Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
2015
DISCLAIMER
The material contained in this publication has been developed for the use of ActewAGL, its contractors
and all others working on or near ActewAGL’s electricity network. It should be read in conjunction with
any applicable Laws, Regulations, Technical Guidelines, Australian Standards and Internal Procedures.
ActewAGL believes that to the best of its knowledge, the information contained herein is correct and
current as at the date of its publication. However, ActewAGL gives no warranty as to the completeness,
accuracy or suitability of the information contained herein.
No party outside ActewAGL should act based on the information contained in this publication without
first considering his or her own circumstances and if necessary, obtaining professional advice as to
his or her legal obligations. Note however, that the Safe Approach Distances tabled within, are to be
considered a minimum standard for all work near ActewAGL assets.
Except for any liability that cannot be excluded or limited by law, ActewAGL excludes all liability for any
loss or damage of any kind arising from or relating in any way to reliance on the information contained
in this publication.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COPYRIGHT
The development of these Electrical Safety Rules was based on the ‘Code of Practice on Electrical
Safety for the Distribution Businesses in the Victorian Electricity Supply Industry (The Green Book)’.
Copyright of The Green Book is jointly owned by the Victorian Major Electricity Companies.
ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688 a partnership of Jemena Networks (ACT) Pty Ltd ABN 24 008 552 663 and Icon Distribution Investments Limited ABN 83 073 025 224.
Acts, Regulations
and Utility Services
Licence
Technical Codes,
Standards and
Guidelines
Electrical Safety
Rules
(The Blue Book)
ActewAGL Policies
and Procedures
ActewAGL’s compliance with these Electrical Safety Rules assists in meeting obligations imposed
by the Work Health and Safety Act, the Utilities Act and the electricity distribution licence issued to
ActewAGL by the Independent Competition and Regulatory Commission.
It is not expected that there would be any conflict between these Electrical Safety Rules and an Act or
Regulation. If anyone identifies such a conflict, they are asked to immediately notify Work Practices or
the General Manager Energy Networks, ActewAGL.
In order to comply with the requirements of these Electrical Safety Rules, ActewAGL workers and its
contractors shall either:
a. apply the rules and procedures contained within these Electrical Safety Rules; or
b. vary the procedures by:
• completing a hazard identification and risk assessment to ensure that workers are not
exposed to any increase in risk; and
• ensuring that community and business standards for managing risk are met; and
• documenting the procedure through SWMS or other means; and
• ensuring any variations are endorsed by the General Manager Energy Networks and that
the Safety Committee is informed in writing.
List of tables
Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to live conductors for ordinary,
instructed persons and authorised workers 21
Table 2.2 Safe approach distance (mm) to live conductors for vehicles and mobile plant 25
Table 3.1 Frequency of assessment – training and authorisations 36
Table 5.1 Protection for electrical operations 46
Table 8.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to live conductors for authorised
glove and barrier workers 79
Table 10.1 Insulation Resistance Values 98
List of flowcharts
Chart 7.1 Access authority sign-on checklist 71
Chart 8.1 General workflow for high voltage (HV) access 76
Chart 9.1 General workflow for low voltage (LV) access 86
Chart 9.2 General workflow for service access 92
Chart 14.1 Process for the issue of a SCAP 112
1. DEFINITIONS 1
Access Authority means any form of authorisation which allows an authorised or instructed worker
access to test or work on or near electrical apparatus.
Access Authorities used in these rules are:
Electrical Access Permit means a form of authorisation that allows persons and workers access
to, and to work upon, electrical apparatus.
Permit to Work means a form of authorisation providing permission to approved persons and
workers, working near or up to safe approach distances of electricity apparatus.
Sanction for Testing means a form of authorisation to allow energisation of electrical apparatus
for testing purposes.
ActewAGL means ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688
Appliance means any instrument or device designed for use near or in direct contact with live
conductors and/or electrical apparatus.
Approved means having appropriate organisation endorsement in writing for a specified function (see
Written or in Writing).
Approved Examiner means a person who has the permission of ActewAGL as appropriate for the duty
concerned, to act on its behalf.
Authorised Worker means a worker with technical knowledge or relevant trade experience who has
been approved, or has the delegated authority to act on behalf of ActewAGL, to perform the duty
concerned. (Sign on, work and receive an Access Authority).
Barrier means a rope, tape, barricade or alternative erected barrier in accordance with approved
procedures for the purpose of issuing an access authority.
Bonded means connected together in such a manner as to ensure that all bonded parts are
maintained at the same electrical potential.
Cable means an insulated conductor, or two or more such conductors, laid together, whether with or
without fillings, reinforcements or protective coverings.
Note: Cable, in these rules, also means low voltage and high voltage aerial bundled cable (ABC),
covered conductor thick (CCT) and covered conductor (CC).
Competent means the ability to perform particular tasks and duties to the standard of performance
expected in the workplace. Competency requires the application of specified skills, knowledge and
attitudes relevant to effective participation for completing a task.
Conductor means a wire, cable, bar, tube or form of metal designed for carrying electric current.
Confined Space means an enclosed or partially enclosed space that:
a. is not designed or intended primarily to be occupied by a person; and
b. i s, or is designed or intended to be, at normal atmospheric pressure while any person is in the
space; and
c. is or is likely to be a risk to health and safety from:
i. an atmosphere that does not have a safe oxygen level; or
ii. contaminants, including airborne gases, vapours and dusts, that may cause injury from fire
or explosion; or
Electrical Station means any location, in which HV supply is switched, converted, controlled or
transformed, or in which any similar electrical apparatus or plant is installed.
1
Stations more commonly referred to include:
Bulk Supply Station means the station at which a HV customer purchases their electricity.
Electricity can be purchased at any voltage. The electricity is metered and controlled within the
station but not necessarily transformed.
The electrical network and electrical apparatus beyond the bulk supply station may or may not
be owned and/or operated by ActewAGL.
Distribution Substation means a station in which electricity is controlled and transformed.
The highest voltage in the station does not exceed 22,000V.
Distribution Switching Station means a station in which electricity is controlled and possibly
metered. The highest voltage in the station does not exceed 22,000V. For the purposes of these
rules the requirements of a substation apply to a switching station.
Zone Substation means a station in which electricity is controlled metered and transformed.
The highest voltage in the station exceeds 22,000V.
one Switching Station means a station in which electricity is controlled and metered. The
Z
highest voltage in the station exceeds 22,000V. For the purposes of these rules the requirements
of a zone substation apply to a zone switching station.
Electrical Worker means a worker who is qualified to work on or near live electrical apparatus for
specific work to which the qualification pertains.
Embedded Generating Unit means a generating unit that is connected directly to and/or operating
in parallel with the distribution network that is, or can be, connected directly to the electricity network
by means of an operating switch or switching device. The generating unit may include photovoltaic (PV)
systems via inverters, rotating machines, solar, thermal and other renewable generation, such as wind
power generation or fuel cells.
icro PV Generator means a Class 1 PV Generator which is up to 10kW single phase or 30kW
M
three phase.
Energised means connected to a source of electrical supply, or subject to hazardous induced or
capacitive voltages.
Equipotential Bonding means electrical connections intended to bring exposed conductive parts or
extraneous conductive parts to the same or approximately the same potential, but not intended to
carry current in normal service.
Exposed Conductor means an electrical conductor, approach to which is not prevented by a barrier of
rigid material or by insulation which is adequate under a relevant Australian Standard specification for
the voltage concerned.
Extra Low Voltage (ELV) means a nominal voltage not exceeding 50 volts alternating current or 120
volts ripple-free direct current.
Fallen means dropped or come down from a higher place.
Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) means a switch which relies on Sulphur Hexafluoride Gas (SF6) as the
insulating medium.
1 Glove and Barrier (Live HV Line) Worker means a worker tested against an approved training
standard who has written authorisation to carry out live line work using Glove and Barrier or Stick
techniques on HV electrical apparatus.
Hazard means a situation or thing that has the potential to harm a person.
High Voltage (HV) means a nominal voltage exceeding 1,000 volts alternating current or 1,500 volts
direct current.
Immediately Available means the item is located within a few metres of the work and is available
without any delay such as the time taken to open doors and/or remove securing straps etc.
Instructed Person means a person with technical knowledge or relevant trade experience to perform
the task concerned under direct supervision of an authorised worker to enable them to avoid the
dangers which electricity may create. (Sign on, work but not receive an Access Authority)
Insulated means separated from adjoining conducting material by a non-conducting substance which
provides resistance to the passage of current, or to disruptive discharges through or over the surface
of the substance at the operating voltage, and to mitigate the danger of shock or injurious leakage of
current.
Insulated Stick means a stick of insulating material specifically designed, approved and tested for use
in physically bridging the distance between the Glove and Barrier Worker and energised apparatus,
between the energised apparatus and earth, between adjacent phases and to enable physical loads to
be taken or tools to be applied to the stick (see Operating Stick).
Isolated means disconnected from all possible sources of electricity supply by means which will
prevent unintentional re-energisation of the electrical apparatus and which is assessed as a suitable
step in the process of making safe for access to the electricity network.
Isolator means a device which, for reasons of safety, provides in the open position, breaks to the circuit
of a length appropriate to the voltage and the insulating medium. This device is not intended to make
or break load currents.
Live means energised or subject to hazardous induced or capacitive voltages.
Live Work means all work performed on apparatus energised or capable of becoming energised
without implementing the full protective practice of isolating, proving de-energised and earthing at
the worksite.
Low Voltage (LV) means a nominal voltage exceeding 50 volts alternating current or 120 volts ripple-
free direct current, but not exceeding 1000 volts alternating current or 1500 volts direct current.
Mains means a cable or conductor which has more than one service connected to it, excluding fused
underground Tee’d Service Cables (see Electricity Network).
Main Switchboard means a switchboard from which the supply to the whole electrical installation can
be controlled.
Mobile Plant means cranes, elevating work platforms, trucks (tipping) or similar plant, any equipment
fitted with a jib or boom and any device capable of raising or lowering a load.
Note: Mobile plant can only be considered as a vehicle when in the normal travelling mode and
not in the working mode when determining safe approach distances.
Near means a situation where there is a reasonable possibility of a person, either directly or through
any conducting medium (for example via mobile plant), coming within the relevant safe approach
distances.
Network Boundary means the boundary between ActewAGL’s Electricity Network and a customer’s
premises:
1
a. at the point of attachment of an overhead service line to the customer’s building or structure; or
b. at the point of entry of an underground service cable to the customer’s building or structure; or
c. as otherwise agreed in accordance with the Electricity Network Boundary Code if neither (a) nor
(b) apply.
Not Electrically Connected means disconnected from all sources of supply by the removal or absence
of conductors appropriate to the voltage and insulating medium and not able to be made live by
normal operating means, or bridging.
Operating Stick means a stick specifically designed, approved and tested for carrying out operations
on live electrical apparatus (see Insulated Stick).
Ordinary Person means a person without sufficient training or experience to enable them to avoid the
dangers which electrical apparatus may create. (Sign on to an Access Authority but not work)
Out of Commission means electrical apparatus that is unserviceable and not fit for its intended use/
purpose/service in its current condition. A commissioning process is required before it can be re-
energised.
Out of Service Tag means a tag fitted to unserviceable or faulty tools, plant and equipment to warn
against inadvertent operation.
Overhead line means any aerial conductor or conductors with associated supports, insulators and
other apparatus erected, or in the course of erection, for the purpose of the conveyance of electrical
energy, excluding poles or supporting structures or anything in an Electrical Station.
Person in Control (PIC) means a person who is nominated, responsible for and in control of a work
site. This person shall remain at the site for the duration of the work to ensure:
a. the work is completed as per the safe work method statement and procedures; and
b. all hazards are identified, specific controls are implemented and that these controls remain
effective for the duration of the work.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) means approved clothing, equipment and/or substances,
which when worn or correctly used, protect parts or all of the body from foreseeable risk of injury or
disease at work or in the workplace.
Plant means machinery, equipment, appliances, containers, implements and tools and includes all
components or anything fitted or connected to any of those items (see also mobile plant).
Potential (electrical) means a difference of electrical charge or a difference in voltage between two
points.
Practicable means capable of being done, or put into practice successfully; feasible.
Procedure means the documentation of a systematic series of actions (or activities) directed to
achieve a desired result.
Recipient means an authorised worker to whom an access authority has been issued and is the worker
responsible for compliance with the requirements of the access authority.
Representative means a licensed electrician or a person who has been granted permission by
ActewAGL to accept a SCAP, other than employees or contractors of ActewAGL.
Risk means the possibility that harm (death, injury or illness) might occur when exposed to a hazard.
1 Safe Approach Distance means the minimum distance that shall be maintained by a person,
worker, vehicle or mobile plant (including its load, controlling ropes and any other accessories) when
approaching electrical apparatus other than for work in accordance with an access authority.
Safety Observer means a worker with sufficient knowledge and experience of the task being
performed and assessed as competent for the duty of observing and warning against unsafe approach
to electrical apparatus or other unsafe conditions.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) means a system providing remote control of
apparatus.
Service means a dedicated radial electrical apparatus running from the point of connection from
ActewAGL’s LV electricity network to the customer’s network boundary (see Network boundary).
Shall, shall not or must is to be interpreted as ‘mandatory’.
Should is to be interpreted as ‘advisory or discretionary’.
Statement of Condition of Apparatus and Plant (SCAP) means a declaration regarding the status of
particular plant and/or apparatus connected to a private network, issued by an ActewAGL authorised
worker to a representative, other than employees or contractors of ActewAGL.
Supply means supply of electricity.
Switch means a device capable of making, carrying and breaking currents under normal circuit
conditions. It is also capable, in the open position, of satisfying the isolating requirement for an
isolator.
System Control means the functional area within ActewAGL that is responsible for the operation
and security of the electrical systems, and controls access to the HV and LV electrical networks and
apparatus (includes both Control and Dispatch).
Tester in Charge means an authorised worker to whom a sanction for testing has been issued and is
the worker responsible for compliance with the requirements of the sanction for testing.
Testing Device means an approved device to be used for testing on the Electricity Network.
Vehicle means a truck (non-tipping), car, utility, or other general purpose conveyance used for the
carriage of persons or goods (see also mobile plant).
Vicinity means a situation where it is unlikely that a person or worker will, either directly or through
any conducting medium (for example via mobile plant), come within the relevant safe approach
distances.
Within Reach means at such a distance that can be touched by any part of the body or clothing or with
any conducting object or non-approved object held in the hand.
Work Site means a place where work is carried out for a business or undertaking and includes any
place where a worker goes, or is likely to be, while at work.
Worker means a person who carries out work in any capacity for a person conducting a business or
undertaking, including work as:
a. an employee; or
b. a contractor or subcontractor; or
c. an employee of a contractor or subcontractor; or
d. employees of a labour hire company who has been assigned to work in the person’s business
or undertaking.
Working Alone means any worker working or travelling for work purposes on their own and without
regular interaction with other people because of time, location and/or the nature of their work.
1
A person is considered to be alone when they are:
a. on their own; or
b. cannot be seen or heard by another person; or
c. do not expect a visit from another person for some time; or
d. in circumstances where emergency assistance is not immediately available if needed.
Written (or in Writing) means recorded on paper or in an electronic form that is capable of being
represented, reproduced or converted to writing.
Safe approach
distances to
electrical apparatus
2.1 General
The safe approach distances in these Electrical Safety Rules are based on an ‘exclusion zone’ principle.
This defines an area around the electrical apparatus into which no part of the worker, mobile plant or
2
object (other than approved insulated objects) may encroach unless in accordance with Sections 8 and 9.
When working at these distances work practices shall be established to ensure workers, mobile plant and
unapproved objects do not encroach on the safe approach distances.
Refer to Table 2.1 – Safe approach distance (mm) to exposed live conductors for ordinary persons,
instructed persons and authorised workers.
Unnecessary approach to electrical apparatus shall be avoided.
Necessary approach to electrical apparatus shall be kept to a minimum and shall be restricted to the
period required to perform the work.
SAFE APPROACH DISTANCE
means the minimum distance that shall be maintained by a person, vehicle or
mobile plant when approaching conductors or electrical apparatus other than for
2 work in accordance with an access authority.
IN THE VICINITY
Where a person is unlikely (either directly
or through any conducting medium) to
come within the Safe Approach Distances
CONDUCTOR
When working on live conductors or
electrical apparatus, workers must
be trained and authorised
ACCESS
AUTHORITY
WORKING ON
Working within the Safe Approach
Distances in accordance with an
Access Authority
WORKING NEAR
Where there is a reasonable possibility of
a person (either directly or through any
conducting medium) coming within the
Safe Approach Distances
Authorised worker
or instructed person Ordinary person Movement
Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to live conductors for ordinary,
instructed persons and authorised workers
Voltage
Ordinary Instructed Authorised
2
person1-4 person1-3 worker1-3
Nominal phase to phase AC (kV)
LV – including communications. catenaries
1500 No contact Insulated contact
connected to LV neutrals
Insulated LV 100 No contact Insulated contact
Earthed metallic screened HV –
100 Insulated contact
insulated conductor
Unscreened HV insulated conductor –
2000 7005
up to and including 66
66 3000 1000
Notes:
1. Deliberately avoid movements that could result in distances being infringed.
2. The distances specified are based on conductors not protected by a barrier of rigid material.
For electrical apparatus protected by a barrier of rigid material the safe approach distance is
the barrier itself (for example substation shell). Safe to touch tests and procedures shall be applied
at all times.
3. The distances specified are based on work from a stable surface. Appropriate allowance shall be
made for conductor sag and sway.
4. These figures are the minimum safe approach distance that shall be used by ordinary persons.
For approach closer than these distances an ordinary person would need to become an
instructed person.
5. When operating electrical apparatus with approved tools (for example Magnefix MD4 Operating
Handle) the safe approach distance may be reduced to 300mm in conjunction with the
requirements of Table 5.1 Protection for electrical operations.
SAFE APPROACH DISTANCE
means the minimum distance that shall be maintained by a person, vehicle or
2 mobile plant when approaching conductors or electrical apparatus other than for
work in accordance with an access authority.
IN THE VICINITY
Where a person is unlikely (either directly or through any
conducting medium) to come within the Safe Approach Distances
CONDUCTOR
When working on live conductors or
electrical apparatus, workers must
be trained and authorised
SAFE
DANGER ZONE APPROACH
DISTANCE
ACCESS
AUTHORITY
WORKING ON
Working within the Safe Approach
Distances in accordance with an
Access Authority
WORKING NEAR
Where there is a reasonable possibility of
a person (either directly or through any
conducting medium) coming within the
Safe Approach Distances
Table 2.2 Safe approach distance (mm) to live conductors for vehicles and
mobile plant1
Notes:
1. The distances specified are based on work from a stable surface. Appropriate allowance shall be
made for conductor sag and sway and for uncontrolled movement of vehicle or plant due to any
reason.
2. A safety observer is required.
3. Any part of the covered pole shall remain at least 300mm clear of any live, covered HV conductor/s,
allowing for sag and sway of the conductors, as the pole is being erected.
4. An appropriate risk assessment shall be undertaken before work is performed.
When mobile plant may come near live electrical apparatus, the mobile plant shall be earthed.
This shall be achieved by an approved earthing conductor directly connected to a station earth or
other approved earthing system refer Clause 6.1 Earthing hierarchy.
Mobile plant and where appropriate, vehicles, shall be earthed by a trailing earthing conductor to
protect against the hazards presented by induced voltages refer Clause 11.2 d. Work in electrical
stations – general working practices.
When mobile plant is operated from outside the mobile plant, precautions shall be taken to protect
the operator from hazardous step and touch potentials. No worker other than the mobile plant
operator shall touch the mobile plant whilst in operation.
Suspended loads shall be controlled by means of dry fibre rope (tag line) or other approved insulating
medium. Neither the mobile plant nor conductive winch rope/load shall be touched by any worker
while the mobile plant or any conducting object attached is in motion.
During operation of the mobile plant only those workers at ground level actually involved in the work 2
associated with the mobile plant shall be near the plant; all other workers shall remain clear.
The person in control of the work shall, through all workers engaged in the work, ensure that the
mobile plant, its gear and load shall not approach live conductors and/or electrical apparatus within
the distances as shown in Table 2.2 Safe approach distance (mm) to live conductors for vehicles and
mobile plant.
Pole structures may be lifted into exposed live HV conductors up to 33kV (for glove and barrier work) by
electrical workers in accordance with glove and barrier or stick procedures.
Clearances shall be maintained in accordance with these Electrical Safety Rules. If these clearances
2 cannot be maintained, work shall be carried out with:
a. conductors de-energised; or
b. conductors fitted with approved insulating covers.
2.6.1 General
When work is performed near live HV insulated cables, appropriate precautions shall be taken to
ensure that the insulation of the cables is not damaged.
Cables shall not be moved whilst live.
Insulated cables shall not be directly stood upon wherever practical.
Where it is unavoidable to stand upon live insulated cables a full risk assessment shall be conducted
to assess the risk before any work is carried out.
In excavated cable trenches or cable joint pits if there are cables that are live, as well as the de
energised cables that are to be worked on, those live cables should be covered where practical by a 2
minimum of 100mm of sand or barriers should be installed for mechanical protection.
Potholing to confirm live cable locations is allowed.
2.7.1 General
When work is to be performed in the vicinity of live electrical apparatus, procedures shall be
implemented in a way that minimises the risks involved.
Before any work is performed a written risk assessment shall be undertaken and the location of live
electrical apparatus and/or precautions recorded. Where control measures are identified during the
risk assessment process, then instructions shall be issued to the workers outlining the measures.
The control measures implemented shall minimise the risks involved and may include:
a. defining the work area; or
b. isolating and earthing the electrical apparatus; or
c. de-energising live electrical apparatus adjacent to the work area; or
d. the use of barriers and signs, or
e. the use of approved covering; or
f. the use of safety observers; or
g. the issue of an access authority; or
h. defining access routes.
An access authority shall be issued in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
No worker outside the cabin of the mobile plant shall directly contact the load, mobile plant or any
attached conducting objects. For protection of the mobile plant operator refer to Clause 2.3.1 Use of
mobile plant.
2 Approved lifting devices used as pole mounted lifting equipment for example rope tackles and
handlines, may be attached to pole structures by a line worker or suitably trained worker maintaining
at least the clearances in Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to live conductors for ordinary,
instructed persons and authorised workers, between exposed live conductors and any part of the
lifting device, gear and load at all times.
Training and
authorisation
3.1 General
ActewAGL’s safe system of work shall include reference to appropriate training for all workers applying
for or working on or near electrical apparatus.
All authorisation levels and structure shall be reviewed annually by an approved worker in the
organisation, or outside institutions, to ensure the relevance of the authorisation to current duties and
work practices. 3
Authority to
operate the
network
(Clause 3.7) -
Network Operator
Authority to operate
electrical apparatus (Clause 3.6) -
Electrical Operator
Authority to receive a
sanction for test (Clause 3.5) - Tester
Authorisation shall be by the issue of an approved electrical operator’s authority, which shall
designate the types of equipment and/or the operational area to which the authority applies and shall
be signed by an authorised person.
Each holder of an electrical operator’s authority shall be assessed for competency in accordance with
Table 3.1 Frequency of assessment – training and authorisations and where appropriate refresher
training shall be given.
Such authorisation shall recognise the competence of the applicant to supervise testing and to 3
employ workers safely, each according to their experience, near live electrical apparatus.
Work on ActewAGL’s live LV overhead lines, live LV underground cables, and live metering installations
shall be performed only with the approval of ActewAGL and only by:
a. an electrically trained worker or electrical tradesperson who has passed an approved training
course appropriate to the activity; or
b. an apprentice electrical worker working in accordance with the provisions of their defined
training requirements.
3
3.9.3 Review of authorisation
Where there may be an exposure to risk from electrical apparatus a person undertaking work shall be
appropriately qualified, trained and deemed competent and authorised to carry out the work.
Frequency of
Clause Training or authorisation
assessment1
Principle Apply ESI safety rules (The Blue Book) 12 months
Notes:
1. An extension of one month may be granted by the General Manager for expiring authorisations
only if training has been booked for that specific authorisation and training will be completed by
the extended expiration deadline.
General safety
requirements
4.6 Communications
All communications relating to the operation of, or access to, electrical apparatus shall be clear and
definite in accordance with the relevant procedure (refer Appendix A). Electrical apparatus shall
be referred to by name and sufficient detail to give positive identification including location. Verbal
instructions and statements shall be clearly defined and for switching and access authorities they
shall be confirmed by repeating back to avoid misunderstanding.
4.8 Ladders
Conductive ladders (including wire-reinforced) shall not be used on, near or in the vicinity of, exposed
live electrical apparatus.
Before ascending an approved ladder the worker shall make sure the ladder is secure in accordance
with procedures (refer Appendix A).
Before any worker can act as a safety observer of plant and equipment, in proximity to electrical
apparatus, they shall have an understanding of the task or work practice being observed.
Safety observers shall be specifically instructed in their duties on each occasion they are posted.
Where a worker is required to act as a safety observer the following conditions are to apply:
a. the person in control of the work should select as a safety observer a worker who can observe
and warn against possible infringement of safe approach distances; and
b. the worker shall be specifically selected for each particular job; and
c. the worker shall be instructed in the details of the work to be carried out, the approach distance
for the task, access authority/s on issue, barriers, guards, signs, and any other relevant matters; 4
and
d. the worker shall use appropriate methods of communication that are suitable to overcome
factors such as distance and noise; and
e. the worker shall have the authority to temporarily suspend the relevant work at any time; and
f. the safety observer shall be trained and assessed competent to perform a victim rescue.
The person in control of the work and the safety observer shall identify aspects of the work
environment that contribute to a safety observer being distracted from their task. These include:
a. environmental influences for example temperature, dust, noise; and
c. the need for appropriate rest breaks and the change-over of observers.
During the changeover of safety observers the first observer shall thoroughly brief the second
observer in all the job details.
In cases of plant and equipment usage, it shall be the sole duty of the safety observer to watch the
movements of the mobile plant including any boom, shear legs, load and any other projections of the
equipment and any items on or attached to it.
The safety observer shall direct the driver/operator when such items are near the normal approach limit.
Note: An approved LV rescue kit is NOT required to be immediately available in the above circumstances.
4 Nothing in Clause 4.10.1 prevents the use of a safety observer being in attendance when deemed
necessary through the job risk assessment or SWMS to perform the work safely.
Note: An emergency rescue kit shall be immediately available in the above circumstances.
Nothing in Clause 4.10.2 prevents the use of a safety observer being in attendance when deemed
necessary through the job risk assessment or SWMS to perform the work safely.
b. flame conducts electricity and care shall be exercised when using flame-producing equipment.
Blow lamps are liable, under certain circumstances, to throw a long stream of flame and liquid;
and
c. steel tapes, metal reinforced tapes or rulers shall not be used near exposed electrical apparatus 4
(some fabric tapes are metal reinforced). Only non-conductive tapes or non-conductive rulers
shall be used in the vicinity of live electrical apparatus; and
d. metal objects, such as radio telephone units with telescopic aerials, mobile phones, torches and
the like shall be handled with care when working on or near exposed electrical apparatus; and
e. the wearing or carrying of personal metal effects such as jewellery, watches, keys, cigarette
packets with conductive wrapping, etc., constitutes a hazard when working on or near live
electrical apparatus. Such effects should be removed from the worker or care taken to ensure
that they do not make contact with live parts. A particular danger is the falling of metal objects
from pockets; and
f. the liquids of certain fire extinguishers are conductive. Only carbon dioxide, or dry chemical
powder fire extinguishers should be used on fires on or near live electrical apparatus; and
g. vehicle tyres, although made of rubber, contain a high percentage of carbon and other
conducting materials and therefore shall be regarded as conductors of electricity.
Danger tags shall be clearly labelled with contact name, phone number, date and details of why the
tag has been applied for example SSR number, description of fault, etc.
Workers shall not remove or alter in any way any tags that have been applied, without consulting
System Control or the worker who attached the tag. Danger tags, which have been installed by the
electrical operator, shall only be removed by an electrical operator under direction from System
Control (refer Appendix A).
to
e d due
t
Isola
fault
5
/ 201
04
15/
Operation of
electrical apparatus
Overhead fuse and/or link Opening and closing Insulated operating stick3
5 Overhead gas insulated Opening and closing and
Insulated operating stick3
switch, fuse, and/or link earthing
Ground mounted circuit Opening and closing and
Insulated gloves2
breaker (with metal handle) earthing
Insulated gloves2 and
Resin or non-metal clad
6
Opening and closing and insulated operating stick3
HIGH (HV) switchgear earthing and dry base or insulated
medium4
>1000V
Metal clad and rackable Opening and closing and Insulated gloves2 and dry
AC
switchgear earthing base or insulated medium4
Opening and closing Insulated gloves2
Outside apparatus in a zone
Earthing – device (handle) Insulated gloves2
substation
Earthing – portable Insulated operating stick3
Gas insulated switchgear Opening and closing and Insulated gloves2 and dry
(GIS) in a zone substation earthing base
Insulated gloves2 or insulated
LV and HV All apparatus Testing5
operating/testing stick3
Notes:
1. Minimum PPE worn during all types of operations shall be hard hat and safety glasses or face shield.
2. Insulated gloves means approved electrical insulating gloves that shall be worn on both hands with
mechanical protection (outer gloves), visually inspected (in date) and air tested prior to each use to
ensure the integrity of the glove.
3. If unable to maintain a minimum distance of 400mm from electrical apparatus, insulated gloves
shall be worn.
4. Insulated medium means a HV mat, two overlapped LV mats, a wooden or fibreglass ladder and/or
approved and tested insulated stick.
5. Fully insulated test points do not require insulated gloves to carry out testing.
6. Work on Holec Magnefix MD4 switchgear (Hazemeyer) shall be in accordance with procedures
(refer Appendix A).
Earthing of high
voltage electrical
apparatus
3
Earthing ferrule in concrete pole – at work site 6
Earthing ferrule in concrete pole – close as possible to work
4 site (within 2km)
Note: Options 6 or 7 should only be used for the first (operational) earth if options 1 to 5 are not
available.
6.2 General
Only approved earthing devices shall be used and they shall only be applied after the circuit or
electrical apparatus is isolated and after confirmation by an approved ‘Safe to Earth’ method in
accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
Fuses shall not be included in earthing circuits.
Protection shall be suppressed on circuit breakers if used for earthing.
In applying an earthing device, it shall be connected to earth before it is applied to the conductors,
and it shall be removed from the conductors before it is disconnected from earth. It is preferable that
conductors are also bonded via the earthing device.
Wherever practicable, an earth shall be applied and removed by an approved device. When hand
application or removal of an earth to switchgear is unavoidable:
a. all phases shall be discharged; and
b. another earth applied with an approved device shall be maintained in contact with each
conductor in turn while the hand applied earth is being attached or removed (refer to Clause 6.6
High voltage (HV) metal-clad switch units).
When applying a portable earthing device that is not connected to a permanently installed station
earthing system it shall be regarded as liable to become live until the circuit earthing is complete.
There are some situations where an electrical operator cannot comply with the clearances specified as
safe approach distance, when applying earths to electrical apparatus during the preparation for access.
In these situations procedures may permit such approach only to that part of the electrical apparatus
6 which already has local isolation and earthing.
6
6.7 Precautions prior to work near aerial
communication cables
Communication cables have been installed on ActewAGL poles known as joint use poles. Caution
is required because of the possibility of induced voltages associated with parallel HV lines and the
catenary wire of the aerial communication cables and the possibility of transfer voltages on the
catenary wire.
Catenary wires supporting communication cables present a possible hazard to a work site. Depending
on the installation arrangements of the catenary, the catenary could be either earthed and pose a risk
when working on live mains and apparatus; or be effectively live (through induction) and compromise
an isolated work site. Special precautions, such as matting, shall be taken to cover catenary support
wires to reduce the risk of inadvertent energisation of the catenary wire.
Any work involving the disconnection of the catenary wire from a permanent earth shall not proceed
until the catenary wire is earthed by means of local temporary earths attached to both sides of the
sectionalising point.
6.8.1 Overhead
Where practicable, work on all isolated HV apparatus shall proceed under equipotential or earthed
conditions, such that:
a. the conductors are kept at the work area earthed potential; and
b. all conductive materials within reach are kept at the work area earthed potential; and
c. there is no possibility that workers can become the bridge between two points of different
potential.
6.8.2 Underground
In circumstances where the work involves direct contact with the metallic HV cable sheath or
armouring, and is not within the earth grid of a substation, one of the controls in Clause 6.8.2.1 or
6.8.2.2 shall be put in place.
Issue of access
authorities
7.1 General
Workers planning work on, near, or in the vicinity of electrical apparatus, shall consider application of
the appropriate access authority.
Where authorised, instructed or ordinary persons are required to sign onto a job risk assessment
that makes reference to an access authority, these persons shall be required to sign onto the access
authority.
The processes for the access authorities detailed in these electrical safety rules are outlined below in
Clauses 7.2–7.4.
For work on or near HV electrical apparatus, Section 8 - Access for work on or near high voltage electrical
apparatus, shall be read in conjunction with this section. For access to LV electrical apparatus, Section 9 -
Access to low voltage electrical apparatus, shall be read in conjunction with this section.
Where there is provision for the isolation point to be locked, an approved electrical lock shall be used
until the access authority has been relinquished.
When work under an electrical access permit is to be carried out while other HV circuit/s on the same
structure or pole remain live, each worker shall follow the procedure prescribed for this work (refer
Appendix A).
When conductor/s (other than a service line) are being erected, replaced or dismantled on any pole or
structure which already carries live conductors of any description, the conductor/s being worked on
shall be earthed until secured in their final positions and/or completely dismantled. Refer to Clause
2.9 Erection or dismantling of overhead conductors.
7.3.1 General
A sanction for testing shall be issued when, for the purpose of testing, it is necessary to work on
electrical apparatus in such a manner that the prescribed procedure relating to an electrical access
authority shall be waived. This would be done in order that the electrical apparatus may be made
live from either normal or test sources at HV or at a voltage or current considered hazardous by the
authorised applicant.
A sanction for testing and any electrical access permit or permit to work shall not be on issue on the
same electrical apparatus simultaneously. Only one sanction for testing shall be on issue on the same
electrical apparatus at any time.
A sanction for testing shall be issued on site by an electrical operator and relinquished by the tester in
charge. Notification that sanction for testing has been relinquished shall be by telephone or radio to
System Control by the tester in charge.
responsibility of the recipient to ensure every worker clearly understands the conditions and extent of
the permit to work before they sign onto the permit to work.
The electrical operator shall also describe or point out the nearest points of supply and any nearby live
electrical apparatus.
Prior to the issue of a permit to work near or in the vicinity of HV conductors, one set of operational
earths shall be applied within the isolation area (not necessarily visible from the work site) to
prove de-energised (refer to Clause 14.4 Work by tree surgeons requiring the isolation of overhead
conductors).
Both the electrical operator and the recipient shall ensure that the condition of the electrical
apparatus, covered by the electrical access permit, is safe for the proposed work.
All workers shall satisfy themselves concerning the precautions taken, the location of the points of
supply, and the proximity of any nearby live electrical apparatus.
Any worker involved in the issue or receipt of a permit to work who is not satisfied with the conditions,
may apply to have additional precautions taken, either before the permit to work is issued or during
the currency of the work.
Subsequent to the issue of a permit to work additional workers may sign onto the permit to work, after
7 appropriate instruction by the recipient.
The person in control for the work shall perform a risk assessment and shall involve all workers in that
risk assessment. Any particular precautions to be taken to eliminate hazards and prevent injury to any
worker shall be specified before work is commenced. A risk assessment form shall be completed in
accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
c. agrees to the continuous and dedicated supervision by a nominated authorised worker; and
d. agrees to follow to any instructions given at all times.
the absent worker. This shall be done in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A). The supervisor
shall sign off on behalf of the unavailable worker.
7.7.1 General
Appropriate barriers shall be installed where necessary to indicate areas containing live electrical
apparatus and the degree of hazard.
Appropriate signs shall be installed where necessary to identify:
a. electrical apparatus covered by an access authority; or
b. adjacent live electrical apparatus and related hazard.
Barriers shall not be altered or crossed except by specifically authorised workers (refer to Clause 7.7.5
Barriers and signs for electrical access authorities).
Figure 7.1 Examples and diagram illustrating correct entry to a safe work area
Bill Operator
456
0414 123
10/04/2015
Isolated
due to
fault
Figure 7.2 Examples of various HV apparatus which is taped and/or danger tagged
to control access to various parts of the apparatus
Only workers who have signed onto the sanction for testing are permitted to enter the designated
test area.
In particular instances where identification is positive, such as on some HV overhead lines and
underground cables, and providing appropriate safeguards have been taken, procedures may dispense
with the use of barriers and/or signs.
sources
complete Restoration
7
12
work 8 check
operation
check
9 11
work
10 re-energise
clear
area remove tags,
locks or
permits
Start Re-evaluation
complete
Yes
Access Authority
Page 1 of
Access Authority Number: Switching Instruction Number: Access Authority Type: (mark 1 only with x)
Electrical Access Permit
Electrical Operator Name and Number: Telephone (mobile): Sanction for Testing
Permit to Work
This Access Authority has been issued in accordance with the ActewAGL Electrical Safety Rules for the following work:
Location:
Description of work:
7
P L E
AM
EX
Operational earths located at: Time Removed
Special provisions:
Issue of Access Authority: I hereby issue this Access Authority to the Authorised Recipient. I certify that the requirements of the ActewAGL
Electrical Safety Rules have been carried out and the isolation and operational earthing is as shown above.
Issuer Name: Signed: Date: Time:
Receipt of Access Authority: I hereby acknowledge by receiving this Access Authority that I fully understand my duties and the requirements of
the ActewAGL Electrical Safety Rules. I am aware of the nature and position of the apparatus and conductors covered by this Access Authority.
I fully understand that all apparatus and conductors other than those referred to above are to be treated as energised. I am satisfied that I, the
persons under my control and those authorised by me to work on the apparatus referred to shall be kept clear of all other energised apparatus
and conductors during the course of the work.
Authorised Recipient Name: Signed: Date: Time:
Telephone (mobile):
ActewAGL House 40 Bunda Street Canberra ACT 2600 I GPO Box 366 Canberra ACT 2601
t 13 14 93 I f 02 6249 7237 I actewagl.com.au
CCA0511/07
ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688 a partnership of Jemena Networks (ACT) Pty Ltd ABN 24 008 552 663 and Icon Distribution Investments Limited ABN 83 073 025 224
Figure 7.4 Blank Access Authority form as an Electrical Access Permit or Sanction for Testing or
Permit to Work
Working earths and low voltage bonding located at: Time Removed
Sign Onto the Access Authority: I hereby acknowledge having received instructions Sign Off the Access Authority: I hereby acknowledge
from the Authorised Recipient to carry out work on the apparatus and conductors having received instruction from the Authorised
referred to in this Access Authority and I am satisfied that I shall keep clear of any Recipient to discontinue work on the apparatus and
other energised apparatus or conductors in the course of the work. conductors referred to in this Access Authority and now
regard them as energised.
Name Signature Date Time Signature Date Time
P L E 7
AM
Transfer of Access Authority
From (name):
Signature
EX
I hereby state that I have read and understood this Access Authority and I am taking responsibility as the Authorised Recipient from the time
Date Time
Sanction for Testing
To (name):
Signature Date Time
ActewAGL House 40 Bunda Street Canberra ACT 2600 I GPO Box 366 Canberra ACT 2601
t 13 14 93 I f 02 6249 7237 I actewagl.com.au
CCA0511/07
ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688 a partnership of Jemena Networks (ACT) Pty Ltd ABN 24 008 552 663 and Icon Distribution Investments Limited ABN 83 073 025 224
DANGER
8.1 General
No worker shall touch the HV conductors of any electrical apparatus unless:
a. the worker has been acknowledged as an authorised recipient of an electrical access authority
or has signed onto an access authority covering that electrical apparatus and the HV conductors
have been discharged and/or earthed at the work site, and the electrical access authority is
available for reference at the site of the work; or
b. the worker is a recipient of an electrical access authority covering the conductors of a HV cable
and the de-energised state of the cable at the work site is confirmed in accordance with Clause
7.8 Working on insulated network, service or supervisory cables (SCADA), and the electrical
access authority is available for reference at the site of the work; or
c. in the case of a rackable circuit breaker or rackable voltage transformer, the electrical apparatus
is removed from its rack or cubicle position and placed in a designated maintenance position; or
d. the worker is working under the terms of a sanction for testing on that electrical apparatus; or
e. that electrical apparatus has been declared out of commission in accordance with Clause 7.5
Electrical apparatus out of commission; or
f. the worker is performing glove and barrier live-line work in accordance with procedures
(refer Appendix A).
8 Section 6 Earthing
6. For work
7.8 Working on insulated
network, service or
on CABLES: supervisory cables
of high voltage (HV)
positively identify
electrical apparatus 6.4 Removal of earth
2. Install or visually trace
when working under an
operational
6.3 Earthing for access or spike
electrical access authority
to high voltage (HV)
earths electrical apparatus 7.8.3 Spiking of cables
6.8 Equipotential
bonding
Section 6 Earthing of high
voltage (HV) electrical
apparatus
7. Install working
Section 7 Issue of
earths 6.5 Working earths
access authorities
3. Issue electrical 6.8 Equipotential bonding
7.2 Electrical access
access authority permit
7.3 Sanction for test
7.4 Permit to work Section 10 Testing,
commissioning, and
7.7 Barriers and signs 8. Complete de-commissioning of
7.7.5 Barriers and signs work/task electrical apparatus
for electrical access
authorities
Continued on p77
Section 6 Earthing
9. Remove of high voltage (HV)
Continued from p76 working earths. electrical apparatus
6.4 Removal of earth
when working under
an electrical access
authority
Section 7 Issue of
10. Workers sign access authorities
off electrical access
authority 7.2.13, 7.3.10 and 7.4.8
Relinquishment
and cancellation of
an electrical access
authority 8
Section 6 Earthing of
13. All earths high voltage electrical
confirmed removed apparatus
Section 8 Access for work
or near high voltage
electrical apparatus
End
8.2.1 General
Clause 7.5 Electrical apparatus out of commission, is not applicable to the operation, washing or
testing of live HV electrical apparatus.
Live work should only be undertaken after first performing a switching needs assessment to determine
whether the work should be done under isolated and earthed conditions or whether the work can be
performed under energised conditions by appropriately trained, skilled and authorised workers.
The safe approach distances for glove and barrier workers are shown in Table 8.1 Safe approach
distance (mm) to live conductors for authorised glove and barrier workers.
Before live work is undertaken a risk assessment shall confirm that the work can be performed safely.
Work on or near exposed live HV conductors shall be performed by an authorised glove and barrier worker
using approved methods as detailed in Clause 8.2.4 Live high voltage work methods and in accordance with
procedures (refer Appendix A).
A written application using the System Switching Request (SSR) form shall be completed for all pre-
arranged live line access requirements. All such applications shall be submitted to System Control.
Table 8.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to live conductors for authorised glove and barrier
workers
Notes:
1. When using an insulated elevating work platform (EWP) or insulated platform between circuits:
• a minimum of 250mm clearance shall be maintained between the basket of the EWP and the
lower circuit, this includes aerial earths, catenary cable, pay television and any other conductive
mediums; or
• when insulating barriers rated for the higher voltage are fitted to the lower circuit contact can be
made with the covers.
2. If EWPs are utilised for live HV work:
• when one EWP is used only one phase at a time may be worked; or
• when two EWPs are used two phases may be worked simultaneously provided a minimum
separation of 2m between the baskets and the booms of the EWPs is maintained; or
• when two EWPs are used on the same phase the minimum separation of 2m is not required; or
• no tools or equipment shall be passed between one basket and the other while working in this
close proximity. Care shall be taken to ensure that the work of one person does not compromise
the clearance for isolation of another.
3. Mobile plant being used shall be operated under the direction of an authorised live line worker.
8.2.2 Glove and barrier and/or stick work and access authority
Glove and barrier and/or stick work and work under an access authority shall not be performed
concurrently on a structure.
If it is necessary to change between glove and barrier and/or stick work and to work under an access
authority, a clear transition point shall exist. All workers shall be aware that the change process is
occurring and act accordingly.
At all times access authority isolations shall remain unchanged.
No glove and barrier and/or stick work shall be carried out concurrently at over/under crossings of
apparatus under access authority as the gap between the over/under crossing could be compromised.
8 d. the work shall be performed in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
When undertaking live line work, the job risk assessment shall consider as a minimum;
a. the condition of the electrical apparatus, for example the soundness of structures/conductors
on either side of the structure to be worked on or the integrity of the insulators; and
b. proximity of other electrical apparatus, for example potential second points of contact and drop
zone considerations; and
c. proximity of earthed equipment and structures; and
d. protection and control settings, for example auto reclose suppression; and
e. work environment, for examples heat, light or weather conditions; and
f. estimated conductor weights and loadings, both electrical and mechanical; and
g. working from multiple elevating work platforms (EWP).
Danger tags, which have been installed by the electrical operator, shall only be removed by an
electrical operator under direction from System Control.
8.6.2.1 General
Procedures for preparing access to HV electrical apparatus connected to substations with
interconnected LV shall be based on the following concepts:
a. where a substation is connected to HV electrical apparatus being made isolated and at earth
potential for access and the LV reticulation from that substation is capable of being energised by
direct switching or bridge connections, that LV reticulation or substation transformer shall be
considered as a ‘source of supply’; and
b. isolation of such LV reticulation or transformer is part of the access procedure and each
isolation shall be danger tagged and recorded on the access authority; and
c. two or more isolations in series do not remove the need for earthing or bonding.
d. bonding of conductors on the LV side of a substation is an acceptable option otherwise other
appropriate precautions need to be taken; and
e. if bonding is not practicable then other acceptable precautions are having an open link, switch
or fuse link and a danger tag applied.
c. when glove and barrier and/or stick electrical workers are carrying out work on energised HV
electrical apparatus and/or conductors; or
d. when authorised tree surgeons are cutting vegetation in the vicinity of energised HV overhead
electrical apparatus and/or conductors in accordance with Clause 2.2.4 Safe approach distance-
vegetation clearing – general.
Access to low
voltage electrical
apparatus
9.1 General
Workers required to work on or near LV electrical apparatus shall be appropriately trained and
authorised as detailed in Clause 3.6 Authority to work on live low voltage (LV) electrical apparatus, and
Clause 3.13 Perform rescue.
System Control should be informed of all work intended on the LV electricity network both energised
and de-energised.
Prior to a LV switching operation the available information regarding circuit conditions shall be taken
into account and no electrical apparatus shall be operated if it is inappropriate for the duty to be
performed.
After switching, correct operation of the electrical apparatus should be confirmed whenever possible.
All conductors shall be assumed to be live until tested by the worker who is conducting the work, to
prove that they are not live before contact is made with them. (This includes new conductors which
have apparently never been live).
Network and service cables that have a fault identified are to be de-energised and danger tagged until
repaired.
Section 10 Testing,
8. Complete
commissioning and
work/task decommissioning
electrical apparatus
Continued on p87
End
9.3.1 General
When work is to be carried out on or near live LV electrical apparatus, approved precautions or live
working techniques shall be taken to prevent simultaneous contact with conductors or conducting
objects at different potential unless the conductors are de-energised.
Live work should only be undertaken after first performing a switching needs assessment to determine
whether the work should be done under isolated conditions or whether the work can be performed
under energised conditions by appropriately trained, skilled and authorised workers in accordance
with procedures (refer Appendix A).
Before working on or near live LV conductors, a risk assessment shall be conducted to assist in the
identification and control of hazards to ensure that the work can be performed safely.
The risk assessment shall consider as a minimum:
a. the condition of the electrical apparatus, for example the soundness of structures, conductors
and insulators; and
b. proximity of other electrical apparatus, for example potential second points of contact; and
c. proximity of earthed equipment and structures including communications cables/catenary,
equipment and carriers, pillars and pits, public lighting and fittings; and
d. work environment for example heat, light, weather conditions; and
e. use of appropriately rated apparel and equipment; and
When insulating gloves are required, they shall be worn on both hands with mechanical protection
(outer gloves) and visually inspected prior to each use to ensure the integrity of the glove, for example
checking for small holes that compromise the integrity of the glove and such the safety of the worker.
In wet weather conditions leakage currents may flow in equipment and structures supporting live LV
circuits. Insulating gloves and other suitable personal protective clothing shall be used when working
on, or within reach, of such equipment and structures.
Each worker shall ensure that they are aware of the:
a. requirements of the work instruction; and
b. work to be done by the workers; and
c. work they are to perform; and
d. PPE, tools and equipment; and
e. precautions to be taken; and
f. work method/s to be used.
A safety observer shall be used when a worker is working on or near live exposed LV electrical
apparatus in accordance with Clause 4.9 Use of safety observers. For exceptions to this refer to Clause
4.10 Working alone or without a safety observer.
Approved covers include electrical worker’s rubber mats and other tested insulating devices. Covers
shall be used liberally, secured in place and repositioned as necessary throughout the job.
When workers need to pass between live LV conductors spaced less than 1200mm apart, the
conductors shall be insulated (either permanently or temporarily) whenever they are in reach. 9
Where it is very difficult to cover any conductor or conducting object (for example in mini-pillars,
link-pillars, underground pillars or pits), the person in control of the work may decide that it is
impracticable. In this case, special precautions shall be taken to prevent contact with the conductor or
object by the use of barriers or with deliberately restrained movements.
LV electrical apparatus covered by tape, rubber, plastic or fabric, including cables and service wires
exposed to ultra violet (UV) deterioration, shall be regarded as exposed conductor.
The electrical apparatus to be covered and its location shall be accurately defined, and the work to be
undertaken adequately described.
9.5.1 General
Where work is to be done on LV electrical apparatus under de-energised conditions an Electrical Access
Authority shall be issued.
All LV Service Conductors less than or equal to 50mm2 and not requiring isolation of LV Mains, shall be
excluded from the requirement for an Electrical Access Authority. Refer to Clause 9.5.2 Access to Services.
Notification of work should still be required to System Control prior and at completion of work.
When connecting de-energised electrical apparatus, including connection to customers’ services,
to a live LV source of supply, the final connections to be made shall be to the source of supply.
When disconnection is being made, the connections at the source of supply shall be disconnected first.
The neutral conductor shall be connected first and disconnected last.
All LV uninsulated conductors and electrical apparatus shall be regarded as live until isolated, tested and
proved de-energised by electrical workers using approved testing devices before commencement of work.
LV bonders shall be applied where practicable by the recipient or by authorised workers under their
supervision in accordance with Clause 9.5.4 Low voltage (LV) bonding.
SM4605 – REVISION 1
High voltage (HV)
network
Larger (greater than 50mm2) service
Figure 9.1 Low voltage (LV) network topography and permit requirements
91
9
SECTION 9 Access to low voltage electrical apparatus
Is isolation of LV Yes
mains required?
No
Perform job risk 4.1 Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
assessment. Call
9 Access to low voltage (LV) electrical apparatus
System Control
(Dispatch) 10.1 Correct supply, polarity and rotation
9
9.5.2 Access to services
Isolate and danger tag
4.17 Danger tags
End
Danger tags, which have been installed by an Electrical Operator, shall only be removed by an
Electrical Operator under direction from System Control.
The procedure for Access Authorities for work or testing on LV electrical apparatus shall be as detailed 9
in Clause 7.2 Electrical Access Permit and Clause 7.3 Sanction for Testing.
The principles outlined in Clause 7.5 Electrical Apparatus Out of Commission, and Clause 7.7 Barriers
and Signs also apply to LV work.
Electrical apparatus shall be tested and proved de-energised by means of an approved testing device.
The test equipment shall be proved to be in good working order immediately before and after use.
When newly constructed conductors reach a state whereby they are electrically connected, access
to those conductors shall only be under an Electrical Access Permit or applying approved live LV
procedures (refer Appendix A).
De-energised LV cables shall be identified at the work site and proved de-energised in accordance with
procedures. Refer to Clause 7.8 Working on insulated power, service or supervisory cables (SCADA).
Precautions against induced and transfer voltages shall be in accordance with Clause 7.8.4 Working
under induced voltage and transfer voltage conditions.
Before a worker makes contact with bare conductors of the electricity network, which have been
isolated for the purpose of facilitating work under de-energised conditions, they shall complete a safe
to touch test and where practicable, the conductors (all phases plus neutral) shall first be bonded at
the work site in accordance with approved procedures (refer Appendix A).
Where practicable, the bonders should be applied as part of the access authority. Either the electrical
operator or the workers can apply the initial bond. The recipient of the access authority shall ensure
that all bonders are removed before relinquishment of the access authority in accordance with
procedures (refer Appendix A).
If bonding is impracticable the risk shall be assessed, and other precautions as having an open link
switch or fuse link, applying a danger tag as well as testing shall be taken as necessary. The recipient
shall advise the authorised workers of the absence of bonders and any precautions taken shall be
documented on the electrical access authority and risk assessment.
due
Isolated
to fault
Bill Op
erat
or
0414
123
456
10/
04/
20 15
Testing,
commissioning and
decommissioning
electrical apparatus
Services
Application of test voltages on services can be conducted without an access authority on condition
that the worker shall neither use insulation resistance testing on, nor apply low voltages for test
purposes to, any electrical apparatus unless they have warned all workers working on the electrical
apparatus of the proposed test. They shall have received assurances that everyone will stand clear of
such electrical apparatus during the test. On completion of the test the electrical apparatus shall be
discharged.
Electricity network
Application of test voltages on electrical apparatus shall require an electrical access permit unless the
apparatus is ‘out of commission’.
A recipient of the electrical access permit shall neither use insulation resistance testing on, nor apply
low voltages for test purposes to, any electrical apparatus unless they have warned all workers working
on the electrical apparatus of the proposed test. They shall have received assurances that everyone
will stand clear of such electrical apparatus during the test. On completion of the test the electrical
apparatus shall be discharged.
i. the network configuration (for example HV feeder circuits, substation transformers, LV circuits)
are isolated to prevent unintentional energisation of electrical apparatus and switching points
are open to allow progressive and stage energisation of circuits (for example not to energise an
entire suburb development with one operation); and
j. ‘warning live’ signs are attached to electrical apparatus where appropriate; and
k. backfilling or appropriate fencing with a minimum of sand covering of cable joints is completed
prior to energisation.
Notes:
1. If the cable is unable to be traced in its entirety then the lower value can be used, with the
exception of new cable installations.
2. Minimum cable diameter > 1.5mm.
3. Distribution transformers.
4. Suitably authorised, trained, equipped and electrically qualified.
5. Authorised tester, suitably trained, equipped and electrically qualified.
6. Protection technician.
7. In accordance with approved procedures (refer Appendix A).
8. Notify supervisor if resistance value cannot be met.
Work in electrical
stations
to a suitable connection point and connected to the earth grid of the electrical station that is
capable of carrying the maximum prospective earth fault current in that station (refer to Clause
2.3.1 Use of mobile plant).
e. excavation within an electrical station shall not be commenced until the location of all
underground cables, earthing conductors, ducts, conduits, pits or other underground
infrastructure in the vicinity of the proposed excavation have been positively identified and
marked; and
f. the integrity of any earthing conductors or other earthing system shall be maintained during
any excavation by bonding or other acceptable means; and
g. in the event that a circuit breaker is inadvertently tripped, the network operator should be
immediately notified. No attempt shall be made to operate the tripped circuit breaker without
approval from the System Control; and
h. climbing of structures to gain access to equipment which is under access authority conditions is
not permitted. Appropriate ladders, elevating work platforms, scaffolding and or other approved
work platforms shall be used; and
i. where work is to be carried out on or near HV electrical station busbars, a minimum, of one set
of earthing and short-circuiting equipment shall be applied directly to the de-energised busbar
or bus section that is being worked on. When the busbar or bus section is divided into sections,
each section shall be short-circuited and earthed before being divided.
11
11
11.3.4 Chemical hazards
Where chemical hazards exist, signs (either temporary or permanent) shall be erected warning of the
dangers present. Instructions for persons responding to the hazards shall be prominently displayed.
Extreme care shall be exercised to reduce the possibility of injury occurring following the decomposition
of products which may occur as a result of faults and explosions or from the residues of chemicals, such
as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6).
11
11
Metering
12.1 General
A risk assessment shall be conducted to assist in the identification and control of hazards to ensure
that the work can be performed safely.
The risk assessment shall consider as a minimum the:
a. condition of the electrical apparatus, for example wiring, meters and terminals; and
b. proximity of other electrical apparatus, for example potential second points of contact; and
c. proximity of earthed equipment and structures; and
d. work environment, for example heat, light, weather conditions; and
e. use of personal protective apparel and insulated tools; and
f. use of insulated barriers and covers.
Subject to the outcomes of the risk assessment and procedures, revenue metering activities may be
performed by workers working alone.
12
Public lighting
13.1 General
Isolation of and work on public lighting is to be carried out in accordance with street lighting
procedures (refer Appendix A).
When working upon public lighting conductors, luminaires, photo electric cells, conductive (steel/
concrete) columns, outreach arms, stays, hauling wires (if used) and other associated conducting
materials, they shall be treated as live at all times until appropriate precautions are taken to isolate or
de-energise the apparatus.
This is necessary because they may become live through wet or defective insulation:
a. while the circuit is live; or
b. when someone makes the circuit live for testing; or
c. if the wiring is disturbed, for example when a mid-hinge column is moved or during equipment
replacement.
Note: Columns may be supplied permanently from mini-pillars, traffic light controllers or overhead
conductors.
13
Work by other
personnel not under the
supervision of ActewAGL
14.1 General
Following receipt of notification of intention of ordinary persons to work near or at safe approach
distance or, when appropriate in the vicinity of electrical apparatus, the use of procedures
incorporating an appropriate permit to work or SCAP shall be considered for application during the
proposed works.
For the purposes of this clause, persons not under the supervision of ActewAGL are persons or
organisations that have no contractual obligation to ActewAGL and are not performing work for
ActewAGL for the particular task.
14
Representative
No
End
Chart 14.1 Process for the issue of a SCAP
This statement covers only the state of the apparatus or plant specified hereon and does not itself authorise work on or near the apparatus or plant.
Disconnection and reconnection (DNR) request number (if applicable) Time (24hr time)
That I have isolated (where applicable) the following electrical apparatus and/or conductors
E
• Earthed and/or bonded (where applicable):
L
ActewAGL will not change this condition until such time as this SCAP has been returned by the representative it has been issued to.
P
1. Tested at location/s - - - -
2. High voltage earthing applied at - - - -
M
3. Low voltage bonders applied at - - - -
A
Acceptance
I acknowledge and understand the condition of apparatus or plant as stated above and hereby accept this statement.
EX
Representative (Licenced electrician / authorised person - not engaged by ActewAGL)
Date / / Time (24hr time) Authorised operator number (Network switching only)
Return
I hereby return this statement and fully understand that the condition of the aforesaid apparatus or plant may be changed without further
reference to me. All relevant personnel have been advised and are informed that this SCAP has been returned and I further state that any work
carried out will not have an impact on ActewAGL’s apparatus or plant that was the subject of this SCAP.
Cancellation
Issuer (ActewAGL authorised worker)
Name Signed
Date / / Time
14
(24hr time)
Confirmation of cancellation with System Control and / or Dispatcher Date / / Time (24hr time)
ActewAGL House 40 Bunda Street Canberra ACT 2600 I GPO Box 366 Canberra ACT 2601
t 13 14 93 I f 02 6249 7237 I actewagl.com.au Stock code: NSF112-B Green - representative White - book
CCA0914/24
ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688 a partnership of Jemena Networks (ACT) Pty Ltd ABN 24 008 552 663 and Icon Distribution Investments Limited ABN 83 073 025 224 IMS NO: PR1349.1
14
B1 Legislation
Electrical Safety Act
Electrical Safety Regulation
Utilities Technical Regulation Act
Work Health and Safety Act
Work Health and Safety Regulation
B2 Industry guidelines
ACT building and construction industry safety handbook 5th edition 2013
Code of practice on electrical safety for the distribution businesses in the victorian electricity supply
industry (The Green Book)
ENA Doc 008-2006 National guidelines on electrical safety for emergency service personnel
ENA Doc 014-2006 National low voltage electricity network electrical protection guideline
ENA Doc 013-2006 Network passport guideline
ENA Doc 011-2006 Pole supply and performance specification
ENA Doc 007-2006 Specification for polemounting distribution transformers
ENA EG1-2006 Substation earthing guide
B3 Australian standards
AS 2865-2009 Confined spaces
AS/NZS 3000:2007 Electrical installations (wiring rules)
AS 5804.1:2010 High voltage live working – general
AS 5804.4-2010 High-voltage live working – bare hand
AS 5804.2:2010 High-voltage live working – glove and barrier work
AS 5804.3-2010 High-voltage live working – stick work
AS/NZS 1891.1:2007 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices
AS/NZS 3760:2010 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment
AS/NZS 4801:2001 Occupational health and safety management systems – specification with
guidance for use
AS/NZS 4836:2011 Safe working on or near low-voltage electrical installations and equipment
AS 1319:1994 Safety signs for the occupational environment
AS 2067:2008 Substations and high voltage installations exceeding 1 kV a.c.
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