Working live safely
If there is no reasonable alternative and work must be carried out live, then all of these requirements must be met:
- the electrical work is in accordance with a safe system of work
- the employer or self-employed person authorises the performance of the live work after consultation with the person in control of the electrical equipment
- the person who does the live work has correct training for the live work
- testing equipment for the live work has been given to the person doing the electrical work. This testing equipment has also been properly maintained and the person doing the live work uses the testing equipment correctly
- clothing and personal protective equipment appropriate to the live work has been given to the person doing the work and is used correctly by the person doing the work
- unless it is line work, the isolation point of the electricity supply for the electrical equipment is clearly identified and can be reached quickly without climbing over or shifting obstructions
- the area of the electrical work is clear of obstructions to the extent necessary for easy access to and from the area
- there is a safety observer observing the electrical work. Unless the work involves testing electrical equipment and the risk assessment shows the testing has a low electrical safety risk.
Read Section 12 of the Electrical Safety Regulation 2002 to obtain the complete regulatory requirements.
Points to remember
Don’t wear these if you’re doing electrical work:
- neck chains
- rings
- watches
- bracelets
- earrings or body piercings
- metal-rimmed glasses.
Make sure you have space around you to move freely and without danger at all times. An example is making sure you can’t accidentally touch exposed live parts if you sneeze.
Think about what you need to wear and when. For example:
- insulated gloves
- fire-retardant or flame-resistant material that covers arms, legs and body
- non-conductive footwear.
Read more about general information on personal protective equipment.
Use the right tools, instruments and equipment for the job. Always check that your tools are working properly and properly insulated. Section 4.4 of the Electrical Safety Code of Practice 2010 - Electrical Work (PDF File, 740.7 KB) details what tools, instruments and equipment should be used to work safely with electricity.