Codes of practice
A code of practice does not specify everything that should or should not be done to meet an electrical safety obligation. However, electrical contractors and workers would fail to meet their obligations if they:
- went against or acted inconsistently with a code of practice
- did not adopt a method as safe as, or safer than, the code
The four codes of practice supporting the Electrical Safety Act 2002 (PDF, 788 KB) give practical advice on how to meet your electrical safety obligations.
A code of practice expires 10 years from its commencement date. The making of a new code of practice must be gazetted.
It is important to note that the codes of practice do not cover everything you should do to meet your electrical safety obligations.
The Code of Practice for Working Near Exposed Live Parts applies to people such as:
- crane operators
- plant operators
- painters
- carpenters
- people erecting or working on scaffolds
- signmakers
- agricultural workers
- carriers of high loads
- electrical repairers
- builders working near exposed live parts
- anyone who clears vegetation near overhead lines
- electrical workers
If you do not fit into one of these categories, but are working around exposed live parts, this Code of Practice still applies to you.
The Code of Practice for Electrical Work directly applies to:
- licensed electrical workers
- employers and self-employed licensed electrical workers
- licensed electrical contractors
These may include:
- licensed restricted electrical licence holders
- licensed electrical work training permit holders
- licensed electrical linespeople
- licensed jointers
- licensed electrical fitters
- licensed electrical mechanics
The Code of Practice for Works gives practical advice to electricity entities (involved in electricity generation, transmission, or distribution) on ways of ensuring electricity networks are safe.
The Code of Practice Electrical Equipment - Rural Industry applies to employers and self-employed people whose business or undertaking includes rural industry work.
Last updated June 1, 2006
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