JAG 09/3198

Electrical Safety Office QueenslandTelephone 1300 650 662Website www.justice.gov.au

Electrical Safety Code Of Practice 2010 Risk Management

Department of Justice And Attorney-General

Electrical Safety Office Queensland

1Contents

Part 1. Introduction .................................................................................................. 4

1.1 Application and scope of Code ................................................................................. 4

1.2 Legislative framework ............................................................................................... 4

1.3 What is a code of practice? ....................................................................................... 5

1.4 What is this Code about? .......................................................................................... 5

1.5 Electrical safety obligations ...................................................................................... 6

1.6 Obligations of a person who conducts a business or undertaking (employer or self-employed person) ......................................................................... 6

1.7 How can I meet my obligations? ............................................................................... 7

Part 2 : Overview of Requirements ..........................................................................9

2.1 Legislative basis for the risk management process ................................................................................... 9

2.2 What is risk management? ........................................................................................ 9

2.2.1 Why use this Code? ......................................................................................................... 10

2.3 Defining the context ................................................................................................ 11

2.4 Risk management: The 5 step process ....................................................................12

2.4.1 Who should conduct the risk management process? ..................................................... 14

2.4.2 Types of risk assessments ............................................................................................. 14

2.4.3 When to use the process ............................................................................................... 15

2.5 Consultation ............................................................................................................17

2.5.1 Who should be involved in consultation? ...................................................................... 18

2.5.2 Benefits of consultation ................................................................................................. 19

2.6 Record keeping ........................................................................................................19

Part 3 : Electrical Risk Identification...................................................................... 21

3.1 Step 1: Identify risks ................................................................................................21

3.1.1 Introduction ...................................................................................................................21

3.1.2 What is electrical risk? ...................................................................................................21

3.1.3 How to identify electrical risks .......................................................................................21

3.1.4 Categorising electrical risks .......................................................................................... 22

3.1.5 What if . . . ? ................................................................................................................. 22

3.2 How to look for and identify electrical risks ............................................................ 23

3.2.1 Visual inspection and observation ................................................................................ 23

3.2.2 Structured approach ..................................................................................................... 23

3.2.3 Some other points to keep in mind .............................................................................. 25

23.3 What to look for - examples of electrical risks ....................................................... 25

3.3.1 Workplace safety culture .............................................................................................. 26

3.4 When electrical risks are identified ......................................................................... 26

3.5 Applied case study: Risk identification ................................................................... 27

Part 4 : Risk Assessment except for Licensed Electrical Workers Undertaking Live Electrical Work ..............................................................29

4.1 Step 2: Assess the risks .......................................................................................... 29

4.1.1 What is risk? ................................................................................................................. 29

4.2 Why assess the risks? ............................................................................................. 29

4.3 How to assess risks ................................................................................................ 30

4.3.1 Likelihood and consequences ...................................................................................... 30

4.3.2 Estimating likelihood and consequences ...................................................................... 30

4.3.3 Risk rating .................................................................................................................... 34

4.4 Applied case study Risk assessment.................................................................... 36

Part 5: Risk Management for Licensed Electrical Workers Undertaking Live Electrical Work ..........................................................................................38

5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 38

5.2 Risk matrix for live work ......................................................................................... 42

5.3 Summary ................................................................................................................ 48

Part 6 : Treat, Implement, Monitor and Review .....................................................49

6.1 Step 3: Decide on risk treatment measures ............................................................ 49

6.1.1 The risk treatment hierarchy ......................................................................................... 49

6.1.2 Consultation ................................................................................................................. 50

6.1.3 Selecting the most appropriate risk treatment measures ............................................. 50

6.2 Eliminate the risk .....................................................................................................51

6.2.1 Safe design ....................................................................................................................51

6.2.2 Policies and procedures.................................................................................................51

6.3 Prevent or minimise exposure to the risk................................................................ 52

6.3.1 When exposure to the risk cannot be minimised by other means ................................ 53

6.4 Step 4: Implement risk treatment measures ........................................................... 54

6.4.1 Implementation plans ................................................................................................... 54

6.4.2 Additional steps for implementation ............................................................................ 55

6.5 Step 5: Monitor and review .................................................................................... 57

6.5.1 Monitoring the effectiveness of risk treatment measures ..................................... 57

6.5.2 Reviewing the risk management process ...................................................................... 58

6.6 Applied case study Treat, monitor and review ..................................................... 58

3Appendix A: Forms for record keeping ................................................................... 61

Form 1: Electrical risk identification ................................................................................61

Form 2: Risk assessment and treatment ........................................................................ 62

Form 3: Risk identification ............................................................................................. 63

Form 4: Risk assessment ............................................................................................... 64

Form 5: Risk treatment measures .................................................................................. 65

Form 6: Risk treatment implementation plan ................................................................. 66

Form 7: Review of risk treatment measures ................................................................... 67

Form 8: Electrical risk register........................................................................................ 68

Appendix B: Glossary of terms used in this Code ..................................................69

Appendix C: List of Electrical Safety Codes of Practice .......................................... 74

4Part 1. Introduction

1.1 Application and scope of Code

This Electrical Safety Code of Practice 2010 Risk Management (theCode)wasmadeon18December2009.

ThisCodefirstcommencedon1January2010.

ThisCodeexpires10yearsafteritfirstcommenced.

1.2 Legislative framework

TheQueenslandElectrical Safety Act 2002(theAct)isdirectedateliminatingthehumancosttoindividuals,familiesandthecommunityofdeath,injuryanddestructionthatcanbecausedbyelectricitynotonlyinworkplacesbutthroughoutthecommunity.

TheActsetsouttheobligationsthatemployers,employees,workers,designers,manufacturers,importersandpersonsincontrolofelectricalequipmentmustmeetinordertocomplywiththerequirementsofthelaw.Thefundamentalprincipleofthelegislationistosetlegalrequirementstoensuretheelectricalsafetyoflicensedelectricalworkers,otherworkers,licensedelectricalcontractors,consumersandthegeneralpublic.

TheWorkplace Health and Safety Act 1995(theWHSAct)placesobligationsoncertainpersonstoensureworkplacehealthandsafety.Workplacehealthandsafetyisensuredwhenpersonsarefreefromdeath,injuryorillnessandtheriskofdeath,injuryorillnesscreatedbyworkplaces,relevantworkplaceareas,workactivitiesorplantorsubstancesforuseataworkplace.

WheretheWHSActandtheActapply,therequirementsoftheActtakeprecedence.

ThepurposeoftheElectrical Safety Regulation 2002(theRegulation)isto:

ensuretheelectricalsafetyoflicensedworkers,otherworkersandlicensedelectricalcontractors;

enhanceconsumerprotectioninrelationstoelectricalwork;and

ensureelectricalequipmenthiredorsoldiselectricallysafe.

5TheRegulationprescribesrequirementsfortheperformanceofliveworkandcodesofpracticegivepracticaladviceonwaystomanagetheobligationssetdownintheActandtomeettherequirementsoftheRegulation.

Referencestolegislation,AustralianStandardsandotherdocumentsinthisCodearecurrentatthetimeofprinting.Fromtimetotimeamendmentsaremadetolegislation.Theusershouldthereforechecktoensureapplicablelegislationiscurrentatthetimeofreading.

Note:Theremaybeadditionalnon-electricalrisksintheworkplace,whichhavenotbeenspecificallyaddressedinthisCode.Theserisksshouldbeassessedtoensurethatrisktreatmentmeasuresareimplementedandreviewedtopreventorminimiseexposuretotheserisks.PleaserefertotherelevantWorkplace Health and Safety Queensland Codes of Practice.

1.3 What is a code of practice?

Acodeofpracticeisadocumentmadeundersection44oftheAct.Itgivespracticaladviceonwaystodischargeelectricalsafetyobligations.Includedinacodearewaystoidentifyandmanageexposuretorisksofinjuryandpropertydamagecaused,directlyorindirectly,byelectricity.

Undersection45oftheAct,acodeofpracticedoesnotstateallthatapersonmustdo,ormustnotdo,todischargetheirelectricalsafetyobligation.However,thepersonfailstodischargetheelectricalsafetyobligationifthey:

(a) contravene,orotherwiseactinconsistentlywith,thecodeofpractice;and

(b) donotfollowawaythatisaseffectiveas,ormoreeffectivethan,thecodeofpracticefordischargingtheelectricalsafetyobligation.

1.4 What is this Code about?

ThisCoderecommendspracticalmethodsformanagingelectricalrisksanddefinesandexplainsthefivestepriskmanagementprocesstoperformtomakesureallelectricalrisksareminimised.ThisCodecoversthefivestepriskmanagementprocessforelectricalworkperformedbylicensedelectricalworkers,illustratedinFigure1.Itdescribes:

identifyingelectricalriskspresentforelectricalwork;

assessingorevaluatingrisksforelectricalwork;

decidingonrisktreatmentmeasures;and

implementingandmonitoringrisktreatmentmeasures.

6Inpractice,adocumentedriskassessmentcouldformpartofaworkmethodstatementforelectricalwork.AppendixAcontainsformsthatcanbeusedtorecordtheriskmanagementprocessdetailedhere.

Section11oftheRegulationstatesthat,subjecttothecircumstancesdescribedinsection12,liveworkmustnotbeperformed,andthateachexposedpartistobetreatedasifitwereenergiseduntilitisisolatedandproventonotbeenergised.Toworkde-energised,youmustfirsttesttoascertainwhethertheelectricalpartisde-energisedornot.

Part 5 of this Code relates to risk management specifically for licensed electrical workers undertaking live electrical work, and also describes and illustrates the risk / consequence matrix to be used by licensed electrical workers performing live electrical work.

Approvedhighvoltagelivelinework,underahighvoltagelivelineworkmanagementplanasprescribedundersection13oftheRegulation,isnotcoveredbythisCode.However,highvoltagelivelineworkersaresubjecttothisCodeforelectricalworkactivitieswhilenotperforminghighvoltagelivelinework.

1.5 Electrical safety obligations

Sections29to40oftheActplaceobligationsoncertainpersonstoensureelectricalsafety.Electricalsafetyisensuredwhenapersonorpropertyisfreefromelectricalrisk.Thismeansthattheelectricalrisk1tothepersonorpropertyisaslowasreasonablyachievable,havingregardtolikelihoodofharmandlikelyseverityofharm.Ensuringelectricalsafetyinvolvesidentifyingandmanagingexposuretorisksattheworkplaceorelectricalequipmentattheworkplace.

1.6 Obligations of a person who conducts a business or undertaking (employer or self-employed person)

TheActplacesobligationsonapersonwhoconductsabusinessorundertaking.Theobligationsapplywhetherornottheperson:

conductsthebusinessorundertakingasanemployer,self-employedpersonorotherwise;or

worksonavoluntarybasis.

1 Electricalriskmeanstherisktoapersonofdeath,shockorinjurycauseddirectlybyelectricityororiginatingfromelectricity.Italsoincludestherisktopropertyofdamagecausedbyacathodicprotectionsystemorlossordamagecauseddirectlybyelectricityororiginatingfromelectricity.

7Apersonwhoconductsabusinessorundertakinghasageneralobligationtoensurethebusinessorundertakingisconductedinawaythatiselectricallysafe.Additionalspecificsafetyobligationsapplyto:

electricityentities;

employersorself-employedpersons;

manufacturers,importersandsuppliersofelectricalequipment;

designers,installersandrepairersofelectricalequipmentandelectricalinstallations;

personsincontrolofelectricalequipment;and

workersandotherpersonsataplacewhereelectricalequipmentislocated.

WherethisCodeprovidesadvicetoemployersandself-employedpersonsonmanagingexposuretoelectricalrisks,otherpersonswhoconductabusinessorundertakingmayalsofindthisadviceapplicable,dependingontheircircumstances.

1.7 How can I meet my obligations?

TherearethreetypesoflegislativeinstrumentsprovidedforintheActthatassisttomeetelectricalsafetyobligations:regulations,ministerialnoticesandcodesofpractice.Ifthereisaregulationorministerialnoticethatprescribesawayofpreventingorminimisingexposuretoarisk,orprohibitsexposuretoarisk,apersonmustfollowtheprescribedway.

Ifthereisacodeofpracticestatingawayofmanagingexposuretoarisk:

(a) thestatedwaymustbeadoptedandfollowedtomanagetheexposuretotherisk;or

(b) apersonmustadoptandfollowanotherway,thatgivesthesamelevelofprotectionagainsttherisk,andtakereasonableprecautionsandexerciseproperdiligence.

Ifthereisnoregulation,ministerialnoticeorcodeofpracticeaboutarisk,apersondischargesthepersonselectricalsafetyobligationforexposuretotheriskbydoingbothofthefollowing:

8(a) adoptingandfollowinganywaytodischargethepersonselectricalsafetyobligationforexposuretotherisk;and

(b) takingreasonableprecautions,andexercisingproperdiligence,toensuretheobligationisdischarged.

ThisCodeshouldbereadinconjunctionwiththeAct,theRegulation,andotherrelevantcodesofpractice.HardcopiesofthesedocumentsareavailablefromtheQueenslandGovernmentBookshopbyphoning(07)38838700or1800801123(outsideBrisbane),orbyvisitingwww.bookshop.qld.gov.au.

FurtherinformationonelectricalsafetyisavailablefromtheDepartmentofJusticeandAttorney-Generalwebsiteatwww.electricalsafety.qld.gov.auorbyphoningtheInfolineon1300650662.

9Part 2 : Overview of Requirements

2.1 Legislative basis for the risk management process

ThepurposeoftheActistoestablishalegislativeframeworkforpreventing:

personsbeingkilledorinjuredbyelectricity;and

propertybeingdestroyedordamagedbyelectricity.

2.2 What is risk management?

RiskmanagementisdefinedbytheAustralian/NewZealandStandardAS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk Managementasthecoordinatingofactivitiestodirectandcontrolanorganisationwithregardtorisk.

Thetermhazardisoftenusedasanidentifierofpotentialsourcesofrisk.Howeverinthepracticalapplicationofriskmanagementprinciples,itistheriskitselfthatmustbeaddressed.TheAS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk Management Standard(theStandard)referstotheidentificationofrisk,whilethetermhazardisusedinWorkplaceHealthandSafetyandElectricalSafetylegislationinthesamecontext.Similarly,riskcontrolisreferredtointheStandardasrisktreatment.ThesedistinctionsaredefinitionalonlyandthetermsriskandtreatmentareusedinthiscodeforthepurposesofclarityandconsistencywiththeStandard.

TheriskmanagementprocessrequiredbytheWHSActissystematicallydividedintofivesteps:

1. identifyhazards(risksundertheStandard),basedonexperience,recordeddataandotherinformation;

2. assessrisksthatmayresultbymakinganevaluationofthelevelofriskstothehealthandsafetyofworkers,basedontheconsequencesandlikelihoodofharm;

3. decideoncontrolmeasures(risktreatmentmeasuresundertheStandard)fromthehierarchyofcontrol(risktreatmenthierarchy)i.e.eliminate,substitute,isolateorengineerouttherisks,orreducethemthroughadministrativemeasuresorpersonalprotectiveequipmenttopreventorminimisetheleveloftherisks.Thisshouldbeachievedbyselectingthehighestordercontrol(treatment)methodpossibleandthenproceedingdownthelistinorder;

4. implementtheselectedcontrol(treatment)measure(s)intheworkplace;and

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5. monitorandreviewtheeffectivenessofthecontrol(treatment)measurestoensurethattheyareworkingcorrectlytocontroltherisksandthatnootherriskshavebeenintroduced.

NOTE:CompliancewiththeriskmanagementprocessdoesnotexcuseapersonfromensuringworkplacehealthandsafetyorfromcomplyingwithanobligationundertheAct.

Effectiveriskmanagementinvolvesidentifyingalloftherisksintheworkplace,andthencarryingoutariskassessmentforeach,toassessitsseverity,beforedecidingitspriorityfortreatment.Whencarryingoutariskassessment,determinetherisksthathavethegreatestpotentialtocauseharmandagreaterlikelihoodofoccurring.Theserisksaretreatedfirst,followedbythelessseriousrisks.

Attentionshouldbegiventorisksthatmaybeeasytofixbutmayhavelowriskpriorityscores(e.g.powerleadsacrossthefloor).Theserisksshouldbefixedpromptly.Particularattentionshouldbegiventorisksthatmayhaveverylowlikelihoodofcausingharmbutmayresultinmajorconsequences.

2.2.1 Why use this Code?

ThisCodeprovidesadviceonthegeneralprocessofriskmanagementforuseinallindustrieswheretheremaybeelectricalrisks.Theproceduralstepstomanagerisksare:

1. Regulation or ministerial notice Ifthereisaregulationorministerialnoticethatprescribeswaysofcontrollingelectricalrisks,theregulationorministerialnoticemustbefollowed.

2. Code of practice Ifthereisnoregulationbutthereisacodeofpracticemadeaboutanelectricalrisk,theneitherthecodemustbefollowedoranotherwaythatgivesthesameorbetterlevelofprotectionagainsttheriskmustbeadoptedandfollowedwhilsttakingreasonableprecautionsandexercisingproperdiligence.

3. Guidance material Ifthereisnoregulation,ministerialnoticeorcodeofpracticemadeaboutanelectricalrisk,guidancematerialcanbeusedasaresourceintheriskmanagementprocess.

4. Unspecified Foridentifiedrisksthatdonotfallintoanyoftheabovecategories,therisksshouldbeassessedusingtheriskmanagementprocess.MoredetailsontheriskmanagementprocessaregiveninotherpartsoftheCode.

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2.3 Defining the context

Itisimportanttoconsiderthecontextinwhichtheriskmanagementprocesstakesplacebeforethefivestepsareundertaken.Definingthecontextincludeslookingatallaspectsoftheactivitybeingassessed.Arethereinteractionswithotherrisks?Oneofthemajordifficultiesinconductingeffectiveriskmanagementoccurswhenactivitiesassociatedwiththeelectricalriskarenotclearlydefined.Eachactivitycanhavemanyrisksandmanypotentialriskevents.

Definingthecontextinvolvesidentifying:

workprocesses,practices,activitiesandtasksthatwillbeanalysedintheelectricalriskmanagementprocessandthestepsinvolved;

thepeopleinvolvedincarryingoutthoseworkprocessesandinwhatcapacity;

whetherthepeopleinvolvedaresufficientlycompetent/skilled/experienced;and

whatitemsofelectricaloroperatingplantareused.

Todefinethecontextitisessentialtoensureextensiveconsultation,whichincludesallworkersdoingthetasks,employers,safetyofficersandexpertsregardingelectricalriskstobeidentified.

Consultation is the foundation of good risk management.

You have to do it, not just talk about it.

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2.4 Risk management: The 5 step process

Thefivebasicstepsintheworkplacehealthandsafetyriskmanagementprocesssetoutbelowshouldbefollowedtomanageexposuretoelectricalrisks.ThestepsareillustratedbelowinFigure1.

Step 1 Identify risks

Step 2 Assess and prioritise

risks

Step 3 Decide on risk treatment measures including risk

treatment hierarchy

Step 4 Implement risk

treatment measures

Step 5 Monitor and review Consultation

should be carried out at each step of

this process

Preparation: Define the context.

Identify tasks, activities, work processes and practices for assessment

Figure 1: The five step risk management process

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The five step risk management process is preceded by:

Preparation definethecontext(seePart2.3ofthisCode);and

identifyactivity/task/workarea/personneltobeassessed.

then:

Step 1: Identify all risks: observe,inspect,investigate,communicateandconsult;and

makearecordoftherisksidentified.

Step 2: Assess the risks these risks create: assessandprioritisetherisks;

dealwiththehighestpriorityrisksfirst;and

dealwithlesserrisksorleastsignificantriskslast.

Step 3: Decide on measures to treat the risks: eliminatetherisk;

ifeliminationoftheriskisnotpossible,selectthesetreatmentmeasuresinthefollowingorderofpreference:

(i) substitution;

(ii) isolation(notadministrative);

(iii)minimisationbyengineeringmeans;

(iv)applicationofadministrativemeasures;and

(v) useofpersonalprotectiveequipment(PPE).

Step 4: Implement appropriate risk treatment measures to: adequatelytreattherisks;

notcreateotherrisks;and

allowworkerstodotheirworkwithoutunduediscomfortordistress.

Step 5: Monitor the risk treatment measures and review the process: A: Monitor Havethetreatmentmeasuresbeenimplementedasintended?

Arethetreatmentmeasuresadequate?

Didtheimplementationoftreatmentmeasurescreateotherrisks?

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B: Review Hasanythingchangedovertimesincetheriskprocesswasimplemented?

Isthetreatmentofrisksstilladequate?

Wastheriskmanagementprocessconductedeffectively?

Thesefivestepscanbeappliedinalltypesofworkplaces.Insomecasesitmaybemoreeffectivetoperformmorethanonestepatatime.Thewaytheriskmanagementprocessisimplementedcandependonthetypeofbusinessactivityandtasksinvolvedattheworkplace.Forexample,asmallbusinessmaydealwithitsrisksdifferentlytoaverylargebusiness.

2.4.1 Who should conduct the risk management process?

Itisimportantforthepersonconductingtheriskmanagementprocesstoremainasobjectiveandpracticalaspossible.

Thepersonconductingtheprocessshould:

considerwhatactuallyhappensintheworkplace;

reviewexistingassessmentsandanypreviousincidents;

determinewhetheranyexistingrisktreatmentmeasuresareadequateandmakesureallrelevantrisksareaddressed;

consultwiththeworkerswhoareinvolved,astheworkersaretheonesexposedtotherisksandareinabetterpositiontobeabletoidentifyalltherisks;

informmanagement(ifthepersonisnotmanagement)whothendecidesontherisktreatmentmeasuresinconsultationwiththeworkers;and

monitorandreviewtheeffectivenessoftheimplementedtreatmentmeasuresandtheentireriskmanagementprocess.

The risk management process is the key to systematically managing safety in the workplace.

Theriskmanagementprocessenablestheobligationholdertoshowthatalltherelevantfactorshavebeenconsideredandthestepsneededtotreattheriskshavebeentaken.Accordingly,itisimportanttodocumenteachstepoftheprocesstoshowyouhavecompliedwiththeobligation.

2.4.2 Types of risk assessments

Riskassessmentscanbeclassifiedintothreecategories,howeverthefirsttwotypesofriskassessmentareappropriateformostworkplaces:

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1. Strategic risk assessmentisconductedattheworkplanningstageandperiodically.

2. Operational risk assessmentisconductedimmediatelybeforetheworkstarts.

3. Specific requirements:riskassessmentsofcredibleemergenciesincludingfirstaid.

Strategicriskassessmentsareplannedandsystematic.Theassessmentsarecarriedoutthroughouttheworkprocess,arecomprehensive,anddocumenttheprocessesofinteractionandcontrol.

Operationalassessmentsaresimplifiedprocessestocheckthatrisksandtreatmentmeasuresareasexpected.Suchassessmentsalsoassistintaskinduction.Achecklistcanbeusedforthispurpose.Thisstyleofriskassessmentisimportantasmanyriskscanbeidentifiedwheretheymayhavebeenmissedinastrategicriskassessment.

Specificassessmentsmayinvolveareviewofcredibleemergencyevents.Thesecanalsobeundertakenusingthefivestepriskmanagementprocess.Forexample,duringStep2,theriskeventisthecredibleemergencythatcouldoccur.

2.4.3 When to use the process

Electricalsafetyriskmanagementisanongoingprocessandmustbeundertakenatvarioustimesincluding:

NOW,ifithasnotbeendonebefore;

whenplanningormakingachange;

afteranincident(and/oranearmiss);

atregularorscheduledintervalsappropriatetothenatureoftheworkplaceandtheriskspresent;

whenlegislativeobligationschange(includingregulations);and

beforeworkstarts.

Now

Iftheprocesshasnotbeendonebeforetomakesureelectricalsafetyismanagedattheworkplace,dosonow.

Whenever planning or making a change

Riskmanagementismoreeffectivewhenundertakenduringtheplanningphase(i.e.beforeworkstartsoratthedesign,developmentortenderingstage).

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Wheneverworkplacechangesaremadetoworkers,workpracticesortheenvironment,includingtoolsandequipment,theriskmanagementprocessshouldbeappliedtomanageanynewrisks.

Anychangesmadetoequipment,workpracticesandotherfactorsthatcaninfluencerisks,shouldbediscussedwiththeworkersaffectedbythechangesbeforetheyaremade,inordertoincorporateasmuchinformationinthedecision-makingprocessaspossible.

Someexamplesofplannedoractualchangesthatmayoccuratworkplacesatvarioustimesare:

startinganewproject;

changesinworkproceduresand/orpractices;

changestotheworksiteduringconstructionphases;

changesinworkschedules(e.g.introducingextendedworkhoursorshiftwork);

changesinhowmaterialsandsubstancesareused,whousesthemandhowmuchisused;

changesintheuseorlocationoftools,equipmentormachinery;

discoveryofnewinformationaboutapreviouslyunknowndesignormanufacturingfault,oraboutapreviouslyunidentifiedrisk;

introducingnewworkerswithdifferentskilllevelsorworkersreturningafterperiodsawayfromthetask;

changesinacontrolmeasureafterreviewingtheeffectiveness;and

planstodesignanewfacilityorpremisesincludingthelayoutoftheworkareaandfit-out.

After an incident

Ifanincident(oranearmiss)occurs,theelectricalsafetyriskmanagementprocessmustbereviewedtodeterminewhetherchangestotheparticulartaskareneededandifalternativeoradditionalcontrolsneedtobeintroduced.Anychangesshouldbediscussedwithallworkersperformingthetask.

At regular or scheduled intervals

Theriskmanagementprocessshouldberepeatedregularlyoratscheduled

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intervalsappropriatetotheworkplace2.Theperiodbetweenrepeatingtheprocesswilldependonthenatureoftherisksandthedegreeofchangelikelyintheworkactivity.Generally,theriskmanagementprocessshouldbeundertakenmoreoftenifthereis:

ahighlevelofriskinvolvedwiththeworkactivity;

ahigherlikelihoodthatanincidentorinjurywilloccur;and

thepotentialformoreseriousconsequencessuchasdeathorpermanentdisabilityfromanincident.

Bothregularandscheduledintervalsshouldbeclearlyidentified,definedandapprovedbymanagement.Theyshouldberecordedinascheduleorregisterthatisregularlyreviewedandmonitored.Thisregistershoulddefineresources(time/money)andresponsibilitiestoensuretheprocessoccurs.AsampleregistercanbeviewedinPart4ofthisCode.

When legislative obligations change

Whenchangesaremadetoworkplacehealthandsafety,electricalsafety,oranyotherlegislationthatmightaffecttheworkoperationsorenvironment,allexistingrisksshouldbereviewed.

Before work starts

Checkstoidentifyfaults,misplaceditemsorotherriskstostaffshouldbedonebeforeanyworkactivitystarts.Checklistscanbeusedtoassesstherisks.

2.5 Consultation

Consultationfosterscooperationanddevelopspartnershipsbetweengovernment,employersandworkerstoensureworkplacehealthandsafetyandelectricalsafety.Consultationmeanstoinformandtoseekadviceorinformationfromthepeopleinvolvedwiththeworkplace,workandindustry.

Consultationshouldtakeplaceateverystageoftheriskmanagementprocessincludingwhen:

newworkprocesses,equipmentortoolsarebeingdesigned,purchasedormodified(consultearlytoallowchangestobeincorporated);

identifyingproblemjobswhichrequireassessment;

establishingprioritiesfortheassessmentofproblemjobsandduringtheriskassessmentprocess;

2 UndertheWorkplace Health and Safety Act 1995section96(7)(b),aworkplacewithaWorkplaceHealthandSafetyOfficer(WHSO)isrequiredtoassesshazardsandrisksatleastonceevery12months.

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decidingonrisktreatmentmeasurestomanageexposuretoelectricalriskfactors;

reviewingtheeffectivenessofimplementedtreatmentmeasuresandidentifyingwhetherfurtherrisksofinjuryhavebeencreatedbythechosenmeasures;and

decidingthecontentsofproceduraldocuments,asexperiencedworkerscanhelpmakesuretheyareasrelevantaspossibletotheactualworksituation.

2.5.1 Who should be involved in consultation?

TheWHSActprovidesforformalconsultationthroughworkplacehealthandsafetyrepresentatives(WHSRs),workplacehealthandsafetyofficers(WHSOs),andworkplacehealthandsafety(WHS)committeeswherethesearerequiredorareactiveintheworkplace.

TheWHSAct:

providesfortheelectionbyworkersofoneWHSR,whomustbeaworker;

providesfortheelectionbyworkersofmorethanoneWHSR(whomustbeworkers),withagreementbetweentheemployerandworkers,whereeachWHSRthenrepresentsaparticularpartoftheworkplace;and

coverstheestablishment,compositionandproceedingsofWHScommittees.

Fordetailsonthelegislativerequirementsforformalconsultation,refertotheDepartmentofJusticeandAttorney-Generalwebsiteatwww.worksafe.qld.gov.au.

Acomprehensiveconsultationprocesswillalsohelptoachievebetterelectricalsafetyoutcomesthroughtheriskmanagementprocess.Theconsultativegroupcouldinclude:

electricalworkers;

supervisors;

WHSRs;

WHSOs;

WHScommittees;

electricalcontractors;

electricalsuppliers;

additionalexternalbodiessuchasotherorganisationsusingsimilarprocessesoractivities;and

specialistgroupssuchaselectricalengineers.

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2.5.2 Benefits of consultation

Consultationbetweenmanagementandworkersisbeneficialthroughouttheriskmanagementprocessbecauseit:

bringstogetherdifferentareasofexpertisetoidentifyandanalyserisksandallowsthosewithdaytodayexperienceoftheriskstoprovidevaluableinput;

allowsworkerstohaveownershipoftherisksandthesolutions;

increasesthelikelihoodthatworkerswillbecommittedtoimplementingtherisktreatmentmeasuresbecausetheyunderstandwhytheyarebeingimposed;

increasesworkersmorale,satisfactionandretentionrates,asstafffeeltheyarebeinglistenedtoandinvolved;

improvestrust,communicationandteamwork;

improvesproductivityasaresultofbetterdecision-makingprocesses;and

contributestodevelopingapositiveelectricalsafetycultureintheworkplace,byincreasingteamcommitmenttoelectricalsafety.

2.6 Record keeping

KeepinggoodrecordsoftheriskmanagementprocessdemonstratespotentialcompliancewiththeActwithrespecttotreatingrisksintheworkplace.Italsomaximisestheeffectivenessoftheprocessandassistswhenundertakingsubsequentriskassessments(theformsinAppendixAmaybeofassistance).

Someofthereasonsforkeepingrecordsabouttheelectricalriskmanagementprocessandelectricalsafetyactivitiesareto:

demonstratethattheprocesswasconductedproperly(e.g.toprovideevidence);

providearecordofrisks;

providetherelevantdecisionmakerswithariskmanagementplanforapprovalandsubsequentimplementation;

providearesponsibleandaccountablemechanismandtool;

measureprogressandchangethroughcontinuousmonitoringandreviewing;

provideanaudittrail;

complywithlegislativerequirements;and

shareandcommunicateinformation.

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Therecordsshouldshowthattheprocesshasbeenconductedproperlyandincludeinformationaboutelectricalrisksattheworkplaceaswellastherisktreatmentmeasures.Thedetailandextentofrecordingwilldependonthesizeoftheworkplaceandthepotentialformajorelectricalsafetyissues.Adequaterecordswillsubstantiatewhatthechosenrisktreatmentmeasureswerebaseduponandthebasisuponwhichtheriskassessmentwasundertaken.

Theinformationtoberecordedincludes:

theriskassessmentdate,identifiedelectricalrisks,assessedrisksandchosenrisktreatmentmeasures;

howtherisktreatmentmeasureswereimplemented,monitoredandreviewed;

relevantrelatedtrainingrecords;and

theconsultationundertakenandwhowasinvolved.

Therecordsofinformationcouldalsoincludethe:

checklists,worksheetsandanyassessmenttoolsusedinworkingthroughtheriskmanagementprocess;

namesoftheWHSO,WHSRandWHScommitteemembers;

plansforchanges;and

plansforthedevelopmentandimplementationofrisktreatmentmeasures.

Everyoneintheworkplaceshouldbeawareofrecordkeepingrequirements,includingwhichrecordsareaccessibleandwheretheyarekept.

Itisarequirementundersection57ABoftheActthatanemployerorself-employedpersonmustkeeparegisteroflicensedelectricalworkers.

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Part 3 : Electrical Risk Identification

3.1 Step 1: Identify risks

3.1.1 Introduction

Workplacescontainarangeofrisks.Thisaimofthispartistogivepracticaladviceabouthowtoidentifyelectrical risksataworkplaceforthepurposeofmanagingexposuretorisksattheworkplace.

3.1.2 What is electrical risk?

Electrical risk means the risk to a person of death, shock or injury caused directly by electricity or originating from electricity. It also includes the risk to property of damage caused by a cathodic protection system or loss or damage caused directly by electricity or originating from electricity.

This is the definition of electrical risk for the purpose of this Code.

3.1.3 How to identify electrical risks

Thefirststepintheriskmanagementprocessistoidentifyelectricalrisks.Thismeanslookingforthosethingsassociatedwithelectricityattheworkplacethathavethepotentialtocauseharm.

Tobeginidentifyingelectricalrisks,askthequestions:

Whereareelectricalinstallationslocatedinthisworkplace?

Arethereanyelectricalrisksfromtheinstallationsorassociatedworkpractices?

Theseareproactivewaystoidentifyrisks.Electricalriskscanalsobeidentifiedfromrecordsofpastaccidentsandnearmisses.

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3.1.4 Categorising electrical risks

Electricalrisksarenotalwaysobviousandmaybeoverlookedbyevenexperiencedelectricalworkers.Forexample,electricalwiringmaybeinsidewallsandnotobviousorevident.

Toassistinidentifyingrisks,theymaybecategorisedasfollows:

The obvious riskisapparenttothesenses(e.g.visiblydamagedelectricalequipment).

The concealed riskisnotapparenttothesenses(e.g.electricitysupplyinfrastructureinsidewalls).

The developing riskcannotberecognisedimmediatelyandwilldevelopovertime(e.g.frayingelectricalextensioncordsduetosurfacecontact).

The transient riskisanintermittentoratemporaryrisk(e.g.useofliftingequipmentnearoverheadlinesorintermittentelectricaldefect).

Itisimportanttorememberthatanelectricalriskmaybecomemoreobviousandeasilyidentifiablewhenapersonactuallyperformsatask.

Tomakethejobofidentifyingelectricalrisksintheworkplaceeasier,prepareandestablishthecontextfortheriskmanagementprocess.Thisinvolvesidentifying:

allactivitiesinvolvedinworkprocessesandtasks;

whoisinvolvedinthoseactivities;and

itemsofplantormaterialsthatareused.

Thenmakealistofalltheelectricalrisksattheworkplace.Oncethislistofelectricalrisksiscompiled,eachriskshouldbeconsideredindividually.ExampleformstohelpwiththisprocessareattachedinAppendixA.

3.1.5 What if ...?

Havingastructuredapproachtoidentifyingelectricalrisksimprovesthechancesofidentifyingalloftherisksintheworkplace.Apersoncanaskthemselves:

Isthisactivitysafe?

Whatifthisorthatoccurs-then-whatwillhappen?

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Whenidentifyingariskapersonshouldask:

Isitpossiblethat...?

Whatwouldhappenif...?

ThisistheWhatif?approachtowhatcouldhappen.

Ask What if ...? rather than think that could not happen!

3.2 How to look for and identify electrical risks

3.2.1 Visual inspection and observation

Themostcommonandsimplewaytobegintolookforelectricalrisksistoconductregularwalk-throughvisualinspectionsoftheworkplace.Lookateachtasktheworkersdotoseeifanyelectricalrisksarepresent,suchastheuseofelectricalequipmenttohandleloadsorproximitytoelectricalinstallations.

Itmayalsobehelpfultoobservetaskperformanceandtheactivitiesinvolved,suchasset-up,operation,cleaning,maintenanceandinspection,asmoreelectricalrisksmaybecomeapparent.Thiswillprovidetheopportunitytoseewhetherthedocumentedprocedureforperformingthetaskisbeingfollowedbytheworkers,orwhetherworkersaretakingshortcutsorspeedingupwork,thuscreatingarisk.

3.2.2 Structured approach

Toimprovethechancesofidentifyingalloftheelectricalrisksintheworkplace,itwillhelptotakeanadditionalstructuredapproach.

Onewayistodividetheworkplaceintogroupingssuchas:

locations,suchasoffices,grounds,warehouseorwetareas;

functionsorproductionprocesses,suchasadministration,cooking,washing,cleaning,receiving,forming,orfinishing;

roles,suchaselectricalworkersandnon-electricalworkers;and

taskssuchasworkingwithelectricalequipment,operatingplantnearoverheadelectriclinesorclearingvegetationnearoverheadlines.

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Anotherwaytoidentifyelectricalrisksintheworkplaceistomakealistitemisingequipment,toolsandknownprocesses.Fromthislist,determinewhetherthereareanyexistingregulationsorothercodesofpracticethatapplywhichspecifyrestrictionsorrisktreatmentmeasures.Thelistwillalsoprovideausefulchecklisttoworkfrom.

Otherwaystohelpidentifyelectricalrisksinclude:

consultingworkersabout:

- problemstheyhaveencounteredindoingtheirwork;

- anymodificationstotheirworkprocesses;

- anyseriouselectricalincidents,dangerouselectricalevents,nearmisses3,oreventsthathavenotbeenreported;

- unreportedminorinjuries;

- anyunreliableormalfunctioningelectricalequipment;and

- reviewofrenovations,repairsorexpansionstobuildingsorstructuresforelectricalrisks.

conductinganelectricalsafetyaudit

seekinginformationby:

- consultingwithWorkplaceHealthandSafetyRepresentatives(WHSRs)andworkplacehealthandsafetycommittees;

- knowingtheindustrysexperienceofcommonpotentialelectricalrisks;and

- acquiringinformationfromdesigners,manufacturers,suppliers,andotherorganisations,suchasunions,employerbodiesandhealthandsafetyconsultancies.

analysing:

- recordsanddatacoveringincidentsandnearmisses,workercomplaints,sickleaveandstaffturnover;and

- maintenancerecords,resultsofsurveys,auditsorinspections.

3 Nearmissesshouldbeinvestigatedimmediatelyaftertheyoccurtoascertaintheircause.Also,workersshouldbeencouragedtoreportallinjuryincidents,eventhoseresultinginveryminorinjuries.

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3.2.3 Some other points to keep in mind

Whencollectinginformationtoidentifyelectricalrisks,considerthefollowing:

competencyandleveloftrainingofworkersandwhetheritisadequate;

howpeopleactuallyuse,clean,serviceorrepairelectricalequipment;and

howsuitablethethingsusedforthetaskare,andhowwelltheyarelocated.

Think: Although nothing has happened in the past, it may still be unsafe.

3.3 What to look for - examples of electrical risks

Lookateachtasktheworkersdotodeterminewhetheranyelectricalrisksarepresent.

Thecommonelectricalrisksandcausesofinjurycanbebrokenintothreebroadcategories4.Theyare:

Electric shockcausinginjuryordeath.Theelectricshockmaybereceivedbydirectcontact,trackingthroughoracrossamedium,orbyarcing.

Arcing, explosion, overheating or firecausingburns.Theinjuriesareoftensufferedbecausearcing,explosion,orbothoccurwhenhighfaultcurrentsarepresent.Overheatingcanalsoresultinburnsandfire.

Toxic gasescausingillnessordeath.Burningandarcingassociatedwithelectricalequipmentcausesarangeoftoxicgasesandcontaminantstobepresent.Compoundsrangingfromozonetocyanideandsulphuricacidscanbepresentaswellastheriskssuchaslowoxygencontentintheair.

Thesecommonelectricalrisksmaybepresentindividuallyorcombined.

Someworkplaceactivitiesorarrangementsmaycreateorincreaserisks,iftheyarenotproperlymanaged.Theseinclude:

purchasingpolicies(e.g.ensurethatallpurchasesofelectricalequipmentincludethenecessarydocumentationtoprovetheyareelectricallysafeandthatitiselectricallysuitable,andensurethatallelectricalworkdoneiscarriedoutbylicensedcontractors);

roles,responsibilities,andaccountabilities(e.g.iftheyarenotclearlydefined,peoplewillnotknowwhattheyhavetodo,whenorhowtodoit);

4 AS/NZS4836.2001Safeworkingonlow-voltageelectricalinstallations,section2.3andElectricalSafetyCodeofPracticeforElectricalWork(Part2)

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maintenanceandservicingprogramsforplanttocoverwearandteartoelectricalcomponentsaretobecarriedoutinaccordancewithmanufacturersrecommendationsbyappropriatelylicensedelectricalworkers;and

trainingprograms,whereriskmanagementofpropertyisemphasisedovertheriskmanagementofpeopleandsafety.

3.3.1 Workplace safety culture

Fromaverybroadperspective,theorganisationalenvironmentandcultureintheworkplace,andhowitcontributestorisks,mayformaframeworkforriskidentification.

Workplaceshaveastrongsafetyculturewhere:

managementpromotesriskawarenessandmindfulness;

electricalsafetycomesfirstinthemindsoftheworkers,whowillbelesslikelytocutcornersorengageinunsafebehaviour;and

managementencouragesworkerstospeakupwhentheyidentifyelectricalrisksintheworkplace.

Workplacesdo nothaveastrongsafetyculturewhere:

workersareencouragedtoworkoutsidetheirtrainingoraccreditationareatoachievetargets;

managementallowsworkerstocutcorners;or

skylarking,pranksorotherpracticaljokesthatincreasethelikelihoodofanaccident,aretoleratedbysupervisorsormanagers.

Intheseworkplaces,theworkerswayofthinkingisinitselfarisk;ithasthepotentialtocausethemorothersharm.

3.4 When electrical risks are identified

Oncetheelectricalrisksintheworkplacehavebeenidentified,itisgoodpracticeinariskmanagementsystemtoenterthemintoariskregister(seeAppendixA).Aregisterofallelectricalrisksinaworkplaceisanimportantreferencetool,asitcanassistinidentifyingnewelectricalrisksinothertasksintheworkplace,andprovidesarecordofactionstakentotreattheelectricalrisks.Thebestresultsinelectricalriskidentificationareobtainedwhentheworkersareconsultedintheprocess.

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Actions for Step 1: Identify electrical risks

1. Copy an electrical risk identification form (Form 1) from Appendix A of this Code.

2. Complete the electrical risk identification section on the form.

3. Transfer the description of the electrical risk and the perceived associated risk to the risk register - Form 8 from Appendix A of this Code.

3.5 Applied case study: Risk identification

ThefollowingcasestudyisanexampleofhowtousetheCode.

Information to set the context Theworkplaceisabakerythatalsoprovidescoffeeandtoast,snacksetc.Itisoneofseveralrecentlytakenoverbythesameemployer.ThebusinessislargeenoughtoincludeaWHSO(CharlesBlogg)amongthestaffmembers.Charleshasbeenworkingwiththecompanyfor12months,andhasbeenaskedtoundertakeanelectricalsafetyriskmanagementprocess.

Charlesdiscussedtheelectricalsafetyreviewwithhisemployerandtheyagreedonhowitwouldbedone.Charlesmadeitclearthat,althoughhewasanexperiencedWHSOforbakeries,hewouldrelyonlicensedelectricalworkerstoassistintheriskmanagementprocess.Theyagreedthatthebakerysregularelectricalcontractorshouldbeinvolvedaswellasthemanufacturers,suppliersandmaintainersofthebakeryselectricalequipment.

Inpreparationforthisreview,hedividedtheworkplaceintothreesections(bakery,coffeeshopandpublicareas).Startingwiththebakery,Charlesidentifiedthedifferentactivitiesandtasksthatarecarriedoutbytheworkers.

Theseinclude:

preparinganumberofdifferentproductssuchasbreads,cakes,slicesanddoughnuts;and

cleaningupusingwateranddetergents.

Inthecoffeeshoparea,Charlesidentifiedactivitiesassociatedwiththepreparationofcoffee,toastandothersnacks.Theseincluded:

preparingcoffee;

toastingandbutteringarangeofbreads;and

takingpaymentfromcustomers.

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Charlesalsoconductedaninspectionofthepublicarea.

Thestaffwhocarryoutthesetasksare:Tim,theheadbakerwhohas25yearsexperience;Tina,thebakersassistant(oneyearoutofherapprenticeship);andJohn,ayoungapprentice(firstyearandnotyetatapprenticeshipcollege).Charleshasmetwithallworkerstoadviseheisgoingtobereviewingtheelectricalsafetyoftheirworkplaceandhasaskedthemtothinkaboutthingstheythinkareunsafeordangerous.

The forms used throughout this case study are included in Appendix A.

Case study Awalk-throughsurveyofthebakeryandconsultationwiththeworkershasidentifiedthefollowingelectricalrisks.ThisformcanbefoundinAppendixA.

Example: Electrical risk register XYZ Retail Pty Ltd

Workplaceareaorgrouping:Bakery XYZ Retail Pty LtdRef.no:1/08Formcompletedby:C. Bloggs(printname)(sign)Dateformcompleted:26/11/08

Ref. no. Identified electrical risks Date Initials

1 Plug in electrical equipment toaster - shock risk. 25/10/08 CB

2 Lamp replacement and cleaning by staff - shock risk.

09/11/08

reported by Tina

CB

3 Overhead electric line to front of shop public area (outside) - shock risk if contacted by delivery trucks or other activities.

10/11/08

CB

4 Cleaning work in bakery may expose electrical equipment to water damage shock risk.

15/11/08 CB

Charlesrealisesthatthislistisincompleteandthatadditionalinformationshouldbeincludedafterhehasconsultedwiththelicensedelectricalworkerswhoknowthebakeryandthetypesofelectricalequipmentusedthere,andcanidentifyotherelectricalrisks.Charles,inconsultationwithrelevantlicensedelectricalworkers,willreviseandaddtothisregisterovertimee.g.asthenewownerupgradeselectricalequipmentorchangesworkprocesses.

Note: This list is not exhaustive and should not be used as a template for identifying electrical risks.

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Part 4 : Risk Assessment except for Licensed Electrical Workers Undertaking Live Electrical Work

4.1 Step 2: Assess the risks

4.1.1 What is risk?

Risk is the likelihood and consequence of injury or harm occurring.

This is the definition of risk for the purpose of this Code.

Thedegreeofriskwilldependupontheamountofexposuretotheelectricalrisk.Forexample,electricityishazardous:ithasthepotentialtoharmourhealth.Butthelevelofriskdependsonthingssuchas:

howmuchelectricalequipmentispresent;

thedegreetowhichpeopleinteractwithelectricalequipment;and

howmuchoftheelectricalequipmentisusedregularly.

4.2 Why assess the risks?

Thepurposeofariskassessmentistodetermine:

whetherthereisanylikelihoodofapotentiallyhazardoussituationcausingdeath,injuryorillnesstopeopleintheworkplace;

howseverethatriskis;and

whethertheriskneedstobetreatedandhowurgently.

Assessingorevaluatingtheidentifiedriskswiththetoolsprovidedinthispartwillhelpto:

determinewhichonesarethemostserious(i.e.thosewithgreaterlikelihoodandmostsevereconsequences);and

plantheactionsneededtotreattherisksinorderofpriority,frommostserioustoleastseriousriskstohealthandsafety.

Prioritisingrisksinthiswayissimilartotriageinahospitalsemergencydepartment.Botharesystemsofrankinginorderofimportanceandallocatinglimitedresourcestotreatthemostseriousfirst.

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ThisCodedoesnotcoverallelectricalrisksinaworkplace.Wherethereisnoregulationorcodeofpractice,ortherearegapsthatarenotcovered,ariskassessmentshouldbeundertakentodeterminesuitablerisktreatmentmeasurestocoverthedeficiency.

4.3 How to assess risks

4.3.1 Likelihood and consequences

Toassessthelevelofrisk,thelikelihoodofaneventoccurring(willithappenorcouldithappen?)andtheextentoftheconsequencesthatcouldresult(ifitdoesoccur,howseriouswilltheoutcomebe?)mustbeconsidered.Bothfactorsareequallyimportantinestablishingthelevelofriskanditisnotimportantwhichfactorisconsideredfirst.

Risk = severity of consequences x likelihood of occurrence

4.3.2 Estimating likelihood and consequences

Whenestimatingthelikelihoodofaneventorsituationoccurringandtheseverityofthepotentialconsequences,itisimportantforthepersondoingtheriskassessmenttorefertothefollowinginformation:

relevanttraining,particularlyoflicensedelectricalworkers;

pastsafetyrecords,suchassafetycommitteeinformation;

incidentstatisticsintheworkplaceorthewholeindustry;

practiceandrelevantexperienceintherelevantorganisationandothersintheindustry;

manufacturersdataorinformationonproperuseofelectricalequipment;

relevantpublishedliteraturesuchastrademagazines,researcharticles,safetyorganisationsandemployerandemployeeorganisationsmaterials;

marketresearchsuchasindustrydevelopmentofnewmaterialsandequipment;

theresultsofpublicconsultationsuchasnewpublicprojectsorinstituteinformation;

economic,engineeringorothermodelssuchasQualityAssurance(QA),TotalQualityManagement(TQM)orsafetyculture;

specialistandexpertjudgementssuchassafetyconsultantsorcaselawdecisions;and

othercodesofpractice(e.g.Working Near Exposed Live Parts or Electrical Work).

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Establishing likelihood

Thelikelihoodofaneventorsituationoccurringwilldependonboththeprobabilityandfrequencyofexposuretoarisk.Theremaybeanumberoffactorsspecifictotheworkplacethatwillinfluencethelikelihoodofaneventoccurring,suchas:

how,whereandwhenpeopleareexposedtotherisk;and

howexposurevariesovertimeorbylocation.

Tohelpestablishthebestestimateoflikelihood,thereareanumberofexamplesoffactorslistedbelowthatmayneedtobetakenintoaccount.

Factors influencing likelihood

Thefollowingfactorscanaffectthelikelihoodofaneventorsituationoccurring:

How often the task occurs:Whenthesametasksarerepeated,thelikelihoodincreases.Forexample,loadingandunloadingequipmentsuchasextensioncordsfromautemayleadtodangerousabrasionoftheinsulationonthecords.

How many people are exposed:Generally,thegreaterthenumberofpeopleexposedtotherisk,themorelikelyanincidentwilloccur.Forexample,threeshiftsofworkersina24-hourdistributioncentre,operatingelectricallypoweredconveyerbeltscouldbeexposedtoanelectricalriskifitwaspresent.

The duration of exposure:Generally,thelongerapersonisexposedtotherisk,themorelikelyanincidentwilloccur.

The position of the electrical risk relative to workers and to other risks:Forexample,anelectricianworkinginthevicinityofexposedliveparts.

The skills and competence of persons exposed:Workerswhoarenottrainedinsafeandefficientmethodsofworkaremorelikelytobeinjured.Forexample,ifaworkerhasnotbeenproperlytrainedinusinganitemofelectricalequipment,oraworkerhasnotbeentrainedinthesafeoperationofelectricallyoperatedplant,thiscouldincreasethechanceofhumanerrorleadingtodangerouseventsandinjury.

Experience of persons exposed:Forexample,aworkerwith20yearsexperienceislesslikelytomakethesamemistakeandcauseanincidentthanaworkerwithonlytwomonthsexperience.Adequatetrainingandreasonablecompetencetodoataskwillreducethelikelihoodofanincident.

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Distractions:Itismorelikelythatanincidentwilloccurwhenaworkerisnotpayingfullattentiontothetaskortheirsurroundings.Forexample,aworkerlisteningtomusicthroughheadphonesincreasesthechanceofbeingcarelesswithanitemofelectricalequipment.

Environmental conditions:Forexample,waterinthevicinityofelectricalequipment.

Condition of equipment:Theuseofdefectiveequipmentismorelikelytocauseanincident.Forexample,apowercordmaybecomewornordamagedthroughmisuse.

The effectiveness of existing risk treatment measures: - Dotheexistingrisktreatmentmeasuresrepresentgoodpractice?

- Aretheexistingrisktreatmentmeasurespreventingorminimisingexposuretotheelectricalrisk?

- Doworkersknowabouttheexistingrisktreatmentmeasures?

- Aretheexistingrisktreatmentmeasuresbeingusedorfollowed?

- Arethereadequatesystemsorproceduresinplaceinrelationtotheexistingrisktreatmentmeasures?

- Isthereadequatetrainingandsupervisioninrelationtotheexistingrisktreatmentmeasures?

- Isthereadequatemaintenanceinrelationtotheexistingrisktreatmentmeasures?

- Aretheexistingrisktreatmentmeasureseasytouseandfollow?

Thefollowingdescriptivescalecanbeusedtonominatethelikelihoodofaneventorsituationoccurringattheworkplace.

Likelihood Almost certainLikely

Possible

Unlikely

Rare

expected in most circumstances

will probably occur in most circumstances

might occur at some time

could occur at some time

may occur only in exceptional circumstances

Establishing consequences

Theseverityorrangeofthepotentialconsequencesresultingfromaneventorsituationcanbedeterminedbyanumberoffactors,suchas:

howmuchharmtheriskcouldcause;

howmanypeopleitcouldaffect;and

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whethertheharmwouldbeshortorlongterm.

Someexamplesoffactorsthatcanaffecttheseverityofconsequencesresultingfromanincidentareprovidedbelow.

Factors influencing consequences

Thefollowingfactorscanaffecttheseverityofconsequenceswhenaneventorsituationhappens:

Potential for chain reaction:Wherearisk,ifnoteliminated,mayevolveandcompoundintoanevenmoredangeroussituation.Forexample,thereisthepotentialformultipledeathswhenfellowworkersattempttoassistandrescueapersonsufferingfromelectricshock.

Volumes of materials:Forexample,thepotentialconsequencesofaleakofasmallamountofwaterintotheworkplacenotinanareawhereitemsofelectricalequipmentarebeingusedmayberelativelyminor,comparedwiththepotentialconsequencesofthereleaseofalargeamountofthewater.Electricitypluswaterisanincreasedrisk.

Position of the worker relative to the risk:Forexample,workersworkingclosetoelectricalequipmentaremorelikelytocomeintocontactwithfaultyequipmentthanthoseworkingfurtheraway.

Forces and energy levels:Forexample,thehigherthevoltageofelectricityandthepossibilityofahighcurrentflowingthroughaperson,themoreseveretheconsequencesarelikelytobe.

Thefollowingdescriptivescalecanbeusedtonominatetheconsequencesofaneventorsituationoccurringattheworkplace.

Consequences CatastrophicMajor

Moderate

Minor

Insignificant

death

extensive injuries, loss of production

medical treatment

first aid treatment only

no injuries

Consideringtheconsequencesofaneventorsituation,theremaybeafinelinebetweenaninsignificantandacatastrophicoutcome.Insomesituations,anearmissthatresultsinnoinjurycouldjustaseasilyhavebeenfatal.

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4.3.3 Risk rating

Thelevelofrisk,representedbyariskscore(number)andriskstatement(letter),isdeterminedbytherelationshipbetweenlikelihoodandconsequence.Todeterminethelevelofrisk:

plottheestimatedlevelsoflikelihoodandconsequenceonthefollowingriskprioritycharttofindtheriskscoreandstatement;then

refertotheriskscoreandstatementcharttoseewhatactionsneedtobetaken.

In the event of a licensed electrical worker performing live electrical work, they should use the risk / consequence matrix in Part 5 of this Code.

Risk priority chart (risk score and statement) except for performing live electrical work (refer to Part 5 of this Code)

LIKELIHOODHow likely is it to happen?

CONSEQUENCES: How severely it hurts someone (if it happens)?

Insignificant

(no injuries)

Minor (first aid

treatment only)

Moderate (medical

treatment)

Major (extensive

injuries, loss of

production)

Catastrophic (death)

Almost certain - expected in most circumstances

3 H

3H

4A

4A

4A

Likely - will probably occur in most circumstances

2M

3H

3H

4A

4A

Possible - might occur at some time

1L

2M

3H

4A

4A

Unlikely - could occur at some time

1L

1L

2M

3H

4A

Rare - may occur, only in exceptional circumstances

1L

1L

2M

3H

3H

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Risk score and statement

Score and statement

Action

4 A: Acute

ACT NOW Urgent - do something about the risks immediately. Requires immediate attention.

3 H: High

Highest management decision is required urgently.

2 M: Moderate

Follow management instructions.

1 L: Low

OK for now. Record and review if any equipment/ people/ materials/ work processes or procedures change.

Itisimportanttonotethattheseriskscoreshavenoabsolutevalueandshouldonlybeusedforcomparison.

Thisstageoftheriskassessmentprovidesthebasisforrankingorprioritisingrisksinorderofimportancefrom1to4(4beingthehighestriskscoreandthemostimportant).Whentheriskscoresforalltherisksintheworkplacehavebeencompared,theresultingrankingwillbeaguidetotheorderinwhichtheserisksshouldbeaddressed.Whenmorethanoneriskhasthesamerankingandnotallcanbedealtwithatonce,therisksmayneedtobereassessedtodeterminewhichisthemostimportanttodealwithfirst.

Togetthebestresultsfromariskassessment,consultwithasmanypeopleaspossibleintheworkplaceincludingtheWHScommittee,WHSRs,WHSOs,supervisors,managersandotherswithknowledgeandexperience.

Simplified adviceNo or low risk - continue activityIf it is not at all likely that anyone will be exposed to a hazardous situation or event, then there is no risk, and no risk control measures are required.

Moderate or high risk continue activity under management instruction.If it is possible or likely that a person will be exposed to a hazardous situation or event, then risk control measures are urgently required.

Acute risk stop activity nowIf there is an acute or immediate risk to health or safety, the process / activity in question must be ceased until measures are taken to remove the acute or immediate risk.

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4.4 Applied case study Risk assessment

Fromtheelectricalriskregister,risksarenowassessedtodeterminetheirseverity.ThisexampleusestheformRiskassessmentandcontrol(Form2)fromAppendixA,andfocusesononeoftheelectricalrisksidentifiedintheexampleinPart3ofthisCode.Aseparateformshouldbeusedforeachrisk.

Example: Risk assessment and control

Fillinoneformforeachriskidentifiedattheworkplace.

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Workplaceareaorgrouping:Bakery XYZ Retail Pty Ltd Ref.no:1/08Formcompletedby:C. Bloggs(printname)(sign)Dateformcompleted:26/11/08

Risk identificationRisk: Plug-in electrical equipment toaster shock risk.Associatedrisk: Person using toaster could receive a shock if toaster has been splashed with water.Specificcircumstancesrelatingtotherisk: Toaster is located adjacent to hand washing facilities. It is a hygiene requirement that staff are required to wash hands before and after using any equipment.Personsatrisk:All workers who use the toaster.

Risk assessment Existingrisktreatmentmeasures(ifany):

Likelihood:(tick) Almostcertain Likely Moderate Unlikely Rare

Consequences:(tick) Catastrophic Major Moderate Minor Insignificant

Riskrating: Acute

Risk controlThis risk must be treated immediately. The toaster must not be used again until the risk has been eliminated. Possible risk treatment options:Elimination:

Substitution:

IsolationorEngineering:

Administrativeorpersonalprotectiveequipment:

Preferredrisktreatmentoptions(andwhy):

Implementation plan

Treatment option

Associated activities

Resources required

Person(s) responsible

Proposed implementation date

Sign off and date

Scheduled review date

ReviewArerisktreatmentmeasuresinplace? Yes. No,comment(whynot?):Arerisktreatmentmeasurespreventingorminimisingtherisk? Yes. No,comment(whynot?):Arethereanynewproblemswiththerisk? No. Yes,comment(whatarethey?):

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Part 5 : Risk Management for Licensed Electrical Workers Undertaking Live Electrical Work

5.1 Introduction

Thispartcoversallliveelectricalworkthatismadeupoftestingandotherwork,andalsoincludesworkingnearliveelectricalparts.Itgivespracticalwaysofmanagingtheelectricalrisksassociatedwithliveelectricalworkperformedbylicensedelectricalworkers.ItappliesafivestepriskmanagementprocessthatobligationholdersundertheActshouldfollowtomakesureallelectricalrisksforelectricalworkareaslowasreasonablyachievable.

Effectiveriskmanagementinvolvesidentifyingallworkplacerisks,thencarryingoutariskassessmentforeachrisktoassesstheseverityofariskbeforedecidingitspriority.Whenperformingariskassessment,determinetherisksthathavethegreatestpotentialtocauseharmandagreaterlikelihoodofoccurring.Theserisksaretreatedfirst,followedbythelessseriousrisks.

Thefivebasicstepsintheworkplacehealthandsafetyriskmanagementprocessshouldbefollowedtomanageexposuretoelectricalrisks.Thesestepsare:

1. identifyrisks,basedonexperience,recordeddataandotherinformation;

2. assesstheassociatedrisksbymakinganevaluationofthelevelofriskstothehealthandsafetyofworkers,basedontheconsequencesandlikelihoodofharm;

3. selectrisktreatmentmeasuresfromtherisktreatmenthierarchy(e.g.eliminate,substitute,isolateorengineerouttherisks,orreducethemthroughadministrativemeasuresorpersonalprotectiveequipment)byselectingthehighestordertreatmentmethodpossibleandthenproceedingdownthelistinorder;

4. implementorapplytheselectedrisktreatmentmeasure(s)intheworkplace;and

5. monitortherisktreatmentmeasurestoensurethattheyareworkingcorrectlytocontroltherisksandthatnootherriskshavebeenintroduced.

DetailedinformationaboutthisprocesscanbefoundinPart2ofthisCode.

Thissectionprovidespracticaladvicetoemployers,self-employedpersonsandlicensedelectricalworkersabouthowtoidentifyelectricalrisks.Training

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andexperienceenableslicensedelectricalworkerstoidentifyrisksandcarryoutaneffectiveriskassessmentthatwillprovidethemeasurestoeliminateorsignificantlyreducetheriskofaseriouselectricalincidentordangerouselectricaleventoccurring.FurtherinformationonidentifyingrisksandconductingriskassessmentscanbefoundinParts3and4ofthisCode.

Inliveelectricalworkbeingperformedbyalicensedelectricalworker,theremaybeafinelinebetweenaninsignificantandacatastrophicoutcomeifaseriouselectricalincidentordangerouselectricaleventoccurs.Giventheseriousnessofelectricityasariskforlicensedelectricalworkersworkinglive,intheabsenceofanyrisktreatmentmeasures,thematrixratingforconsequenceswouldchieflybeinthehighzone.

Section11oftheRegulationstatesthat,subjecttothecircumstancesdescribedinsection12,liveworkmustnotbeperformed,andthateachexposedlivepartistobetreatedasifitwereenergiseduntilitisisolatedandproventobenotenergised.Toworkde-energised,thelicensedelectricalworkermustfirsttesttoascertainwhethertheelectricalpartisde-energisedornot.Testingisconsideredtobelivework.

Whileitisrequiredtoworklivetotestbeforeanelectricalpartcanbede-energised,thispartiswrittenontheunderstandingthat,fromtimetotime,licensedelectricalworkerswillberequiredtocarryoutliveelectricalwork.Thiscanonlybedoneaftertheactionsdescribedinsection12oftheRegulationhavebeencarriedout.

Section 12 Requirements for performance of live work5

(1) Thefollowingcircumstancesarerequiredfortheperformanceoflivework--

(a) itisnotpracticabletoperformtheelectricalworkotherthanbyliveworkbecauseof1ormoreofthefollowing

(i) itisnecessaryintheinterestsofsafety,whetherornotelectricalsafety,fortheworktobeperformedwhiletheelectricalequipmentthesubjectoftheelectricalworkisenergised:

Example for subparagraph (i) Itmaybenecessaryintheinterestsofroadsafetyforasetoftrafficlightstoremainoperatingwhileelectricalworkisperformedonthelights.

5 Electrical Safety Regulation 2002,section12,Requirementsforperformanceoflivework.

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(ii) asupplyofelectricityisnecessaryfortheproperperformanceoftheelectricalwork;

(iii) thereisnoreasonablealternativetoperformingtheelectricalworkbylivework;Example for subparagraph (iii) Itmaybenecessary,toavoidwidespreadoutages,toperformelectricalworkonworksofanelectricityentitybylivework.

(b) theemployerorself-employedpersonhasprepared,inadocument,ariskassessmentoftheperformanceofthelivework;

(c) theperformanceoftheelectricalworkisinaccordancewithasafesystemofwork;Example Asafesystemcouldincludepreventingpersonsfromaccessingtheareawhereliveworkisbeingperformedifthepersonsarenotneededfortheperformanceofthework.

(d) theemployerorself-employedpersonauthorisestheperformanceoftheliveworkonlyafterconsultationwiththepersonincontroloftheelectricalequipmentthesubjectoftheelectricalwork;

(e) thepersonwhoperformstheliveworkhasappropriatetrainingfortheperformanceofthelivework;

(f) testingequipmentappropriatetotheperformanceoftheliveworkhasbeengiventothepersonperformingtheelectricalwork,thetestingequipmenthasbeenproperlymaintained,andthepersonperformingtheelectricalworkmakesproperuseofthetestingequipmentinperformingthework;

(g) clothingandpersonalprotectiveequipmentappropriatetotheperformanceoftheliveworkhasbeengiventothepersonperformingtheelectricalworkandthepersonperformingtheelectricalworkmakesproperuseoftheclothingandequipmentinperformingthework;

(h) otherthanforexemptelectricalwork,theisolationpointoftheelectricitysupplyfortheelectricalequipmentthesubjectoftheelectricalwork

(i) hasbeenclearlyidentified;and

(ii) isabletobereachedquicklywithouttheneedtoclimboverorshiftobstructions;

(i) theareawheretheelectricalworkisperformedisclearofobstructionstotheextentnecessaryforeasyaccesstoandfromthearea;

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(j) thereisasafetyobserverobservingtheperformanceoftheelectricalworkunless

(i) theworkinvolvestestingelectricalequipment;and

(ii) theriskassessmentpreparedunderparagraph(b)doesnotshowthereisahighrisktoelectricalsafetyinperformingthetestingoftheelectricalequipment.Example for subparagraph (ii) Ifariskassessmentdoesnotshowthereisahighrisktoelectricalsafetyinperformingthetestingofthepolarityofaninstalledoutlet,asafetyobserverisnotrequiredtoobservetheperformanceofthework.

(2) Inthissection

exempt electrical workmeans

(a) electriclinework;or

(b) electricalworkonaconsumerselectricalinstallationcarriedoutonthesupplysideofthemainswitchonthemainswitchboardfortheinstallation,iftheisolationpointoftheelectricalsupplyfortheinstallationisnotreasonablyaccessiblefromtheareawheretheelectricalworkiscarriedout.

Example of when isolation point is not reasonably accessible from the area where electrical work is being carried outtheelectricalworkiscarriedoutataplaceandtheisolationpointisatasubstationlocatedatanotherplace.

safe system of work,forliveworkonalowvoltageelectricalinstallation,includes,butisnotlimitedto,asystemofworkthatcomplieswiththeprovisionsofAS/NZS4836:Safeworkingonlow-voltageelectricalinstallationsaboutensuringthesafetyofpersonswhileperforminglivework.

safety observermeansapersonwho

(a) observestheperformanceofelectricalwork;and

(b) iscompetenttohelpapersonperformingtheelectricalwork;and

(c) hasbeenassessedinthelast6monthstobecompetenttorescueapersonperformingelectricalworkandprovideresuscitation.

Licensedelectricalworkershaveundergonetrainingandacquiredexperiencetoensuretheyaretechnicallycompetentandequippedtocarryoutelectricalwork

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inawaythatiselectricallysafe.Thistrainingincludeselectricalriskmanagementknowledgeandwillsignificantlyreducethelikelihoodofaseriouselectricalincidentordangerouselectricaleventoccurring. It does not, however, replace the necessity of carrying out a risk assessment as required in section 12(1)(b) of the Regulation, before commencing electrical work.

This part (part 5) describes and illustrates the risk / consequence matrix to be used by licensed electrical workers performing live electrical work.

Inmanycircumstances,therisksassociatedwithundertakingliveelectricalworkcanbeequivalenttothoseassociatedwithelectricalworknearexposedliveparts.EvaluationoftherisksanddevelopmentofrisktreatmentmeasuresasdescribedintheElectrical Safety Code of Practice 2010 Working Near Exposed Live Partswillprovidefurtherassistanceindevelopingsafeworkpractices.

5.2 Risk matrix for live work

Trainingandexperiencetogetherwiththehighlyspecialisedtestingandpersonalprotectiveequipmentutilisedbyalicensedelectricalworkeralongwiththerequirementsfortheperformanceofliveworksetdowninsection12oftheRegulation,significantlyreducesthelikelihoodofaseriouselectricalincidentordangerouselectricaleventoccurring.Italsoreducestheconsequencesifonedoesoccur.

Forthesereasons,thematrixshownbelowdiffersfromthatincludedinPart4ofthisCodeandreflectstheapplicationofsection12(1)oftheRegulation.

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Risk priority chart for live work

LIKELIHOOD OF HARMHow likely is it to happen?

CONSEQUENCES: Likely severity of harm

Insignificant(no injuries)

Minor(first aid treatment only)

Moderate (medical treatment)

Major (extensive injuries)

Catastrophic (death)

Almost certain: expected in most circumstances

Low Moderate High High High

Likely: will probably occur in most circumstances

Low Moderate High High High

Moderate: might occur at some time

Low Moderate Moderate High High

Unlikely: could occur at some time

Low Low Moderate High High

Rare: may occur only in exceptional circumstances

Low Low Low Moderate Moderate

Thisstageoftheriskassessmentprovidesthebasisforrankingorprioritisingrisksinorderofimportancefromlowtohigh.Whentheriskscoresforalltherisksintheworkplacehavebeencompared,theresultingrankingwillbeaguidetotheorderinwhichtheserisksshouldbeaddressed.Whenmorethanoneriskhasthesamerankingandnotallcanbedealtwithatonce,therisksmayneedtobereassessedtodeterminewhichisthemostimportanttodealwithfirst.

Risk score and statement for live work

Score and statement Action

High Review decision to work live. In the event of no practicable alternative to working live, use a competent safety observer and follow mandated actions for live work in accordance with section 12 of the Regulation as listed in this part.

Moderate Review decision to work live. In the event of no practicable alternative to working live, follow mandated actions for live work in accordance with section 12 of the Regulation as listed in this part.

Low Follow mandated actions for live work in accordance with section 12 of the Regulation as listed in this part.

Regularly review implemented risk treatment measures.

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Forthepurposesofthisparttherearenowthreecategoriesintermsofrisk:low,moderateandhigh:

Low risk,forexample:

testingofaninstalledoutletwherethereisnodamagetotheoutletandwherefaultcurrentprotectionisutilisedontheelectricalinstallation;or

faultfindingonadomesticwashingmachinewherethecircuitisprotectedbyasafetyswitch.

Case study

Anelectricalworkerisdirectedtoinspectfordamage,andtestthepolarityof,allelectricaloutletsonthefloorofanofficebuilding,followingreportsofbrokenfaceplatesonoutlets.

1. Theelectricianfirstinspectstheswitchboardwhichsuppliestheoutletsonthefloorandidentifiesthatallthepowercircuitsareprotectedbysafetyswitchesmountedontheboard.

2. Thepolaritytestistobeundertakenwiththecircuitsenergisedandtheelectricianidentifiesthatthisislivework,subjecttoariskassessmentundersection12oftheRegulation.Thetestinstrumenttobeusedisamulti-meterwithprobesincorporatingexposedmetaltips,andwhichhasbeentestedwithintheprevioussixmonths.Personalprotectiveequipment,includinginsulatedglovesandboots,andlongsleevedclothing,arealsotobeused.

3. Onreferringtotheriskassessmentmatrix,thelikelihoodofharmisconsideredunlikelyandtheconsequencesintheeventofanincidentlikelytobeminor.Onthisbasis,theelectricianconcludesthattheriskislow.

4. Inspectionoftheoutletsthenproceeds.

Moderate risk,forexample:

LVtestingonasinglephaseswitchboardorequipmentwherefaultcurrentprotectionisutilisedintheelectricalinstallation;or

faultfindingonapermanentlyconnectedappliancewherefaultcurrentprotectionisutilisedontheelectricalinstallation.

Case study

Anelectricianiscalledouttoadomesticpropertytoreplaceanelectricstove.

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1. Theelectricianfirstinspectstheinstallationforaccessissuesandthentheswitchboardtodeterminethelocationoftheisolatorforthestovecircuit.

2. Theworkthenproceedsinaccordancewithsection12oftheRegulation,includingtheuseofcorrectpersonalprotectiveclothingandequipment.

3. Afteridentifyingandisolatingthestovecircuitattheswitchboard,theelectricianutilisesanon-contactelectricityproximitydetectoronthesupplycableatthestovewhichindicateswhetherthecircuitremainsenergisedandobtainsanilreading.Itisthennecessarytoconfirmthattheapplianceisde-energisedbyusingasuitabletestinstrumentsuchasamulti-meter.

Inthiscase,theenvironmentisdryandwelllitwithaccesstothetestareabeingunobstructed.Therearenoexposedliveparts,otherthanthosebeingtested.

Theisolationpointhasbeenidentifiedandcanbeeasilyaccessedifnecessary.

Protectiveclothingandequipment,includinginsulatedglovesandboots,insulatedmat,eyeprotection,andlongsleevedcottonclothingisutilised.

Thetestingequipmenttobeusedhasbeentestedwithintheprevioussixmonths.

4. Onreferraltotheriskassessmentmatrix,thetestingisnotindicatedasahighrisk.Withsection12risktreatmentmeasuresinplace,theriskofanincidentintermsoflikelihoodandconsequencesissignificantlyreducedandisconsideredlow.Assuch,nosafetyobserverisrequired.

5. Theterminalcoveristhenremovedandthetestequipmentisconnectedtotheexposedterminals,withtheresultbeingaprovende-energisedcircuit.

6. Theelectricianproceedswiththeinstallationofthenewstoveincludingconfirmationofearthcontinuityand,uponcompletion,re-energisesthestovecircuitattheswitchboard.

7. Itisthennecessarytotestthepolarityofthenewlyinstalledstoveandtore-fittheterminalcover.Asthisistobedonewiththecircuitenergised,allsection12requirementsagainapply.

8. Afterconsideringallthesefactors,theelectriciandeterminesthat,inaccordancewiththeriskanalysismatrix,theriskismoderateandtheuseofasafetyobserverisnotrequired.

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Thiscasestudyshowsthat,byensuringsection12risktreatmentmeasuresareinplaceandtherearenootherrisks,thelikelihoodofanincidentoccurringduringtestingismoderateandtheconsequenceifonedidoccurwouldbenogreaterthanmoderate,resultinginamoderateriskwhencalculatedusingtheriskassessmentmatrix.

High Risk,forexample:

performingworkoncommercialthree-phaseswitchboardequipment;or carryingoutelectricalworkataplacewheretheisolationpointisatasub-

stationlocatedinanotherplace.

Case study

Anelectricianisrequiredtofindthecauseofanintermittentpartiallossofpoweronthefifthfloorofamulti-levelhospitalcomplexhousingcritical-caremonitoringequipment.Thepowersupplyforthebuildingisthroughathree-phasemainswitchboardlocatedonthegroundfloor,thenviasub-mainswitchboardssituatedoneachfloor.

1. Theworktobeundertakenrequiresvisualinspectionandphysicaltestingofthesub-boardandsub-maincomponents.Thetestingrequiresincludescontactwithliveconductorsincloseproximitywithotherliveparts.

2. Inthiscase:

theenvironmentisdryandwell-litwithaccesstothetestareabeingunobstructed;

thereareexposedlivepartsadjacenttothosebeingtested;

theisolationpointhasbeenidentifiedandcanbereadilyaccessedifnecessary;

protectiveclothingandequipmentincludinginsulatedglovesandboots,aninsulatedmat,eyeprotectionandlongsleevedcottonclothingisutilised;and

thetestingequipmenttobeusedhasbeentestedwithintheprevioussixmonths.

Onreferraltotheriskassessmentmatrix,withallsection12requirementsinplace,thelikelihoodofharmismoderateandtheconsequencesintheeventofanincidentoccurringarenotlikelytoexceedmoderate.Onthatbasis,theoverallriskisconsideredmoderateandnosafetyobserverisrequired.

3. Thetestingisthenperformedandtheproblemisidentifiedasafaultycircuitbreakerwhichmustbereplaced.Onconferringwiththehospital

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administrationstaff,itisfoundthatthepowertotheequipmentservicedbythesub-maininstallationcannotbedisconnectedforevenashortperiod,asitiscriticaltopatientcare.Theelectriciandeterminesthereisnoalternativetotheperformanceofliveworkunderthecircumstances.Referencetotheriskmanagementmatrixconfirmsthat,shouldtheworkbeundertakenlive,thelikelihoodofharmislikely,withtheconsequencesbeinghigh.Theworkthereforecannotproceedwithoutaqualifiedsafetyobserverinattendance,andthisisarranged.

4. Theelectricianandsafetyobserverconferontheworktobeundertakenandthelocationandaccesspointforthesupplyisolator,andallprotectiveequipmentaspreviouslyusedisagaindeployedbybothworkers.Appropriatetoolsareselectedtofurtherminimisetheriskofanincidentduringperformanceofthework.Abarrieriserectedtopreventaccesstotheworkareaduringtheperformanceoftherepairandthesafetyobserverdeterminestheequipmentandcourseofactionrequiredinthecaseofanincidentoccurring.

5. Theelectricianthenproceedstoundertakethereplacementofthefaultycircuitbreakerwiththeinstallationenergised,withthesafetyobserverbeingalerttoanyemergingdangerduringthecourseoftherepair.

6. Oncompletionofthework,thesub-maininstallationissecuredandtheaccessbarrierremoved.

Variables for consideration in risk assessment

Thecasestudiesaboveareprovidedbywayofguidanceonlyandtheoutcomeoftheriskassessmentcanbeincreasedfromtolowtomoderateorhighbyoneoracombinationofanyothervariables,including:

adequacyoflightingpoorlightorshadow;

accessobstructionstotheworkarea,whetherthroughequipmentdesignorplacement;

surfaceswetorcontaminatedareas;

generalenvironmentdust,insects,vermindamage;

impactofothersiteactivitiesthepresenceofothertradesorworkactivitiesintheworkarea;and

switchboardswithhighprospectivefaultcurrents.

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5.3 Summary

Asystematicriskmanagementprocessisalegalobligationwhenundertakingliveelectricalwork.Theprocessprescribesawayofdischargingtheelectricalsafetyobligationofanemployerorself-employedpersontoensurethepersonsbusinessorundertakingisconductedinawaythatiselectricallysafe.

Thefivebasicstepsintheriskmanagementprocessprovideaprocesstoidentifyandassessrisks,andmanageexposuretothoserisks.WhenusedinconjunctionwiththeriskmatrixforliveworkandworkingnearliveelectricalpartscontainedinthisPart,thepotentialexiststosignificantlyreducetheriskofpotentialdeathandinjurywhenperformingliveelectricalwork.

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Part 6 : Treat, Implement, Monitor and Review

6.1 Step 3: Decide on risk treatment measures

Theaimofthispartistogivedetailedandpracticaladviceabouthowtoselectrisktreatmentmeasures,andimplement,monitorandreviewtheireffectiveness.

Stepthreeoftheriskmanagementprocessisaboutdecidinghowtotreattheelectricalrisksthathavebeenidentified.Risktreatmentmeasuresmustfollowanestablishedhierarchyassetoutinsection27AoftheWHSAct.

6.1.1 The risk treatment hierarchy

Anobligationholder6mustdecideontheappropriatenessofrisktreatmentmeasures.Obligationholdersmuststartatthetopofthehierarchyillustratedbelowandselectmeasuresfromthehighestorderpossible.

Risk treatment hierarchy

A. eliminating the risk;

B. if this is not possible, the risk must be minimised by measures considered in the following order:

i. substituting the risk with one giving rise to a lesser risk; if not then

ii. isolating the risk from anyone who may be at risk; if not then

iii. minimising the risk by engineering means; if not then

iv. applying administrative measures; if not then

v. using personal protective equipment.

Most effective

measure

Least effective

measure

Therisktreatmentmeasurescanbedividedintothreelevels:

thehighestlevelincludesmeasuresthataddresstheriskatthesource,orwhereitcomesfrom(i.e.elimination,substitution);

thesecondlevelmeasuresinterveneintheriskscoursebetweenthesourceandaworker(i.e.isolationorengineering);and

thethirdandlowestlevelmeasuresareimplementedatthepointoftheworker(i.e.administrativemeasures,personalprotectiveequipment).

Inmanycases,itwillbenecessarytouseacombinationofmeasurestoappropriatelymanageexposuretoarisk.Forexample,tominimiseexposure

6 Forinformationonobligationholders,pleaserefertoPart1ofthisCode.

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toariskinvolvingelectricity,thesupplyofelectricitycouldbedisconnected(elimination),saferworkprocedures(administrativemeasures)introducedandpersonalprotectiveequipmentprovidedforworkerstousewhenensuringelectricalpartsarede-energised.

Table 1: Risk treatment measures and examples of use

Risk treatment measure

Comment Examples of use

Elimination Treat the risk at the source. This is the most effective treatment measure and removes the risk by changing the work processes.

Disconnect electricity, re-route electricity away from work site.

Substitution Replace the electrical risk with an alternative that has a lower risk.

Battery or air-driven tools could be substituted for electrically powered tools.

Isolation Remove or separate people from the source of the risk.

Use rubber mats (isolating barrier) to separate workers from being in contact with a concrete floor (conductive path).

Minimise by redesigning

Change the physical characteristics of the plant or workplace to remove or reduce the risk.

Modify a machine so it can be used by remote control; use a limiting device to prevent plant from entering an exclusion zone.

Administrative measures

Use policies, procedures, signs and training to treat risk.

Use a safety observer and/or tigertails.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Provide equipment or clothing designed to protect the worker.

Provide rubber-soled boots and insulating gloves.

6.1.2 Consultation

Consultationwithworkersandotherswhomaybeaffectedbytherisksintheworkplaceisessentialatallstagesoftheriskmanagementprocess,butparticularlyinstepthree,astheworkersandothersmaybeabletosuggestwaystoeffectivelymanagetherisksandallowthemtooperateefficientlyintheirjobs.

6.1.3 Selecting the most appropriate risk treatment measures

Whenselectingthemostappropriatetreatmentmeasures,thereareanumberoffactorsthatwillinfluencethedecision,includingworkersopinions,butitisimportanttokeepinmindthattheobjectivesoftheActaretopreventpeopledying,beinginjuredorbecomingillasaresultofexposuretoelectricalrisksattheirworkplaces.

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Whenselectingarisktreatmentmeasure,itisimportanttobeabletojustifywhythatparticularmeasurewaschosen,ratherthanahigherlevelmeasure.Forexample,theremustbeagoodreasonwhyadministrativemeasurese.g.asignwaschosentotreattheriskinsteadofchoosingamethodthateliminatessubstitutes,isolatesorengineersouttherisk.

SimplyfollowingtherisktreatmenthierarchydoesnotnecessarilymeancompliancewiththeActand/ortheWHSAct.

Whenrisktreatmentmeasuresareselectedtheyshould:

adequatelytreatexposuretotherisknowandwillcontinuetodosoovertime;

notcreateanotherrisk;

allowworkerstodotheirworkwithoutunduediscomfortordistress;and

beproportionatetothedegreeandnatureoftherisk(i.e.highriskandsevereconsequencesshouldhavesubstantialpermanentsolutions).

6.2 Eliminate the risk

Eliminatingtheriskcompletelyisthemosteffectivetreatmentandmustalwaysbeattemptedfirstwhendecidingonrisktreatmentmeasures.Thismaymeandiscontinuingdangerousworkpractices,removingdangeroussubstances,orintroducingnewequipment(e.g.de-energisinglinesorre-locatingplantawayfromthevicinityofelectriclines).

6.2.1 Safe design

Oneofthewaystoeliminateariskatthesourceisbyaddressingsafetyissuesduringthedesignstageofequipment,structuresandprocesses.Forexample,determininglay-outorset-upofaworkareaatthedesignstageoftheconstructionofaworkplacecaneliminateelectricalrisksandreducetherisksofworkersbeinginjuredinthatworkplaceorothernegativeeffectsontheenvironmentandpeopleoutsidetheworkplace.

6.2.2 Policies and procedures

Ahighpercentageofelectricalriskscanbeeliminatedorminimisedatthesourcethroughsoundpoliciesandproceduresrelatingtopurchasing,installingandcommissioningplant,materialsandfacilities.Forexample,purchaseelectricalequipmentthatisfitforpurposeandensureworkersareproperlytrainedtousetheequipment.

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6.3 Prevent or minimise exposure to the risk

Ifanelectricalriskcannotbeeliminated,thereareanumberoftreatmentmeasuresthatcanbeusedalone,orincombinationwithothermeasures,topreventorminimiseexposuretotherisk.

Substitutioninvolvesreplacingtheriskwithonethatpresentsalowerandmoremanageablerisk.Examplesofsubstitutioninclude:

replacingplantorequipmentwithamoresuitabletype,suchassubstitutingconductivemetalscaffoldingwithnon-conductivescaffolding;and

replacingapedestalfanwithaceilingfaninarestaurantkitchentoeliminatethetrackingofanelectriccordacrossadampfloor;insulationoncordmaybecomewornandfrayedandcauseanelectricalrisk.

Isolationreferstoisolatingorseparatingtheriskfromtheperson,orthepersonfromtherisk.Examplesofisolationinclude:

installingscreensorbarriersaroundelectricallyhazardousareastopreventdirectorindirectcontactwithliveelectricalparts;

enclosingorguardingdangerouselectricalequipmenttopreventencroachmentintoanexclusionzone;and

isolatingtheelectricitysupplyfromelectricalequipment.

Engineering measures (redesign)involveschangingthedesignoftheworkplace,equipmentorworkprocesstominimisetherisk.Itrequiresthinkingaboutwaystheworkcouldbedonedifferentlytoma