Section 3 – Risk assessment
3.1 The risk assessment process
3.2 Risk assessment outcomes
3.3 Control measures
3.4 Risk assessment records
3.5 Reviewing risk assessments
3.6 Keeping records
3.7 Maintenance regimes for electrical equipment used where there are stated electrical risk factors
Fig. 15 - Risk assessment cycle
3.1 The risk assessment process
You can manage electrical safety by:
- identifying the hazards;
- assessing the risk that may result because of the hazards;
- deciding on control measures to prevent or minimise the level of the risk;
- implementing control measures; and
- monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of the measures.
The risk management hierarchy of control measures begins with the most preferred measure, eliminating the hazard. The least preferred measure is last in the hierarchy. You should begin selecting control measures at the top of the hierarchy, and only select lower order control measures when the higher order control measures are not possible.
Under the hierarchy, control measure options include the selection of one or more of the following:
- eliminating the hazard—this could mean having the electricity supply to the circuit isolated. It may be necessary to have a licensed electrical person do the isolation work, where work is being carried out that may pose risk of damage to electrical circuits or other equipment;
- substituting with a less hazardous material, or use of a different process or equipment—this may mean, for example, instead of welding a bracket to a column, which may result in excessive heat and damage to an adjacent electrical cable, it may be safer to clamp the bracket to the column;
- redesigning equipment or process—this may mean using a less intrusive method of carrying out the activity. For example, when excavating near underground cables, hand digging instead of machine digging until the exact location of the cables is discovered is recommended as a control measure;
- isolating the hazard—this could mean using a physical barrier to prevent accidental contact. For example, this could mean placing a fence or other barrier to prevent a machine such as a grain auger from being wheeled into contact with overhead lines;
- using administrative control—this may include instruction, training and authorisation to identify the hazards and perform the work safely; and
- using appropriate personal protective equipment—this may mean using insulating gloves and insulated shoes.
3.2 Risk assessment outcomes
The risk assessment process must take into account the mandated regulatory requirements, and therefore the control measures must include using safety switch protection of specified electrical equipment used where there are stated electrical risk factors, or ensuring it is inspected and tested annually.
The risk assessment process should have the following features:
- control measures that, when followed, ensure that electrical equipment is electrically safe;
- safe systems of work that prevent inappropriate use of equipment and installations, taking into account the intended use;
- safe systems of work that ensure appropriate mechanical and weather protection of cord extension sets and their plug and socket connections;
- safe systems of work that ensure personal protective equipment is used where indicated;
- a maintenance regime that ensures electrical safety of all electrical equipment; and
- an audit program by the employer that ensures the control measures are implemented, are being followed and are effective in controlling the risk.
3.3 Control measures
Appropriate control measures may include:
- ensuring electrical equipment is fit for the purpose when used where there are stated electrical risk factors;
- following manufacturer's or supplier's advice about the suitability of electrical equipment for the installation and method of use intended;
- ensuring that permanently connected equipment is selected and installed on the basis of the risk factors of the area and the suitability of the equipment for those risks; and
- implementing a maintenance regime which considers the use of the equipment and the manufacturer's instructions regarding repair, cleaning, maintenance, etc.
3.4 Risk assessment records
Detailed records of such assessments should be kept for the period during which the work processes, electrical equipment and hazards identified are in use or are present in the workplace.
A sample equipment list and risk assessment and action form is at appendix A.
3.5 Reviewing risk assessments
Whenever a change in work practices occurs, or whenever there is a change in the type of equipment used, you must review the relevant parts of the risk assessment. The review should be documented, signed and dated.
A practical way to do this is when you have an electrical contractor at your workplace doing some electrical work or maintenance. Get them to review your risk assessment while they are there.
Records of monitoring, review, maintenance, inspections and tests should be kept and made available for inspection at your workplace.
3.6 Keeping records
All risk assessment records should be kept. These records must include reference to the methods used to determine the effectiveness of the control measures.
3.7 Maintenance regimes for electrical equipment used where there are stated electrical risk factors
An employer or self-employed person must ensure that all electrical equipment is maintained in a condition that is electrically safe. Maintenance of equipment includes maintaining safe methods of use of the equipment within the manufacturer's safe design parameters.
The maintenance regime should be clearly documented and be available for inspection at the workplace. Records of maintenance and service should be kept at your workplace for inspection and reference.
Last updated July 16, 2009
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