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Section Hazard / risk Default risk level Default residual risk Default control measure

The ways of controlling risks are ranked from the highest level of protection and reliability to the lowest. This ranking is known as the hierarchy of risk control. You must work through this hierarchy to choose the control that most effectively eliminates or minimises the risk in the circumstances, so far as is reasonably practicable. This may involve a single control measure or a combination of two or more different controls. ELIMINATION The most effective control measure is to remove / eliminate the hazard or hazardous work practice. By designing-in or designing-out certain features, hazards may be eliminated. To eliminate the hazard, before starting work electrically isolate the nearby electrical equipment or installation. When disconnecting the equipment or installation from supply, apply a method to ensure it is not reconnected while the work is carried out (for example place the plug in a lockable enclosure). Clearly document the isolation process so that everyone involved knows exactly what to do. SUBSTITUTION Replacing a hazardous process or material with one that is less hazardous will reduce the hazard, and hence the risk. For example, it may be reasonably practicable to use extra low voltage electrical equipment such as a battery-operated tool rather than a tool that is plugged into mains electricity. ISOLATION Preventing workers from encountering the source of an electrical hazard will reduce the relevant risks. Erect a physical barrier made of a non-conductive material such as wood or plastic or, alternatively, correctly earthed metal. Before any barriers are erected, a risk assessment must be carried out by a licenced electrician to ensure the appropriate design and correct materials are used. The barrier must be erected safely. This may require isolating the electricity supply while the barrier is installed. ENGINEERING CONTROLS Use engineering control measures to minimise the risk, for example installing residual current devices to reduce the risk of receiving a fatal electric shock. ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS Administrative controls involve the use of safe work practices to control the risk, for example provide suitable & adequate training, establishing exclusion zones, use of permits & warning signs. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) PPE includes protective eyewear, insulated gloves, hard hats, aprons and breathing protection. Most forms of PPE are not relevant to minimising electrical risks in workplaces, except in relation to energised electrical work. Administrative controls and PPE do nothing to change the hazard itself. They rely on people behaving as expected and require a high level of supervision. Exclusive reliance on administrative controls and PPE must only occur where other measures are not reasonably practicable or as an interim control while the preferred control measure is being implemented.

Default responsible party Tags High-risk category Active

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