Blue Book

ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES
2016
DISCLAIMER
The material contained in this publication has been developed for the use of ActewAGL, its contractors
and all others working on or near ActewAGLs electricity network. It should be read in conjunction with
any applicable Laws, Regulations, Technical Guidelines, Australian Standards and Internal Procedures.
ActewAGL believes that to the best of its knowledge, the information contained herein is correct and
current as at the date of its publication. However, ActewAGL gives no warranty as to the completeness,
accuracy or suitability of the information contained herein.
No party outside ActewAGL should act based on the information contained in this publication without
first considering his or her own circumstances and if necessary, obtaining professional advice as to
his or her legal obligations. Note however, that the Safe Approach Distances tabled within, are to be
considered a minimum standard for all work near ActewAGL assets.
Except for any liability that cannot be excluded or limited by law, ActewAGL excludes all liability for any
loss or damage of any kind arising from or relating in any way to reliance on the information contained
in this publication.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COPYRIGHT
The development of these Electrical Safety Rules was based on the Code of Practice on Electrical Safety
for the Distribution Businesses in the Victorian Electricity Supply Industry (The Green Book). Copyright
of The Green Book is jointly owned by the Major Victorian Electricity Companies.
CitiPower Pty Ltd

SP AusNet
Powercor Australia Ltd
Jemena
United Energy
These Major Victorian Electricity Companies, known as the Victorian Electricity Supply Industry (VESI)
collectively, are members of the Distribution Sub-Committee of the Electrical Safety Committee in
Victoria. The Distribution Sub-Committee has given its written permission to ActewAGL for The Green
Book to be used as the basis for the development of ActewAGLs Electrical Safety Rules. ActewAGL
thanks the VESI for its cooperation in this regard.
BLUE BOOK ISSUES REGISTER

For all queries or issues identified please email the Work Practices Group at
bluebook@actewagl.com.au
ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688 a partnership of Jemena Networks (ACT) Pty Ltd ABN 24 008 552 663 and Icon Distribution Investments Limited ABN 83 073 025 224.
SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 1

ActewAGLs
Life Saving Rules
The ActewAGL Life Saving Rules are

important rules that must never be broken.
Breaking one of these rules could result
in a serious injury or a fatality. They are
non-negotiable rules that require constant
reinforcement by managers, supervisors,
team leaders and workers.
Breaking a Life Saving Rule will result
in consequences for the rule breaker/s.
For those that see a Life Saving Rule
being broken and choose to ignore it or
let it go, they will also face consequences.
Depending on the investigation results,
consequences can range from education,
coaching and counselling up to formal
disciplinary action, including the
possibility of employment termination.
2 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

The Life Saving Rules are:
I will always...
actively participate in a site job assessment before
commencing every job, every day
test and prove de-energised before commencing

any non energised work
check and confirm equipment / apparatus is safe

to energise
only work on or near the electricity network when

trained and authorised to do so
implement required controls to manage site hazards
have current training and authorisation for the plant

and equipment that is to be operated
check and wear PPE that is appropriate for the job
abide by drug and alcohol rules
Report incidents and near misses

PURPOSE
The purpose of these Electrical Safety Rules (The Blue Book) is to specify the safe working requirements
and minimum standards for workers working on, near or in the vicinity of ActewAGLs electrical
apparatus within the Australian Capital Territory and the surrounding region into which ActewAGLs
electricity networks may extend.
These Electrical Safety Rules are to be read in conjunction with associated documents detailing work
practices and procedures. The rules and associated documents are intended to thoroughly specify
the safe working requirements and minimum standards that will permit the ActewAGL electricity
distribution network to be operated and maintained safely at a high standard.
Safety incidents that occur in the electricity industry drive home the need for workers at all levels to
understand and implement the requirements set out in these Electrical Safety Rules.
These rules were created with recognition that they will need periodic revision. They shall be reviewed
annually, with amendments to be communicated and issued.

SCOPE
These Electrical Safety Rules (The Blue Book) define basic safety principles and are the basis for
additional development of electrical safety procedures.
Work shall be carried out in accordance with these rules and relevant approved procedures and/or
approved practices.
Acts, Regulations
and Utility Services
Licence
Technical Codes,
Standards and
Guidelines
Electrical Safety
Rules
(The Blue Book)
ActewAGL Policies
and Procedures
Hierarchy of documentation for electrical safety
ActewAGLs compliance with these Electrical Safety Rules assists in meeting obligations imposed by the
Work Health and Safety Act, the Utilities Act and the electricity distribution licence issued to ActewAGL
by the Independent Competition and Regulatory Commission.
It is not expected that there would be any conflict between these Electrical Safety Rules and an Act or
Regulation. If anyone identifies such a conflict, they are asked to immediately notify Work Practices or
the General Manager Energy Networks, ActewAGL.
In order to comply with the requirements of these Electrical Safety Rules, ActewAGL workers and its
contractors shall either:
a. apply the rules and procedures contained within these Electrical Safety Rules; or
b. vary the procedures by:
completing a hazard identification and risk assessment to ensure that workers are not
exposed to any increase in risk; and
ensuring that community and business standards for managing risk are met; and
documenting the procedure through SWMS or other means; and
ensuring any variations are endorsed by the General Manager Energy Networks and that
the Safety Committee is informed in writing.

Contents
Disclaimer 1
Acknowledgement of copyright 1
Blue Book issues register 1
Purpose 4
Scope 5
1. Definitions 11
2 Safe approach distances to electrical apparatus 19
2.1 General 19
2.2 Safe approach distances persons 22
2.3 Safe approach distances mobile plant 26
2.4 Emergency situations 28
2.5 Contact with energised high voltage (HV) conductors by means of appliances 28
2.6 Approach to energised high voltage (HV) insulated cables 28
2.7 Work in the vicinity of electrical apparatus 29
2.8 Handling objects/loads 29
2.9 Erection or dismantling of overhead conductors 30
2.10 Possibility of leakage currents on poles 30
2.11 Work by instructed persons 30
3 Training and authorisation 31

3.1 General 31
3.2 Ordinary persons signing onto electrical access permits 31
3.3 Instructed persons signing onto electrical access authorities 32
3.4 Authority to receive an electrical access authority 32
3.5 Authority to receive a sanction for testing 32
3.6 Authority to operate low voltage (LV) and/or high voltage (HV) electrical apparatus
and issue access authorities 32
3.7 Authority to operate the network 33
3.8 Authority to work on energised high voltage (HV) overhead lines using glove and
barrier or stick procedures 33
3.9 Authority to work on energised low voltage (LV) electrical apparatus 33
3.10 Authority to enter confined spaces 34
3.11 Withdrawal and/or restriction of an authorisation 34
3.12 First aid 34

3.13 Perform rescue 35
3.14 Work safely at heights prevention of falls 35
3.15 Work on poles 35
4 General safety requirements 37

4.1 Hazard identification, risk assessment and control 37
4.2 Personal protective equipment (PPE) 37
4.3 First aid kits 38
4.4 Fire extinguishers 38
4.5 Emergency rescue kits 38
4.6 Communications 38
4.7 Labelling of electrical apparatus 38
4.8 Ladders 38
4.9 Use of safety observers 38
4.10 Working alone or without a safety observer 39
4.11 Fit for work 40
4.12 Danger of materials which can conduct electricity 41
4.13 Storage of materials 41
4.14 Work in the vicinity of electric and magnetic fields 41
4.15 Portable electric tools and equipment 42
4.16 Design, construction and commissioning 42
4.17 Danger tags 42
5 Operation of electrical apparatus 45

5.1 Workers authorised to operate high voltage (HV) electrical apparatus 45
5.2 Operator protection 45
6 Earthing of high voltage electrical apparatus 47

6.1 Earthing hierarchy 47
6.2 General 47
6.3 Earthing for access to high voltage (HV) electrical apparatus 48
6.4 Removal of earth when working under an electrical access authority 49
6.5 Earthing of overhead lines 50
6.6 High voltage (HV) metal-clad switch units 51
6.7 Precautions prior to work near aerial communication cables 51
6.8 Equipotential bonding 51

7 Issue of access authorities 53
7.1 General 53
7.2 Electrical access permit 53
7.3 Sanction for testing 58
7.4 Permit to work 61
7.5 Electrical apparatus out of commission 64
7.6 High voltage (HV) operating sticks 64
7.7 Barriers and signs 65
7.8 Working on insulated network, service or supervisory cables (SCADA) 69
8 Access for work on or near high voltage electrical apparatus 75

8.1 General 75
8.2 Energised work high voltage (HV) 78
8.3 Use and testing of operating and energised-line equipment 81
8.4 Insulated sticks 81
8.5 Work on or near de-energised high voltage (HV) electrical apparatus 81
8.6 Preparing high voltage (HV) electrical apparatus
for access 82
8.7 Suppression of auto-reclose on HV overhead feeders 84
9 Access to low voltage electrical apparatus 85

9.1 General 85
9.2 Temporary supply of electricity 85
9.3 Work on or near energised low voltage (LV) conductors 88
9.4 Notification of work on de-energised low voltage (LV) electrical apparatus 89
9.5 Work on de-energised low voltage (LV) electrical apparatus 90
10 Testing, commissioning and decommissioning electrical apparatus 95

10.1 Correct supply, polarity, and rotation 95
10.2 Use of testing devices 95
10.3 Clearance for service 96
10.4 Connections to electrical apparatus 97
10.5 Work on pilot cables 97
10.6 Prior to making apparatus energised for service 97

11 Work in electrical stations 99
11.1 Entry of electrical stations 99
11.2 General working practices 99
11.3 Hazards within electrical stations 101
12 Metering 105
12.1 General 105
12.2 Metering new installations 105
12.3 Metering changes to existing installations 105
12.4 Metering work on energised equipment 105
12.5 Metering work on transformer operated equipment 106
13 Public lighting 107

13.1 General 107
13.2 Precautions to be taken 107
13.3 Testing conductive objects 107
13.4 Changing tubes or lamps from a elevating work platform 108
14 Work by other personnel not under the supervision of ActewAGL 109

14.1 General 109
14.2 Work on abandoned cables 109
14.3 Permit to work issued to non-ActewAGL personnel 109
14.4 Work by tree surgeons requiring the isolation of overhead conductors 109
14.5 Work by electrical contractors requiring the isolation of electrical apparatus 110
14.6 Statement of condition of apparatus and plant (SCAP) 110
Appendix A ActewAGL policy and procedure list 115
Appendix B Reference documents 117
Version register 119
List of charts
Chart 7.1 Access authority sign-on checklist 71
Chart 8.1 General workflow for high voltage (HV) access 76
Chart 9.1 General workflow for low voltage (LV) access 86
Chart 9.2 General workflow for service access 92
Chart 14.1 Process for the issue of a SCAP 112

List of figures
Figure 2.1 Safe approach distance persons and workers 20
Figure 2.2 Safe approach distance mobile plant 24
Figure 3.1 Hierarchy of access authorities 31
Figure 4.1 Typical PPE requirements 37
Figure 4.2 Example of Danger Do Not Operate tag 43
Figure 5.1 Example of HV operating Gloves 45
Figure 6.1 Earthing hierarchy 47
Figure 6.2 Typical overhead earthing 50
Figure 7.1 Examples and diagram illustrating correct entry to a safe work area 66
Figure 7.2 Examples of various HV apparatus which is taped and/or danger tagged
to control access to various parts of the apparatus 67
Figure 7.3 Isolation and restoration process 70
Figure 7.4 Blank Access Authority form as an Electrical Access Permit or Sanction for Testing or
Permit to Work 72
Figure 9.1 Low voltage (LV) network topography and permit requirements 91
Figure 9.2 Examples of LV earthing or bonding 94
Figure 11.1 Example of operational earths in zone substation 100
Figure 11.2 Example of vehicle earthing in a zone substation 103
Figure 14.1 Example of a SCAP form 113
List of tablesntents
Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for ordinary,
instructed persons and authorised workers 21
Table 2.2 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for vehicles and
mobile plant 25
Table 3.1 Frequency of assessment training and authorisations 36
Table 5.1 Protection for electrical operations 46
Table 8.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for authorised glove and
barrier workers 79

DEFINITIONS
1. Definitions 1
Access Authority means any form of authorisation which allows an authorised or instructed worker
access to test or work on or near electrical apparatus.
Access Authorities used in these rules are:
Electrical Access Permit means a form of authorisation that allows persons and workers access
to, and to work upon, electrical apparatus.
Permit to Work means a form of authorisation providing permission to approved persons and
workers, working near or up to safe approach distances of electricity apparatus.
Sanction for Testing means a form of authorisation to allow energisation of electrical apparatus
for testing purposes.
ActewAGL means ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688
Appliance means any instrument or device designed for use near or in direct contact with energised
conductors and/or electrical apparatus.
Approved means having appropriate organisation endorsement in writing for a specified function (see
Written or in Writing).
Approved Examiner means a person who has the permission of ActewAGL as appropriate for the duty
concerned, to act on its behalf.
Authorised Worker means a worker with technical knowledge or relevant trade experience who has
been approved, or has the delegated authority to act on behalf of ActewAGL, to perform the duty
concerned. (Sign on, work and receive an Access Authority).
Barrier means a rope, tape, barricade or alternative erected barrier in accordance with approved
procedures for the purpose of issuing an access authority.
Bonded means connected together in such a manner as to ensure that all bonded parts are maintained
at the same electrical potential.
Cable means an insulated conductor, or two or more such conductors, laid together, whether with or
without fillings, reinforcements or protective coverings.
Note: Cable, in these rules, also means low voltage and high voltage aerial bundled cable (ABC),
covered conductor thick (CCT) and covered conductor (CC).
Competent means the ability to perform particular tasks and duties to the standard of performance
expected in the workplace. Competency requires the application of specified skills, knowledge and
attitudes relevant to effective participation for completing a task.
Conductor means a wire, cable, bar, tube or form of metal designed for carrying electric current.

DEFINITIONS
1 Confined Space means an enclosed or partially enclosed space that:

a. is not designed or intended primarily to be occupied by a person; and
b. i s, or is designed or intended to be, at normal atmospheric pressure while any person is in the
space; and
c. is or is likely to be a risk to health and safety from:
i. an atmosphere that does not have a safe oxygen level; or
ii. contaminants, including airborne gases, vapours and dusts, that may cause injury from fire
or explosion; or
iii. harmful concentrations of any airborne contaminants; or
iv. engulfment.
Contractor means a company and its employees or an individual, engaged by ActewAGL but not on a
basis of employment, to carry out work, or provide services, for ActewAGL.
Danger Do Not Operate Tag means a tag attached to the controls of an electrical apparatus to warn
and prevent workers from inadvertent or unauthorised operation.
De-energised means not connected to any source of electrical supply but not necessarily isolated,
earthed, discharged or out of commission.
Discharged means having been connected to the general mass of earth in such a manner as to remove
any residual electrical energy in a conductor or conducting object.
Earthed means the electrical connection of conductors and/or electrical apparatus connected directly
to the general mass of earth to ensure and maintain the effective dissipation of electrical energy.
Earthing Device means an approved device used for the earthing of conductors and/or electrical
apparatus.
Earth Potential Rise (EPR) means a voltage difference between a system earth and a reference point.
EPR may cause hazardous voltages to appear on equipment and apparatus.
Earths
Operational Earth means approved earthing and short circuiting equipment applied to
apparatus, as a requirement for the issue of an electrical access authority, for the purpose of
proving the electrical apparatus to be de-energised and earthed.
Note: All earths applied in a Zone Substation and on the underground network between a point of
supply and the worksite shall be regarded as Operational Earths.
Working Earth means approved earthing and short circuiting equipment applied to apparatus
that is under an electrical access authority.
System Earth means a permanent electrical connection which would be anticipated to have
standing fault or earth return currents in it during normal service.
Electrical Apparatus means any HV or LV electrical equipment, including overhead lines and
underground cables, the conductors of which are energised or can be made energised.
Electricity Network means an interconnected system or transmission and/or distribution conductors
and electrical apparatus (see Mains).
Electrical Operator means a worker tested and deemed competent against an approved training
standard who has written authorisation to carry out electrical operating work on HV and/or LV electrical
apparatus.

DEFINITIONS
Electrical Operating Work means work:

1
a. involving the operation of switching devices, links or fuses other than on a service; and
b. providing access to the Electricity Network; and
c. proving electrical conductors and/or electrical apparatus is de-energised; and
d. here earthing and bonding, locking and/or tagging of electrical apparatus and erection of
w
barriers and/or signs will be required.
Electrical Operators Authority means written authorisation issued by System Control to allow an
electrical operator to carry out electrical operating work.
Electrical Station means any location, in which HV supply is switched, converted, controlled or
transformed, or in which any similar electrical apparatus or plant is installed.
Stations more commonly referred to include:
Bulk Supply Station means the station at which a HV customer purchases their electricity.

Electricity can be purchased at any voltage. The electricity is metered and controlled within the
station but not necessarily transformed.
The electrical network and electrical apparatus beyond the bulk supply station may or may not be
owned and/or operated by ActewAGL.
Distribution Substation means a station in which electricity is controlled and transformed.

The highest voltage in the station does not exceed 22,000V.
Distribution Switching Station means a station in which electricity is controlled and possibly

metered. The highest voltage in the station does not exceed 22,000V. For the purposes of these
rules the requirements of a substation apply to a switching station.
Zone Substation means a station in which electricity is controlled metered and transformed. The
highest voltage in the station exceeds 22,000V.
one Switching Station means a station in which electricity is controlled and metered. The
Z
highest voltage in the station exceeds 22,000V. For the purposes of these rules the requirements
of a zone substation apply to a zone switching station.
Electrical Worker means a worker who is qualified to work on or near energised electrical apparatus for
specific work to which the qualification pertains.
Embedded Generating Unit means a generating unit that is connected directly to and/or operating
in parallel with the distribution network that is, or can be, connected directly to the electricity network
by means of an operating switch or switching device. The generating unit may include photovoltaic (PV)
systems via inverters, rotating machines, solar, thermal and other renewable generation, such as wind
power generation or fuel cells.
icro PV Generator means a Class 1 PV Generator which is up to 10kW single phase or 30kW
M
three phase.
Energised means connected to a source of electrical supply, or subject to hazardous induced or
capacitive voltages.
Energised Work means all work performed on apparatus energised or capable of becoming energised
without implementing the full protective practice of isolating, proving de-energised and earthing at the
worksite.
Equipotential Bonding means electrical connections intended to bring exposed conductive parts or
extraneous conductive parts to the same or approximately the same potential, but not intended to carry
current in normal service.
DEFINITIONS
1 Exposed Conductor means an electrical conductor, approach to which is not prevented by a barrier of
rigid material or by insulation which is adequate under a relevant Australian Standard specification for
the voltage concerned.
Extra Low Voltage (ELV) means a nominal voltage not exceeding 50 volts alternating current or 120
volts ripple-free direct current.
Fallen means dropped or come down from a higher place.
Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) means a switch which relies on Sulphur Hexafluoride Gas (SF6) as the
insulating medium.
Glove and Barrier (Energised HV Line) Worker means a worker tested against an approved training
standard who has written authorisation to carry out live line work using Glove and Barrier or Stick
techniques on HV electrical apparatus.
Hazard means a situation or thing that has the potential to harm a person.
High Voltage (HV) means a nominal voltage exceeding 1,000 volts alternating current or 1,500 volts
direct current.
Immediately Available means the item is located within a few metres of the work and is available
without any delay such as the time taken to open doors and/or remove securing straps etc.
Instructed Person means a person with technical knowledge or relevant trade experience to perform
the task concerned under direct supervision of an authorised worker to enable them to avoid the
dangers which electricity may create. (Sign on, work but not receive an Access Authority)
Insulated means separated from adjoining conducting material by a non-conducting substance which
provides resistance to the passage of current, or to disruptive discharges through or over the surface
of the substance at the operating voltage, and to mitigate the danger of shock or injurious leakage of
current.
Insulated Stick means a stick of insulating material specifically designed, approved and tested for use
in physically bridging the distance between the Glove and Barrier Worker and energised apparatus,
between the energised apparatus and earth, between adjacent phases and to enable physical loads to be
taken or tools to be applied to the stick (see Operating Stick).
Isolated means disconnected from all possible sources of electricity supply by means which will prevent
unintentional re-energisation of the electrical apparatus and which is assessed as a suitable step in the
process of making safe for access to the electricity network.
Isolator means a device which, for reasons of safety, provides in the open position, breaks to the circuit
of a length appropriate to the voltage and the insulating medium. This device is not intended to make or
break load currents.
Low Voltage (LV) means a nominal voltage exceeding 50 volts alternating current or 120 volts ripple-
free direct current, but not exceeding 1000 volts alternating current or 1500 volts direct current.
Mains means a cable or conductor which has more than one service connected to it, excluding fused
underground Teed Service Cables (see Electricity Network).
Main Switchboard means a switchboard from which the supply to the whole electrical installation can
be controlled.
Mobile Plant means cranes, elevating work platforms, trucks (tipping) or similar plant, any equipment
fitted with a jib or boom and any device capable of raising or lowering a load.
Note: Mobile plant can only be considered as a vehicle when in the normal travelling mode and
not in the working mode when determining safe approach distances.

DEFINITIONS
Near means a situation where there is a reasonable possibility of a person, either directly or through
any conducting medium (for example via mobile plant), coming within the relevant safe approach
1
distances.
Network Boundary means the boundary between ActewAGLs Electricity Network and a customers
premises:
a. at the point of attachment of an overhead service line to the customers building or structure; or
b. at the point of entry of an underground service cable to the customers building or structure; or
c. as otherwise agreed in accordance with the Electricity Network Boundary Code if neither (a) nor
(b) apply.
Not Electrically Connected means disconnected from all sources of supply by the removal or absence
of conductors appropriate to the voltage and insulating medium and not able to be made energised by
normal operating means, or bridging.
Operating Stick means a stick specifically designed, approved and tested for carrying out operations on
energised electrical apparatus (see Insulated Stick).
Ordinary Person means a person without sufficient training or experience to enable them to avoid the
dangers which electrical apparatus may create. (Sign on to an Access Authority but not work)
Out of Commission means electrical apparatus that is unserviceable and not fit for its intended use/
purpose/service in its current condition. A commissioning process is required before it can be re-
energised.
Out of Service Tag means a tag fitted to unserviceable or faulty tools, plant and equipment to warn
against inadvertent operation.
Overhead line means any aerial conductor or conductors with associated supports, insulators and
other apparatus erected, or in the course of erection, for the purpose of the conveyance of electrical
energy, excluding poles or supporting structures or anything in an Electrical Station.
Person in Control (PIC) means a person who is nominated, responsible for and in control of a worksite.
This person shall remain at the site for the duration of the work to ensure:
a. the work is completed as per the safe work method statement and procedures; and
b. all hazards are identified, specific controls are implemented and that these controls remain
effective for the duration of the work.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) means approved clothing, equipment and/or substances, which
when worn or correctly used, protect parts or all of the body from foreseeable risk of injury or disease at
work or in the workplace.
Plant means machinery, equipment, appliances, containers, implements and tools and includes all
components or anything fitted or connected to any of those items (see also mobile plant).
Potential (electrical) means a difference of electrical charge or a difference in voltage between two
points.
Practicable means capable of being done, or put into practice successfully; feasible.
Procedure means the documentation of a systematic series of actions (or activities) directed to achieve
a desired result.
Recipient means an authorised worker to whom an access authority has been issued and is the worker
responsible for compliance with the requirements of the access authority.

DEFINITIONS
1 Representative means a licensed electrician or a person who has been granted permission by
ActewAGL to accept a SCAP, other than employees or contractors of ActewAGL.
Risk means the possibility that harm (death, injury or illness) might occur when exposed to a hazard.
Safe Approach Distance means the minimum distance that shall be maintained by a person,
worker, vehicle or mobile plant (including its load, controlling ropes and any other accessories) when
approaching electrical apparatus other than for work in accordance with an access authority.
Safety Observer means a worker with sufficient knowledge and experience of the task being performed
and assessed as competent for the duty of observing and warning against unsafe approach to electrical
apparatus or other unsafe conditions.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) means a system providing remote control of
apparatus.
Service means a dedicated radial electrical apparatus running from the point of connection from
ActewAGLs LV electricity network to the customers network boundary (see Network boundary).
Shall, shall not or must is to be interpreted as mandatory.
Should is to be interpreted as advisory or discretionary.
Statement of Condition of Apparatus and Plant (SCAP) means a declaration regarding the status of
particular plant and/or apparatus connected to a private network, issued by an ActewAGL authorised
worker to a representative, other than employees or contractors of ActewAGL.
Supply means supply of electricity.
Switch means a device capable of making, carrying and breaking currents under normal circuit
conditions. It is also capable, in the open position, of satisfying the isolating requirement for an isolator.
System Control means the functional area within ActewAGL that is responsible for the operation
and security of the electrical systems, and controls access to the HV and LV electrical networks and
apparatus.
Tester in Charge means an authorised worker to whom a sanction for testing has been issued and is the
worker responsible for compliance with the requirements of the sanction for testing.
Testing Device means an approved device to be used for testing on the Electricity Network.
Vehicle means a truck (non-tipping), car, utility, or other general purpose conveyance used for the
carriage of persons or goods (see also mobile plant).
Vicinity means a situation where it is unlikely that a person or worker will, either directly or through any
conducting medium (for example via mobile plant), come within the relevant safe approach distances.
Within Reach means at such a distance that can be touched by any part of the body or clothing or with
any conducting object or non-approved object held in the hand.
Worksite means a place where work is carried out for a business or undertaking and includes any place
where a worker goes, or is likely to be, while at work.

DEFINITIONS
Worker means a person who carries out work in any capacity for a person conducting a business or
undertaking, including work as:
1
a. an employee; or
b. a contractor or subcontractor; or
c. an employee of a contractor or subcontractor; or
d. employees of a labour hire company who has been assigned to work in the persons business
or undertaking.
Working Alone means any worker working or travelling for work purposes on their own and without
regular interaction with other people because of time, location and/or the nature of their work.
A person is considered to be alone when they are:
a. on their own; or
b. cannot be seen or heard by another person; or
c. do not expect a visit from another person for some time; or
d. in circumstances where emergency assistance is not immediately available if needed.
Written (or in Writing) means recorded on paper or in an electronic form that is capable of being
represented, reproduced or converted to writing.

DEFINITIONS
1 This page left intentionally blank

2Section
SAFE APPROACH
DISTANCES TO
ELECTRICAL APPARATUS
PRINCIPLE Workers shall observe an appropriate safe

approach distance when working, or operating vehicles or
mobile plant, near electrical apparatus. Work in the vicinity of
electrical apparatus shall be carried out in a safe manner and
control measures taken shall be consistent with the risk and work
performed.
SECTION 2 Safe approach distances to electrical apparatus
2.1 General
The safe approach distances in these Electrical Safety Rules are based on an exclusion zone principle.
This defines an area around the electrical apparatus into which no part of the worker, mobile plant or
2
object (other than approved insulated objects) may encroach unless in accordance with Sections 8 and 9.
When working at these distances work practices shall be established to ensure workers, mobile plant and
unapproved objects do not encroach on the safe approach distances.
Refer to Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to exposed energised conductors for ordinary persons,
instructed persons and authorised workers.
Unnecessary approach to electrical apparatus shall be avoided.
Necessary approach to electrical apparatus shall be kept to a minimum and shall be restricted to the period
required to perform the work.


SAFE APPROACH DISTANCE
means the minimum distance that shall be maintained by a person, vehicle or
mobile plant when approaching conductors or electrical apparatus other than for
2 work in accordance with an access authority.
IN THE VICINITY
Where a person is unlikely (either directly
or through any conducting medium) to
come within the Safe Approach Distances
CONDUCTOR
When working on energised
conductors or electrical apparatus,
workers must be trained and
authorised
ACCESS
AUTHORITY
DANGER ZONE SAFE

APPROACH
DISTANCE
WORKING ON
Working within the Safe Approach
Distances in accordance with an
Access Authority
WORKING NEAR
Where there is a reasonable possibility of
a person (either directly or through any
conducting medium) coming within the
Safe Approach Distances
Authorised worker
or instructed person Ordinary person Movement
Figure 2.1 Safe approach distance persons and workers

Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for ordinary,
instructed persons and authorised workers
Voltage
Ordinary Instructed Authorised
2
person1-4 person1-3 worker1-3
Nominal phase to phase AC (kV)
LV including communications. catenaries
1500 No contact Insulated contact
connected to LV neutrals
Insulated LV 100 No contact Insulated contact
Earthed metallic screened HV
100 Insulated contact
insulated conductor
Unscreened HV insulated conductor
2000 7005
up to and including 66
HV up to and including 22 2000 700
66 3000 1000
132 3000 1500
Notes:
1. Deliberately avoid movements that could result in distances being infringed.
2. The distances specified are based on conductors not protected by a barrier of rigid material.
For electrical apparatus protected by a barrier of rigid material the safe approach distance is
the barrier itself (for example substation shell). Safe to touch tests and procedures shall be applied
at all times.
3. The distances specified are based on work from a stable surface. Appropriate allowance shall be
made for conductor sag and sway.
4. These figures are the minimum safe approach distance that shall be used by ordinary persons.
For approach closer than these distances an ordinary person would need to become an
instructed person.
5. When operating electrical apparatus with approved tools (for example Magnefix MD4 Operating
Handle) the safe approach distance may be reduced to 300mm in conjunction with the
requirements of Table 5.1 Protection for electrical operations.

2.2 Safe approach distances persons
2 2.2.1 Safe approach distance ordinary persons

The safe approach distances for an ordinary person approaching insulated, covered or exposed
energised conductors are shown in Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for
ordinary, instructed persons and authorised workers.
These are the distances beyond the reach of any part of the ordinary person's body or any conducting
or unapproved object touching any part of the ordinary person's body. To maintain these minimum
distances from overhead conductors, appropriate allowance shall be made for sag and sway under a
variety of conditions.
2.2.2 Safe approach distance instructed persons and authorised workers

Instructed person safe approach distances apply whilst undertaking duties under supervision or
instruction by an authorised worker.
Where continuous direct supervision is not provided to instructed persons, consideration shall be given
to applying greater safe approach distances than those given in Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm)
to energised conductors for ordinary, instructed persons and authorised workers and if practicable,
greater clearances should be maintained.
The safe approach distances for an authorised worker approaching insulated, covered or exposed
energised conductors are shown in Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for
ordinary, instructed persons and authorised workers.
These are the distances beyond the reach of any part of the instructed person or authorised worker's
body or any conducting or unapproved or uninsulated object touching any part of the instructed
person or authorised worker's body. To maintain these minimum distances from overhead conductors,
appropriate allowance shall be made for sag and sway under a variety of conditions.
2.2.3 Safe approach distance glove and barrier electrical workers

Refer to Clause 8.2 Energised work high voltage (HV).
2.2.4 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing general

Vegetation limbs shall be considered as conductive objects when within the safe approach distances of
HV conductors.
Before undertaking vegetation clearing activities, a risk assessment shall be conducted to assist in the
identification and control of hazards to ensure that the work can be performed safely.
Issues that shall be considered prior to commencing work:
a. the suppression of auto-reclose; and
b. positioning any mobile plant in use such that the safe approach distance can be maintained in all
circumstances; and
c. the use of safety observers and barriers and signs; and
d. consideration of weather and environmental conditions (for example rain, wind, light, sag or sway
of conductors); and
e. movement of trees or other vegetation when cut; and

f. the use of insulated barriers, protective covers and insulated equipment; and
g. de-energising the electrical apparatus; and
h. isolating and earthing the electrical apparatus.
Subject to the outcome of a risk assessment, vegetation below, but not contacting HV conductors, may
2
be cut. Additional means of controlling the movement of limbs being cut should be assessed and action
taken as appropriate. At no time shall personal safe approach distances be reduced.
Vegetation above, adjacent and/or contacting HV conductors shall only be cut by authorised workers in
accordance with Clauses 2.2.4.1 and 2.2.4.3 below.
Vegetation contacting bare energised LV conductors may be cut only after a risk assessment has been
performed.
Vegetation overhanging LV conductors can be cut while the conductors remain energised provided the
movement of limbs being cut can be controlled.
2.2.4.1 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing by instructed person or

authorised workers
Workers performing vegetation clearing activities shall apply safe approach distances as identified in
Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for ordinary, instructed persons and
authorised workers and Table 2.2 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for vehicles and
mobile plant, applicable to their level of training and authorisation and the type of plant and equipment
being used.
Those same workers when not contracted in vegetation cutting activities for ActewAGL are to refer to
Section 14 Work by other personnel not under the supervision of ActewAGL, for guidance.
Instructed person or authorised workers:
a. are not to clear tree limbs overhanging HV conductors with the conductors energised, unless
complying with Clause 2.2.4.3 below; and
b. are not permitted to clear vegetation from an elevating work platform positioned over the top of
energised HV conductors.
2.2.4.2 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing by workers not contracted to

ActewAGL
Instructed persons or authorised workers not contracted to ActewAGL are to refer to Section 14 for
guidance before performing vegetation cutting activities in the vicinity of ActewAGL electrical apparatus.
2.2.4.3 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing by authorised energised HV

workers
Only authorised HV glove and barrier or stick line workers are permitted to clear vegetation from an
elevating work platform positioned over the top of energised HV conductors refer to Clause 2.3 Safe
approach distances mobile plant.


SAFE APPROACH DISTANCE
means the minimum distance that shall be maintained by a person, vehicle or
mobile plant when approaching conductors or electrical apparatus other than for
2 work in accordance with an access authority.
IN THE VICINITY
Where a person is unlikely (either directly or through any
conducting medium) to come within the Safe Approach Distances
CONDUCTOR
When working on energised
conductors or electrical apparatus,
workers must be trained and
authorised
SAFE
DANGER ZONE APPROACH
DISTANCE
ACCESS
AUTHORITY
WORKING ON
Working within the Safe Approach
Distances in accordance with an
Access Authority
WORKING NEAR
Where there is a reasonable possibility of
a person (either directly or through any
conducting medium) coming within the
Safe Approach Distances
Mobile plant Movement Safety observer
Figure 2.2 Safe approach distance mobile plant

Table 2.2 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for vehicles and
mobile plant1
Voltage Vehicles Mobile plant 2

Instructed Instructed person or
Nominal phase to Ordinary person or Ordinary authorised worker2-4
phase AC (kV) person authorised person
Uninsulated Insulated
worker2-4
LV 600 3000 1000 Contact
HV up to and
900 700 3000 1200 700
including 22
66 2100 1000 3000 1400 1000
132 2100 1200 3000 1800
Notes:
1. The distances specified are based on work from a stable surface. Appropriate allowance shall be
made for conductor sag and sway and for uncontrolled movement of vehicle or plant due to any
reason.
2. A safety observer is required.
3. Any part of the covered pole shall remain at least 300mm clear of any energised, covered HV
conductor/s, allowing for sag and sway of the conductors, as the pole is being erected.
4. An appropriate risk assessment shall be undertaken before work is performed.

2.2.5 Ordinary persons in vehicles

An ordinary person in control of any vehicle, excepting mobile plant when in working mode, shall
ensure that no part of the vehicle or its load is placed or moved within the distances shown in Table 2.2
2 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for vehicles and mobile plant.
2.2.6 Instructed persons or authorised workers in vehicles

Instructed persons or authorised workers in control of any vehicle, excepting mobile plant when in working
mode, shall ensure that no part of the vehicle or its load is placed or moved within the distances shown in
Table 2.2 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for vehicles and mobile plant.
2.3 Safe approach distances mobile plant

Because of the physical capabilities of, and potential hazard to mobile plant working adjacent to
energised conductors and/or electrical apparatus, specific consideration (including earthing) shall be
given to the use of mobile plant during the planning of the work.
For safe approach distances to exposed energised conductors for mobile plant refer to Table 2.2 Safe
approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for vehicles and mobile plant.
2.3.1 Use of mobile plant

Mobile plant shall only be used in the vicinity of energised conductors and/or electrical apparatus after
precautions appropriate to the particular circumstances have been considered and action taken to
control the associated hazards and risks.
When mobile plant is operated in working mode in the vicinity of energised electrical apparatus, the
possibility of inadvertent contact with energised conductors shall be taken into account during the
planning and execution of the work.
The control measures to be considered within a risk assessment shall include:
a. isolating and earthing electrical apparatus; and
b. positioning the mobile plant such that the safe approach distance can be maintained in all
circumstances; and
c. the use of safety observers, barriers and signs; and
d. the use of other precautions such as physical restrictions or control devices in conjunction with
barriers; and
e. the suppression of auto-reclose; and
f. de-energising the conductors and/or electrical apparatus.
When mobile plant may come near energised electrical apparatus, the mobile plant shall be earthed.
This shall be achieved by an approved earthing conductor directly connected to a station earth or other
approved earthing system, refer to Clause 6.1 Earthing hierarchy.
Mobile plant and where appropriate, vehicles, shall be earthed by a trailing earthing conductor to
protect against the hazards presented by induced voltages, refer to Clause 11.2 d. Work in electrical
stations general working practices.
When mobile plant is operated from outside the mobile plant, precautions shall be taken to protect the
operator from hazardous step and touch potentials. No worker other than the mobile plant operator
shall touch the mobile plant whilst in operation.

Suspended loads shall be controlled by means of dry fibre rope (tag line) or other approved insulating
medium. Neither the mobile plant nor conductive winch rope/load shall be touched by any worker
while the mobile plant or any conducting object attached is in motion.
During operation of the mobile plant only those workers at ground level actually involved in the work 2
associated with the mobile plant shall be near the plant; all other workers shall remain clear.
2.3.2 Testing of mobile plant

Mobile plant shall be used in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A). Each elevating work
platform vehicle used in the vicinity of overhead lines shall be subjected to approved HV electrical test
on its insulated boom section/s at intervals not exceeding six months or more frequently depending on
usage and work environment.
The vehicle shall not be accepted as suitable for use in the vicinity of energised overhead conductors
unless it is within its test date.
Lifting or pushing energised HV conductors out of the way, in order to pass mobile plant below them is
prohibited except in the following circumstances:
a. where no other route is available and the mobile plant cannot be arranged to provide the
required clearance to exposed energised apparatus of voltage up to 132kV, arrangements shall
be made for glove and barrier procedures to allow the conductors to be contacted and lifted or
pushed out of the way; or
b. energised LV conductors fitted with approved insulating covers may be lifted or pushed out of the
way to provide clearance over mobile plants or its load, but this shall only be done by a suitably
trained electrical worker using approved equipment.
The person in control of the work shall, through all workers engaged in the work, ensure that the mobile
plant, its gear and load shall not approach energised conductors and/or electrical apparatus within the
distances as shown in Table 2.2 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for vehicles and
mobile plant.
2.3.3 Special approach mobile plant

When working under glove and barrier procedures, special safe approach distance may be applied where
a safety observer is used. Where the conductors and load are suitably insulated, the load should remain
a minimum of 300mm from the conductor (allowing for sag and sway of the conductor). Every effort
should be made for the load to avoid inadvertent contact with the conductors.
The person in control of the work shall, through all workers engaged in the work, ensure compliance
with the special approach distances for mobile plant/lifting equipment and the following general
requirements for all the work situations covered in these rules, including:
a. pole structures carrying energised circuits shall be checked to ensure that they are in a safe
condition prior to the commencement of any work; and
b. suppression of auto-reclose; and
c. a safety observer shall be appointed; and
d. for all work, either specific work instructions shall be issued or alternatively, ActewAGLs
procedures shall apply; and
e. contractors shall be issued with authorisation, in accordance with these Electrical Safety Rules; and
f. an appropriate risk assessment shall be undertaken before work is performed.
Pole structures may be lifted into exposed energised LV conductors under direct supervision of the
person in control.
Pole structures may be lifted into exposed energised HV conductors up to 33kV (for glove and barrier
work) by electrical workers in accordance with glove and barrier or stick procedures.
Clearances shall be maintained in accordance with these Electrical Safety Rules. If these clearances
2 cannot be maintained, work shall be carried out with:
a. conductors de-energised; or
b. conductors fitted with approved insulating covers.
2.4 Emergency situations

In emergency situations where there is a likely risk of electric shock to workers or the public from
electrical conductors or electrical apparatus, such as fallen conductors and/or from contact voltages on
conductive structures for example fences, prompt action shall be taken to ensure people are kept well
clear of the hazard at greater than safe approach distances.
All electrical apparatus and conductors shall be considered energised until proven de-energised by
approved means.
Initially for fallen or exposed electrical conductors a safety clearance of 8m for HV/LV conductors or 2m
for LV only conductors shall be maintained. Fallen conductors once proven de-energised shall have an
operational earth applied in the case of HV, while LV conductors shall have bonding applied until repairs
can be made.
Reduced safe approach distances shall only be applied after System Control (via the electrical operator)
has confirmed that the conductors will remain de-energised.
Where practicable a worker is to remain onsite to issue oral warnings to any worker or members of
the public making unsafe approach to fallen or exposed electrical conductors and/or access may be
controlled by the use of barriers or signs for example rope, ribbon, portable flashing lamps, witches hats
or other appropriate means.
Also refer to Clause 5.1 b. Workers authorised to operate electrical apparatus.
2.5 Contact with energised high voltage (HV) conductors by

means of appliances
Only approved tested appliances shall be permitted to be brought within the safe approach distance or
into direct contact with energised HV conductors.
Manufacturer supplied operating equipment (for example Magnefix MD4 operating handle) or approved
earthing devices can be used as intended within the safe approach distance, refer to Table 2.1 Safe
approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for ordinary, instructed persons and authorised
workers - Note 5.
2.6 Approach to energised high voltage (HV) insulated cables

2.6.1 General
When work is performed near energised HV insulated cables, appropriate precautions shall be taken to
ensure that the insulation of the cables is not damaged.
Cables shall not be moved whilst energised.
Insulated cables shall not be directly stood upon wherever practical.

Where it is unavoidable to stand upon energised insulated cables a full risk assessment shall be
conducted to assess the risk before any work is carried out.
In excavated cable trenches or cable joint pits if there are cables that are energised, as well as the de
energised cables that are to be worked on, those energised cables should be covered where practical by 2
a minimum of 100mm of sand or barriers should be installed for mechanical protection.
Potholing to confirm energised cable locations is allowed.
2.6.2 Earthed metallic sheathed or screened high voltage (HV) cable

Contact by workers may be made to external surfaces of energised HV cables with earthed metallic
sheaths or screens.
No contact shall be made to external surfaces of cable terminations that are not screened.
2.7 Work in the vicinity of electrical apparatus

2.7.1 General
When work is to be performed in the vicinity of energised electrical apparatus, procedures shall be
implemented in a way that minimises the risks involved.
Before any work is performed a written risk assessment shall be undertaken and the location of
energised electrical apparatus and/or precautions recorded. Where control measures are identified
during the risk assessment process, then instructions shall be issued to the workers outlining the
measures.
The control measures implemented shall minimise the risks involved and may include:
a. defining the work area; or
b. isolating and earthing the electrical apparatus; or
c. de-energising energised electrical apparatus adjacent to the work area; or
d. the use of barriers and signs, or
e. the use of approved covering; or
f. the use of safety observers; or
g. the issue of an access authority; or
h. defining access routes.
An access authority shall be issued in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
2.8 Handling objects/loads

When objects are being handled manually or by mechanical equipment, care shall be exercised to
prevent the objects or the mechanical equipment infringing safe approach distances.
For manual handling, appropriate work methods and an appropriate number of workers shall be used
to maintain safe approach distances.
For mechanical handling where there is a risk of infringing the safe approach distances to electrical
conductors, refer to Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for ordinary,
instructed persons and authorised workers, the movement of loads shall be controlled by means of
approved non- conducting ropes of minimum length or other approved means.

No worker outside the cabin of the mobile plant shall directly contact the load, mobile plant or any
attached conducting objects. For protection of the mobile plant operator refer to Clause 2.3.1 Use of
mobile plant.
2 Approved lifting devices used as pole mounted lifting equipment for example rope tackles and
handlines, may be attached to pole structures by a line worker or suitably trained worker maintaining
at least the clearances in Table 2.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for ordinary,
instructed persons and authorised workers, between exposed energised conductors and any part of the
lifting device, gear and load at all times.
2.9 Erection or dismantling of overhead conductors

When overhead lines (other than insulated LV service lines) or long lengths of metal busbars are being
erected, dismantled, or replaced and there is any possibility of contact with, or induction from, adjacent
energised conductors of any description, such conductors being moved shall be earthed. They shall be
earthed by an approved device before work is commenced and shall remain earthed until the work is
completed. A conductor being so erected shall be earthed before it is lifted from the ground.
Consideration shall be given to the use of appropriate restraining devices to control such conductors
when they are being moved.
Appropriate measures at over or undercrossing positions are:
a. the application of approved earthing devices to the new bare conductors at the over/
undercrossing location and, if practicable, attachment of an approved earthing device to new
conductors adjacent to the future supply point; or
b. construction of temporary physical barriers, such as timber structures, between the new and
existing apparatus at the over/under crossing in accordance with approved procedures.
2.10 Possibility of leakage currents on poles

Electrical workers working on poles carrying energised conductors are warned of the possibility of
electric shock from pole steps or other unearthed metal which may become energised because of
leakage currents.
Where there is any indication that such conditions exist, poles shall not be climbed until the matter has
been reported to the supervisor and appropriate action has been taken to deal with these conditions.
2.11 Work by instructed persons

When instructed persons are required to work in the vicinity of electrical apparatus, the instructed
person performing the work, the person in control of the work and the worker in charge of the electrical
apparatus shall cooperate to ensure that the work is performed safely and that specific precautions are
taken.

ESI SKILLS PASSPORT
3Section
TRAINING AND
AUTHORISATION
PRINCIPLE Workers working on or near electrical

apparatus shall have training relevant to these electrical safety
rules and authorisation for the duty to be performed.
SECTION 3 Training and authorisation
3.1 General
ActewAGLs safe system of work shall include reference to appropriate training for all workers applying
for or working on or near electrical apparatus.
All authorisation levels and structure shall be reviewed annually by an approved worker in the
organisation, or outside institutions, to ensure the relevance of the authorisation to current duties and
work practices. 3
Authority to
operate the
network
(Clause 3.7) -
Network Operator
Authority to operate
electrical apparatus (Clause 3.6) -
Electrical Operator
Authority to receive a
sanction for test (Clause 3.5) - Tester
Authority to receive an electrical

access permit (Clause 3.4) - Authorised
Authority to sign onto an electrical access permit

(Clause 3.3) - Instructed
No authority (no training) (Clause 3.2) - Ordinary
Figure 3.1 Hierarchy of access authorities
3.2 Ordinary persons signing onto electrical access permits

Before signing onto an electrical access authority, ordinary persons shall:
a. be instructed by an authorised worker; and
b. agree to the continuous and dedicated supervision by a nominated authorised worker who is
authorised to receive electrical access authorities; and
c. agree to adhere to all instructions given at all times; and
d. not undertake any physical work.
Refer to Clause 7.2.4 Workers and persons permitted to sign onto electrical access authorities.

3.3 Instructed persons signing onto electrical access

authorities
Prior to signing onto an electrical access authority a worker shall:
a. agree to general or broad supervision by a nominated authorised worker; and
3 b. agree to direct supervision by a nominated authorised worker; and
c. agree to adhere to any instructions given at all times.
3.4 Authority to receive an electrical access authority

Before being authorised to be a recipient and receive electrical access authorities, a worker shall:
a. complete an approved training course to demonstrate a basic understanding of electrical theory
and awareness of the distribution and/ or transmission network; and
b. complete an approved training course and be deemed competent to be a recipient and to receive
electrical access authorities; and
c. complete an assessment on this authority at intervals in accordance with Table 3.1 Frequency of
assessment training and authorisations.
Such authorisation shall recognise the competence of the worker to supervise and employ workers
safely, each according to their experience, to work on or near energised electrical apparatus.
3.5 Authority to receive a sanction for testing

Before being authorised to be a tester in charge and receive sanctions for testing, a worker shall:
a. complete an approved training course and be deemed competent to be a recipient and to receive
electrical access authorities; and
b. complete an approved training course and be deemed competent to be a tester in charge and
receive sanction for testing authorities; and
c. complete an assessment on this authority at intervals in accordance with Table 3.1 Frequency of
assessment training and authorisations.
3.6 Authority to operate low voltage (LV) and/or high

voltage (HV) electrical apparatus and issue access
authorities
Before being authorised as a LV and/or HV electrical operator, a worker shall:
a. have demonstrated a basic understanding of electrical theory and system elements; and
b. have completed an approved training course and been deemed competent for an electrical
operators authority; and
c. have received local instruction and satisfied an approved examiner as to acquired knowledge and
ability within the scope of the authority; and
d. have authority to issue access authorities; and
e. have completed any other pre-requisites.

Authorisation shall be by the issue of an approved electrical operators authority, which shall designate
the types of equipment and/or the operational area to which the authority applies and shall be signed
by an authorised person.
Each holder of an electrical operators authority shall be assessed for competency in accordance with
Table 3.1 Frequency of assessment training and authorisations and where appropriate refresher
training shall be given.
Such authorisation shall recognise the competence of the applicant to supervise testing and to employ 3
workers safely, each according to their experience, near energised electrical apparatus.
3.7 Authority to operate the network

Before being authorised to operate the network using SCADA, a network operator shall:
a. complete an approved training course and be deemed competent to operate the network using
SCADA; and
b. complete an assessment on these electrical safety rules at intervals in accordance with Table 3.1
Frequency of assessment training and authorisations.
3.8 uthority to work on energised high voltage (HV)

A
overhead lines using glove and barrier or stick
procedures
Before working on energised HV overhead lines and/or cable terminations a worker shall have:
a. passed an approved HV live line training course; and
b. been authorised by an approved examiner.
Only the approved methods and equipment prescribed shall be used. Throughout these rules, such an
authorised worker is referred to as a glove and barrier worker.
Each authorised glove and barrier worker shall be assessed for competency in accordance with Table
3.1 Frequency of assessment training and authorisations, by an approved examiner and where
appropriate training shall be given to restore competency.
3.9 Authority to work on energised low voltage (LV)

electrical apparatus
3.9.1 Limits of authority

No worker is to work on energised LV electrical apparatus without authorisation. Only the type of work
covered by the authorisation may be performed.
3.9.2 Authorisations for energised low voltage (LV) work

Work on energised LV electrical apparatus, other than within customers installations shall be performed
only by an authorised worker who has passed an approved training course and received appropriate first
aid training.

The Electricity Safety Act provides that only workers licensed in accordance with that Act may perform
work within customers LV installations. The control of customer main switches or fuses is not considered
as being within a customers installation.
Work on ActewAGLs energised LV overhead lines, LV underground cables, metering installations and LV
apparatus shall be performed only with the approval of ActewAGL and only by:
a. an authorised worker who has passed an approved training course appropriate to the activity; or
3 b. an apprentice electrical worker working in accordance with the provisions of their defined
training requirements.
3.9.3 Review of authorisation

Where there may be an exposure to risk from electrical apparatus a person undertaking work shall be
appropriately qualified, trained, deemed competent and authorised to carry out the work. ActewAGL
reserves the right to stop, review or suspend work or authorisations at any time.
3.10 Authority to enter confined spaces

Only workers who have been appropriately trained and have been authorised by an approved assessor
are permitted to enter and work in designated confined spaces.
All workers who work around confined spaces shall be trained in the identification of a confined space
and shall complete refresher training at intervals in accordance with Table 3.1 Frequency of assessment
training and authorisations.
All workers who enter confined spaces shall follow procedures and use confined space entry permits.
Only the approved methods and equipment prescribed shall be used. All identified confined spaces
shall have a clearly marked sign and entry shall be in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
Each authorised worker required to enter confined spaces shall complete refresher training at intervals
in accordance with Table 3.1 Frequency of assessment training and authorisations.
3.11 Withdrawal and/or restriction of an authorisation

An authorisation may be withdrawn, restricted, suspended, altered or reviewed when it is apparent that
the worker concerned:
a. should no longer be authorised; or
b. has an expired authorisation; or
c. requires additional training or is assessed as not yet competent; or
d. has been or is unable to perform activities within the scope of the authority due to any
circumstance.
3.12 First aid

All persons and workers working on, near or in the vicinity of electrical apparatus, shall be given first
aid training, with ongoing refresher training, in accordance with industry and skills council guidelines.
Training shall include skills in expired air resuscitation, external cardiac compression, shocks, burns,
incident assessment and management and be conducted at intervals in accordance with Table 3.1

3.13 Perform rescue

A rescue is not regarded as working on, near or in the vicinity of electrical apparatus. Hence, a suitably
trained worker, of whatever status, may perform a rescue when they are the logical choice to do so
subject to the following material concerning their personal safety.
Before conducting a rescue on or near energised exposed conductors the rescuer shall consider all
hazards and methods to control the hazards to ensure that the rescue can be performed safely. Such 3
controls may include de-energisation of the circuit, the use of insulated sticks and maintaining safe
approach distances during the rescue.
Perform rescue instruction shall be conducted for workers working on the ActewAGL electricity network
appropriate to the job family being performed at intervals in accordance with Table 3.1 Frequency of
assessment training and authorisations, for the following:
a. pole top rescue;
b. elevating work platform (EWP) rescue;
c. tower rescue;
d. switchyard structures at heights rescue;
e. energised LV panel rescue;
f. EWP controlled descent escape.
3.14 Work safely at heights prevention of falls

Workers who access, egress from, transfer between and work at heights on poles, lattice structures,
substation equipment and related structures, shall maintain attachment at all times except where
gaining access by portable ladder, or where particular task requirements permit or require alternative
means of managing the prevention of falls.
Fall prevention principles are based on a hierarchy of controls. The selection of appropriate fall arrest
equipment shall be based on identification of the hazards associated with access to, egress from,
transfer between or work and the assessment of the risk of restrained fall, limited free fall or free fall.
3.15 Work on poles

Before ascending a pole, the workers shall satisfy themselves that the pole is in a safe condition for
climbing. The pole shall be tested in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
Particular care is required in the climbing of poles or posts that are the property of others for example
temporary service posts. These shall not be climbed without first testing in accordance with procedures
(refer Appendix A).
Under no circumstances shall a pole be subjected to a sudden load change whilst a worker is aloft.
When working at heights on poles, the worker shall not support themselves on pins, insulators,
brackets or conductors. The worker shall remain attached at all times in accordance with procedures
(refer Appendix A).
Training and assessment intervals related to work on poles will be conducted in accordance with Table 3.1

Table 3.1 Frequency of assessment training and authorisations
Frequency of
Clause Training or authorisation
assessment1
Principle Apply ESI safety rules (The Blue Book) 12 months
3 3.4, 3.5 Apply access procedures to work on or near electrical network

infrastructure
12 Months
3.6 Perform power system substation switching operation to a

12 months
given schedule
Maintain energised HV distribution overhead electrical
apparatus (stick)
3.8 12 months
Maintain energised HV distribution overhead electrical
apparatus (glove)
3.10 Enter and work in confined spaces
3 years
Identify confined spaces
Provide first aid in an ESI environment
3.12 12 months
Provide CPR
Perform pole top rescue
Perform EWP rescue
Perform tower rescue
12 months
3.13, 3.14 Perform rescue from switchyard structures at heights
Perform rescue from a energised LV panel
Perform EWP controlled descent escape
Work safely at heights 3 years
10.1 Testing of connections to LV electricity networks
12 months
(Polarity, phasing and rotation)
11.1 General substation entry and awareness 2 years
Notes:
1. An extension of one month may be granted by the General Manager for expiring authorisations
only if training has been booked for that specific authorisation and training will be completed by
the extended expiration deadline.

! 4Section
GENERAL SAFETY
REQUIREMENTS
PRINCIPLE Consideration shall be given to provide

additional procedures covering matters identified relevant to
providing a comprehensive safe working environment. If a safety
issue is recognised that is not controlled through an existing
procedure, then an appropriate procedure should be prepared so
as to maintain a safe working environment.
SECTION 4 General safety requirements
4.1 Hazard identification, risk assessment and control

Prior to the commencement of any work associated with ActewAGL worksites, the workers conducting
the work shall identify the hazards, assess the risk, control identified hazards and maintain situational
awareness throughout the work activity.
All workers shall participate in an onsite risk assessment process that utilises the hierarchy of controls
and shall include:
a. identifying all hazards; and
b. assessing the risk associated with each hazard; and 4
c. eliminating or controlling the hazard; and
d. monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of controls; and
e. ensuring a written record of the assessment is completed.
4.2 Personal protective equipment (PPE)

All workers who may be exposed to possible electric shock, flash or other injury from electrical
apparatus shall use approved personal protective equipment. Personal protective equipment shall
include clothing with wrist to ankle cover and fully enclosed footwear.
All protective equipment and apparel shall be worn in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A),
and shall be appropriate to the task being performed.
Additional protective equipment shall be used in accordance with the type of work and the hazards involved.
Figure 4.1 Typical PPE requirements

4.3 First aid kits

An approved first aid kit shall be available for use in the event of an incident in accordance with the
relevant procedure (refer Appendix A).
4.4 Fire extinguishers

An approved fire extinguisher, size and type being dependent on the task, shall be available for use in
4 the event of an incident in accordance with the relevant procedure (refer Appendix A).
4.5 Emergency rescue kits

Emergency rescue kits are utilised to help in the rescue of workers from poles, towers, elevating work
platforms, LV busbars or confined spaces.
Emergency rescue kits shall be immediately available and ready for use when workers are to work on or
near electrical apparatus, or when working at heights.
4.6 Communications
All communications relating to the operation of, or access to, electrical apparatus shall be clear and
definite in accordance with the relevant procedure (refer Appendix A). Electrical apparatus shall
be referred to by name and sufficient detail to give positive identification including location. Verbal
instructions and statements shall be clearly defined and for switching and access authorities they shall
be confirmed by repeating back to avoid misunderstanding.
4.7 Labelling of electrical apparatus

For the purposes of identification and description, electrical apparatus shall, wherever practicable, be
clearly labelled in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
4.8 Ladders
Conductive ladders (including wire-reinforced) shall not be used at anytime on ActewAGL property or
at other times on, near or in the vicinity of electrical apparatus or conductors.
Before ascending an approved ladder the worker shall make sure the ladder is secure in accordance
with procedures (refer Appendix A).
4.9 Use of safety observers

Where it is considered after a risk assessment that a worker, equipment or mobile plant might
inadvertently infringe safe approach distances, a safety observer shall be posted.
Under no circumstances shall the safety observer be diverted to other work while the possibility of
infringing the safe approach distance exists.

Before any worker can act as a safety observer of plant and equipment, in proximity to electrical
apparatus, they shall have an understanding of the task or work practice being observed.
Safety observers shall be specifically instructed in their duties on each occasion they are posted.
Where a worker is required to act as a safety observer the following conditions are to apply:
a. the person in control of the work shall select as a safety observer a worker who can observe and
warn against possible infringement of safe approach distances; and
b. the worker shall be specifically selected for each particular job; and
c. the worker shall be instructed in the details of the work to be carried out, the approach distance
for the task, access authority/s on issue, barriers, guards, signs, and any other relevant matters; 4
and
d. the worker shall use appropriate methods of communication that are suitable to overcome
factors such as distance and noise; and
e. the worker shall have the authority to temporarily suspend the relevant work at any time; and
f. the safety observer shall be trained and assessed competent to perform a victim rescue.
The person in control of the work and the safety observer shall identify aspects of the work environment
that contribute to a safety observer being distracted from their task. These include:
a. environmental influences for example temperature, dust, noise; and
b. ergonomics for example sitting, standing, kneeling; and
c. the need for appropriate rest breaks and the change-over of observers.
During the changeover of safety observers the first observer shall thoroughly brief the second observer
in all the job details.
In cases of plant and equipment usage, it shall be the sole duty of the safety observer to watch the
movements of the mobile plant including any boom, shear legs, load and any other projections of the
equipment and any items on or attached to it.
The safety observer shall direct the driver/operator when such items are near the normal approach limit.
4.10 Working alone or without a safety observer

A job risk assessment may determine that appropriate hazard control measures can be implemented
in accordance with procedures so that work can be carried out safely without a safety observer in the
following circumstances.
4.10.1 Work no more than two metres from the ground

The following work may be undertaken by an authorised worker, without a safety observer, on or near
the network providing they shall work to an approved work method statement and the workers feet are
no more than 2 metres from the ground:
a. operating work; and
b. testing and fault finding; and
c. cable locating work; and
d. maintaining street lights and control equipment; and
e. asset and vegetation inspections; and

f. metering work; and

g. customers supply disconnection or reconnection achieved through LV fuses, switch or circuit
breaker; and
h. working on ActewAGL switchboards or cubicles or ActewAGL assets on a privately owned
switchboard or cubicle.
Note: An approved LV rescue kit is NOT required to be immediately available in the above circumstances.
Nothing in Clause 4.10.1 prevents the use of a safety observer being in attendance when deemed
necessary through the job risk assessment or SWMS to perform the work safely.
4
4.10.2 Work above two metres from the ground
The following work may be undertaken by an authorised worker, without a safety observer, on or near
the network above two metres from the ground providing they shall work to an approved work method
statement and keep their body, except for the forearms as far as possible below any exposed apparatus
and conductors:
a. testing and fault finding; and
b. removal and replacement of insulated fuse carriers; and
c. in an emergency situation where there is an immediate threat to an employee, the public or

property.
Note: An emergency rescue kit shall be immediately available in the above circumstances.
Nothing in Clause 4.10.2 prevents the use of a safety observer being in attendance when deemed
necessary through the job risk assessment or SWMS to perform the work safely.
4.11 Fit for work

Fit for work means that, as an individual, you shall be in a physical, mental and emotional state that will
allow you to perform assigned tasks to standards set by the company and in a manner that will not put
yourself or others safety or health at risk.
Supervisors, individuals and work colleagues are all responsible for ensuring that all workers are fit and
safe for work at all times while at work.
Alcohol, drugs, prescription medication, fatigue, mental alertness and physical condition of a worker
may impede a workers ability to work safely including the use of vehicles, plant and equipment.
Workers shall not consume or be under the influence of alcohol or drugs during work hours. This shall
be taken to include meal or rest breaks.
Workers working for long or extended periods are at risk of fatigue which can diminish a persons
ability to perform work tasks safely. No worker shall work for periods of time that will breach policy or
procedures (refer Appendix A).

4.12 Danger of materials which can conduct electricity

All materials, including liquids and gases shall be regarded as conducting materials unless there is
definite knowledge to the contrary. In particular, it should be noted that:
a. earth, concrete, wet or damp timber are conducting materials; and
b. flame conducts electricity and care shall be exercised when using flame-producing equipment.
Blow lamps are liable, under certain circumstances, to throw a long stream of flame and liquid;
and
c. steel tapes, metal reinforced tapes or rulers shall not be used near exposed electrical apparatus 4
(some fabric tapes are metal reinforced). Only non-conductive tapes or non-conductive rulers
shall be used in the vicinity of energised electrical apparatus; and
d. metal objects, such as radio telephone units with telescopic aerials, mobile phones, torches and
the like shall be handled with care when working on or near exposed electrical apparatus; and
e. the wearing or carrying of personal metal effects such as jewellery, watches, keys, cigarette
packets with conductive wrapping, etc., constitutes a hazard when working on or near energised
electrical apparatus. Such effects should be removed from the worker or care taken to ensure that
they do not make contact with energised parts. A particular danger is the falling of metal objects
from pockets; and
f. the liquids of certain fire extinguishers are conductive. Only carbon dioxide, or dry chemical
powder fire extinguishers should be used on fires on or near energised electrical apparatus; and
g. vehicle tyres, although made of rubber, contain a high percentage of carbon and other conducting
materials and therefore shall be regarded as conductors of electricity.
4.13 Storage of materials

When work is being carried out in an area containing exposed electrical apparatus any materials stored
in such areas shall be kept well away from the exposed electrical apparatus. Care shall be also taken to
ensure that materials are not placed in positions where they may block doorways, obstruct the passage
of persons and workers or hinder the carrying out of normal operations or work on the electrical
apparatus.
4.14 Work in the vicinity of electric and magnetic fields

In relation to Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF), ActewAGL follows a policy of prudent avoidance
which recommends avoiding unnecessary exposure to EMF whenever it can be achieved without undue
inconvenience or at a modest expense.
Workers with metal implants or medical implantable devices including cardiac pacemakers should
consult their doctors and their supervisor for information on possible interferences with these devices
prior to entering areas of strong electric and magnetic fields.
Workers who have concerns or require further information should consult their supervisor and/or safety
coordinator (refer Appendix B).

4.14.1 50 Hz electric and magnetic fields

Measurements of 50Hz electric and magnetic fields conducted to date indicate that occupational
exposure levels are not exceeded in electrical network areas that are under normal access and work
conditions. Information on typical field levels experienced around electrical network assets is available
on request. Equipment is available to measure 50Hz EMF levels. If there is a reasonable concern that
field levels exceed the specified limits, a measurement of EMF may be conducted.
4.14.2 Radio frequency electric and magnetic fields

Radio frequency EMF may originate from communications circuits, and mobile transmitters fitted to
4 public lighting columns. Maximum exposure levels for radio frequency (100kHz to 300GHz) EMF should
not exceed limits specified by the relevant Australian standard (refer Appendix B).
If there is a reasonable concern that field strength exceeds the specified limits, a measurement of EMF
should be conducted.
4.15 Portable electric tools and equipment

Portable electric tools and equipment, including generators, inverters and extension leads, shall be
approved, used, repaired and tested as detailed in the relevant procedure (refer Appendix A).
No portable tools shall be directly connected to mains or busbars.
All electrical hand tools shall be used in conjunction with residual current devices (RCD) protection,
either portable or fixed.
Double insulated or battery operated tools should be used, if available, in preference to single insulated
tools.
4.16 Design, construction and commissioning

Electrical asset design, construction and commissioning standards, procedures and processes shall
ensure work health and safety legislation and regulations are considered to ensure that the safe access
outlined in these safety rules can be achieved.
4.17 Danger tags

Danger Do Not Operate tags shall:
a. be attached to the controls of operable electrical apparatus to warn workers against inadvertent
or unauthorised operation (that would endanger the safety of workers and persons or the
reliability and quality of supply) unless attachment to the controls is impractical in which case
danger tags shall be attached in the next best locations to effect the warning; and
b. only be installed, altered or removed by authorised workers; and
c. also be fitted to unserviceable equipment to warn against inadvertent energisation or operation.
Danger tags shall be clearly labelled with contact name, phone number, date and details of why the tag
has been applied for example work request number, description of fault, etc.

Workers shall not remove or alter in any way any tags that have been applied, without consulting
System Control or the worker who attached the tag. Danger tags, which have been installed by the
electrical operator, shall only be removed by an electrical operator under direction from System Control
(refer Appendix A).
to
e d due
t
Isola
fault
6
/ 201
04
12/
Figure 4.2 Example of Danger Do Not Operate tag

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5
Section
OPERATION OF
PRINCIPLE Only authorised workers shall undertake

switching and associated duties on electrical apparatus.
SECTION 5 Operation of electrical apparatus
5.1 Workers authorised to operate high voltage (HV)

Switching and associated duties on electrical apparatus should only be performed by electrical
operators whose authorisation, training, duties and instructions cover the particular electrical
apparatus. All such switching shall be under the instruction of System Control.
Any electrical apparatus found to be defective shall be danger tagged. Danger tagged electrical
apparatus shall not be operated without reference to System Control, refer Clause 4.17. Danger tags.
However, any worker with appropriate skills may perform switching operations in the following
circumstances:
a. when specifically instructed by, or authorised by, System Control; or
5
b. in an emergency involving serious risk to workers, the public or property, refer Clause 2.4
Emergency situations.
After any such emergency switching, System Control shall be notified as soon as possible. Electrical
apparatus so disconnected shall not be reconnected without instruction from System Control.
5.2 Operator protection

During switching and associated duties on electrical apparatus, an operator shall wear personal
protective equipment as detailed in Clause 4.2 Personal protective equipment and Table 5.1 Protection
for electrical operations.
Due July 2016

D
ue July 2
01 6
Figure 5.1 Example of HV operating Gloves

SECTION 5 Operation of electrical apparatus
Table 5.1 Protection for electrical operations
VOLTAGE APPARATUS ACTION OPERATOR PROTECTION1
Ground mounted fuse and/

Opening and closing Insulated gloves2
or link
LOW (LV) Fully enclosed circuit

Opening and closing Minimum PPE1
breaker
50 to 1000V
Partially enclosed and/or
AC Opening and closing Insulated gloves2
unenclosed circuit breaker
Overhead fuse and/or link Opening and closing Insulated operating stick3
5 Overhead gas insulated Opening and closing and
Insulated operating stick3
switch, fuse, and/or link earthing
Ground mounted circuit Opening and closing and
Insulated gloves2
breaker (with metal handle) earthing
Insulated gloves2 and
Resin or non-metal clad
6
Opening and closing and insulated operating stick3
HIGH (HV) switchgear earthing and dry base or insulated
medium4
>1000V
Metal clad and rackable Opening and closing and Insulated gloves2 and dry base
AC
switchgear earthing or insulated medium4
Opening and closing Insulated gloves2
Outside apparatus in a zone
Earthing device (handle) Insulated gloves2
substation
Earthing portable Insulated operating stick3
Gas insulated switchgear Opening and closing and
Insulated gloves2 and dry base
(GIS) in a zone substation earthing
Insulated gloves2 or insulated
LV and HV All apparatus Testing5
operating/testing stick3
Notes:
1. Minimum PPE worn during all types of operations shall be hard hat and safety glasses or face shield.
2. Insulated gloves means approved electrical insulating gloves that shall be worn on both hands with
mechanical protection (outer gloves), visually inspected (in date) and air tested prior to each use to
ensure the integrity of the glove.
3. If unable to maintain a minimum distance of 400mm from electrical apparatus, insulated gloves
shall be worn.
4. Insulated medium means a HV mat, two overlapped LV mats, a wooden or fibreglass ladder and/or
approved and tested insulated stick.
5. Fully insulated test points do not require insulated gloves to carry out testing.
6. Work on Holec Magnefix MD4 switchgear (Hazemeyer) shall be in accordance with procedures
(refer Appendix A).

6Section
EARTHING OF HIGH
VOLTAGE ELECTRICAL
APPARATUS
PRINCIPLE Earthing devices shall be applied by an

authorised worker following a safe to earth confirmation and
placed to ensure the safety of the workers.
SECTION 6 Earthing of high voltage electrical apparatus
6.1 Earthing hierarchy

The choice of connection for a portable earthing device should where practicable be made on the basis
of the following order of preference.
Permanently installed earthing system at worksite

1
Permanently installed earthing system close as possible to
2 worksite (within 2km)
3
Earthing ferrule in concrete pole at worksite 6
Earthing ferrule in concrete pole close as possible to
4 worksite (within 2km)
Permanently installed earthing system or concrete pole

5 earthing ferrule within isolation area
Ground rod of installed pole stay or permanently driven pole

6 earth stake or permanently driven pole nail
Temporary earth stake (driven to full depth) or otherwise

7 firmly anchored
Figure 6.1 Earthing hierarchy
Note: Options 6 or 7 should only be used for the first (operational) earth if options 1 to 5 are not
available.
6.2 General
Only approved earthing devices shall be used and they shall only be applied after the circuit or
electrical apparatus is isolated and after confirmation by an approved Safe to Earth method in
accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
Fuses shall not be included in earthing circuits.
Protection shall be suppressed on circuit breakers if used for earthing.

In applying an earthing device, it shall be connected to earth before it is applied to the conductors,
and it shall be removed from the conductors before it is disconnected from earth. It is preferable that
conductors are also bonded via the earthing device.
Wherever practicable, an earth shall be applied and removed by an approved device. When hand
application or removal of an earth to switchgear is unavoidable:
a. all phases shall be discharged; and
b. another earth applied with an approved device shall be maintained in contact with each
conductor in turn while the hand applied earth is being attached or removed, refer to Clause 6.6
High voltage (HV) metal-clad switch units.
When applying a portable earthing device that is not connected to a permanently installed station
earthing system it shall be regarded as liable to become energised until the circuit earthing is complete.
There are some situations where an electrical operator cannot comply with the clearances specified as
safe approach distance, when applying earths to electrical apparatus during the preparation for access.
In these situations procedures may permit such approach only to that part of the electrical apparatus
6 which already has local isolation and earthing.
6.3 Earthing for access to high voltage (HV)

Earths shall be applied such that conductors within the work area are effectively earthed or
have an earth placed between the work area and each point of supply, refer to Clause 8.6.2.1 for
interconnected LV.
Wherever practicable, earths shall be placed at the site of the work.
Prior to access, earthing shall be confirmed by an approved indication such as:
a. sighting of an operational earth applied to exposed electrical apparatus; or
b. an approved position indicator (semaphore), and/or operating handle/lever, showing a device to
be in the earthed position.
Whilst making and breaking bridge connections, both sides of the bridge connection should be
maintained at the same potential using hot line leads, hoppers or jumpers.
6.3.1 Operational earths

In earthing electrical apparatus for access, earths applied by the electrical operator, as noted on the
access authority, shall be considered operational earths. The operational earths shall be applied by or
under direct supervision of an electrical operator and they shall be applied before an electrical access
authority is issued.
All operational earths shall be recorded on the electrical access authority prior to issue and shall be
under the control of System Control. Operational earths shall not be removed from electrical apparatus
or otherwise altered under an access authority without permission from System Control. After
permission is granted by System Control to modify earthing the recipient shall notify all staff signed on
to or affected by the access authority of the change in earthing conditions.
All earths applied in a Zone substation and on the underground network between a point of supply and
the worksite shall be regarded as operational earths.

6.3.2 Working earths

After access has been given to HV electrical apparatus, additional working earths shall be applied as
necessary to maximise workers safety and to visually indicate the isolated and at earth potential
condition of the electrical apparatus.
These working earths should be applied within the accessed area in the order of preference set out in
Figure 6.1 Earthing hierarchy.
All working earths applied during the currency of the access authority shall be recorded on the access
authority. Working earths are under the control of the recipient of the access authority. An operational
earth, designated and/or used by workers as a working earth, shall remain under the control of System
Control. The recipient shall ensure that:
a. all working earths are removed before relinquishment of the access authority; and
b. all earths applied by work crews for testing purposes are removed before the relinquishment of
the access authority; and
c. operational earths are not removed without permission from System Control before cancellation
of the access authority. 6
For earthing requirements regarding mobile plant refer to Clause 2.3.1 Use of mobile plant.
6.3.3 System earths

If part of an earthing system is broken dangerous voltages may occur. When it is necessary to break a
system earth, adequately rated bonds or jumpers shall be installed before the break is made. System
earths on electrical apparatus shall not be removed while the apparatus is in service unless it is
specifically known that this can be done safely. Workers shall consult a supervisor when a system earth
is found to be broken.
6.4 Removal of earth when working under an electrical

access authority
During work under an electrical access authority, the recipient shall request permission from System
Control for the removal of an earth for insulation resistance testing, reconductoring or other purposes,
only if such action is considered necessary and safe, and provided:
a. System Control grants permission and confirms that the removal of the earth will not affect any
other electrical access authorities on issue; and
b. all workers likely to be affected by the removal of the earth are notified; and
c. when known the proposed change shall be noted under special provisions on the electrical
access authority.
Once the earth is removed the recipient shall notify System Control of the removal.
The earth removed shall be replaced in the same, or another equally effective position, as soon as
possible and the recipient shall notify System Control that the earth has been restored.
Permission shall be sought from System Control for removal of operational earths at completion of
works prior to relinquishment of the access authority.

6.5 Earthing of overhead lines

Where an overhead line can only be earthed using temporarily driven earth spikes the work planning
shall consider protection against the hazards resulting from energisation and step and touch potentials,
refer to Figure 6.1 Earthing hierarchy.
During the discharging and earthing of overhead lines, no workers other than the person applying the
earth shall approach within 8m of the earthing device, its connections or ladders, poles, or structures
from which the earthing device is being applied.
The electrical operator in control of the switching activity shall advise the workers when earthing
operations are completed. After earthing is complete, in order to avoid step and touch potential,
unnecessary approach to earths shall be avoided. Where additional working earths are required they
shall be applied so as at least one set is visible from the worksite.
Figure 6.2 Typical overhead earthing

6.6 High voltage (HV) metal-clad switch units

For metal-clad switch units where it is not possible to directly earth conductors and circuits, the method
of earthing shall be specially considered by the electrical operator responsible for the earthing and the
person in control of the work, particularly in regard to the number and location of earths.
The application of earthing devices to the isolated contacts in the spouts of metal-clad switchgear shall
be supervised by an authorised worker, unless the devices are specifically approved for application by a
single worker.
Hand applied spout earths shall not be used if there are alternative earthing devices available to be
used, refer to Clause 6.2 Earthing of high voltage (HV) electrical apparatus. If no alternative earthing
device is available and hand held spout earths are to be applied to a cable circuit, the remote end of
the cable shall be earthed first and the busbar isolated. If hand held spout earths are to be applied to
multi-busbar equipment all busbars shall be isolated. Assistance shall be provided by another electrical
operator during the application of hand held spout earths.
6
6.7 Precautions prior to work near aerial communication
cables
Communication cables have been installed on ActewAGL poles known as joint use poles. Caution
is required because of the possibility of induced voltages associated with parallel HV lines and the
catenary wire of the aerial communication cables and the possibility of transfer voltages on the catenary
wire.
Catenary wires supporting communication cables present a possible hazard to a worksite. Depending
on the installation arrangements of the catenary, the catenary could be either earthed and pose a risk
when working on energised mains and apparatus; or be effectively energised (through induction) and
compromise an isolated worksite. Special precautions, such as matting, shall be taken to cover catenary
support wires to reduce the risk of inadvertent energisation of the catenary wire.
Any work involving the disconnection of the catenary wire from a permanent earth shall not proceed
until the catenary wire is earthed by means of local temporary earths attached to both sides of the
sectionalising point.
6.8 Equipotential bonding

Equipotential bonding is the practice of electrically connecting all exposed conductors or metallic
items together so that they remain at the same electrical voltage. This protects workers from dangerous
differences in voltage, reducing the chance of electric shock. Equipotential bonds are not designed to
carry current in normal service. For practical application refer to the relevant procedure (Appendix A).
Also refer to Clause 9.5.4 Low voltage (LV) bonding.

6.8.1 Overhead
Where practicable, work on all isolated HV apparatus shall proceed under equipotential or earthed
conditions, such that:
a. the conductors are kept at the work area earthed potential; and
b. all conductive materials within reach are kept at the work area earthed potential; and
c. there is no possibility that workers can become the bridge between two points of different
potential.
6.8.2 Underground
In circumstances where the work involves direct contact with the metallic HV cable sheath or armouring,
and is not within the earth grid of a substation, one of the controls in Clause 6.8.2.1 or 6.8.2.2 shall be
put in place.
6.8.2.1 Insulated working conditions

6
All exposed metal parts of cables or pipes or any other parts which may be earthed, and the joint-hole
or confined space itself, shall be covered with insulating material, suitable for the voltage concerned,
while work proceeds on one conductor only.
6.8.2.2 Bonded earth mat conditions

An equipotential area shall be created using wire mesh, all bonded together, covering the floor,
walls etc. All cable sheaths shall be connected to the earth mat so that equipotential conditions are
maintained. If not practical, the cable cores and earth screen shall be disconnected.

7
Section
ISSUE OF ACCESS
AUTHORITIES
PRINCIPLE An appropriate safe access system shall

be applied before any work is carried out on or near
electrical apparatus.
SECTION 7 Issue of access authorities
7.1 General
Workers planning work on, near, or in the vicinity of electrical apparatus, shall consider application of
the appropriate access authority.
Where authorised, instructed or ordinary persons are required to sign onto a job risk assessment
that makes reference to an access authority, these persons shall be required to sign onto the access
authority.
The processes for the access authorities detailed in these electrical safety rules are outlined below in
Clauses 7.27.4.
For work on or near HV electrical apparatus, Section 8 - Access for work on or near high voltage electrical
apparatus, shall be read in conjunction with this section. For access to LV electrical apparatus, Section 9 -
Access to low voltage electrical apparatus, shall be read in conjunction with this section.
Where there is provision for the isolation point to be locked, an approved electrical lock shall be used
until the access authority has been relinquished.
7.2 Electrical access permit

7
7.2.1 Application for an electrical access permit
Before making application for an electrical access permit, the applicant shall establish that the proposed
work has been properly planned and can be carried out safely. Consideration shall be given to:
a. work method; and
b. testing on restoration; and
c. work environment; and
d. the skills and authorisations of the workers.
The electrical apparatus to be covered and its location shall be accurately defined and the work to be
undertaken adequately described.
An application using a work request form shall be completed for all pre-arranged de-energised work on
ActewAGLs electricity network to initiate access requirements. All such applications shall be submitted
to System Control.
7.2.1.1 Multiple working parties

Where an electrical access permit is issued along with any other electrical access permit on the same
electrical apparatus, or where separate parties are working under the terms of one access permit, there
shall be coordination by the person in control of the planning and performing the work to ensure that
the actions of one worker shall not endanger the safety of others.
Overall coordination of the access authority issues shall be the responsibility of System Control.
7.2.1.2 Work under a common electrical access permit

An appropriately qualified worker having an overall appreciation of all aspects of the work to be
performed shall be the person in control and coordinate all work. That worker will usually be the
recipient of the electrical access permit and be the worker who has the onsite responsibility for the
major portion of work to be carried out.

7.2.2 Multiple ownership

Where the scope of electrical apparatus to be covered is owned by more than one organisation, a
protocol shall be established between those organisations for processing the application to coordinate
the outage and issue of a SCAP to the private organisations representative.
7.2.3 Issue, receipt, relinquishment and cancellation of electrical

access permits
An electrical access permit and a sanction for testing shall not be on issue on the same electrical
apparatus simultaneously.
An electrical access permit shall be issued by an electrical operator to the recipient in person and
relinquished by the recipient. Relinquishment of an electrical access permit shall be done through
System Control by the recipient at the completion of the work. Notification that the electrical access
permit has been cancelled shall be by accepted means directly to System Control by the electrical
operator.
At the time of issue the electrical operator shall clearly describe and, where practicable, show the
electrical apparatus covered by the electrical access permit and the precautions taken, to the recipient
and workers. It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure every worker clearly understands the
7 conditions and extent of the electrical access permit before they sign onto the electrical access permit.
The electrical operator shall also describe or point out the nearest points of supply and any nearby
energised electrical apparatus.
Both the electrical operator and the recipient shall ensure that the condition of the electrical apparatus,
covered by the electrical access permit, is safe for the proposed work.
All workers shall satisfy themselves concerning the precautions taken, the location of the points of
supply, and the proximity of any nearby energised electrical apparatus.
Any worker involved in the issue or receipt of an electrical access permit who is not satisfied with the
conditions, may apply to have additional precautions taken, either before the electrical access permit is
issued or during the currency of the work.
Subsequent to the issue of an electrical access permit additional workers may sign onto the electrical
access permit, after appropriate instruction by the recipient.
The person in control of the work shall perform a risk assessment and shall involve all workers in that
risk assessment. Any particular precautions to be taken to eliminate hazards and prevent injury to any
worker shall be specified before work is commenced. A risk assessment form shall be completed in
7.2.4 Workers and persons permitted to sign onto electrical

access permits
Recipients of an electrical access permit shall be authorised recipients and workers who sign onto the
electrical access permit shall be authorised or instructed to sign onto an electrical access permit.
If an ordinary person is required to sign onto the electrical access authority it shall be the responsibility
of the recipient to ensure that such persons are placed in the care of a worker who is authorised to
receive electrical access authorities.

7.2.4.1 Authorised workers and instructed persons electrical access permits

The conditions under which an authorised worker and/or instructed person shall sign onto an electrical
access permit is that they:
a. understand the electrical apparatus covered and the limits of the electrical access permit; and
b. are satisfied with the precautions taken; and
c. are aware of the nearest energised electrical apparatus; and
d. have technical knowledge or relevant trade experience to perform the task concerned.
7.2.4.2 Ordinary persons electrical access permits

The conditions under which an ordinary person shall sign onto an electrical access permit is that
the person:
a. understands the safe approach distance of an ordinary person to the electrical apparatus and the
hazard controls of the worksite; and
b. agrees not undertake any physical work; and
c. agrees to direct supervision by a nominated authorised worker; and
d. agrees to follow any instructions given at all times. 7
7.2.5 Rejection of a worker signing onto an electrical access permit
A worker shall recommend the exclusion from an electrical access permit of any other worker who at
any time is considered to be unsafe. Such instances shall be reported promptly to the person in control
of the work and relevant supervisor.
7.2.6 Absence of an earth on electrical apparatus under electrical access

permit
Wherever practicable, electrical apparatus shall be earthed before the issue of an electrical access
authority.
Where an earth has not been applied to electrical apparatus prior to the issue of an electrical access
authority the recipient shall arrange for discharging and/or earthing of the electrical apparatus before
any worker touches the HV conductors. This clause would apply to isolated and racked out apparatus
under maintenance.
7.2.7 Recipient working alone

An electrical access authority may be issued to an authorised recipient who may work alone under the
terms of an electrical access authority in accordance with procedures provided that:
a. there is no exposed energised electrical apparatus near the recipient, and there is no possibility of
the recipient making contact under any circumstances; or
b. warning notices are placed and suitable barriers are erected to prevent the recipient
inadvertently infringing the normal safe approach distance to energised electrical apparatus.
7.2.8 Issuer also a recipient

An issuer of an electrical access authority may also be the recipient. This would only be the case when
the work to be performed would be by a single worker or that no one else onsite is an authorised
recipient.

7.2.9 Temporary cessation of work or absence of workers from worksite

It shall be the duty of each worker signed onto an electrical access permit to sign off the electrical
access permit before leaving the worksite.
Following a cessation of work, or when workers have been temporarily absent from the worksite, each
worker, before signing back onto the electrical access permit shall report to the recipient.
The recipient shall confirm the condition of the electrical apparatus under electrical access authority
and the nearby electrical apparatus. The workers shall not approach the electrical apparatus within
the limits specified in Clause 2.2.2 Safe approach distance - instructed persons and authorised workers,
until they have re-signed onto the electrical access authority.
If the recipient and all workers leave the worksite the electrical access permit shall be relinquished
unless an electrical access permit is required for work that will be carried over an extended period of
time and approval gained from System Control prior to the permit being issued. Where an electrical
access permit is for use over several days each worker shall sign off at the end of each work period, but
the permit may be kept open with System Control approval. At the start of the next work period the
recipient shall:
a. contact System Control to confirm that the isolation has not changed as noted in permit details; and
b. visually check earths and isolation points.
7
If there has been no change each worker can sign back onto the electrical access permit and commence
work.
7.2.10 Transfer of an electrical access permit

Where the recipient is unable to continue work or needs to leave the worksite, the electrical access
permit may be transferred to a new recipient.
The transfer may only be carried out if:
a. both workers are present onsite; and
b. the new recipient is an authorised recipient; and
c. the original recipient ensures that the worker to whom the electrical access permit is to be
transferred is fully aware and clearly understands all safety aspects of the permit and work prior
to the transfer; and
d. the work crew is notified.
An electrical access permit may only be transferred once. If more than one transfer is required then the
permit shall be cancelled and a new permit issued.
Once the electrical access permit has been transferred, System Control shall be notified of the change
of the recipient.
If the intended new recipient has already signed onto the electrical access permit as a worker, that
worker shall sign off before becoming the new recipient.
7.2.11 Working on multi-circuit overhead lines

Where more than one HV circuit is carried on a pole or structure and work under an electrical access
permit is to be performed on isolated and earthed circuits, while others remain energised, the recipient
shall ensure that, immediately before approaching near (Clause 2.2.2 Safe approach distance -
instructed persons and authorised workers) each worker correctly identifies the circuits.

When work under an electrical access permit is to be carried out while other HV circuit/s on the same
structure or pole remain energised, each worker shall follow the procedure prescribed for this work
(refer Appendix A).
When conductor/s (other than a service line) are being erected, replaced or dismantled on any pole or
structure which already carries energised conductors of any description, the conductor/s being worked
on shall be earthed until secured in their final positions and/or completely dismantled, refer to Clause
2.9 Erection or dismantling of overhead conductors.
7.2.12 Change of electrical access permit conditions

Earthing of overhead lines shall not be rendered ineffective by disconnection or by cutting conductor/s
unless replacement earths are attached.
The conditions of isolation specified on an electrical access permit shall not be changed until the
electrical access permit is relinquished and then cancelled. The only exception being the removal of an
earth as allowed under Clause 6.4 Removal of earth when working under an electrical access permit.
A new electrical access permit may be issued after changes in isolation are complete.
7.2.13 Relinquishment and cancellation of an electrical access permit

7
7.2.13.1 Workers signing off an electrical access permit
It shall be the duty of each worker that has signed onto an electrical access permit to sign off before the
electrical access permit is relinquished.
7.2.13.2 Responsibilities of the recipient when relinquishing an electrical

access permit
When an electrical access permit is to be relinquished, the recipient shall:
a. ensure that all workers signed onto the electrical access permit have ceased work covered by the
electrical access permit and have signed off; and
b. ensure that all tools and equipment are clear and will remain clear of the electrical apparatus and
that the workers having signed off are aware that they shall remain clear; and
c. sign off the electrical access permit to indicate that the electrical access permit has been
relinquished; and
d. advise electrical operator/System Control of any condition of the electrical apparatus which could
affect its operation.
7.2.13.3 Absence of a worker at relinquishment

Signing off an electrical access permit on behalf of another worker is not permitted. Where a worker
leaves the site without signing off an electrical access permit all practical steps should be taken to
obtain their signature. If the worker is unable to sign off the electrical access permit due to injury, illness
or other legitimate reason, System Control may obtain authority from the appropriate supervisor for
the cancellation on behalf of the absent worker. This shall be done in accordance with procedures (refer
Appendix A). The supervisor shall sign off on behalf of the unavailable worker.

7.2.13.4 Lost or destroyed electrical access permit

If an electrical access permit is lost or destroyed, work shall cease until an electrical operator attends to
site, confirms the isolation and earthing (if applicable) and issues a new electrical access permit.
7.2.13.5 Responsibilities of the electrical operator when cancelling an electrical access

permit
The electrical operator shall:
a. confirm that the recipient has relinquished the permit; and
b. confirm that all workers have signed off; and
c. verify with the recipient the condition of the apparatus; and
d. check the suitability of the apparatus for service; and
e. check the configuration of the apparatus in preparation for service.
Electrical access permits shall be cancelled with System Control by an electrical operator by accepted
means.
7 7.2.14 Exceptions for issuing an electrical access permit

The exceptions for issuing and accepting electrical access permits are:
a. in an emergency when there is an immediate risk to a persons life or property. The work shall
be carried out under the supervision of the electrical worker who makes sure that the necessary
procedures for isolating, proving de-energised, earthing and short circuiting the mains and
apparatus are carried out in accordance with these rules; or
b. if people are doing work outside of the minimum safe approach distances; or
c. if qualified live line workers are working within the minimum safe approach distances and
following authorised live line procedures (refer Appendix A); or
d. all LV service conductors less than or equal to 50mm2 and not requiring isolation of LV mains.
7.3 Sanction for testing
7.3.1 General
A sanction for testing shall be issued when, for the purpose of testing, it is necessary to work on
electrical apparatus in such a manner that the prescribed procedure relating to an electrical access
authority shall be waived. This would be done in order that the electrical apparatus may be made
energised from either normal or test sources at HV or at a voltage or current considered hazardous by
the authorised applicant.
A sanction for testing and any electrical access permit or permit to work shall not be on issue on the
same electrical apparatus simultaneously. Only one sanction for testing shall be on issue on the same
electrical apparatus at any time.
A sanction for testing shall be issued onsite by an electrical operator and relinquished by the tester
in charge. Notification that sanction for testing has been relinquished shall be by accepted means to
System Control by the tester in charge.

7.3.2 Application for a sanction for testing

Only an authorised applicant who can establish that the work is properly planned and can be done
safely shall make an application for a sanction for testing. The electrical apparatus and the condition in
which it is required shall be accurately defined and the proposed tests adequately described.
This application request can be in the form of a verbal request in the case of cable fault locating and
network restoration following emergency repairs to electrical apparatus.
Where the scope of electrical apparatus to be covered is owned or operated by more than one
organisation, a protocol shall be established between those organisations for processing the application
and testing requirements.
7.3.3 Workers permitted to sign onto sanctions for testing

Workers permitted to sign onto sanctions for testing shall be authorised testers or be approved to work
under that specific sanction for testing.
Instructed persons may sign onto a sanction for test provided:
a. it is noted on the risk assessment; and
b. the tester in charge is aware.
7
7.3.4 Responsibilities of the tester in charge
The tester in charge shall ensure that those workers, who will be making contact with electrical
apparatus under test and any of the test connections, or approaching within the prescribed safe
approach distance during the currency of the sanction for testing, sign onto the sanction for testing.
The tester in charge shall ensure that the workers are suitably experienced and trained for the work
required of them and that adequate precautions are taken for the safety of all workers including
ordinary persons as may be appropriate.
7.3.5 Rejection of an authorised tester

A worker shall recommend the exclusion from a sanction for testing of any other worker who at any
time is considered to be unsafe. Such instances shall be reported promptly to the person in control of
the work and relevant supervisor.
7.3.6 Absence of an earth on electrical apparatus under sanction

for testing
Wherever practicable HV electrical apparatus shall be proved de-energised and earthed before the issue
of a sanction for testing. This is to allow pre-test preparation work to be carried out. The tester in charge
shall have control of any earths applied. The earths shall be reapplied at the completion of testing.
Where an earth has not been applied to electrical apparatus prior to the issue of a sanction for testing,
the tester shall arrange for discharging and/or earthing of the electrical apparatus before any worker
touches the HV apparatus and/or conductors.
7.3.7 Issuer also an authorised tester

An issuer of a sanction for testing shall not be the tester, but may sign onto the sanction for testing
form as a worker.

7.3.8 Temporary cessation of work or absence of workers

It shall be the duty of each worker signed onto a sanction for testing to sign off the sanction for testing
before leaving the worksite.
worker, before signing back onto the sanction for testing shall report to the tester in charge. The tester
in charge shall confirm the condition of the electrical apparatus under sanction for testing and the
adjacent electrical apparatus. The workers shall not approach the electrical apparatus within the limits
specified in Clause 2.2.2 Safe approach distance - instructed persons and authorised workers, until they
have resigned onto the sanction for testing.
7.3.9 Transfer of a sanction for testing

Where, in unforeseen circumstances, the tester in charge is unable to continue work or shall leave the
worksite, the sanction for testing may be transferred to another authorised tester.
The transfer may only be carried out if:
a. both workers are present onsite; and
b. the new tester in charge is an authorised tester; and
7 c. the original tester in charge ensures that the worker to whom the sanction for testing is to be
transferred is fully aware of all safety aspects of the sanction for testing and work prior to the
transfer.
Once the sanction for testing has been transferred, System Control shall be notified of the change of the
tester in charge.
If the intended new tester in charge has already signed onto the sanction for testing as a worker, that
worker shall sign off before becoming the new tester in charge.
7.3.10 Relinquishment and cancellation of sanctions for testing
7.3.10.1 Responsibilities of the tester in charge when relinquishing a sanction

for testing
At the conclusion of the testing, the tester in charge shall ensure that the electrical apparatus under
test that has become electrically charged during test is fully discharged and left in a safe condition.
When a sanction for testing is to be relinquished, the tester in charge shall:
a. ensure that all workers signed onto the sanction for testing have ceased work covered by the
sanction for testing and have signed off; and
b. ensure that all equipment is clear of the electrical apparatus and that workers having signed off
are aware that they shall remain clear; and
c. sign off the sanction for testing as the tester in charge to indicate that it has been relinquished;
and
d. advise System Control of the condition of the electrical apparatus.

7.3.10.2 Responsibilities of the electrical operator when cancelling a sanction

for testing
Sanction for testing shall be cancelled with System Control by an electrical operator. The electrical
operator shall:
7.4 Permit to work

A permit to work may be issued for work to be performed at safe approach distances or near isolated
electrical apparatus.
7.4.1 Application for a permit to work

Before making application for a permit to work, the applicant shall establish that the proposed work has
7
been properly planned and can be carried out safely. Consideration shall be given to:
a. work method; and
b. work environment; and
c. the skills and authorisations of the workers.
The electrical apparatus to be covered and its location shall be accurately defined and the work to be
A written application using a work request form shall be completed for all pre-arranged de-energised
work on ActewAGLs electricity network to initiate access requirements. All such applications shall be
submitted to System Control.
7.4.2 Multiple working parties

Where a permit to work is issued along with any other access authority (for example another permit to
work, electrical access permit) on the same electrical apparatus, or where separate parties are working
under the terms of one permit to work, there shall be coordination in planning and performing the work
to ensure that the actions of one worker shall not endanger the safety of others.
Overall coordination of the access authority issues shall be the responsibility of System Control.
7.4.3 Issue, receipt, relinquishment and cancellation of permits to work

A permit to work and a sanction for testing shall not be on issue on the same electrical apparatus
simultaneously.
A permit to work shall be issued by an electrical operator to the recipient in person and relinquished
by the recipient. Notification that the permit to work has been cancelled shall be by accepted means to
System Control by the electrical operator.
At the time of issue the electrical operator shall clearly describe and, where practicable, show the
electrical apparatus covered by permit to work and the precautions taken, to the recipient.

It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure every worker clearly understands the conditions and
extent of the permit to work before they sign onto the permit to work.
The electrical operator shall also describe or point out the nearest points of supply and any nearby
energised electrical apparatus.
Prior to the issue of a permit to work near or in the vicinity of HV conductors, one set of operational
earths shall be applied within the isolation area (not necessarily visible from the worksite) to prove de-
energised, refer to Clause 14.4 Work by tree surgeons requiring the isolation of overhead conductors.
Both the electrical operator and the recipient shall ensure that the condition of the electrical apparatus,
covered by the electrical access permit, is safe for the proposed work.
All workers shall satisfy themselves concerning the precautions taken, the location of the points of
supply, and the proximity of any nearby energised electrical apparatus.
Any worker involved in the issue or receipt of a permit to work who is not satisfied with the conditions,
may apply to have additional precautions taken, either before the permit to work is issued or during the
currency of the work.
Subsequent to the issue of a permit to work additional workers may sign onto the permit to work, after
appropriate instruction by the recipient.
7 The person in control for the work shall perform a risk assessment and shall involve all workers in that
risk assessment. Any particular precautions to be taken to eliminate hazards and prevent injury to any
worker shall be specified before work is commenced. A risk assessment form shall be completed in
7.4.4 Workers and persons permitted to sign onto permits to work

Recipients of a permit to work shall be authorised recipients and workers who sign onto the permit to
work shall be workers approved to work under that specific permit to work.
If an ordinary person is required to sign onto the permit to work it shall be the responsibility of the
recipient to ensure that such persons are placed in the care of a worker who is authorised to receive
permits to work.
7.4.4.1 Workers permit to work

The conditions under which a worker shall sign onto a permit to work are that the worker:
a. understands the electrical apparatus covered and the limits of the permit to work; and
b. is satisfied with the precautions taken; and
c. is aware of the nearest energised electrical apparatus; and
d. have technical knowledge or relevant trade experience to perform the task concerned.
7.4.4.2 Ordinary persons permit to work

The conditions under which an ordinary person shall sign onto a permit to work is that person:
a. understands the safe approach distance of an ordinary person to the electrical apparatus and the
hazard controls of the worksite; and
b. agrees that no work is to be undertaken in relation to the electrical apparatus; and
c. agrees to the continuous and dedicated supervision by a nominated authorised worker; and
d. agrees to follow to any instructions given at all times.

7.4.5 Rejection of a worker signing onto a permit to work

A worker shall recommend the exclusion from a permit to work of any other worker who at any time is
considered to be unsafe. Such instances shall be reported promptly to the person in control of the work
and relevant supervisor.
7.4.6 Temporary cessation of work or absence of workers from worksite

It shall be the duty of each worker signed onto a permit to work to sign off the permit to work before
leaving the worksite.
worker, before signing back onto the permit to work shall report to the recipient. The recipient shall
confirm the condition of the electrical apparatus under permit to work and the nearby electrical
apparatus. The workers shall not approach the electrical apparatus until they have re-signed onto the
permit to work
If the recipient and all workers leave the worksite the permit to work shall be relinquished.
7.4.7 Transfer of a permit to work

Permits to work shall not be transferred. If the recipient is unable to continue work, or needs to leave
the worksite, the permit to work shall be relinquished.
7
7.4.8 Relinquishment and cancellation of a permit to work
7.4.8.1 Workers signing off a permit to work

It shall be the duty of each worker that has signed onto a permit to work to sign off before the permit to
work is relinquished.
7.4.8.2 Responsibilities of the recipient when relinquishing a permit to work

When a permit to work is to be relinquished, the recipient shall:
a. ensure that all workers signed on to the permit to work have ceased work covered by the permit
to work and have signed off; and
b. ensure that all tools and equipment are clear and will remain clear of the electrical apparatus and
that the workers having signed off are aware that they shall remain clear; and
c. sign off the permit to work to indicate that the permit to work has been relinquished; and
d. advise the electrical operator of any condition of the electrical apparatus which could affect its
operation.
7.4.8.3 Absence of a worker at relinquishment

Signing off a permit to work on behalf of another worker is not permitted. Where a worker leaves
the worksite without signing off a permit to work all practical steps should be taken to obtain their
signature. If the worker is unable to sign off the permit to work due to injury, illness or other legitimate
reason, System Control may obtain authority from the appropriate supervisor for the cancellation on
behalf of the absent worker. This shall be done in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A). The
supervisor shall sign off on behalf of the unavailable worker.

7.4.8.4 Lost or destroyed permit to work

If a permit to work is lost or destroyed, work will cease until a new permit to work is issued.
7.4.8.5 Responsibilities of the electrical operator when cancelling a permit to work

The electrical operator shall:
Permits to work shall be cancelled with System Control by an electrical operator.
7.5 Electrical apparatus out of commission
7 7.5.1 Declaring electrical apparatus out of commission

An out of commission written declaration identifying the apparatus and the points of disconnection
shall be submitted to System Control identifying associated control circuits, compressed air supplies,
etc.
7.5.2 Access to out of commission electrical apparatus

Electrical apparatus which is declared out of commission may be approached and worked upon without
the issue of an access authority. When not immediately obvious a confirmation of apparatus status shall
be sought from System Control.
Although the electrical apparatus is not electrically connected due regard shall be given to the
possibility of inadvertent energisation from other electrical apparatus, induction, lightning, static
charges, or other means.
7.6 High voltage (HV) operating sticks

HV operating sticks shall have a length which provides appropriate insulation from energised parts and
enables the worker using the stick to maintain the applicable safe approach distance, refer to Section 2
Approach to electrical apparatus at all times.
When an operating stick rated for the voltage concerned is to be used in wet conditions or on voltages
66kV or 132kV, consideration shall be given to the potential for hazardous surface leakage currents.
The operating stick shall have a minimum of 3 extensions when used for voltages of 66kV or 132kV.

7.7 Barriers and signs
7.7.1 General
Appropriate barriers shall be installed where necessary to indicate areas containing energised electrical
apparatus and the degree of hazard.
Appropriate signs shall be installed where necessary to identify:
a. electrical apparatus covered by an access authority; or
b. adjacent energised electrical apparatus and related hazard.
Barriers shall not be altered or crossed except by specifically authorised workers, refer to Clause 7.7.5
Barriers and signs for electrical access authorities.
7.7.2 Hazards which are likely to be life threatening

Situations where there is an immediate and probable risk of contact with energised electrical apparatus
shall be defined by the use of appropriate 'danger' barriers and/or signs. For example:
a. areas where safe approach distance cannot be maintained; or
b. areas in which HV testing is in progress.
7
7.7.3 Hazards which are not likely to be life threatening
For the purpose of general identification of those areas where warning is necessary, warning barriers
and/or signs shall be used for example between work areas and adjacent areas containing energised HV
electrical apparatus that do not present an electrical hazard to normal pedestrian movement.
7.7.4 Descriptions of barriers and signs

Energised sign
Approved danger sign having the word 'Energised' printed in white upon a red background or otherwise
conforming to Australian standards (refer Appendix B).
Danger barrier and/or sign

A barrier and/or sign of suitable material preferably coloured red and white, or alternatively red, to
indicate the presence of danger, or otherwise conforming to Australian standards (refer Appendix B).
Under sanction for testing sign

A danger sign of appropriate dimensions having the words 'Danger High Voltage Testing in Progress' printed
in red on a white background or otherwise conforming to Australian standards (refer Appendix B).
Warning barrier and/or sign

A barrier and/or sign of suitable material, preferably coloured yellow, or alternatively yellow and black,
to indicate the need for a warning, or otherwise conforming to Australian standards (refer Appendix B).
Yellow tape barrier

A barrier of suitable material, coloured yellow, to indicate a dividing line between energised electrical
apparatus and the electrical apparatus on which it is safe to perform work.

Figure 7.1 Examples and diagram illustrating correct entry to a safe work area

Bill Operator
456
0414 123
12/04 /2 016
Isolated
due to
fault
Figure 7.2 Examples of various HV apparatus which is taped and/or danger tagged
to control access to various parts of the apparatus

7.7.5 Barriers and signs for electrical access authorities

Prior to the issue of an electrical access authority, barriers and/or signs shall be erected where
practicable:
a. to make it clearly evident, which electrical apparatus is under an electrical access authority and
which is not; and
b. to guard against mistaken or inadvertent contact with other electrical apparatus.
Note: In particular instances where identification is positive, such as on some HV overhead lines and
underground cables, and providing appropriate safeguards have been taken, procedures may dispense
with the use of barriers and/or signs.
The above shall be achieved with the appropriate use of signs and/or barriers, including energised signs
and yellow tape barriers. In positioning signs and barriers consideration shall be given to all approaches
to the work area.
The yellow tape barriers are used to define a safe area for work. Yellow tape barriers are used to indicate
the dividing line between energised electrical apparatus and the electrical apparatus on which it is safe
to perform work. Only electrical operators shall erect and remove yellow tape barriers.
Additional barriers and signs may be erected after the issue of the electrical access authority by
7 agreement between the electrical operator and the recipient. The provision and positioning of barriers
shall take into account all likely and unlikely approaches to the work area.
Workers working in a yellow tape area shall not pass over, under or interfere with such tape.
After discussion with the recipient, other staff (supervisors or technical staff) may pass through the
tape, for the purposes of inspection of other electrical apparatus not directly associated with the work
under the access authority . When this occurs the recipient shall ensure the positioning of the tape
shall be maintained to safeguard the interests of others.
7.7.6 Barriers and signs for sanction for testing

Prior to the issue of a sanction for testing, barriers and signs shall be erected:
a. to make it clearly evident which electrical apparatus is under sanction for testing and which is
not; and
b. to guard against mistaken or inadvertent contact with other electrical apparatus, or equipment
under test.
The above shall be achieved with the use of appropriate signs and barriers including danger barriers,
energised signs and under sanction for testing signs. In positioning signs and barriers consideration
shall be given to all approaches to the work area.
The electrical operator issuing the sanction for testing shall erect the initial yellow tape barriers.
They are used to indicate the dividing line between energised electrical apparatus and the electrical
apparatus on which it is safe to perform work. Only electrical operators shall erect and remove yellow
tape barriers.
Danger barriers shall be used so as to indicate that equipment under sanction for testing presents an
immediate and probable risk of contact with energised electrical apparatus.
The tester in charge shall erect danger barriers and Danger High Voltage Testing in Progress signs after
the issue of the sanction for testing. The provision and positioning of barriers and signs shall take into
account all likely and unlikely approaches to the work area including remote locations for example
remote ends of cables under test.

Only workers who have signed onto the sanction for testing are permitted to enter the designated
test area.
In particular instances where identification is positive, such as on some HV overhead lines and
underground cables, and providing appropriate safeguards have been taken, procedures may dispense
with the use of barriers and/or signs.
7.8 Working on insulated network, service or supervisory

cables (SCADA)
7.8.1 Onsite identification of insulated cables (including out-of-

commission or abandoned cables)
Where it is necessary for a cable to be de-energised to enable access to the cable, the de-energised state
shall be confirmed onsite by positive identification or by the use of a spiking device.
Before working on cables remote from their exposed terminals it is essential that they be positively
identified in accordance with approved procedures (refer Appendix A). There is a requirement for issue
of an electrical access authority on a cable that has been isolated (not required if declared out of
commission or abandoned). 7
Methods approved for the identification of cables are:
a. tracing the cable visually throughout its entire length from one point of isolation where it can be
proved de-energised to the point where the work is to be carried out; or
b. use of a signal generator and sensing device at the worksite; or
c. by fault location tests, carried out on the cable, which produce a positive indication at the point
where the work will be done; or
d. by testing exposed cores at the worksite of damaged cables with an approved test and/or
continuity test; or
e. cable has been spiked at the worksite.
Labels or drawings shall not be relied upon as a positive means of identification of cables.
7.8.2 Situations where cables should not be spiked

Once identified and isolated, underground cables shall be proved de-energised by an approved spiking
or cutting device wherever practicable. Where it is not practical to spike or cut a cable such as:
a. a communications cable; or
b. sheath repairs on a power or service cable; or
c. an insulation repair where the cable is not to be cut; or
d. installation of a tee joint by approved methods.
Then the cable shall be identified either by:
a. visual tracing from a point of isolation; or
b. use of a signal generator and sensing device.

7.8.3 Spiking of cables

When a cable is to be identified and spiked by a power operated spiking device, the following measures
shall be taken:
a. an electrical access permit (only required as per Clause 7.2.1, 7.5.2, 9.5.2) is to be issued for cable
identification and spiking; where practicable the electrical condition of the remote ends of the
cable shall be confirmed as isolated and earthed; and
b. the relevant procedure shall be followed (refer Appendix A).
Note: Providing the earth screen of the HV cable is connected elsewhere to an established earth, the use
of an approved cable spiking device before contact is made with HV conductors satisfies the discharged
and/or earthed requirement of Clause 8.1 a. Access for work on or near high voltage electrical apparatus.
7.8.4 Working under induced voltage and transfer voltage conditions

Whenever work is to be carried out on a cable core, sheath, armouring, etc. of a fully insulated cable
system, careful assessment shall first be given to the voltage that may appear on the conductor via
induction or other means and appropriate earthing practices and work procedures adopted, refer to
Clause 6.8 Equipotential bonding.
de-energise place tags, locks

or Isolate or permits
verify isolation
advise relevant 3 4
parties 5
2
commence work
identify energy Isolation
6
1
sources
complete Restoration
7
check
12
work
operation
8
11
check
9
work 10 re-energise
clear
area remove tags,
locks or
permits
Figure 7.3 Isolation and restoration process

Check list prior to signing onto an access authority
Start Re-evaluation
complete
Yes
Can you identify the recipient for this job?

Yes
Have you received information from the recipient

on the work to be carried out on the conductors
and apparatus covered by this access authority?
Yes
7
Have all the appropriate isolations taken place?
Yes
Has the appropriate earthing and/or bonding

No
STOP!
been applied, if applicable? Ask your supervisor
Yes
and re-evaluate
Do you understand all the yellow taping, danger

tags and warning signs, if applicable?
Yes
Will all of your work be outside the safe approach

distance (SAD) for mains and apparatus not
covered by the access authority?
Yes
Do you fully understand the safety of work

for this job?
Yes
Access authorites used in these rules are:

Sign onto the access authority
7.2 electrical access permit
7.3 sanction for testing
7.4 permit to work.
Chart 7.1 Access authority sign-on checklist

Access Authority
Page 1 of
Access Authority Number: Switching Instruction Number: Access Authority Type: (mark 1 only with x)
Electrical Access Permit
Electrical Operator Name and Number: Telephone (mobile): Sanction for Testing
Permit to Work
This Access Authority has been issued in accordance with the ActewAGL Electrical Safety Rules for the following work:
Location:
Description of work:
Voltage Isolated at or towards:
P L E
AM
EX
Operational earths located at: Time Removed
Special provisions:
Low voltage parallels located at:
Issue of Access Authority: I hereby issue this Access Authority to the Authorised Recipient. I certify that the requirements of the ActewAGL
Electrical Safety Rules have been carried out and the isolation and operational earthing is as shown above.
Issuer Name: Signed: Date: Time:
Receipt of Access Authority: I hereby acknowledge by receiving this Access Authority that I fully understand my duties and the requirements of
the ActewAGL Electrical Safety Rules. I am aware of the nature and position of the apparatus and conductors covered by this Access Authority.
I fully understand that all apparatus and conductors other than those referred to above are to be treated as energised. I am satisfied that I, the
persons under my control and those authorised by me to work on the apparatus referred to shall be kept clear of all other energised apparatus
and conductors during the course of the work.
Authorised Recipient Name: Signed: Date: Time:
Telephone (mobile):
ActewAGL House 40 Bunda Street Canberra ACT 2600 I GPO Box 366 Canberra ACT 2601
t 13 14 93 I f 02 6249 7237 I actewagl.com.au
CCA0511/07
Yellow Copy: Access Authority (perforated) White copy: Electrical Operators
ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688 a partnership of Jemena Networks (ACT) Pty Ltd ABN 24 008 552 663 and Icon Distribution Investments Limited ABN 83 073 025 224
Figure 7.4 Blank Access Authority form as an Electrical Access Permit or Sanction for Testing or
Permit to Work

Working earths and low voltage bonding located at: Time Removed
Sign Onto the Access Authority: I hereby acknowledge having received instructions Sign Off the Access Authority: I hereby acknowledge
from the Authorised Recipient to carry out work on the apparatus and conductors having received instruction from the Authorised
referred to in this Access Authority and I am satisfied that I shall keep clear of any Recipient to discontinue work on the apparatus and
other energised apparatus or conductors in the course of the work. conductors referred to in this Access Authority and now
regard them as energised.
Name Signature Date Time Signature Date Time
P L E 7
AM
Transfer of Access Authority
oftransferas shown below
From (name):
Signature
EX
I hereby state that I have read and understood this Access Authority and I am taking responsibility as the AuthorisedRecipientfrom the time
Access Authority Type (mark type with x) Electrical Access Permit
Date Time
Sanction for Testing
To (name):
Signature Date Time
System Control notified:
Relinquishment of the Access Authority

I hereby state that all persons authorised by me to work under this Access Authority are now clear of the apparatus and conductors and all
working earths and LV bonding have been removed. I hereby relinquish the Access Authority and now acknowledge that the apparatus and
conductors must be treated as energised as per the ActewAGL Electrical Safety Rules.
If NO, state condition & advise the Electrical Operator/System Control:
Are the apparatus and conductors serviceable (circle)
& safe to re-energise? YES / NO
Authorised Recipient Name: Signature Date Time
Cancellation of the Access Authority with System Control

Electrical Operator Name: Signature Date Time
t 13 14 93 I f 02 6249 7237 I actewagl.com.au
CCA0511/07
ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688 a partnership of Jemena Networks (ACT) Pty Ltd ABN 24 008 552 663 and Icon Distribution Investments Limited ABN 83 073 025 224


8Section
DANGER
ACCESS FOR WORK ON

OR NEAR HIGH VOLTAGE
PRINCIPLE All high voltage (HV) electrical apparatus shall

be regarded as energised until:
1. isolated, tested and proved de-energised, earthed and short
circuited; and
2. an appropriate safe access system has been applied to
allow work to be carried out on or near the HV electrical
apparatus; and
3. job risk assessments are completed for the types of work to
be carried out on or near the HV electrical apparatus.
SECTION 8 Access for work on or near high voltage electrical apparatus
8.1 General
No worker shall touch the HV conductors of any electrical apparatus unless:
a. the worker has been acknowledged as an authorised recipient of an electrical access authority
or has signed onto an access authority covering that electrical apparatus and the HV conductors
have been discharged and/or earthed at the worksite, and the electrical access authority is
available for reference at the site of the work; or
b. the worker is a recipient of an electrical access authority covering the conductors of a HV cable
and the de-energised state of the cable at the worksite is confirmed in accordance with Clause 7.8
Working on insulated network, service or supervisory cables (SCADA), and the electrical access
authority is available for reference at the site of the work; or
c. in the case of a rackable circuit breaker or rackable voltage transformer, the electrical apparatus
is removed from its rack or cubicle position and placed in a designated maintenance position; or
d. the worker is working under the terms of a sanction for testing on that electrical apparatus; or
e. that electrical apparatus has been declared out of commission in accordance with Clause 7.5
Electrical apparatus out of commission; or
f. the worker is performing glove and barrier energised-line work in accordance with procedures
(refer Appendix A).

Access for work on high voltage electrical apparatus
Electrical operator Recipient
1. Isolate and Section 5 Operation of 4.1 Hazard identification,

4. Perform job
test electrical apparatus risk assessment and
risk assessment
control
8.6 Preparing high voltage
(HV) electrical apparatus
Section 7 Issue of access

5. Receive electrical authorities
access authority 7.2 Electrical access permit
and workers 7.3 Sanction for test
sign on 7.4 Permit to work
8 Section 6 Earthing
6. For work
7.8 Working on insulated
network, service or
on CABLES: supervisory cables
of high voltage (HV)
positively identify
electrical apparatus 6.4 Removal of earth
2. Install or visually trace
when working under an
operational
6.3 Earthing for access or spike
electrical access authority
to high voltage (HV)
earths electrical apparatus 7.8.3 Spiking of cables
6.8 Equipotential
bonding
Section 6 Earthing of high
voltage (HV) electrical
apparatus
7. Install working
Section 7 Issue of
earths 6.5 Working earths
access authorities
3. Issue electrical 6.8 Equipotential bonding
7.2 Electrical access
access authority permit
7.3 Sanction for test
7.4 Permit to work Section 10 Testing,
commissioning, and
7.7 Barriers and signs 8. Complete de-commissioning of
7.7.5 Barriers and signs work/task electrical apparatus
for electrical access
authorities
Continued on p77
Chart 8.1 General workflow for high voltage (HV) access

Access for work on high voltage electrical apparatus
Section 6 Earthing
9. Remove of high voltage (HV)
Continued from p76 working earths. electrical apparatus
6.4 Removal of earth
when working under
an electrical access
authority
Section 7 Issue of
10. Workers sign access authorities
off electrical access
authority 7.2.13, 7.3.10 and 7.4.8
Relinquishment
and cancellation of
an electrical access
authority 8
11. Relinquish Section 7 Issue of

access authorities
electrical access
authority 7.2.13.2 , 7.3.10.1 and
7.2.13.5 & 7.3.10.2 & 7.4.8.2
7.4.8.5 Responsibilities Responsibilities of
12. Cancel electrical the recipient when
when cancelling
access authority an electrical access relinquishing an
authority electrical access
authority
Section 6 Earthing of high

13. All earths
voltage electrical apparatus
confirmed removed
Section 8 Access for work or
near high voltage electrical
apparatus
14 Restore network Section 5 Operation of

End

8.2 Energised work high voltage (HV)
8.2.1 General
Clause 7.5 Electrical apparatus out of commission, is not applicable to the operation, washing or testing
of energised HV electrical apparatus.
Energised work should only be undertaken after first performing a switching needs assessment to
determine whether the work should be done under isolated and earthed conditions or whether the work
can be performed under energised conditions by appropriately trained, skilled and authorised workers.
The safe approach distances for glove and barrier workers are shown in Table 8.1 Safe approach distance
(mm) to energised conductors for authorised glove and barrier workers.
Before energised work is undertaken a risk assessment shall confirm that the work can be performed
safely.
Work on or near exposed energised HV conductors shall be performed by an authorised glove and barrier
worker using approved methods as detailed in Clause 8.2.4 Energised high voltage work methods and in
A written application using the work request form shall be completed for all pre-arranged live line
access requirements. All such applications shall be submitted to System Control.

Table 8.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to energised conductors for authorised glove and barrier
workers
11kV 33kV Stick Glove and barrier
Contact wearing gloves

Live line worker 400
and sleeves
Live line EWP insulated section 400 Contact with covers
Live line EWP and mobile plant un-insulated

1000 1000
section (to uninsulated conductor)
Live line EWP and mobile plant un-insulated
400 400
section (to insulated conductor)
Mobile plant load (for example pole) double insulated
where the load is insulated and the conductors are 400 Inadvertent contact
insulated
Insulated lifting equipment
Contact Inadvertent contact
(insulated to twice the voltage)
Un-insulated lifting equipment
400 400
(to insulated conductor)
Un-insulated lifting equipment
1000 1000
(to uninsulated conductor)
Phase-to-phase distance (distance to be maintained
450 450
8
between phases when moving conductors)
Tool insulation distance (hand sticks) 450 Contact
Notes:
1. When using an insulated elevating work platform (EWP) or insulated platform between circuits:
a minimum of 250mm clearance shall be maintained between the basket of the EWP and the
lower circuit, this includes aerial earths, catenary cable, pay television and any other conductive
mediums; or
when insulating barriers rated for the higher voltage are fitted to the lower circuit contact can be
made with the covers.
2. If EWPs are utilised for energised HV work:
when one is used only one phase at a time may be worked; or
when two EWPs are used two phases may be worked simultaneously provided a minimum
separation of 2m between the baskets and the booms of the EWPs is maintained; or
when two EWPs are used on the same phase the minimum separation of 2m is not required; or
no tools or equipment shall be passed between one basket and the other while working in this
close proximity. Care shall be taken to ensure that the work of one person does not compromise
the clearance for isolation of another.
3. Mobile plant being used shall be operated under the direction of an authorised live line worker.

8.2.2 Glove and barrier and/or stick work and access authority
Glove and barrier and/or stick work and work under an access authority shall not be performed
concurrently on a structure.
If it is necessary to change between glove and barrier and/or stick work and to work under an access
authority, a clear transition point shall exist. All workers shall be aware that the change process is
occurring and act accordingly.
At all times access authority isolations shall remain unchanged.
No glove and barrier and/or stick work shall be carried out concurrently at over/under crossings of
apparatus under access authority as the gap between the over/under crossing could be compromised.
8.2.3 Minimum Requirements for Live Line Work

The minimum requirements for undertaking live line work shall include:
a. the workers performing live line work, and the appointed safety observers, shall be authorised
Glove and Barrier workers; and
b. the appointment of a safety observer where their sole duty shall be to observe the work being
undertaken; and
c. that the workers performing live line work shall wear and use appropriate rated and tested
devices and PPE; and
8 d. the work shall be performed in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
When undertaking live line work, the job risk assessment shall consider as a minimum;
a. the condition of the electrical apparatus, for example the soundness of structures/conductors on
either side of the structure to be worked on or the integrity of the insulators; and
b. proximity of other electrical apparatus, for example potential second points of contact and drop
zone considerations; and
c. proximity of earthed equipment and structures; and
d. protection and control settings, for example auto reclose suppression; and
e. work environment, for examples heat, light or weather conditions; and
f. estimated conductor weights and loadings, both electrical and mechanical; and
g. working from multiple elevating work platforms (EWP).
8.2.4 Energised high voltage (HV) work methods
8.2.4.1 High voltage (HV) energised-line (hot stick) work

An authorised glove and barrier and/or stick worker may access energised HV conductors using
insulating sticks at the safe approach distances as shown in Table 8.1 Safe approach distance (mm) to
energised conductors for authorised glove and barrier workers.
8.2.4.2 Glove and barrier energised-line work

An authorised glove and barrier and/or stick worker may make insulated contact with a energised HV
conductor up to and including 33kV when fully insulated from earth and other phases using approved
and tested personal protective equipment and insulating devices.
Glove and barrier work shall never be performed directly from a structure.

8.3 Use and testing of operating and energised-line

equipment
All sticks, gloves, sleeves, mats, protective barriers or covers, earthing devices, insulating platforms,
insulated elevating work platforms or other equipment used for operating HV electrical apparatus or
performing energised-line work shall be specifically approved for the particular application.
Test intervals should not exceed 12 months. More frequent testing may be required depending on
usage and the work environment. Equipment shall be marked to show the date of the next routine test.
Equipment shall not be used after the marked test date until retested.
Gloves, sleeves, mats and protective barriers or covers used for operating HV electrical apparatus or for
performing glove and barrier work shall not be relied upon as the sole means of insulation. There shall
be at all times two forms of insulation.
8.4 Insulated sticks

Insulated sticks need not have a handle.
Insulated sticks shall have a length which provides appropriate insulation from energised parts and
enables the worker using the stick to maintain the applicable safe approach distance at all times. For HV
refer to Clause 8.2 Energised work high voltage (HV) and Table 8.1 Safe approach distance - glove and
barrier. 8
The live line stick shall have a minimum of 3 extensions when used for voltages of 66kV or 132kV.
8.5 Work on or near de-energised high voltage (HV)

Before work on or near de-energised HV electrical apparatus can begin, an electrical operator shall have
carried out all of the following in accordance with procedures:
a. clearly identified the HV electrical apparatus; and
b. isolated the electrical apparatus from all possible sources of supply; and
c. secured the isolation to prevent unauthorised operation by applying danger tags to all points of
isolation and applying approved locking devices if there is provision; and
d. proved de-energised the electrical apparatus if test equipment is used it shall be proved to be
in good working order immediately before and after use; and
e. install or directly supervise the installation of the operational earths and short circuited the
electrical apparatus; and
f. clearly identified the safe area for work; and
g. issued an electrical access authority.
Danger tags, which have been installed by the electrical operator, shall only be removed by an electrical
operator under direction from System Control.

8.6 Preparing high voltage (HV) electrical apparatus

for access
8.6.1 Isolation and earthing general

HV electrical apparatus should not be regarded as being safe for the issue of an access authority until it
has been isolated and operational earths applied. Isolation points shall be identified and danger tagged
and secured where possible by locks as described in procedures.
Consideration shall be given to the isolation of sources of supply from LV or secondary circuits including
generation sources (for example voltage transformers, transformer back-feeds, motor generator sets,
photovoltaic cells, lightning and induction).
Precautions such as isolating a source of supply through an open link switch or fuse link and applying a
danger tag shall be considered acceptable if application of bonders is not practicable or safe to do so.
For remote controlled electrical apparatus, workers shall satisfy themselves that the remote/local
switch is in the local position, or that the remote control has been made inoperative by other approved
means, before starting work on the electrical apparatus.
As appropriate remote-switching points should be danger tagged and/or SCADA tagged. These include
the System Control SCADA system and zone substation mimic panels.
Isolation for access shall either be visible, or an approved test made to confirm that the electrical
8 apparatus is de-energised. Such isolation may not eliminate the effects of electrical or magnetic
induction.
Earths shall be applied as described in Clause 6.3 Earthing for access to high voltage (HV) electrical
apparatus.
8.6.2 Isolation of high voltage (HV) electrical apparatus for access
8.6.2.1 General
Procedures for preparing access to HV electrical apparatus connected to substations with
interconnected LV shall be based on the following concepts:
a. where a substation is connected to HV electrical apparatus being made isolated and at earth
potential for access and the LV reticulation from that substation is capable of being energised by
direct switching or bridge connections, that LV reticulation or substation transformer shall be
considered as a source of supply; and
b. isolation of such LV reticulation or transformer is part of the access procedure and each isolation
shall be danger tagged and recorded on the access authority; and
c. two or more isolations in series do not remove the need for earthing or bonding.
d. bonding of conductors on the LV side of a substation is an acceptable option otherwise other
appropriate precautions need to be taken; and
e. if bonding is not practicable then other acceptable precautions are having an open link, switch or
fuse link and a danger tag applied.

8.6.2.2 Embedded generation

In order to protect workers against inadvertent back feed from embedded generating units or
alternative sources of energy such as photovoltaic cells, the following factors shall be considered whilst
planning for and preparing electrical apparatus for access:
a. the danger of activation of both HV and LV assets from temporarily connected motor-generator
sets or alternative sources of energy such as photovoltaic cells; or
b. embedded generating units may be connected at any time and at any place during the progress of
work; or
c. the impracticability of isolation to completely eliminate such a risk; or
d. the application of earths, short circuits and bonds, as appropriate on all sides of the work location
will minimise the effect of inadvertent back feeding.
Typical examples given in this clause might not cover all possible sources of supply such as back feeds.
Note: Only approved means of bonding is to be used where practicable and isolation of micro
photovoltaic cell (Class 1) installations is not required outside of the bonded worksite.
8.6.2.3 Isolation by non-withdrawable switch

Where the only means of isolating HV electrical apparatus from a source of supply is by a switch,
which cannot be withdrawn and in which the actual disconnection is not visible, the isolation shall be
regarded as satisfactory for the purpose of carrying out work provided that the switch position indicator
shows that the switch is in the earthed position and the switch is locked manually. Only an electrical 8
operator shall remove the locking device.
If the switch is a gas switch that does not have an earth position and cannot be locked in the open
position, the isolation shall be regarded as satisfactory for the purpose of carrying out work provided
that the switch position indicator shows that the switch is open and a set of operational earths is
installed immediately adjacent to the switch.
A switch that uses a vacuum interrupter alone is not an acceptable form of isolation.
Where the switch has a local/remote function then the remote function shall be disabled in accordance
with Clause 8.6.1 Isolation and earthing general.
8.6.2.4 Isolation for test purposes

Isolation of HV electrical apparatus by making the break in the circuit under oil, SF6 gas, vacuum or air
is not suitable for the application of HV for test purposes or for insulation resistance testing (> 2500V).
Nor is it a satisfactory form of isolation if work is to be carried out with the earth and short circuit
removed at this point of isolation. A second break in the electrical circuit, in different switching chamber,
is required. This is commonly referred to as a double break. The double break is required in separate
switchgear units.
Where isolation of HV electrical apparatus is to be provided for the application of HV for test purposes,
and such isolation requires the removal of switchgear panels to enable the connection of test leads to
the circuit to be tested, there shall be an earthed metal screen or barrier between the test circuit and
any energised busbars within that switchgear.

8.6.2.5 Isolation for cable termination work

Where cable termination work is to be performed on HV electrical apparatus, which requires the
removal of cable box panels, there shall be an earthed metal screen or barrier between the cable circuit
terminals and any energised busbars within that switchgear.
8.6.2.6 Apparatus without an earthed metal sheath

HV electrical apparatus which has been insulated with tape, rubber, plastic or other insulation, but
has not been covered with an earthed metal sheath or screen is not effectively insulated and shall be
treated as exposed.
There are some exceptions. Magnefix MD4 switchgear (Hazemeyer) and cable terminations covered with
approved (manufacturer supplied terminations) screens are considered to be effectively shielded.
8.6.3 High voltage (HV) metalclad switchgear and associated

For the purpose of issuing an access authority, a circuit breaker or a voltage transformer may be
regarded as isolated and at earth potential when it is racked out and appropriate precautions taken
to prevent reenergisation, refer to Clause 8.1 Access for work on or near high voltage (HV) electrical
apparatus.
For work on busbar circuits, where the physical separation of circuits within a chamber is not visibly
8 evident, additional precautions shall be taken for the safety of the workers.
The proposed means of access within metalclad chambers shall be described to the electrical operator
by the recipient and both shall agree on the extent of access and that such access is safe.
When access is required within spout bushings the contacts shall be confirmed as de-energised by an
approved test. The circuit shall also be earthed elsewhere or other precautions taken to ensure that the
spout contacts cannot become energised by induction or other means.
When it is not practicable to earth metal-clad circuits a risk assessment shall be conducted to
determine the special precautions, including discharging, to ensure that the conductors can be regarded
as isolated and earthed. The isolation and identification of the unearthed circuit shall be checked by
more than one electrical operator.
8.7 Suppression of auto-reclose on HV overhead feeders

The auto-reclose function on HV overhead feeders shall be suppressed:
a. when any HV switching operations are in progress; or
b. on total fire ban days; or
c. when glove and barrier and/or stick electrical workers are carrying out work on energised HV
electrical apparatus and/or conductors; or
d. when authorised tree surgeons are cutting vegetation in the vicinity of energised HV overhead
electrical apparatus and/or conductors in accordance with Clause 2.2.4 Safe approach distance-
vegetation clearing general.

9Section
ACCESS TO LOW VOLTAGE

PRINCIPLE All low voltage (LV) electrical apparatus shall

be regarded as energised until:
1. isolated, tested and proved de-energised; and
2. appropriate safe procedures of work are established for work
on the LV electrical apparatus; and
3. job risk assessments are completed for the types of work to
be carried out on or near the LV electrical apparatus.
SECTION 9 Access to low voltage electrical apparatus
9.1 General
Workers required to work on or near LV electrical apparatus shall be appropriately trained and
authorised as detailed in Clause 3.9 Authority to work on energised low voltage (LV) electrical apparatus,
and Clause 3.13 Perform rescue.
System Control should be informed of all work intended on the LV electricity network both energised
and de-energised.
Prior to a LV switching operation the available information regarding circuit conditions shall be taken
into account and no electrical apparatus shall be operated if it is inappropriate for the duty to be
performed.
After switching, correct operation of the electrical apparatus should be confirmed whenever possible.
All conductors shall be assumed to be energised until tested by the worker who is conducting the work,
to prove that they are not energised before contact is made with them. (This includes new conductors
which have apparently never been energised).
Network and service cables that have a fault identified are to be de-energised and danger tagged until
repaired.
9.2 Temporary supply of electricity

All connections to obtain temporary LV supply shall be made only through approved devices issued for
the purpose.

Access for work on low voltage electrical apparatus
9.3 Work on or near 4. Perform job 4.1 Hazard identification,

1. Isolate
energised low voltage (LV) risk assessment risk assessment and
conductors control
9.5 Work on de-energised
low voltage (LV) electrical
apparatus Section 7 Issue of access
5. Receive electrical
authorities
access authority
7.2 Electrical access
9.5.3 Preparation of authority
2. Test and prove apparatus for access to 7.3 Sanction for test
de-energised electricity networks
7.4 Permit to work
6. For work
7.8 Working on insulated
on CABLES: network, service or
Section 7 Issue of Positively identify
access authorities supervisory cables
3. Issue electrical or visually trace
access authority 7.2 Electrical access or spike 7.8.3 Spiking of cables
9 authorities
7.3 Sanction for test
7.4 Permit to work
7.7 Barriers and signs
7.7.5 Barriers and signs 7. Install LV 9.5.4 Bonding
for electrical access bonders
authorities
Section 10 Testing,
8. Complete
commissioning and
work/task decommissioning
9. Remove LV 9.5.4 Bonding

bonders
Continued on p87
Chart 9.1 General workflow for low voltage (LV) access

Access for work on low voltage electrical apparatus
Section 7 Issue of access

10. Workers sign authorities
Continued from p86 off electrical
7.2.13 & 7.3.10 & 7.4.8
access authority Relinquishment and
cancellation of an
11. Relinquish Section 7 Issue of access

electrical access authorities
authority
7.2.13.2 & 7.3.10.1 &
7.4.8.2 Responsibilities
of the recipient when
Section 7 Issue of access relinquishing an electrical
12. Cancel authorities access authority
electrical access
authority Section 9 Access for work
on or near low voltage (LV)
9
7.2.13.5 & 7.3.10.2 &
13. All earths and 7.4.8.5 Responsibilities
bonds removed when cancelling an
14. Restore Section 9 Access for work

network on or near low voltage (LV)
End

9.3 Work on or near energised low voltage (LV) conductors
9.3.1 General
When work is to be carried out on or near energised LV electrical apparatus, approved precautions
or energised working techniques shall be taken to prevent simultaneous contact with conductors or
conducting objects at different potential unless the conductors are de-energised.
Energised work should only be undertaken after first performing a switching needs assessment to
determine whether the work should be done under isolated conditions or whether the work can be
performed under energised conditions by appropriately trained, skilled and authorised workers in
Before working on or near energised LV conductors, a risk assessment shall be conducted to assist in the
identification and control of hazards to ensure that the work can be performed safely.
The risk assessment shall consider as a minimum:
a. the condition of the electrical apparatus, for example the soundness of structures, conductors
and insulators; and
b. proximity of other electrical apparatus, for example potential second points of contact; and
c. proximity of earthed equipment and structures including communications cables/catenary,
equipment and carriers, pillars and pits, public lighting and fittings; and
d. work environment for example heat, light, weather conditions; and
e. use of appropriately rated apparel and equipment; and
9 f. the use of insulated barriers, mats and covers.

When insulating gloves are required, they shall be worn on both hands with mechanical protection
(outer gloves) and visually inspected prior to each use to ensure the integrity of the glove, for example
checking for small holes that compromise the integrity of the glove and such the safety of the worker.
In wet weather conditions leakage currents may flow in equipment and structures supporting energised
LV circuits. Insulating gloves and other suitable personal protective clothing shall be used when working
on, or within reach, of such equipment and structures.
Each worker shall ensure that they are aware of the:
a. requirements of the work instruction; and
b. work to be done by the workers; and
c. work they are to perform; and
d. PPE, tools and equipment; and
e. precautions to be taken; and
f. work method/s to be used.
A safety observer shall be used when a worker is working on or near energised exposed LV electrical
apparatus in accordance with Clause 4.9 Use of safety observers. For exceptions to this refer to Clause
4.10 Working alone or without a safety observer.

9.3.2 Insulation/covering of conductive and earthed structures

All conductive and earthed structures/objects within reach, including exposed conductors (except the
conductor being worked on), shall be shielded by approved covers.
Conductive and earthed structures/objects include:
a. conductive poles for example concrete, steel and stobie poles; and
b. installed earthing metal components on wooden poles; and
c. stays, operating pipes, earthing down leads; and
d. catenary wires of communications cables; and
e. streetlight conductors and switch circuits, streetlight fittings and brackets; and
f. fittings in mini-pillars/link-pillars or underground pillars and pits; and
g. POAs/POEs and riser brackets.
Actions to be considered are:
a. without requiring a deliberate movement or over reach; or
b. by accident; or
c. while changing position; or
d. while making movements in the ordinary course of work; or
e. while fastening or unfastening a body belt/harness.
Approved covers include electrical workers rubber mats and other tested insulating devices. Covers
shall be used liberally, secured in place and repositioned as necessary throughout the job.
When workers need to pass between energised LV conductors spaced less than 1200mm apart, the 9
conductors shall be insulated (either permanently or temporarily) whenever they are in reach.
Where it is very difficult to cover any conductor or conducting object (for example in mini-pillars, link-
pillars, underground pillars or pits), the person in control of the work may decide that it is impracticable.
In this case, special precautions shall be taken to prevent contact with the conductor or object by the
use of barriers or with deliberately restrained movements.
LV electrical apparatus covered by tape, rubber, plastic or fabric, including cables and service wires
exposed to ultra violet (UV) deterioration, shall be regarded as exposed conductor.
9.4 Notification of work on de-energised low voltage (LV)

Before making an application for planned LV access the person in control of the work shall establish
that the proposed work has been properly planned and can be carried out safely. Consideration shall be
given to:
a. work method; and
b. work environment; and
c. the skills and authorisations of the workers; and
d. how to energise and test after completion of work.
The electrical apparatus to be covered and its location shall be accurately defined, and the work to be

9.5 Work on de-energised low voltage (LV) electrical

apparatus
9.5.1 General
Where work is to be done on LV electrical apparatus under de-energised conditions an Electrical Access
Authority shall be issued.
All LV service conductors less than or equal to 50mm2 and not requiring isolation of LV mains, shall be
excluded from the requirement for an Electrical Access Authority. Refer to Clause 9.5.2 Access to Services.
Notification of work should still be required to System Control prior and at completion of work.
When connecting de-energised electrical apparatus, including connection to customers services,
to a energised LV source of supply, the final connections to be made shall be to the source of supply.
When disconnection is being made, the connections at the source of supply shall be disconnected first.
The neutral conductor shall be connected first and disconnected last.
All LV uninsulated conductors and electrical apparatus shall be regarded as energised until isolated, tested
and proved de-energised by electrical workers using approved testing devices before commencement of
work.
LV bonders shall be applied where practicable by the recipient or by authorised workers under their
supervision in accordance with Clause 9.5.4 Low voltage (LV) bonding.

Network
Low voltage (LV) boundary
network
50mm2 or less overhead service
Electrical access authority not required

SM4605
50mm2 or less underground service
High voltage (HV)
network
Larger (greater than 50mm2) service
Electrical access authority required

Distribution
substation Low voltage (LV) mains
An electrical access authority
shall be issued when working
on or near de-energised LV 50mm2 service with
electrical apparatus. Pole mounted
no fuse, isolation
Exclusion: All LV service protection
of LV mains
conductors less than or equal required, electrical
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED

to 50mm2 and not requiring Teed service access authority
Underground Overhead
isolation of LV mains shall required.
service service
be excluded from the
requirements for an electrical
access authority.
Network
boundary
Figure 9.1 Low voltage (LV) network topography and permit requirements
BLUE BOOK 2016

91
9
Access for work on services
Section 9 Access to low voltage

Check location (LV) electrical apparatus
and work task to
be performed
An electrical access
9.5 Work on de-
Is service less authority is required.
Go to LV energised low voltage
than or equal to No Submit a work request access electrical apparatus
50mm2? and perform as per LV process
access procedure
Yes
Is isolation of LV Yes
mains required?
No
4.1 Hazard identification, risk assessment and control

Perform job risk
assessment. Call 9 Access to low voltage (LV) electrical apparatus
System Control
10.1 Correct supply, polarity and rotation
9
9.5.2 Access to services
Isolate and danger tag
4.17 Danger tags
For work on cables use 9.5.2 Access to services

a signal generator, or
use cable ID procedure 7.8 Working on insulated network, service or supervisory cables
9.5.3 Preparation of apparatus for access to electricity networks

Perform work task
10.1 Correct supply polarity and rotation

Restore
10.6 Procedure prior to making apparatus energised for service
Notify System Control

job complete
End
Chart 9.2 General workflow for service access

9.5.2 Access to services

Where work is to be performed on services and an electrical access authority is not required, the point of
isolation shall be danger tagged or appropriately flagged.
Service cable identification may be performed by use of a signal generator or other approved test as
described in Clause 7.8 Working on insulated power, service or supervisory cables (SCADA).
9.5.3 Preparation of Apparatus for Access to Electricity Networks

Before work on or near de-energised LV electrical apparatus can begin, an electrical operator shall have
carried out all of the following in accordance with procedures:
a. clearly identified the LV electrical apparatus; and
b. isolated the electrical apparatus from all possible sources of supply, including embedded
generating units and customer power factor correction capacitors. Isolation of micro photo
voltaic cells (Class 1) installations is not required outside of the bonded worksite; and
c. secured the isolation to prevent unauthorised operation by applying danger tags to all points of
isolation and applying approved locking devices where practicable; and
d. tested and proved that the electrical apparatus is de-energised; and
e. clearly identified the safe work area using appropriate barriers and/or signs, refer to Clause 7.7
Barriers and Signs; and
f. issued an electrical access authority.
Danger tags, which have been installed by an Electrical Operator, shall only be removed by an Electrical
Operator under direction from System Control.
The procedure for Access Authorities for work or testing on LV electrical apparatus shall be as detailed 9
in Clause 7.2 Electrical Access Permit and Clause 7.3 Sanction for Testing.
The principles outlined in Clause 7.5 Electrical Apparatus Out of Commission, and Clause 7.7 Barriers
and Signs also apply to LV work.
Electrical apparatus shall be tested and proved de-energised by means of an approved testing device.
The test equipment shall be proved to be in good working order immediately before and after use.
When newly constructed conductors reach a state whereby they are electrically connected, access to
those conductors shall only be under an Electrical Access Permit or applying approved energised LV
De-energised LV cables shall be identified at the worksite and proved de-energised in accordance with
procedures, refer to Clause 7.8 Working on insulated power, service or supervisory cables (SCADA).
Precautions against induced and transfer voltages shall be in accordance with Clause 7.8.4 Working
under induced voltage and transfer voltage conditions.
9.5.4 Low voltage (LV) bonding

Consideration shall be given to protection from other sources of supply such as embedded generating
units, photovoltaic cells, lightning, induction etc.
Where practicable, the application of bonders at the worksite will minimise the effect of inadvertent
energisation from alternative energy sources. Only approved means of bonding shall be used in

Before a worker makes contact with bare conductors of the electricity network, which have been isolated
for the purpose of facilitating work under de-energised conditions, they shall complete a safe to touch
test and where practicable, the conductors (all phases plus neutral) shall first be bonded at the worksite
in accordance with approved procedures (refer Appendix A).
Where practicable, the bonders should be applied as part of the access authority. Either the electrical
operator or the workers can apply the initial bond. The recipient of the access authority shall ensure
that all bonders are removed before relinquishment of the access authority in accordance with
If bonding is impracticable the risk shall be assessed, and other precautions as having an open link
switch or fuse link, applying a danger tag as well as testing shall be taken as necessary. The recipient
shall advise the authorised workers of the absence of bonders and any precautions taken shall be
documented on the electrical access authority and risk assessment.
due
Isolated
to fault
Bill Op
erat
or
0414
123
456
31/
04/
20 16
Figure 9.2 Examples of LV earthing or bonding

10 Section
TESTING,
COMMISSIONING AND
DECOMMISSIONING
PRINCIPLE Electrical apparatus shall not be placed into

service until it has been cleared for service.
SECTION 10 Testing, commissioning and decommissioning electrical apparatus
10.1 Correct supply, polarity, and rotation

Before an installation neutral is connected to the electricity network supply neutral, both shall be
identified and confirmed by test.
Electrical apparatus and/or conductors shall be visually identified before connections to the supply
system are made. Service polarity, phase rotation and neutral continuity testing shall be carried out
in accordance with prescribed procedures (refer Appendix A), to ensure that the conductors have been
correctly identified and connected.
The hazards of a transposed active and neutral supply connection (for example reversed polarity) and/
or a high impedance supply neutral will cause the installation neutral and earthing system, including
earthed metal parts of equipment to become energised.
10.2 Use of testing devices
10.2.1 Tong or clip-on testing devices

Tong or clip-on testing devices are generally used on LV conductors.
Specially designed tong testing devices provided for the purpose may be used on exposed HV electrical
apparatus.
In either case a worker shall not use tong or clip-on testing devices unless they have been instructed in
the precautions which shall be observed in their use. If possible the testing devices shall be applied to
the conductors where insulated parts exist rather than to an exposed part of the conductor.
In particular the worker shall:
a. not regard the insulation on the handles of the testing device as sufficient protection, and other
precautions, such as the use of insulating gloves and/or mats as applicable, shall be taken where
it is necessary to apply the testing device to an exposed conductor; and 10
b. when the testing device is applied to an exposed conductor, take care to prevent the testing
device from making contact with other exposed conductors or conducting materials. Suitable
insulating screens shall be used where necessary.
10.2.2 Application of test voltages
10.2.2.1 Voltage less than 2500V
Services
Application of test voltages on services can be conducted without an access authority on condition that
the worker shall neither use insulation resistance testing on, nor apply low voltages for test purposes
to, any electrical apparatus unless they have warned all workers working on the electrical apparatus of
the proposed test. They shall have received assurances that everyone will stand clear of such electrical
apparatus during the test. On completion of the test the electrical apparatus shall be discharged.

Electricity network
Application of test voltages on electrical apparatus shall require an electrical access permit unless the
apparatus is out of commission.
A recipient of the electrical access permit shall neither use insulation resistance testing on, nor apply
low voltages for test purposes to, any electrical apparatus unless they have warned all workers working
on the electrical apparatus of the proposed test. They shall have received assurances that everyone
will stand clear of such electrical apparatus during the test. On completion of the test the electrical
apparatus shall be discharged.
10.2.2.2 Voltage greater than 2500V
Electricity network and services

Application of test voltages >2500V shall require a sanction for testing authority unless the apparatus
is out of commission or the service conductors are less than or equal to 50mm2 and not requiring
isolation of LV mains, refer to Clause 9.5 Work on de-energised low voltage (LV) electrical apparatus.
The tester in charge of test voltages >2500V shall have staff stand-by at any part of the electrical
apparatus that is exposed, and shall have warning notices displayed where such electrical apparatus
could be exposed. They shall have received assurances that everyone will stand clear of such electrical
apparatus during the test. On completion of the test the electrical apparatus shall be discharged and
earthed.
Isolation for tests >2500V including cable fault location and insulation resistance testing shall not be
regarded as satisfactory in reliance upon a single break under oil, air, gas or vacuum, refer to Clause
8.6.2.4 Isolation for test purposes.
Note: Application of test voltages on electrical apparatus not electrically connected to the electricity
network, for example in a workshop or a yard environment, can be completed without an access
authority but the person in control shall ensure that barriers are installed, warning notices are
10 displayed and shall have received assurances that everyone will stand clear of such electrical apparatus
during the test and on completion the electrical apparatus is discharged.
10.3 Clearance for service

System Control shall not consider new or changed electrical apparatus, or electrical apparatus
previously out of commission, as being available for service until it has been handed over from the
constructing or maintaining authority by written notification or by other appropriate procedure.
The appropriate notification to System Control shall be by means of the Electrical Network Alteration
Advice (ENAA) form.
In cases of electrical apparatus replacing like apparatus at the same location, the appropriate procedure
for handing over from the constructing or maintaining authority shall include oral advice to System
Control. Associated with advice to System Control shall be the completion of, and reporting on,
approved pre-activation, pre-service tests and commissioning tests.

10.4 Connections to electrical apparatus

Before any electrical connection is made whereby new electrical apparatus, any changed electrical
apparatus, or any electrical apparatus previously out of commission can be made energised, either by
direct switching or by energising other electrical apparatus, the person in control of the work shall:
a. notify System Control of the intention to make such connection; and
b. warn all workers associated with the work, and any others likely to be affected, that no further
work on the electrical apparatus is permitted unless they are signed onto an electrical access
permit or a sanction for testing covering the electrical apparatus; and
c. arrange for the issue of an electrical access permit or sanction for testing on the appropriate
electrical apparatus to enable the connection to be made.
10.5 Work on pilot cables

Workers working on pilot cables shall be insulated to 15kV isolation from the local earth, within zone
substations.
Cable repair work of pilot cables shall proceed treating them as energised LV until all cores being
worked on are proved de-energised at the worksite. Precautions against induced and transfer voltages
shall be in accordance with Clause 7.8.4 Working under induced voltage and transfer voltage conditions.
10.6 Prior to making apparatus energised for service

Before making any electrical apparatus energised, System Control through the electrical operator or
submitted documentation shall ensure that:
a. in case of new electrical apparatus, all the necessary Electrical Network Alteration Advice forms
are in the possession of System Control and the electrical operator; and 10
b. any electrical access authority, or other document restricting the electrical apparatus to a de-
energised state have been cancelled; and
c. the results of any pre-activation tests required to be carried out on the electrical apparatus (for
example earth test, insulation resistance test, rotation/phasing) are satisfactory and recorded;
and
d. all new cables, or cables associated with fault conditions, or cables out of service for more
than one week shall be insulation resistance tested prior to energisation in accordance with
procedures (refer Appendix A); and
e. all new or repaired HV cables between the zone substation and the first switching point shall be
HV tested prior to energisation; and
f. all earths are removed; and
g. a visual inspection shows that to all appearance the electrical apparatus is ready for service; and
h. the labelling and numbering of all the electrical apparatus to be energised has been completed;
and

i. the network configuration (for example HV feeder circuits, substation transformers, LV circuits)
are isolated to prevent unintentional energisation of electrical apparatus and switching points
are open to allow progressive and stage energisation of circuits (for example not to energise an
entire suburb development with one operation); and
j. warning energised signs are attached to electrical apparatus where appropriate; and
k. backfilling or appropriate fencing with a minimum of sand covering of cable joints is completed
prior to energisation.
10

11 Section
WORK IN ELECTRICAL
STATIONS
PRINCIPLE On entry or exit to any electrical station all

workers shall adhere to correct entry and safe working practices
in the electrical station.
SECTION 11 Work in electrical stations
11.1 Entry of electrical stations

No worker shall enter an electrical station or enclosure containing HV electrical apparatus unless:
a. the worker is authorised to enter electrical stations; or
b. the worker is an instructed person who has undertaken a worksite induction to work in the
electrical station; or
c. an ordinary person is accompanied by a authorised worker to enter electrical stations. The
ordinary person shall strictly obey all instructions given by the authorised worker; and
d. all persons and/or workers are aware of the hazard, risks and controls for the electrical station,
including safe approach distances. All persons shall make themselves aware of any emergency
procedures, warning signs or other relevant information that is displayed in the electrical station;
and
e. all persons and/or workers shall sign onto a risk assessment and follow the conditions of any
access authority. All consideration shall be made to any special requirements of indoor, basement
and underground stations.
When entering electrical stations where alternative exits are provided, the authorised or electrical
worker shall ensure that these alternative exits can easily be opened and that there is no obstruction to
free exit.
Upon entering and leaving a zone substation, System Control shall be notified by an authorised or
electrical worker and they shall ensure that all vehicle and entrance gates and doors are closed after
them.
All workers upon entering and while inside an electrical station or any other building or enclosure
containing HV electrical apparatus shall wear protective clothing appropriate to the work being
conducted, as detailed in Clause 4.2 Personal protective equipment.
All workers shall ensure that all doors and gates are secured upon exit.
11.2 General working practices

The following work practices shall be followed when working in electrical stations: 11
a. doors, panels or covers enclosing energised equipment shall be kept closed except when work is
being performed inside that enclosure and that the correct item of electrical apparatus is located
and identified; and
b. materials shall not be allowed to block points of egress, doorways, obstruct passageways,
hinder normal operations, work, or access to fire extinguishers, deluge showers, first aid kits, and
telephones, and control switches or any operating equipment; and
c. long objects such as ladders, conduits, earthing rods, portable earthing devices etc, shall be
handled with care in the vicinity of energised exposed conductors. Where practicable, long objects
shall be carried by two people, holding the objects below shoulder height in a horizontal position
and as close as practical to the ends of the object, so as to maintain maximum control; and
d. when mobile plant is being used within the confines of an electrical station and is likely to come
within less than twice the safe approach distances specified in Table 2.2 Safe approach distance
(mm) to energised conductors for vehicles and mobile plant, or when the plant is carrying out
excavation work, then the mobile plant shall be fitted with a trailing earth cable attached to a
suitable connection point and connected to the earth grid of the electrical station that is capable
of carrying the maximum prospective earth fault current in that station, refer to Clause 2.3.1 Use
of mobile plant.
e. excavation within an electrical station shall not be commenced until the location of all
underground cables, earthing conductors, ducts, conduits, pits or other underground
infrastructure in the vicinity of the proposed excavation have been positively identified and
marked; and
f. the integrity of any earthing conductors or other earthing system shall be maintained during any
excavation by bonding or other acceptable means; and
g. in the event that a circuit breaker is inadvertently tripped, the network operator should be
immediately notified. No attempt shall be made to operate the tripped circuit breaker without
approval from the System Control; and
h. climbing of structures to gain access to equipment which is under access authority conditions is
not permitted. Appropriate ladders, elevating work platforms, scaffolding and or other approved
work platforms shall be used; and
i. where work is to be carried out on or near HV electrical station busbars, a minimum, of one set of
earthing and short-circuiting equipment shall be applied directly to the de-energised busbar or
bus section that is being worked on. When the busbar or bus section is divided into sections, each
section shall be short-circuited and earthed before being divided.
11
Figure 11.1 Example of operational earths in zone substation

11.3 Hazards within electrical stations

Persons entering electrical stations shall make themselves aware of any special hazards that exist
and place into effect reasonable control measures to manage those hazards. Protective devices or
interlock systems shall not be interfered with, bypassed or made inoperative except in accordance with
11.3.1 Electrical conductors

Low voltage (LV) Persons working on or near LV panels, instrument transformer secondaries and
panel wiring shall treat them as LV exposed conductors unless contact is prevented by a barrier of rigid
material or they are covered by insulation in sound condition and of adequate rating for the voltage
concerned, in accordance with relevant Australian standards (refer Appendix B).
High voltage (HV) All electrical stations shall be designed, constructed and maintained, to ensure that
energised exposed electrical conductors maintain both statutory and design clearances in accordance
with relevant Australian standards (refer Appendix B).
Extra Low Voltage (ELV) When work is carried out in close proximity to ELV, where there is a risk of
harmful arcing, electric shock, burns, fire or explosion, appropriate controls shall be implemented such
as isolation and or the use of insulating tools or barriers.
11.3.2 Electrical induction

Suitable precautions shall be taken by persons to avoid the dangers of induction when carrying out
work on isolated electrical apparatus that is located near energised conductors. Additional working
earths, short circuits and bonds shall be applied where necessary to ensure equipotential conditions
are maintained under all conditions.
11.3.3 Earth potential rise

Equipment that may be subjected to earth potential rise shall be insulated, isolated, bonded, or other
approved measures taken to reduce the risk to a satisfactory level.
11
11.3.4 Chemical hazards
Where chemical hazards exist, signs (either temporary or permanent) shall be erected warning of the
dangers present. Instructions for persons responding to the hazards shall be prominently displayed.
Extreme care shall be exercised to reduce the possibility of injury occurring following the decomposition
of products which may occur as a result of faults and explosions or from the residues of chemicals, such as
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6).
11.3.5 Confined spaces

When an area within an electrical station has been identified as a confined space approved work
procedures shall be followed (refer Appendix A). When working in a confined space the risk of injuries
may increase as a result of exposure to HV from cable sheaths, earthing systems, the close proximity to
moving parts on switchgear and the possibility of engulfment due to release of SF6 or other gases.

11.3.6 Stored energy

Equipment prepared for work which is capable of storing some form of energy, such as circuit breaker
operating mechanisms, shall be fully discharged or otherwise disabled in a manner approved prior to
work commencing unless otherwise specifically requested by the workers.
Gas cylinders shall be transported and secured upright to prevent rocketing.
Where capacitors or capacitive charge may exist, work shall not commence until the equipment has
been isolated, earthed and short-circuited and the equipment should be regarded as energised until
discharged in accordance with approved procedures (refer Appendix A).
11.3.7 Battery Rooms

A worker working in the battery room of a zone substation, or on batteries in a distribution substation
shall be appropriately trained and instructed, wear approved protective clothing, including safety
glasses and always work in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
Because of the hazards associated with batteries and the potential risk of explosion, smoking or the use
of an exposed flame in a battery room, or any enclosure where vented batteries are installed, is strictly
prohibited. Persons working in battery rooms shall ensure that the rooms are adequately ventilated by
means of the natural or forced ventilation if provided.
Battery leads shall not be connected/disconnected as this may generate sparks. Leads shall be
disconnected only when no current is flowing in the battery circuit. Connections should not be made
if they result in current flow (i.e. operating isolating devices in first instance). Precautions shall be in
place to ensure that arcing caused by the sparking caused by power tools or by short circuiting with
conductive materials such as tools and jewellery does not occur.
Only insulated tools shall be used on batteries.
Eye wash facilities shall be provided in the immediate vicinity of battery rooms where a voltage greater
than 60V DC are part of an electrical station.
11.3.8 Pilot, signalling, telephone and optic cables

11 When working on any signalling type cable, all workers shall make use of the insulation provided by
wooden cubicles, insulating barriers or screens, isolating transformers or other isolating devices.
Work on protection equipment connected to overhead pilot cables may be carried out with the overhead
HV mains energised provided that the protection equipment is electrically isolated from the overhead
pilots by isolating transformers, interposing relays or other suitable devices.
Before jointing work is carried out on either overhead or underground pilot cables, they should first be
disconnected from all sources of supply. In all cases work shall proceed on pilot cables treating them as
energised LV apparatus.
When work is required to be carried out on pilot cable end terminations (except as specified above), this
may be done with other cores of the pilot cable energised at normal operating potential, provided that
all precautions are taken as for energised LV work until the cores or terminals being worked on have
been identified and proved de-energised. All cores or terminals that are not to be worked on shall be
treated as though they are energised.
All fibre optic cables shall be treated as active and bare ends should not be viewed directly unless it can
be confirmed that the fibre is not connected. Further precautions should be taken to avoid exposure
from glass fibre splinters entering body. Fusion splicers use an electric arc to make splices and should
not be used around flammable gases or where explosive gases could accumulate.

11.3.9 Current and voltage circuits

Before working on the secondary circuits of current transformers including protection and revenue
metering, the worker shall ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to prove that secondary
conductors are at earth potential and to prevent an open circuited secondary situation.
Before working on voltage circuits and where practicable, the circuit shall be isolated by removing the
fuse cartridges for permanently fused voltage circuits or opening the voltage links in the test block.
Testing to prove de-energised shall be conducted before commencing work.
11.3.10 Voltage and auxiliary transformers

Before working on voltage transformers, other than draw out type transformers, isolation, earthing and
short-circuiting of the HV windings and isolation of all secondary windings of the voltage transformers
shall be carried out where practicable.
If the HV conductors to which the voltage and auxiliary transformers are connected is isolated, earthed
and short circuited, the voltage transformer may remain connected to the HV conductors provided that
the LV windings are isolated and danger tagged.
For capacitive voltage transformers or similar equipment, do not apply earths immediately after
isolation. Allow a minimum period of 5 minutes to discharge before applying any earths.
11.3.11 Fire protection systems

When persons are carrying out work in electrical stations with fixed fire protection systems, suitable
control measures shall be taken to ensure the safety of workers and equipment. Precautions may
include the isolation, or the making non-auto of fire detection and extinguishing systems.
Persons should also check for the existence of remote fire control gas injection systems (such as bulk
injection carbon dioxide) to ensure that operation cannot occur during occupancy.
On exiting an electrical station, fire detection and extinguishing systems made non-auto prior to work
commencing, shall be reset for normal automatic operation.
11
Figure 11.2 Example of vehicle earthing in a zone substation

11

12 Section
METERING
PRINCIPLE For work on metering installations, workers

shall be appropriately trained or authorised. The basic safe
working principles set out in Section 9 Access to low voltage
electrical apparatus apply.
SECTION 12 Metering
12.1 General
A risk assessment shall be conducted to assist in the identification and control of hazards to ensure that
the work can be performed safely.
The risk assessment shall consider as a minimum the:
a. condition of the electrical apparatus, for example wiring, meters and terminals; and
b. proximity of other electrical apparatus, for example potential second points of contact; and
c. proximity of earthed equipment and structures; and
d. work environment, for example heat, light, weather conditions; and
e. use of personal protective apparel and insulated tools; and
f. use of insulated barriers and covers.
Subject to the outcomes of the risk assessment and procedures, revenue metering activities may be
performed by workers working alone.
12.2 Metering new installations

Before proceeding with such work, the worker shall test all components of the installation to be worked
on to prove that they are not energised and make the work area secure by isolating at the service fuse,
locking off switches or providing other physical breaks as appropriate in accordance with procedures
(refer Appendix A).
12.3 Metering changes to existing installations

Only authorised workers shall change metering equipment.
When work is to be done, the worker shall isolate in an approved manner, test the conductors to
prove that they are not energised and make the work area secure by isolating at the service fuse, locking
off switches or applying other physical breaks as appropriate.
12.4 Metering work on energised equipment

12
Only authorised workers are permitted to work on energised metering equipment for testing or
investigative purposes. Test equipment shall only be connected/disconnected from energised metering
equipment terminals when it can be done safely and the actions of connection/disconnection do not
involve the making or breaking of customer load.
Workers about to work on or within reach of energised circuits shall:
a. be appropriately trained and authorised for the purpose of work; and
b. undertake a hazard identification and risk assessment; and
c. use appropriate PPE including insulating gloves; and
d. only use insulated tools; and
e. apply an approved insulating sheath over any exposed conductor that is removed from its
terminal.

SECTION 12 Metering
12.5 Metering work on transformer operated equipment

Work on transformer operational equipment shall be performed by authorised workers only.
12.5.1 Earthed secondary system
12.5.1.1 Current circuits

This applies to all current transformer circuits, including protection and revenue metering.
Before working on the secondary circuits of current transformers, the worker shall ensure that all
necessary precautions are taken:
a. by undertaking a hazard identification and risk assessment having regard to the surrounding
conditions and the movement of other people in the area; and
b. to prove that secondary conductors are at earth potential; and
c. to prevent an open circuited secondary situation.
12.5.1.2 Voltage circuits

Before working on voltage circuits on a meter panel the circuit shall be isolated by:
a. removing the fuse cartridges for permanently fused voltage circuits; or
b. opening the voltage links in the meter test block; and
c. testing to prove de-energised before commencing work.
Voltage circuits connected on the supply side of a meter panel shall be isolated and tested to prove
de-energised before work is commenced on them.
12

13 Section
PUBLIC LIGHTING
PRINCIPLE Public lighting is lighting in streets and in

public areas owned by the ACT or Federal Government.
SECTION 13 Public lighting
13.1 General
Isolation of and work on public lighting is to be carried out in accordance with street lighting procedures
(refer Appendix A).
When working upon public lighting conductors, luminaires, photo electric cells, conductive (steel/
concrete) columns, outreach arms, stays, hauling wires (if used) and other associated conducting
materials, they shall be treated as energised at all times until appropriate precautions are taken to
isolate or de-energise the public lighting apparatus.
This is necessary because they may become energised through wet or defective insulation:
a. while the circuit is energised; or
b. when someone makes the circuit energised for testing; or
c. if the wiring is disturbed, for example when a mid-hinge column is moved or during equipment
replacement.
Note: Columns may be supplied permanently from mini-pillars, traffic light controllers or overhead
conductors.
13.2 Precautions to be taken

A risk assessment shall be conducted to assist in the identification and control of hazards to ensure that
the work can be performed safely.
The risk assessment shall consider as a minimum:
a. the condition of the electrical apparatus, for example the soundness of structures, conductors
and insulators; and
b. proximity of other electrical conductors or objects at different potential, for example potential
second points of contact; and
c. proximity of earthed equipment and structures including communications equipment and
carriers, pillars and pits; and
d. work environment, for example heat, light, weather conditions; and
e. use of appropriately rated apparel and equipment; and
f. the use of insulated barriers, mats and covers.
All work shall be performed in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).
Only electrical workers, or apprentice electrical workers under their supervision, shall be permitted to 13
work on public lighting systems.
13.3 Testing conductive objects

Other than as provided by Clause 13.4 Changing tubes or lamps from an elevating work platform,
outreach arms, and conductive (steel/concrete) columns shall be tested to an independent earth with
an approved voltage tester before work is commenced.
When an outreach arm, or conductive (steel/concrete) column is found to be energised, the supply to
the public light shall be disconnected and made safe and/or the fault corrected. The fault should be
reported in accordance with procedures (refer Appendix A).

SECTION 13 Public lighting
13.4 Changing tubes or lamps from a elevating work

platform
When working from an approved, insulated and tested elevating work platform, the test of outreach
arms may be dispensed with when changing tubes or lamps, refer to Clause 13.3 Testing conductive
objects.
13

14 Section
WORK BY OTHER PERSONNEL

NOT UNDER THE SUPERVISION
OF ACTEWAGL
PRINCIPLE A safe system of work shall be provided for

other persons not under the onsite supervision of ActewAGL.
SECTION 14 Work by other personnel not under the supervision of ActewAGL
14.1 General
Following receipt of notification of intention of ordinary persons to work near or at safe approach
distance or, when appropriate in the vicinity of electrical apparatus, the use of procedures incorporating
an appropriate permit to work or SCAP shall be considered for application during the proposed works.
For the purposes of this clause, persons not under the supervision of ActewAGL are persons or
organisations that have no contractual obligation to ActewAGL and are not performing work for
ActewAGL for the particular task.
14.2 Work on abandoned cables

For work by external persons on abandoned cables owned by ActewAGL, the use of appropriate
identification processes shall be followed during the proposed works. If it is necessary to spike
abandoned cables onsite to prove they are de-energised this shall be done by ActewAGL in accordance
with procedures (refer Appendix A).
14.3 Permit to work issued to non-ActewAGL personnel

ActewAGL may issue a permit to work.
When a request is received for isolation of electrical conductors or apparatus, then the isolation and
issue of a permit to work shall be in accordance with these Electrical Safety Rules. The permit to
work shall be issued to an authorised recipient for permits to work. If the person is not an authorised
recipient for permits to work then the permit to work shall be issued to an ActewAGL employee who is
an authorised recipient for electrical access permits.
The person shall sign onto the permit to work following the procedures as outlined in Clause 7.4 Permit
to work.
14.4 Work by tree surgeons requiring the isolation of

overhead conductors
When tree surgeons engaged to clear vegetation near overhead lines require the isolation of those
overhead lines, then the isolation and issue of a permit to work shall be in accordance with these
Electrical Safety Rules refer Clause 7.4 Permit to work.
Prior to the issue of a permit to work near or in the vicinity of HV conductors, one set of operational
earths shall be applied within the isolation area (not necessarily visible from the worksite) to prove de-
energised refer Clause 7.4.3 Issue, receipt, relinquishment and cancellation of permits to work.
Where the permit to work is issued to an ActewAGL employee in accordance with Clause 14.3 Permit 14
to work issued to non-ActewAGL personnel, the worker shall remain onsite as the recipient of the
access authority and is responsible to ensure the tree surgeon maintains safe approach distances while
vegetation clearing near the overhead lines.
The use of approved and tested insulated equipment is required by the tree surgeon.
For work near LV conductors, the application of bonders is not required for the issue of a permit to work
and isolation of micro photovoltaic cell (class 1) installations is not required.

14.5 Work by electrical contractors requiring the isolation of

For the purpose of this section, an electrical contractor means a licensed electrician not employed or
engaged by ActewAGL.
When electrical contractors require the isolation of ActewAGLs electrical apparatus to enable them
to work on the customers Installation in accordance with AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and ActewAGLs
Service and Installation Rules, then the isolation and issue of a SCAP shall be in accordance with these
Electrical Safety Rules.
14.6 Statement of condition of apparatus and

plant (SCAP)
The SCAP is a statement that covers the condition of ActewAGLs apparatus or plant and does not itself
authorise work on or near the apparatus or plant. The SCAP shall only be used to isolate ActewAGLs
electricity network to provide a private representative safe access to conduct works on their private
network.
A SCAP shall only be issued by an authorised worker to a licensed electrician or a person who has been
granted permission by ActewAGL to accept a SCAP (the representative). A SCAP shall not be issued to
any employee or contractor of ActewAGL.
The SCAP does not apply to another supply authority which maintains a 24 hour control room.
The conditions of isolation shall remain unchanged until the SCAP is cancelled.
14.6.1 Application for a SCAP

Before making an application for a SCAP, the representative shall establish that the proposed work has
been properly planned and can be carried out safely. Consideration shall be given to;
a. safe work methods; and
b. all hazards, risks and controls; and
c. the work environment; and
d. the skills and authorisations of the workers.
Application for a SCAP may be in writing using the request for service form or by email to the appropriate
section.
14

14.6.2 The issue and acceptance of a SCAP

A SCAP and another access authority shall not be on issue on the same plant or apparatus
simultaneously.
A SCAP shall be issued by an authorised worker in person. The authorised worker shall contact System
Control for a clearance number before the plant or apparatus is isolated. Before the SCAP is issued,
testing to prove de-energised shall be in the presence of the representative. At the time of issue the
authorised worker shall clearly describe and, where practicable, show the plant or apparatus covered
by the SCAP to the representative. The authorised worker shall also describe and indicate the nearest
points of supply and any nearby energised electrical apparatus.
The representative shall acknowledge that they understand the condition of the plant or apparatus by
signing the SCAP form and accepting the SCAP. It is the responsibility of the representative to ensure
every worker clearly understands the conditions of the plant or apparatus before they begin work.
Once issued, ActewAGL will not change the condition of the electrical plant or apparatus recorded on
the SCAP form until such time as the SCAP has been returned by the representative.
14.6.3 Return and cancellation of a SCAP

When a SCAP is returned, the representative shall:
a. ensure that all tools and equipment are clear and will remain clear of the plant or electrical
apparatus; and
b. ensure that all work has ceased and that all workers are informed of the return of the SCAP; and
c. sign off to indicate that the SCAP is ready for return to the authorised worker who issued it; and
d. understand that the condition of the plant or apparatus can now change without further notice;
and
e. advise the authorised worker of any condition of the plant or apparatus which could affect
its operation.
Before a SCAP is cancelled by the authorised worker. The authorised worker shall:
a. confirm the that representative has returned the signed SCAP; and
b. confirm that the representative understands that the condition of the plant or apparatus can now
change without further notice; and
c. conduct a job risk assessment for the site and proposed work; and
d. verify the condition of the plant or apparatus with the representative;
e. contact System Control to confirm cancellation of the SCAP; and
f. re-energise the representatives installation from the electricity network.
14

Issue, acceptance, return and cancellation of

Statement of Condition of Apparatus and Plant (SCAP)
Application received Key

Request for service
form or via email Authorised worker
Representative
Are there any other Do not issue SCAP and

Yes
access authorities on contact System Control
plant or apparatus?
No
Has the work been No Refer back to the

planned? Representative to
amend
Yes
Can work be carried No

out safely?
14.6.2 Issue and acceptance of SCAP

Yes Authorised worker shall:
contact System Control before isolation; and
SCAP issued by prove de-energised to the Representative; and
authorised electrical
point out nearest points of supply and energised electrical apparatus; and
worker
issue the SCAP to Representative.
Representative shall ensure every worker understands SCAP conditions.
SCAP accepted by the

14.6.3 Return and cancellation of SCAP
Representative
Representative shall:
ensure that all tools, equipment and workers are clear; and
ensure that all work has ceased; and
Work completed sign off to indicate that the SCAP is ready for return; and
advise the Authorised worker of conditions affecting the apparatus; and
agree the condition of the apparatus can change without notice.
SCAP returned by the

Representative 14.6.3 Return and cancellation of SCAP
14 Authorised worker shall:

confirm the Representative has returned the signed SCAP; and
verify with the Representative the condition of the apparatus; and
SCAP cancelled by the
authorised worker contact System Control to cancel the SCAP; and
then re-energise the Representatives installation.
End
Chart 14.1 Process for the issue of a SCAP

Statement of condition of apparatus or plant (SCAP) No.
This statement covers only the state of the apparatus or plant specified hereon and does not itself authorise work on or near the apparatus or plant.
Work order number Date / /

System Control or Dispatch issued clearance number (if applicable) Time (24hr time)
Disconnection and reconnection (DNR) request number (if applicable) Time (24hr time)
This SCAP is issued for

Streetlighting Low voltage apparatus High voltage apparatus
I hereby certify to (representative/business name)
That I have isolated (where applicable) the following electrical apparatus and/or conductors
at (location) on Date Time (24hr time)

The electrical apparatus and/or conductors have been:
Tested and proven de-energised: and
E
Earthed and/or bonded (where applicable):
L
ActewAGL will not change this condition until such time as this SCAP has been returned by the representative it has been issued to.
1. Tested at location/s
P
- - - -
2. High voltage earthing applied at - - - -
3. Low voltage bonders applied at
M
- - - -
A
Acceptance
I acknowledge and understand the condition of apparatus or plant as stated above and hereby accept this statement.
EX
Representative (Licenced electrician / authorised person - not engaged by ActewAGL)
Print name Title
Signed Site contact number
Date / / Time (24hr time) Electrical licence number
Issuer (ActewAGL authorised worker)

I hereby issue this statement in accordance with ActewAGLs Electrical Safety Rules.
Print name Title
Signed Contact number
Date / / Time (24hr time) Authorised operator number (Network switching only)
Return
I hereby return this statement and fully understand that the condition of the aforesaid apparatus or plant may be changed without further
reference to me. All relevant personnel have been advised and are informed that this SCAP has been returned and I further state that any work
carried out will not have an impact on ActewAGLs apparatus or plant that was the subject of this SCAP.
Representative (Licenced electrician / authorised person not engaged by ActewAGL)

Name Signed
Date / / Time (24hr time)
Cancellation
Issuer (ActewAGL authorised worker)
Name Signed
Date / / Time (24hr time)
Confirmation of cancellation with System Control and / or Dispatcher Date / / Time (24hr time) 14
t 13 14 93 I f 02 6249 7237 I actewagl.com.au Stock code: NSF112-B Green - representative White - book
CCA0914/24
ActewAGL Distribution ABN 76 670 568 688 a partnership of Jemena Networks (ACT) Pty Ltd ABN 24 008 552 663 and Icon Distribution Investments Limited ABN 83 073 025 224 IMS NO: PR1349.1
Figure 14.1 Example of a SCAP form

14

APPENDIX
Appendix A ActewAGL policy and procedure list

The following is a list of ActewAGL documents referred to in these safety rules. This list is not exhaustive
and is subject to withdrawal, revision or addition at any time.
Procedure Number Procedure Title

SM11144 ActewAGL service and installation rules
PR1301 Activating/isolating street light control points
PR1202 Approval to work on or near ActewAGLs overhead assets
WO1306 Cable identification and spiking
WO1307 Cable identification and testing
PR4609 Confined space procedure
WO1310 Confined space trailer use and storage
PR4901 Control of worksites
PR1123 Distribution substation battery and battery charger maintenance
PO4203 Drugs and alcohol policy
PR1312 Earthing of street lighting columns
SM1144 Earthing principles
WF1318 Electrical safety testing of high voltage testing equipment
PR1134 Elevating work platform (EWP) rescue
WO1222 Energised HV network access
PR4620 Environmental spills
PR4621 Excavation and trenching
PR4636 Explosive powered hand tools
PR4619 Fatigue management
PR4601 First aid in the workplace
PR4610 Hazardous manual tasks and ergonomics
PR4605 Hazardous substances
PR4649 Health monitoring
PR1313 High voltage switching
WF4651 Identification and use of cable cutting and stripping tools
PR4608 Incident and near miss investigation procedure
WF4611 Instructions for safe to climb test
PR4625 Job risk assessment (pre start) procedure
SM1305 Live line manual

APPENDIX
PR4630 Lock out / tag out procedure

PR4668 Low voltage bonding
SM4613 Low voltage testing manual
PR1315 Low voltage switching
SM4615 Low voltage works manual
PR4614 Management of asbestos and synthetic mineral fibres
PR4607 Management of noise
PR1316 Network access
WO1221 Network access acceptance criteria
PR4602 Personal protective clothing and equipment
SM11888 Pole and line inspection manual
WF4648 Pole top rescue
WO1201 Preparation and checking of disconnection and reconnection instructions
PR4631 Prevention of falls
PR 4623 Safe working in adverse weather conditions
PR1200 Standard apparatus terminology and labelling
PR1349 Statement of condition of apparatus or plant (SCAP Procedure)
WF1371 Street light maintenance
PR4626 Tools and equipment testing and inspection procedure
PR4618 Traffic control at worksites
PR4617 Working alone and or in isolated areas
PR1124 Zone substation battery deep cycle discharge test
PR1146 Zone substation inspections and maintenance strategy

APPENDIX
Appendix B Reference documents

The list of documents in this appendix is not exhaustive and is for guidance only. Other relevant
documents and standards may be applicable. Acts and Regulations current to the time of review.
B1 Legislation
Electrical Safety Act
Electrical Safety Regulation
Utilities Technical Regulation Act
Work Health and Safety Act
Work Health and Safety Regulation
B2 Industry guidelines
ACT building and construction industry safety handbook
Code of practice on electrical safety for the distribution businesses in the victorian electricity supply
industry (The Green Book)
Energy Networks Association guidelines

ENA Doc 012-2006 Cross-arm supply and performance specification
ENA EMF 2016 ENA EMF Management handbook
ENA Doc 017-2008 ENA industry guideline for the inspection, assessment and maintenance of
overhead power lines
ENA Doc 031-2011 ENA national guideline for mobile plant earthing
ENA Doc 016-2006 Guideline for the management of risks when working alone
ENA Doc 005-2006 Joint use of power poles model agreement
ENA Doc 001-2008 National electricity network safety code
ENA NENS 05-2006 National fall protection guidelines for the electricity industry
ENA Doc 024-2010 National guideline for management of tools and equipment used in the
electricity supply industry
ENA NENS 08-2006 National guidelines for aerial surveillance of overhead electricity networks
ENA NENS 10-2005 National guidelines for contractor occupational health and safety management
ENA NENS 07-2006 National guidelines for manual reclosing of high voltage electrical apparatus
following a fault operation (manual reclose guidelines)
ENA Doc 015-2006 National guidelines for prevention of unauthorised access to electricity
infrastructure
ENA NENS 03-2006 National guidelines for safe access to electrical and mechanical apparatus
ENA NENS 04-2006 National guidelines for safe approach distances to electrical and mechanical
apparatus

APPENDIX
ENA NENS 09-2014 National guidelines for the selection, use and maintenance of personal
protective equipment for electrical hazards
ENA Doc 008-2006 National guidelines on electrical safety for emergency service personnel
ENA Doc 014-2006 National low voltage electricity network electrical protection guideline
ENA Doc 013-2006 Network passport guideline
ENA Doc 011-2006 Pole supply and performance specification
ENA Doc 007-2006 Specification for polemounting distribution transformers
ENA EG1-2006 Substation earthing guide
B3 Australian standards
AS 2865-2009 Confined spaces
AS/NZS 3000:2007 Electrical installations (wiring rules)
AS 5804.1:2010 High voltage energised working general
AS 5804.4-2010 High-voltage energised working bare hand
AS 5804.2:2010 High-voltage energised working glove and barrier work
AS 5804.3-2010 High-voltage energised working stick work
AS/NZS 1891.1:2007 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices
AS/NZS 3760:2010 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment
AS/NZS 4801:2001 Occupational health and safety management systems specification with
guidance for use
AS/NZS 4836:2011 Safe working on or near low-voltage electrical installations and equipment
AS 1319:1994 Safety signs for the occupational environment
AS 2067:2008 Substations and high voltage installations exceeding 1 kV a.c.

APPENDIX
Version register
Revision Revision Page Description of
number date number revision
Previous 2009 - 2013 Ian Macara, Victoria Parkinson, Maher/Wilson and

editions others
Edditions now superceded.
2014 June 2014 Complete Work Practices created to take ownership of Blue
review Book and tasked with complete review.
2015 Legal Ammendments made by Legal and Secretariat

disclamer Division
2015 April 2015 Review Work Practices review - review and update
2016 May 2016 Review Work Practices review - review and update
2016 December 2016 2.6.1 and 4.8 Minor amendments IMS Version 2
This area is to be issued each update.

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ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES

CitiPower Pty Ltd

BLUE BOOK ISSUES REGISTER

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 1

The ActewAGL Life Saving Rules are

2 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

test and prove de-energised before commencing

check and confirm equipment / apparatus is safe

only work on or near the electricity network when

implement required controls to manage site hazards

have current training and authorisation for the plant

check and wear PPE that is appropriate for the job

abide by drug and alcohol rules

Report incidents and near misses

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 3

4 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

Hierarchy of documentation for electrical safety

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 5

3 Training and authorisation 31

6 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

4 General safety requirements 37

5 Operation of electrical apparatus 45

6 Earthing of high voltage electrical apparatus 47

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 7

8 Access for work on or near high voltage electrical apparatus 75

9 Access to low voltage electrical apparatus 85

10 Testing, commissioning and decommissioning electrical apparatus 95

8 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

13 Public lighting 107

14 Work by other personnel not under the supervision of ActewAGL 109

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 9

10 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 11

1 Confined Space means an enclosed or partially enclosed space that:

12 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

Electrical Operating Work means work:

14 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 15

16 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 17

1 This page left intentionally blank

18 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

PRINCIPLE Workers shall observe an appropriate safe

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 19

DANGER ZONE SAFE

Figure 2.1 Safe approach distance persons and workers

20 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

HV up to and including 22 2000 700

132 3000 1500

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 21

2.2 Safe approach distances persons

2 2.2.1 Safe approach distance ordinary persons

2.2.2 Safe approach distance instructed persons and authorised workers

2.2.3 Safe approach distance glove and barrier electrical workers

2.2.4 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing general

22 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

2.2.4.1 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing by instructed person or

2.2.4.2 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing by workers not contracted to

2.2.4.3 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing by authorised energised HV

SM4605 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED BLUE BOOK 2016 23

Mobile plant Movement Safety observer

Figure 2.2 Safe approach distance mobile plant

24 BLUE BOOK 2016 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED SM4605

2.2.2 Safe approach distance instructed persons and authorised workers

2.2.4.1 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing by instructed person or

2.2.4.2 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing by workers not contracted to

2.2.4.3 Safe approach distance vegetation clearing by authorised energised HV

2.5 Contact with energised high voltage (HV) conductors by

3.2 Ordinary persons signing onto electrical access permits

3.3 Instructed persons signing onto electrical access

3.6 Authority to operate low voltage (LV) and/or high

3.8 uthority to work on energised high voltage (HV)

3.9 Authority to work on energised low voltage (LV)