23
Electrical Safety Policy V1 Trust General Policy Electrical Safety Policy Version V1 Date Approved January 2012 Date to be Reviewed May 2018 To be Reviewed By Head of Estates Operations

Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

  • Upload
    hadiep

  • View
    221

  • Download
    0

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1

Trust General Policy

Electrical Safety Policy

Version

V1

Date Approved

January 2012

Date to be Reviewed

May 2018

To be Reviewed By Head of Estates Operations

Page 2: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 2

Policy Title:

Electrical Safety Policy

Executive Summary:

East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed to ensure that all staff are aware of their responsibilities towards electrical safety. Management policy towards electrical safety, control & safe use of electrical equipment and rules for those working on electrical installations and equipment.

Supersedes:

Description of

Amendment(s):

This policy will impact on:

This policy will be applicable to all divisions, directorates and departments within the Trust.

Financial Implications:

No financial implication identified with this Policy

Policy Area: Corporate Document Reference:

ECT001608

Version Number: 1 Effective Date: January 2012

Issued By: Head of Estates Operations

Review Date: May 2018

Author:

(Full Job title )

Head of Estates Operations

Impact Assessment Date:

January 2012

APPROVAL RECORD

Committees / Group Date

Consultation:

Estates Operation Management October 2011

Risk Management Group November 2011

Approved by Director: Risk Management Group January 2012

Page 3: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 3

East Cheshire NHS Trust

Electrical Safety Policy

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Policy Statement 4 Organisational Responsibilities 4

Part One the Policy

1.1 General Provisions 6

1.2 Nominated Persons 6

1.3 Management Responsibilities 6

1.4 Execution of Work 7

1.5 New Projects 7

1.6 First Aid Training 8

1.7 Records 8

1.8 Advice 8

1.9 Emergencies 8

Part Two Rules for the Control and Safe Use of Low Voltage Electrical Equipment

2.1 Management Responsibilities 9

2.2 Users of Electrical Equipment 9

2.3 Test Labels 10

2.4 Damaged Equipment 11

2.5 New Equipment 11

2.6 Information Technology (I.T.) Equipment 11

2.7 Personal Property 11

2.8 Extension Leads 11

2.9 Vending Machines 12

2.10 Misuse 12

Part Three Electrical Safety Rules For Low Voltage Systems 13

Appendix 1 Reference Documents 14

Appendix 2 Equality and Human Rights Policy Screening Tool 15

Page 4: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 4

East Cheshire NHS Trust

Policy Statement This policy sets out the commitment of, East Cheshire NHS Trust (ECNT) to provide a safe and secure environment for patients, visitors and staff. It applies to all persons who have access to, use of, or are responsible for the maintenance of Trust premises. It is important that electrical services function safely and correctly, have adequate protection

and do not exceed their design limits. The assurance of safe and reliable operation can only

be achieved through a regime of regular inspection and testing of such systems and

equipment and the implementation of appropriate maintenance works.

The Trust has a responsibility to ensure all electrical low voltage (LV) networks and systems

are safe. All relevant safe working practices are followed and adequate precautions are taken

to prevent the risk of personal injury or death from electrical shock, to all clients, employees

and members of the general public.

The Policy also provides guidance and references to assist staff in implementing the

requirements set out within this policy.

This document sets out the electrical safety policy and procedures in operation within the

Trust. The procedures should be regarded as a guide to minimise to an acceptable level the

risks associated with electrical systems and equipment.

Organisational Responsibilities

The Trust Board delegates overall responsibility for the management and control of electrical safety to the Chief Executive. He/she will:

Ensure compliance with statutory legislation, Approved Codes of Practice and Department of Health requirements regarding electrical safety.

Ensure appropriate funds are available to carry out capital and revenue works.

Ensure that Authorised Person(s) have received appropriate training and possess adequate professional knowledge in respect of electrical safety.

Chief Executive

The Chief Executive as the Duty Holder holds the overall responsibility for Trust Health

and Safety and implementing this policy. This responsibility is delegated to the

Associate Director of Estates and Facilities and nominated estates officers identified

below. This covers all operational aspects and identifies all key personnel and their

duties.

Page 5: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 5

Assistant Director of Estates and Facilities

The Associate Director of Estates and Facilities is the Trusts Lead for electrical safety. He/she will give assurance to the Trust Board regarding compliance with statutory legislation. He/she will provide a link with the Associate Director of Governance to ensure that all identified risks are included in the Trust’s “Risk Register”.

Designated Person – Head of Estates Operations

The Head of Estates shall be nominated in writing by the Assistant Director Facilities

Management and shall possess adequate professional knowledge, with appropriate

training, devise and manage the necessary procedures to ensure that electrical safety

within the Trust is well managed.

The Designated Person shall appoint in writing an Authorising Engineer (AE) for the low

voltage services that exist in the Trust. The Designated Person - Head of Estates Operations

is responsible for managing the Authorised Persons for “Low voltage Electrical services” and

monitoring that the policy is enforced advising senior management as required on behalf of

the Director.

Authorising Engineer – Low Voltage

The Authorising Engineer will ideally be a Chartered Electrical Engineer, who is appointed in writing by the Designated Person, to advice, on safety arrangements for defined low voltage electrical systems. The AE will be independent of the Trust and will also assess the suitability and appointment of all Authorised Persons - Electrical.

Authorised Person – Electrical

The Authorised Persons for “Emergency Electrical services” are to be Estates Officers

or of a similar status that possesses adequate knowledge, sufficient experience and

has received the necessary training within this field. The Authorised Persons should be

appointed in writing by the Authorising Engineer to control and manage LV Electrical

services including standby generator sets. This will involve the practical

implementation of maintaining, testing and inspecting all LV electrical services. They

are to liaise with all necessary parties and provide any information to enable the Policy

to be fully implemented.

The Authorised person is required to liaise closely with other professionals in various

disciplines. In addition, the person will possess a thorough knowledge of electrical

safety. He/she will be responsible for:

a) all training needs, including communications, permits to work and

emergency procedures

b) all acceptable equipment and protective clothing

c) recording and monitoring of all activities

Page 6: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 6

Competent Person

A Competent Person is an individual who in the opinion of the Authorised Person – Electrical has sufficient technical knowledge and relevant experience to prevent danger to himself and others, whilst carrying out work on defined LV electrical services, equipment or standby generator sets and associated systems. Electricians employed by the Trust are to be deemed as competent due to their experience and qualifications. All Competent Persons are to be provided with adequate training so they can become familiar with the electrical systems and equipment upon which they are required to work.

The Policy 1.1 General Provisions 1.1.1 East Cheshire NHS Trust shall adopt Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) 06-02 as

the basis for its electrical safety policy. 1.2 Nominated Persons 1.2. The nominated Designated Person, appointed in writing, shall have overall authority

and responsibility for the low voltage systems within the Trust estate. 1.2.2 The nominated Authorising Engineer, appointed in writing, shall monitor the safety

arrangements including individual appointments for operation of the Trust low voltage systems.

1.2.3 The nominated Authorised Person (Electrical), appointed in writing, shall have overall

responsibility for the practical implementation of the Electrical Safety Policy within the designated Estates area only. Deputy Authorised Persons shall be appointed to cover holidays, sickness and out of hour’s periods where appropriate.

1.2.4 The full duties and responsibilities of the Designated Person, Authorising Engineer and

Authorised Person shall be as outlined in HTM 06-02 and, in particular as detailed in their letters of appointment. Copies of appointment letters are held in the operational procedures manual in the Estates Department.

1.3 Management Responsibilities 1.3. The Trust has the responsibility to provide the Estates Department with sufficient

resources to enable it to discharge its duties. As the Estates Business Manager is only responsible for his own management area, it requires the co-operation of other senior managers in fully meeting the requirements of legislation.

1.3.2 Individual directorate managers and heads of departments will:

a) Provide, at all reasonable times, access to Estates staff and their contractors in order that they can:

i) Carry out repairs to equipment and installations ii) Carry out routine inspection and testing of equipment and installations.

Page 7: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 7

b) Ensure that all faults on electrical equipment and installations are reported to the Estates Department.

c) Ensure that personnel with responsibilities for electrical safety within their

department are made fully aware of their responsibilities in writing and are given the necessary information and training to properly understand them and carry them out.

1.3.3 The electrical safety policy shall be monitored by management at all levels to ensure

its effectiveness. Any concerns regarding the effectiveness of the policy shall be reported in writing to the Health and Safety Manager.

1.4 Execution of Work 1.4.1 It is Trust policy to employ only Competent Persons or approved electrical contractors

for work on low voltage electrical systems and equipment, the only exception being a person under training with personal supervision. All such work will be arranged and supervised by the Estates department, the only exceptions being:

a) Work carried out under a Capital Project and for which Estates are not

responsible.

b) Maintenance and repair of specialist medical electrical equipment, to be repaired and tested by Medical Engineering (EBME).

c) Repair of information technology (I.T.) equipment where specialist knowledge is

required. Such repairs shall be arranged by the I.T. department 1.4.2 All persons working on low voltage installations and equipment shall comply with the

Electrical Safety Rules for Low Voltage Systems, the electricity at Work Regulations 1989, BS7671 IEET Wiring Regulations, all relevant Health Technical Memorandum and Statutory Requirements.

1.4.3 Electrical installation work and the inspection and testing there of shall only be

undertaken by contractors registered with the National Inspection council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC). Where, in exceptional circumstances, NICEIC registered companies are not available, contractors shall provide other evidence of their competency to carry out such work. Suitability regarding competence will be assessed by the nominated Authorised Person (Electrical) who will determine and record those contractors approved to carry out work of any description on the electrical systems in the Approved Electrical Contractors List.

1.5 New Projects 1.5.1 Where the whole site has been formally handed over to the contractor under terms laid

out in the contract, the contractor shall not be obliged to comply with the requirements of this policy. However, all statutory regulations shall be complied with and all work shall be carried out in accordance with the contract conditions, specifications and good working practices.

1.5.2 Where interface between a new electrical installation and an existing electrical installation is necessary, consultation shall take place between the Project Manager and the Authorised Person at an early stage of the project and at other times as necessary to prevent danger or the inadvertent loss of supply.

Page 8: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 8

1.5.3 Prior to a new installation being handed over to the Estates Department for maintenance purposes the appropriate personnel shall become familiar with the installation. The extent of familiarisation will vary depending on the complexity of the installation. In the case of complex installations the Project Manager shall liaise with the Estates Department at an early stage to establish the exact requirements of familiarisation. The operating and maintenance instructions, together with an installation drawing shall be handed to the Estates Department in advance of the handover meeting to assist familiarisation.

1.5.4 Where the contractor is only responsible for part of a system or installation, the exact

extent of the contractor’s responsibility shall be defined in the contract. 1.6 First Aid Training 1.6.1 All Trust staff employed on the installation, maintenance, or operation of electrical

distribution equipment and installation wiring is to be trained in First Aid treatment for electric shock. The Authorised Person shall be responsible for arranging such training and maintaining the records. Refresher training shall also be arranged, at intervals not exceeding three years.

1.7 Records 1.7.1 Records of electrical training to ensure the awareness of staff on the use of electricity

and general electrical safety shall be maintained by departmental managers. 1.7.2 Records of planned and emergency maintenance on electrical equipment shall be held

by the Estates Department. It shall be the responsibility of individual departments to inform Estates of all new equipment purchased, movement of equipment and equipment found to be faulty.

1.7.3 The reporting of injuries or dangerous occurrences resulting from an electrical accident

at work comes within the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations, 1995 (RIDDOR), Any incident involving electrical equipment, whether or not reportable under RIDDOR, shall be reported to the Authorised Person.

1.8 Advice 1.8.1 Advice relating to electrical procedures and electrical safety shall be sought, via line

managers from the Authorised Person, Estates Department.

1.9 Emergencies Emergencies during normal working hours (0800 to 1630, Monday to Thursday, 0800 to 1600 Friday) shall be reported to the Estates office at Arley building, Telephone 01625 661616. Outside normal working hours emergencies shall be reported to the Hospital switchboard, Telephone 01625 421000. Part Two Rules for the control and safe use of electrical equipment 2.1 Management Responsibility

Page 9: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 9

2.1.1 Departmental managers shall be responsible for ensuring that the appropriate

procedures are in place, within their designated area, to meet the requirements of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and in particular, the requirements of this policy. Particular attention shall be paid to: Ensuring that persons within their control are suitably trained in the correct operation of any electrical equipment that they may be expected to use,

User safety checks,

Control of the movement of portable electrical equipment,

Control in the procurement of electrical equipment,

Management of patient owned electrical equipment brought onto Trust property, Precautions for staff working away from, Trust properties, e.g. patients’ homes.

2.1.2 Relevant training can be accessed via the Estates Department and Health and Safety

Manager. 2.2 Users of Electrical Equipment

2.2.1 Every user of electrical equipment has a legal responsibility to co-operate with management to ensure that equipment is maintained in a safe, efficient condition.

The primary responsibility for day-to-day safety of portable equipment when in service lies with the user(s), who should be trained in its use and made aware of the need to be constantly vigilant for defects, which may put individuals at risk. Any person using portable electrical equipment should, before using it, personally check that the equipment, including the flexible cable and plug top, is free from mechanical damage and that the in-date test label is attached. Items of equipment less than 12 months old may not have a test label attached but should have a label attached by the person responsible for its procurement or the person receiving the item as new indicating when the item was purchased. New items shall be tested and an appropriate in date test label attached before the item is twelve months old. 2.2.2 Before using any item of electrical equipment the user shall:

a) Confirm test/purchase date label is in date.

b) Consider whether he/she (the user) is aware of any fault in the equipment and whether it works properly.

c) Disconnect the equipment where practical or switch it off at the main switch if a

fault is suspected and notify the Estates Department

d) Inspect the equipment in particular looking at:

i) The flex - is it in good condition? Is it free from cuts, fraying and damage? Is it in a location where it could be damaged? Is it too long, too short or in any way unsatisfactory? Does it have inadequate joints?

ii) The plug (where fitted) - is the flexible cable secure in its anchorage? Is it free

from any sign of overheating? Is it free from cracks or damage?

Page 10: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 10

iii) The socket outlet or flex-outlet - is there any sign of overheating? Is it free from

cracks and other damage?

iv) The appliance - does it work? Does it switch on and off properly? Is it free from cracks, contamination, damage to the case, or damage which could result in access to live parts? Can it be used safely?

v) Users - are they satisfied that the equipment works properly?

vi) The environment - is the equipment suitable for its environment? When the

work environment is harsh or hazardous, e.g. if the equipment is exposed to mechanical damage, the weather, high or low temperatures, pressure, wet or dirty or corrosive conditions, flammable or explosive substances, particular care needs to be taken when selecting the equipment, and additional safety precautions may also be required.

Example 1. A vacuum cleaner should not be used for the removal of water or other spillage from a carpet or floor unless it has been specifically designed for the purpose.

Example 2. Equipment designed for internal use should not be used externally with an extension lead in wet conditions or where it may be liable to mechanical damage.

Where there is an area of particular concern advice should be sought from the Health and Safety Manager or, alternatively from the Estates department.

e) Take action on faults/damage. Faulty equipment must be:

i) Switched off and unplugged from the supply where possible, or switched off if directly connected to the supply. Plug in items should be removed to a secure place to prevent inadvertent use by others.

ii) Labelled to identify that it must not be used.

iii) Report to the Estates department.

2.3 Test Labels 2.3.1 No person shall use an item of electrical equipment unless it bears a label indicating a

current pass status of safety inspection and test as issued by the Estates Department, its nominated contractor, or in the case of specialist medical electrical equipment, EBME. The date for re-testing should also be indicated. Newly purchased items will bear a label indicating when the item was purchased and should not be used if twelve months have passed since the purchase date without the item having been inspected and tested by the Estates Department or their nominated contractor or EBME and the appropriate test label attached. Failure to comply with this instruction may lead to disciplinary proceedings.

Page 11: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 11

2.4 Damaged Equipment 2.4.1 Where equipment is found to be damaged or faulty an assessment shall be made by

the manager in charge as to the suitability of the equipment for the use/location. Further advice may be obtained from the Estates Department. In any instance damaged equipment must not be used and the item must be reported to the Estates Department who will arrange for repair or advice on replacement as applicable.

2.5. New Equipment 2.5.1. When new equipment is purchased, prior to it being brought into service, it shall have a

label attached to the equipment indicating the purchase date. The responsibility for ensuring that new equipment bears such a label shall be with the Manager of the department responsible for the procurement and use of the equipment. All items purchased for use on, or intended to be connected to the Trust Electrical Distribution System must bear the correct BS / BS EN marking appropriate to the equipment. This includes all plugs in items as well as fixed appliances/equipment. This will ensure that the equipment has been suitably and appropriately tested by the manufacturer prior to delivery and will indicate that the equipment is safe for use but only after the user has carried out the appropriate user checks before putting the equipment into use. The same procedure shall apply to patients' equipment brought on to Trust property

2.6. Information Technology (I.T.) Equipment 2.6.1. When new I.T. equipment is purchased via the I.T. department, the I.T. department will

arrange with the manager of the area in which the equipment is to be used for the equipment to be visually inspected by the user and for affixing a label indicating the purchase date of the equipment prior to issue of the equipment. The label indicating the purchase date may be affixed by the IT department prior to issue or by the end user but must be in place prior to using the equipment.

2.6.2. Where I.T. equipment has been repaired, unless the repairs have specifically included

electrical safety inspection and test, then the equipment shall be retested by the Estates department prior to re-use. Responsibility for requesting the retest shall lie with the user.

2.7. Personal Property 2.7.1. Employees of the Trust shall not bring on to Trust property any private item of electrical

equipment without first having obtained permission from their manager. Where such permission is granted the equipment shall be subject to the same inspection procedure that applies to new equipment and the user may be liable for the costs incurred.

2.8. Extension Leads 2.8.1. Extension leads are often inappropriately used, leading to the increased risk either of

an electrical accident or of trips/falls. Their use is generally not permitted, the only exceptions being:

i) Where there are insufficient permanent socket outlets in a particular location

and application has already been submitted to the Estates Department for the installation of additional socket outlets.

ii) Where their use is in conjunction with mobile equipment such as overhead

projectors, etc.

Page 12: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 12

iii) Use by nursing staff working within the community outside of Trust properties,

where there is a lack of socket outlets. In such cases, they shall be fitted with plugs incorporating a safety trip for increased protection. It is preferred that battery operated equipment is used wherever possible in this instance as the Trust cannot verify the safety and suitability of electrical systems outside of Trust properties. In all of the above cases, prior written approval for their use shall be obtained from the departmental manager, on a form available form Estates.

2.8.2. As with all other portable equipment, extension leads shall be subjected to the same

policy and procedure before and during use. Due to the difficulty in keeping track of the locations of extension leads, it will be the user’s responsibility to inform the Estates department as to when further PAT tests are required.

2.9. Vending machines 2.9.1 Vending machines are to be P.A.T. tested by the owner of the machine and proof of

test to given to Estates before the machine can be connected the East Cheshire NHS Trust electrical supply.

2.10. Misuse 2.10.1 Wilful misuse of and unauthorised modifications to electrical equipment is potentially

dangerous and strictly forbidden. Such action will lead to disciplinary proceeding. Part Three

Electrical Safety Rules for Low Voltage Systems

3.1 These rules, based upon HTM 06-02 and amended by the Trust’s local house rules,

are only applicable to persons working on electrical systems and equipment. They will, therefore, only be issued to Estates staff working on such systems and equipment and Estates approved electrical contractors. A copy will be held in the Estates office for reference to when required by project managers.

3.2 The Authorised Person, in conjunction with the Authorising Engineer, shall be

responsible for monitoring and reviewing the Electrical Safety Rules to ensure that they are effective and continue to meet Trust requirements and Health & Safety legislation.

Page 13: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 13

Appendix 1 Reference Documents

Electricity at Work Regulations (1989)

NHS Health Technical Memorandum HTM 06-02

Electrical Safety Code for Low Voltage Systems (Escode –LV)

Page 14: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 14

Equality and Human Rights Impact Assessment Form

Part 1 – AIMS AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE

POLICY/PROCEDURE/STRATEGY/SERVICE SPECIFICATION

1.1 What is being assessed? Name of the policy, procedure, strategy or service specification (hereafter referred to as ‘DOCUMENT’):

Electrical Safety Policy

1.2 Details of person responsible for completing the assessment:

Name: Laurence Edwards

Job title: Estates Officer (Electrical)

Team: Estates

1.3 What is the main purpose or aims of the document?

(this is usually the first paragraph of what you are writing – cut and paste it here. Also

include details of legislation, guidance, regulations etc which have shaped or informed the

document)

This policy sets out the commitment of, East Cheshire NHS Trust (ECNT) to provide a safe

and secure environment for patients, visitors and staff. It applies to all persons who have

access to, use of, or are responsible for the maintenance of Trust premises.

It is important that electrical services function safely and correctly, have adequate protection

and do not exceed their design limits. The assurance of safe and reliable operation can only

be achieved through a regime of regular inspection and testing of such systems and

equipment and the implementation of appropriate maintenance works.

The Trust has a responsibility to ensure all electrical low voltage (LV) networks and systems

are safe. All relevant safe working practices are followed and adequate precautions are

taken to prevent the risk of personal injury or death from electrical shock, to all clients,

employees and members of the general public.

The Policy also provides guidance and references to assist staff in implementing the

requirements set out within this policy.

This document sets out the electrical safety policy and procedures in operation within the

Trust. The procedures should be regarded as a guide to minimise to an acceptable level the

risks associated with electrical systems and equipment.

Page 15: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 15

1.4 Who is this document intended for?

Who will need to do something differently because of this document? Who will be affected by

what this document covers? All staff or just a team? All patients or just those who use a

particular service? Any other group?

Departmental managers shall be responsible for ensuring that the appropriate

procedures are in place, within their designated area, to meet the requirements of the

Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and in particular, the requirements of this policy.

Particular attention shall be paid to: Ensuring that persons within their control are

suitably trained in the correct operation of any electrical equipment that they may be

expected to use,

User safety checks,

Control of the movement of portable electrical equipment,

Control in the procurement of electrical equipment,

Management of patient owned electrical equipment brought onto Trust property,

Precautions for staff working away from Trust properties, e.g. patients’ homes.

How will the document be put into practice and who will be responsible for it?

(Who defined the document? Who implements the document? Does this document cover a

particular team/Unit or does it link to another team, agency or contractor? If external parties

are involved then what are the measures in place to ensure that they comply with the Trust’s

Equality and Diversity Policy?

Every user of electrical equipment has a legal responsibility to co-operate with

management to ensure that equipment is maintained in a safe, efficient condition.

Page 16: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 16

Part 2 – CONSIDERATION OF DATA AND RESEARCH

To conduct the assessment you will need information about service users, and the staff that

provide the service. This section is to help you identify the sort of information that will needed

to help you assess whether there may be barriers to different groups who are affected by this

document.

2.1 Give details of RELEVANT information available that gives you an understanding of

who will be affected by this document (include information where appropriate from other

teams/units, census, patient or staff monitoring etc. Please note that in some cases data may

not exist or be available and you may therefore have to undertake additional research. In this

case, contact Adrian Barrowdale (01925 664425) or Lyn Bailey for support))

Every user of electrical equipment has a legal responsibility to co-operate with

management to ensure that equipment is maintained in a safe, efficient condition.

2.2 Profile of users or beneficiaries

What have you found out using this information? Are there any key groups of people who will

be affected, or who have been over/under represented?

N/A

2.3 Relevant consultation

Having identified key groups, how have you made sure that the document will affect them in

the way that you intend? Have you spoken to staff groups, charities, national organisations etc?

N/A

2.4 Evidence of complaints relating to this document on grounds of discrimination. (Is

there any evidence of complaints either from patients or staff (grievance) relating to the

document or its effects on different groups?)

N/A

Page 17: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 17

2.5 Does the information gathered from 2.1 – 2.4 indicate any negative impact as a result of this document?

N/A

Part 3 – ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT

Now that you have looked at the purpose, etc. of the document (part 1) and looked at the data

and research you have (part 2), this section asks you to assess the impact of the document on

each of the strands listed below. Only complete the boxes which are relevant to the data you

have looked at – for any other boxes, you can write “N/A”

RACE – testing of disproportional and adverse impact

a. How are racial groups reflected in the numbers of people affected by this

document?

When undertaking procedure aspects of work around this policy, an independent impact

assessment will be carried out. This will include aspects such as racial groups, and this will

be discussed with the Engagement Department.

b. From the evidence available does the document affect, or have the potential to

affect, racial groups differently?

Yes

No X

c. If yes, do any of the differences amount to barriers, negative impact or unlawful

discrimination? Reason/evidence/comment

N/A

GENDER (INCLUDING TRANSGENDER) – testing of disproportional and adverse impact

a. How are different gender groups reflected in the numbers of people affected by this document?

When undertaking procedure aspects of work around this policy, an independent impact

assessment will be carried out. This will include aspects such as gender groups, and this

will be discussed with the Engagement Department.

Page 18: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 18

b. From the evidence available does the document affect, or have the potential to

affect, different gender groups differently?

Yes

No X

c. If yes, do any of the differences amount to barriers, negative impact or unlawful

discrimination? Reason/evidence/comment

DISABILITY – testing of disproportional and adverse impact

a. How are disabled people reflected in the numbers of people affected by this

document?

When undertaking procedure aspects of work around this policy, an independent impact

assessment will be carried out. This will include aspects such as disability groups, and this

will be discussed with the Engagement Department.

b. From the evidence available does the document affect, or have the potential to

affect, disabled people differently?

Yes

No X

c. If yes, do any of the differences amount to barriers, negative impact or unlawful

discrimination? Reason/evidence/comment

AGE – testing of disproportional and adverse impact

a. How are different age groups reflected in the numbers of people affected by this

document?

When undertaking procedure aspects of work around this policy, an independent impact

assessment will be carried out. This will include aspects such as age groups, and this will be

discussed with the Engagement Department.

Page 19: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 19

b. From the evidence available does the document affect, or have the potential to

affect, age groups differently?

Yes

No X

c. If yes, do any of the differences amount to barriers, negative impact or unlawful

discrimination? Reason/evidence/comment

LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL – testing of disproportional and adverse impact

a. How are people with different sexual orientations reflected in the numbers of people

affected by this document?

When undertaking procedure aspects of work around this policy, an independent impact

assessment will be carried out. This will include aspects such as lesbian, gay and bisexual

groups, and this will be discussed with the Engagement Department.

b. From the evidence available does the document affect, or have the potential to

affect, LESBIAN, GAY AND BISEXUAL people differently?

Yes

No X

c. If yes, do any of the differences amount to barriers, negative impact or unlawful

discrimination? Reason/evidence/comment

RELIGION/BELIEF – testing of disproportional and adverse impact

a. How are people with different RELIGIONS OR BELIEFS reflected in the numbers of

people affected by this document?

When undertaking procedure aspects of work around this policy, an independent impact

assessment will be carried out. This will include aspects such as religious groups, and this

Page 20: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 20

will be discussed with the Engagement Department.

b. From the evidence available does the document affect, or have the potential to

affect, RELIGIOUS/BELIEF groups differently?

Yes

No X

c. If yes, do any of the differences amount to barriers, negative impact or unlawful

discrimination? Reason/evidence/comment

CARERS – testing of disproportional and adverse impact

a. How are people with caring responsibilities reflected in the numbers of people

affected by this document?

When undertaking procedure aspects of work around this policy, an independent impact

assessment will be carried out. This will include aspects such as carers groups, and this will

be discussed with the Engagement Department.

b. From the evidence available does the document affect, or have the potential to

affect carers people differently?

Yes

No X

c. If yes, do any of the differences amount to barriers, negative impact or unlawful

discrimination? Reason/evidence/comment

OTHER – Additional factors that may affect impact (including Human Rights) - testing of disproportional and adverse impact

a. How are OTHER groups reflected in the numbers of people affected by this

document?

When undertaking procedure aspects of work around this policy, an independent impact

assessment will be carried out. This will include aspects such as other groups, not identified

Page 21: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 21

above, and this will be discussed with the Engagement Department.

b. From the evidence available does the document affect, or have the potential to

affect, OTHER groups differently?

Yes

No X

c. If yes, do any of the differences amount to barriers, negative impact or unlawful

discrimination? Reason/evidence/comment

Part 4 - Safeguarding Assessment

For advice on completing this section, contact the Named Nurse for Safeguarding Children

and Young People

CHILDREN - testing of disproportional and adverse impact

a. Is there a direct or indirect impact upon children? Yes No X

b. If yes please describe the nature and level of the impact (consideration to be given

to all children; children in a specific group or area, or individual children. As well as

consideration of impact now or in the future; competing / conflicting impact between

different groups of children and young people:

c. If no please describe why there is considered to be no impact / significant impact on

children This document treats everyone the same

Page 22: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 22

Part 5 – CONSULTATION WITH EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY LEAD AND NAMED NURSE

FOR SAFEGUARDING

At this point, you should forward the template to:

The Trust’s Equality and Diversity Lead

The Named Nurse for Safeguarding Children

and arrange a meeting or telephone call. You will be asked a number of final questions

based on your responses to date.

You can record the results of those conversations here:

Equality and Diversity: Approved

Safeguarding Children: N/A

Part 6 - CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Summary of changes implemented

VERY briefly, list changes made as a consequence of conducting this assessment

6.2 Is there anything which you think may have an adverse impact but which you have not been able to address in writing your document?

6.3 Have you identified any work which you will need to do in the future to ensure that the document has no adverse impact?

List all actions (large and small) that have been identified during the assessment

and include a named person and date for completion.

Action Name

Lead

Date to be

Achieved

Page 23: Electrical Safety Policy - East Cheshire NHS Trust · Electrical Safety Policy V1 2 Policy Title: Electrical Safety Policy Executive Summary: East Cheshire NHS Trust is firmly committed

Electrical Safety Policy V1 23

6.4 When will the document be reviewed? (Include dates for completion and officer(s) responsible.)

Date completed: 11/11/2011

Signed by (Manager):……R Few…………………….

The Trust’s Equality and Diversity Lead:

The Named Nurse for Safeguarding Children Melanie Barker