RCDs can be installed at any fixed socket outlet where the electrical equipment requiring RCD protection is used · potentially the most cost-effective option because it is permanent, protects everything plugged into it and is easily identified by the user.
Disadvantages	· fixed-wiring protection only applies to wiring past that socket on the circuit · fault detection and isolation might be complicated as the RCD may be tripped by a fault at any point past the RCD on the circuit · damage to the socket outlet will require the RCD to be replaced.
Relevant considerations in deciding between options for non-portable devices	In deciding between options for non-portable RCDs, you should consider the size of the building or site, its use, and any plans to refurbish, refit or rewire the building. It may be safer and more cost-effective to ensure all circuits are protected by one or more RCDs rather than selectively install individual RCDs at some socket outlets to accommodate your current workplace needs, which may change. If you install new circuits or modify pre-existing circuits you must protect those circuits with an RCD consistent with AS/NZS 3000:2007, which is subject to some exemptions.
Portable RCDs	These RCDs protect the electrical equipment that is plugged into them. In some circumstances the most appropriate RCDs may be portable RCDs, particularly to protect mobile workers that do not have fixed places of work and whose PCBU may have little control over electrical installations where they work. Workers using hand-held or portable electrical equipment should be advised as to whether the outlets they use are adequately protected by RCDs. If in doubt you should ensure that portable RCDs are provided to these workers and take all reasonable steps to ensure they are used. The use of a portable RCD in a circuit already protected by a non-portable RCD has no detrimental effect on the operation of either RCD.
Portable RCDs—portable plug type	Portable plug-type RCDs can be plugged into a socket outlet to protect a single piece of equipment. They can be incorporated into a power cable or can be the RCD unit alone, without a cord.
Advantages	· provide RCD protection for electrical equipment used in workplaces where users may be unsure as to whether there is RCD protection · can be allocated to users rather than to all electrical equipment · can be plugged into existing installations where the electrical equipment requiring protection is to be used.
Disadvantages	· provide no protection from faults in fixed-wiring · may be subject to abuse so frequent testing is required · if not incorporated into a single appliance’s power cord, will require additional administrative controls to ensure that workers use them · may be very difficult to test if plug-type RCDs are installed directly onto electrical equipment connection cords. For this reason they are not generally recommended.
Portable RCDs—portable stand-alone unit	Portable stand-alone units are RCDs incorporated into a power board. They provide multiple protected socket outlets and can provide RCD protection to multiple items of electrical equipment from one power board.
Advantages	· provide RCD protection for electrical equipment used in workplaces where users may be unsure as to whether there is RCD protection · can be allocated to users rather than to all electrical equipment · provide a number of protected socket outlets from the one RCD unit · can be plugged into existing installations where the electrical equipment requiring protection is to be used.
Disadvantages	· provide no protection from faults in fixed-wiring · may be subject to abuse so frequent testing is required · rely on administrative controls to ensure that workers use the stand-alone units · can be less economical if many items of electrical equipment require protection.

APPENDIX C – RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTRICAL WORK

Activity	Risks
Isolation and access	· Correctly isolating supply but not discharging residual energy e.g. a capacitive charge may be present in power supplies, single-phase motors or high power factor fluorescent fittings. · Insulation and equipment failing or partially breaking down. · Earth connection failing to stop an electric shock in earthed conductive parts when step and touch potentials exist. · Carrying out the task causes a person, something a person may be handling or something a person is in contact with to intrude into minimum safe approach distances. · A power system conducting fault current or being subject to high inrush currents. · Instructions or markings on the parts being inadequate, incorrect or both. · Using equipment not designed for, or capable of, an operation e.g. opening a ‘no load – bus tie’ under load conditions or relying on an open circuit breaker as an isolation point. · Another person energising circuits while a worker is working on them, or a vehicle hitting a pole. · Natural elements (i.e. lightning or wind) causing static charges, overhead mains to clash or a high-voltage circuit to fall onto a low-voltage circuit. · The inter-core capacitive effects of long multi-phase cables. · Changes to wiring not being reflected in drawings i.e. the drawings are not ‘as built’ e.g. a live control or supervision circuit being present though the drawing indicates otherwise. · If there has been an error in wiring, opening the isolator may not de-energise the switchboard e.g. if incorrect connection (incorrect polarity) occurred in the service to an installation, opening the main switch will open circuit the neutral rather than the active. · Intentionally disabling an interlock to perform a task e.g. opening the shutter of a ‘rackable’ circuit breaker test to prove de-energised in the orifice. · Inadvertently disabling an interlock while performing a task e.g. in a switchboard with an integrated circuit breaker, isolator and earth switch, the operator accidentally moving the isolator into the earthed position. · Poor direction and insufficient knowledge e.g. a worker is instructed to apply a set of earths and short circuits at a Ring Main Unit (RMU). The worker correctly observes the isolator is open, however they assume the earth switch can be closed because the isolator is open. As most RMUs are configured so the earth switch earths the cable, not the busbar, it is possible the worker would be earthing and short-circuiting a live circuit. · When applying a set of portable earths and short-circuits, accidental or inadvertent contact is made with live parts. If this occurs, the worker is using a device that is conducting fault current. · The threshold value (lowest level of indication or reading) of a test device causing a misleading interpretation of a test to prove de-energised. Depending on the device used, an indication that parts are not energised in a high-voltage situation does not mean that low-voltage and direct current voltages are absent. · Application of earthing and short-circuiting devices that depend on a conductive path through a fuse or circuit breaker that is not fit for purpose. · Ineffective connection to the general mass of the earth e.g. the electrode, grid or temporary electrode that the earth and short circuits relies upon in a situation where a single phase becomes energised. · Application of the short circuit portion of portable earthing devices prior to the earth tail being connected to the earth. · Arcing and splattering associated with the application of earths and short circuits, causing a risk. The arcing or splattering may result from using the device in situations that range from energised conductors to residual energy such as capacitance. If the parts are energised, the worker can draw the arc from one phase to the other, causing a phase-to-phase fault. · A potential electric shock path existing once the earth tail is connected to earth. A worker may touch another live part and the earthed connector at the same time, for example in a Common Multiple Earthed Neutral (CMEN) area, even when working on high-voltage, contact between the earthed connector and a low-voltage phase can cause an electric shock.
Working near sources of arcing, explosion or fires	Arcs, explosions and electrical faults can cause burns. Workers should be protected from the effects of burns. Examples include: · materials providing a conductive path between sources of potential, for example uninsulated tools falling across busbars · abnormal conditions on circuits such as: o lightning striking mains o circuits of different voltages touching each other e.g. high-voltage contacting low-voltage circuits o high voltage in the secondary circuit of a current transformer if an open circuit occurs when current is flowing in the primary circuit. · abnormally high voltages when synchronising different supplies. For example, if the waveforms are 180° out of phase, twice the peak-to-peak voltage may be imposed · voltage multiplication effects, including: o ferro-resonance where the capacitive and inductive components of underground cables and transformers can significantly increase voltages when single-phasing occurs o re-strike can occur if capacitors are energised, de-energised and re-energised in rapid succession · leakage or electrical discharge causing insulation to be compromised, for example a combination of a build-up of contaminants on insulators, wet weather or tracking through air voids in pitch filled insulating chambers · failure of insulating mediums.
Working in unsafe atmospheres	After faults and fires, often in emergencies, electrical workers may be exposed to unsafe atmospheres. Toxic gases and lack of oxygen can cause illness and death. General workplace health and safety risk control measures should be used in these situations. The method of extinguishing fires should be addressed. Typically, carbon dioxide or powder type devices are used against electrical fires. Extinguishers including water, foam and wet chemical should not be used as they significantly increase the risk of electric shock.
Modifying or repairing existing low-voltage electrical installations	· Electrical drawings/tables not reflecting ‘as installed’ installations. · More than one source of supply or energised circuit may be available on the premises or at the equipment. · The supply becoming energised during the work. · Automatic starting of machinery after supply is restored. · Managing metallic shavings (swarf) ingress into conductive parts of equipment. · A conductor considered to be de-energised was found to be energised. · Old installations (where several modifications may have been made, circuits have not been identified, or the insulation has deteriorated). · Voltages on disconnected conductors, particularly neutrals. · Installations where the MEN system is used, the rise in the earth potential due to a high impedance return path to the distribution neutral. · Lack of information about isolation, sources of supply or the location of electrical conductors. · Lack of clear safe access to locate electric cables (other hazards may be present such as exposed conductors). · Damage to conductors in metallic conduits where earthing continuity of the conduit has not been maintained. · Equipment located in hazardous areas, which includes bolt-on or screw-on covers, can be dangerous if opened without obtaining specialist advice. · Working alone on energised equipment. · Drilling into switchboards/electrical enclosures. · Contact with cables in walls, floors or roof spaces. · Contact with cables during excavation work or cutting/drilling concrete. · Exposure to asbestos material/switchboards. · Variable frequency devices. · Multiple circuits located within the one conduit. · Use of conductive/flammable cleaning solvents creating an explosive atmosphere.
Testing and fault finding low-voltage equipment and installations	Risks arise as it is difficult to find faults or malfunctions in electrical equipment when the circuits are not energised or when the equipment is not operating, especially if feedback circuits or sensors are involved. Risks can include: · electrical drawings/tables not reflecting ‘as installed’ installations · exposed energised terminals or conductors · terminals or conductors being energised under different conditions of operation of the equipment · loose or disconnected test leads or wiring becoming energised · test equipment and leads bringing electrical hazards closer to the worker · test equipment inappropriate for the task (particularly test probes) · inadequate test points · inadvertent attempts to start machinery by other persons · incorrect or poorly maintained testing instruments · inadequate knowledge of equipment or causes of faults · lack of information about circuits or equipment · equipment located in hazardous areas, which includes bolt-on or screw-on covers, can be dangerous if opened without obtaining specialist advice · testing or fault finding alone on energised equipment · testing or fault finding in cramped or restricted work situations · rotating or moving machinery (crush hazards) · overriding of interlocks or forcing of control equipment · re-setting of protective devices in energised switchboards · electrical installations where unauthorised electrical work has been undertaken.
High fault currents – working, testing or fault finding energised	When working, testing or fault finding on energised electrical equipment, a fault current of up to 20 times the rated current of the supply transformer can flow for short duration during fault conditions. Arcs can have the energy to cause an explosion and/or melt metallic switchboard cubicles and equipment. Arcs may cause severe burns to the skin and flash burns to the face and eyes. Inhaled hot gases and molten particles can cause serious internal burns to the throat and lungs. Injury can also occur through the impact from flying debris and dislodged components. Circuit protection devices may not operate in such circumstances.
Testing, fault finding or working on or near low voltage equipment	· Voltages between phases and between phases and neutral. · Voltages between phases and earth. · Voltages across open switch contacts, for example voltage across a light switch on an incandescent lighting circuit or the voltage across a bus tie where one side is de-energised. · Voltages on disconnected conductors (particularly neutrals). · Voltages from sources near the work being performed, for example: o working on a remote area power supply where both a.c. and d.c. voltages may be present o repairing lights on a shop fascia when overhead power lines are nearby o working on transducer circuits when other a.c. and d.c. circuits are present o working on a power system with multiple circuits that may be of multiple potentials. · Voltages on the circuit being worked on from other sources including: o illegal connections or reconnections o Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) and backup supplies o motor generators or alternators o d.c. on a.c. circuits or a.c. on d.c. circuits o harmonics, for example 3rd harmonic 150 Hz in neutrals and earths where there is a large fluorescent light load and switch mode power supplies o back Electro Magnetic Forces (EMF) from collapsing magnetic fields or rotating machinery o solar panels or photovoltaic. · Voltages across undischarged capacitors. · Voltages across the secondary terminals of transformers, including current transformers. · Voltages caused by static electricity, leakage or discharge, or lightning. · Voltages between energised exposed conductors and the surrounding environment (including metalwork, damp situations, other conductive surfaces and persons nearby). · Voltages between parts, or open-circuited parts of one earth system, or voltages between different earthing systems. · Induced voltages from sources other than the circuit being worked on, for example nearby circuits or radio frequency transmitters. · Multiple supply sources (more than one source of supply or energised circuit may be available on the premises), for example ‘essential services’ on a switchboard, emergency backup generators or UPS. · Electrical testing or operating equipment with open enclosures in hazardous areas (as defined by AS/NZS 3000:2007). · The potential (voltage) between parts of the earth in Multiple Earthed Neutral (MEN) systems can change, sometimes causing electric shocks. The changing earth potential can be due to a number of causes including a high impedance return path to the low-voltage distribution neutral, faults on other parts of the power system or lightning strikes. · Incorrect wiring connections, for example transposing active and neutral, commonly referred to as incorrect polarity. · Switched off circuits becoming energised. · Faulty equipment, for example the frame of faulty equipment may become energised. · Step and touch potentials and transferred earth potentials. Transferred earth potentials often result from system faults. · Hygroscopic materials that become conductive, for example fertiliser dust.
Other Hazards	· Working at heights and danger of falling objects. · Removal of cover plates near energised equipment, for example escutcheon plates. · Confined spaces (where there may be a hazardous atmosphere). · Inadequate light to work safely. · Lack of ventilation leading to uncomfortable, hot and humid working conditions. · Excessive worker fatigue, due to pressure of deadlines or other factors. · Obstacles to getting the equipment switched off. · Using a gas flame near exposed electrical conductors (a flame is a conductor). · Using conductive or flammable cleaning solvents. · Temperature rise as a result of combustion. · Cramped working conditions, including cable trenches and cable pits. · Explosive atmospheres. · Use of conductive tools and equipment, for example metallic tape measures and rulers. · Electric tools and equipment (for example, hand lamps, drills, saws, torches and test instruments). · Personal effects (for example, rings, jewellery, watches, pens, cigarette lighters, matches, hearing aids, mobile phones and pagers, transistor radios and similar). · General work activities (for example, welding, cutting, brazing, using hand saws, drilling of all types, hammering and chiselling). · Hot metal surfaces due to drilling, grinding or welding. · Excavation associated with electrical work. · Molten metal from arcs. · Asbestos material/switchboards. · Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) in transformers, capacitors and electric motors.

APPENDIX D – PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS CHECKLIST

This checklist will help you to identify hazards associated with electrical work and develop safe work methods.

If you answer ‘NO’ to any question you must take action to put appropriate risk control measures in place.

PART 1: INITIAL ASSESSMENT	Y	N
Can the work be undertaken while the electrical equipment is de-energised? If Yes, proceed to Part 2. If No, is it: · necessary in the interests of health and safety that the electrical work is carried out on the equipment while the equipment is energised? OR · necessary that the electrical equipment to be worked on is energised in order for the work to be carried out properly? OR · is it necessary for the purposes of electrical testing required under Regulation 155? OR · are there no reasonable alternative means of carrying out the work? If your answer to any of these is ‘yes’ proceed to Part 3 after considering whether part of the installation or equipment may be de-energised while the work is carried out. If you cannot answer ‘yes’ to any of these proceed to Part 2—you must work de-energised.
	PART 2: WORK DE-ENERGISED	Y	N
· Do you have approved test instruments suitable for the task? · Have you checked that the test instruments are functioning correctly? · Have you isolated the supply e.g. by switching off? · Have you conclusively tested that the equipment is de-energised? You must carry out the electrical work in accordance with any safe work method statement that must be prepared for the work. Proceed to Part 4.
	PART 3: WORK ON OR NEAR ENERGISED EQUIPMENT	Y	N
	Has a risk assessment been conducted by a competent person which identifies all electrical hazards and non-electrical hazards, both actual and potential?
	Is the work area clear of obstructions to allow for easy access?
Is the isolation point clearly marked or labelled and capable of being operated quickly?
Has the person with management or control of the workplace been consulted about the proposed electrical work?
Do you have a safe work method statement for the task at hand? This should state the control measures required to eliminate or minimise the risks.
Are you trained, competent and confident in applying the particular procedures or techniques that are required for the task?
Have you checked to ensure that your tools and accessories are insulated and have been inspected and maintained to ensure they are serviceable?
Is your test equipment appropriate to the task and functioning correctly?
Are you wearing the appropriate clothing and associated PPE for the task e.g. safety helmet and boots, insulating gloves?
Do you have the appropriate insulating mats and sheeting?
Is a safety observer present? Note: a safety observer is not required for electrical work if it only involves testing and the risk assessment shows that there is no serious risk associated with the work.
Are the necessary first aid facilities provided and accessible and are unauthorised persons prevented from entering the work area?
REMEMBER: · Do the work very carefully. · Follow the safe work procedures. · Assume all exposed conductors are energised. · Be aware of the voltage to earth of all exposed conductors.
PART 4: AFTER COMPLETING THE WORK	Y	N
Have the installations/circuits/equipment been restored to a safe and operable condition?
Have all tags and locking-off devices been removed?