CEPU Logo Occupational Health & Safety Resource Kit.
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Working up and close to electricity
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Working up and close to electricity
A SAFETY CHECKLIST
Section 1 - Initial Assessment Yes No
1. Can the electrical equipment be safely isolated?
Yes, proceed to section 2. If No, go to Q 2.
2. Can the work be rescheduled to another time so that the electrical equipment can be isolated?
If Yes, proceed to section 2.

If No, have you obtained genuine reasons from the client and/or controller of the premises that it is an emergency and de-energising the equipment presents a higher risk than leaving it energised? Have you discussed the matter with your employer/supervisor?

Have you investigated whether the section of the installation that needs to be deenergised can be isolated, while leaving the remainder connected?
Proceed to section 3.
Section 2 - Eliminate the Hazard - Work De-energised Yes No
3. Do you have approved test instruments suitable for the task?
4. Have you checked that the test instruments are functioning correctly?
5. Have you switched off the supply?
6. Have you isolated the supply, for example by removing fuses or disconnecting the output side of the isolating device?
7. Have you taken precautions to ensure that the supply remains switched "off" by locking off and/or tagging or disconnecting the load side of the isolator and tying back disconnected conductors? Always assume that all conductors or components are live until you have proved them dead. Test before you touch
Proceed to section 4.
Section 3 - Control Measures
WORKING ON OR NEAR LIVE EQUIPMENT		 Yes No
8. Have you completed a written risk assessment and identified all electrical hazards and non-electrical hazards, both actual and potential? All materials including liquids and gases should be regarded as conductive unless you have definite knowledge to the contrary.
9. Have you determined the control measures required to remove, manage or minimise the risks?
10. Are you trained, competent and confident in applying the particular procedures or techniques that are required for the task at hand?
11. Have you been authorised by your employer and person in control of the premises to work on or near live equipment?
12. Do you have a safe working procedure for the task at hand?
13. Is your work area clear of obstructions and is there a safe entry and exit?
14. Is your test equipment: appropriate to the task and functioning correctly?
15. Have you checked to ensure that your tools and accessories: are insulated, and have been inspected to ensure they are serviceable?
16. Are you wearing the appropriate clothing and associated PPE for the task?
For example, safety helmet and boots, anti-flash safety glasses, insulating gloves (gloves to be air-tested daily prior to use).
17. Do you have the appropriate insulating mats and sheeting?
18. Are the necessary first-aid facilities provided and accessible?
19. Is a trained safety observer present?
Remember:
  • Do the work very carefully.
  • Follow the safe working procedures.
  • Assume all exposed conductors are live.
  • Make sure you are aware of the voltage to earth of all exposed conductors
Section 4 – AFTER COMPLETING THE WORK Yes No
20. Have the installations/circuits/equipment been restored to a safe condition?
21. Have all tags and locking-off devices been removed?