Update from the Commissioner for Electrical Safety Keith McKenzie
As a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) are you supplying the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) to your employees?
Work health and safety regulations require PCBUs to provide PPE to workers in the workplace. In addition, they must also provide information, training, and instruction in the proper use, wearing, storage and maintenance of the equipment.
PPE should be selected as identified in your risk assessment and in accordance with the type of work being performed.
When a PCBU employs workers with different roles and tasks, specific PPE is required for electrical workers and those who assist them.
PPE for electrical work, including testing and fault finding, must be suitable for the work; properly tested and maintained in good working order. The PPE must be able to withstand the energy at the point of work when working energised.
Consider the following when deciding upon PPE:
Face protection
Use of a suitably arc rated full-face shield may be appropriate when working where there is potential for high current and arcing.
Eye protection
Use non-conductive frames that comply with AS/NZS 1337 that can provide protection from flying objects caused by activities such as grinding and cutting and electrical arc flash.
Gloves
Use gloves insulated to the highest potential voltage expected for the work being undertaken. Leather work gloves may be considered for de-energised electrical work.
Clothing
Use non-synthetic, flame-resistant clothing of non-fusible material. Clothing made from conductive material or containing metal threads should not be worn.
Footwear
Use non-conductive footwear (e.g. steel toe cap boots or shoes manufactured to a suitable standard).
Safety belt/harness
Safety belts and harnesses should be checked and inspected each time before use with particular attention being paid to buckles, rings, hooks, clips and webbing.
Next steps
- If you are responsible for the PPE in your organisation or have a duty under the Act, and employ electrical workers, please review your PPE issued stock and processes to ensure that you are providing the correct PPE.
- If you are a worker and believe that you have not been supplied with the correct PPE, advise your employer of the requirement of PPE for your role. Do not place yourself at risk.