DR As NZS 4836 2022

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Draft
Australian/New Zealand Standard™
Licensed to Unknown Anonymous - 2020-11-19 10:44:16.818 of EL-001 at 19:56 (AEST) on Mon Apr 4 2022 for Committee and Standards Australia use only.
Public Comment is invited for:
DR AS/NZS 4836:2022, Safe working on or near low-voltage electrical
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installations and equipment
During their development process, Australian/New Zealand Standards are available in draft
form during the public consultation period to allow any interests concerned with the application
of the proposed Standard to review the draft and submit their comments.
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This draft is liable to alteration. It is not to be regarded as an Australian/New Zealand Standard
until finally issued as such by Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand.
Upon successful conclusion of the Public Comment period it is proposed to publish this Standard
as AS/NZS 4836:202X.
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Commenting on this draft is open between Tue Mar 29 2022 - Wed Jun 1 2022
AS/NZS 4836:202X
This Joint Australian/New Zealand Standard™ was prepared by Joint Technical Committee
EL-001, Wiring Rules. It was approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on
DD Month 202X and by the New Zealand Standards Approval Board on DD Month 202X.
This Standard Not yet published
Committee EL-001, Wiring Rules, consisting of the following, is responsible for the
issue of this draft:
Australian Building Codes Board
Australian Energy Council
Australian Industry Group
Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union — Electrical Division
Consumers Federation of Australia
Electrical Regulatory Authorities Council, Australia
Electrical Safety New Zealand
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Electrical Workers Registration Board
ElectroComms & Energy Utilities Industry Skills Council
Energy Networks Australia
Engineering New Zealand
Engineers Australia
Institute of Electrical Inspectors
Master Electricians Australia
Master Electricians NZ AF
National Electrical Communications Association
National Electrical Switchboard Manufacturers Association
The Manufacturers' Network
WorkSafe New Zealand
This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR AS/NZS 4836:2022.
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Keeping Standards up-to-date

Ensure you have the latest versions of our publications and keep up-to-date about
Amendments, Rulings, Withdrawals, and new projects by visiting:
www.standards.org.au
www.standards.govt.nz
ISBN to be allocated on publication of the final document

iii DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Preface
This Standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand Committee EL-
001, Wiring Rules, to supersede AS/NZS 4836:2011.
The objective of this document is to provide principles of safe working practices and recommended safe
PUBLIC COMMENTING DRAFT
working procedures when working on or near low-voltage electrical installations and equipment.
The major changes in this edition involve additional information on the following:
(a) Principles of risk management, assessment of risk and risk treatment.
(b) Working with asbestos and polychlorinated biphenyls.
(c) Working below ground level.
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(d) Cutting cables and wiring enclosures.
(e) Selection and use of test equipment.
(f) Selection and use of personal protective equipment.
(g) Preservation of an incident scene.
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The inclusion of roles and responsibilities in AS/NZS 4836:202X, was approved by the Standards
Australia Production Management Group on 16 September 2021.
The terms “normative” and “informative” are used in Standards to define the application of the
appendices to which they apply. A “normative” appendix is an integral part of a Standard, whereas an
“informative” appendix is only for information and guidance.
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© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 iv
Contents
Preface.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. iii
Foreword vii
Section 1 Scope and general................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Scope..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Application....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Normative references............................................................................................................................................................................. 1
1.4 Terms and definitions............................................................................................................................................................................. 2
Section 2 Principles of risk management................................................................................................................................................ 7
2.1 General................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
2.2 Principles........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
2.3 Identify the hazards................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
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2.3.1 General.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
2.3.2 Electrical hazards................................................................................................................................................................ 8
2.3.3 Electric shock.......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
2.3.4 Arc blast and flash injuries.......................................................................................................................................... 9
2.3.5 Hazardous areas................................................................................................................................................................ 10
2.3.6 Other risk factors.............................................................................................................................................................. 10
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2.3.7 Safe work clearances..................................................................................................................................................... 11
2.4 Assess and prioritize risk................................................................................................................................................................. 13
2.5 General risk control measures..................................................................................................................................................... 13
2.6 Means of reducing risk........................................................................................................................................................................ 16
2.7 Work permit system.............................................................................................................................................................................. 17
Section 3 Isolation, fault-finding and testing....................................................................................................................................18
3.1 Isolation........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
3.1.1 Isolation principles......................................................................................................................................................... 18
3.1.2 Identification of electrical equipment and isolation points......................................................... 18
3.1.3 Isolation of electrical equipment........................................................................................................................ 18
3.1.4 Isolation securing devices and identification.......................................................................................... 19
3.1.5 Proving de-energization............................................................................................................................................. 21
3.1.6 Bonding of conductors................................................................................................................................................. 21
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3.1.7 Identify the safe area of work................................................................................................................................ 22
3.1.8 Work on de-energized electrical equipment............................................................................................ 22
3.2 Fault-finding and testing................................................................................................................................................................... 23
3.3 Testing plug-in electrical equipment...................................................................................................................................... 24
Section 4 Risk control for specific situations....................................................................................................................................26
4.1 General.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 26
4.2 Specific situations................................................................................................................................................................................... 26
4.2.1 Work on exposed energized conductors and live conductive parts..................................... 26
4.2.2 Capacitors............................................................................................................................................................................... 28
4.2.3 Hazardous areas................................................................................................................................................................ 28
4.2.4 Trafficable areas................................................................................................................................................................ 29
4.2.5 Areas of reduced mobility......................................................................................................................................... 29
4.2.6 Illumination........................................................................................................................................................................... 29
4.2.7 Batteries and d.c. supplies........................................................................................................................................ 29
4.2.8 Electrical equipment producing high voltages....................................................................................... 30
4.2.9 Electromotive force — Induced voltage........................................................................................................ 30
4.2.10 Material containing asbestos.............................................................................................................................. 30
4.2.11 Identification of polychlorinated biphenyl-containing electrical equipment........... 31
4.2.12 Lightning............................................................................................................................................................................... 31
4.2.13 Cutting cables or wiring enclosures.............................................................................................................. 31
4.2.14 Removing out-of-service electrical equipment and cables....................................................... 32
4.2.15 Control measures when leaving work unfinished............................................................................ 32

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Section 5 Elevated electrical equipment, poles structures and overhead conductors..........................33

5.1 General.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 33
5.2 Precautions before working on poles or structures.................................................................................................. 33
5.3 Work on conductive poles or structures............................................................................................................................. 33
5.4 Erection of electrical equipment or conducting materials.................................................................................. 34
Section 6 Working below ground on cables or services.........................................................................................................35
6.1 General.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 35
6.2 Site assessment......................................................................................................................................................................................... 35
6.3 Excavation of and near to cables and services............................................................................................................... 35
6.4 Identify the cable..................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
6.5 Cable identification methods........................................................................................................................................................ 36
6.6 Other site risk factors when excavating underground............................................................................................ 36
6.7 Cutting underground cables and wiring enclosures................................................................................................. 37
Section 7 Energization of electrical installation and equipment.................................................................................38
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7.1 Initial energization of the electrical installation and equipment................................................................... 38
7.2 Re-energization of the electrical installation and equipment.......................................................................... 38
7.3 Extra-low voltage..................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Section 8 Safety equipment and tools.......................................................................................................................................................40
8.1 General.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 40
8.2 Insulated tools and equipment.................................................................................................................................................... 40
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8.3 Portable electric tools.......................................................................................................................................................................... 40
8.3.1 General....................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
8.3.2 Protection................................................................................................................................................................................ 40
8.3.3 Risk of exposed conductive parts becoming energized................................................................... 41
8.4 Ladders and step ladders................................................................................................................................................................. 41
8.4.1 General....................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
8.4.2 Use of electrically conductive ladders............................................................................................................ 41
8.5 Elevating work platforms and scaffolding......................................................................................................................... 41
8.6 Insulating barriers, covers and mats...................................................................................................................................... 42
8.6.1 Barriers..................................................................................................................................................................................... 42
8.6.2 Insulating covers and mats...................................................................................................................................... 42
Section 9 Test equipment.......................................................................................................................................................................................43
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9.1 General.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 43
9.2 Electrical safety......................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
9.3 Suitability of equipment.................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Section 10 Supervision.................................................................................................................................................................................................45
10.1 General.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 45
10.2 Supervision of work........................................................................................................................................................................... 45
10.3 Supervision of equipment............................................................................................................................................................ 45
Section 11 Personal protective equipment.............................................................................................................................................46
Section 12 Electrical incidents.............................................................................................................................................................................49
12.1 Medical attention.................................................................................................................................................................................. 49
12.2 Preservation of incident scene................................................................................................................................................. 49
12.3 Reporting..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 49
12.3.1 General................................................................................................................................................................................... 49
12.3.2 Incident report................................................................................................................................................................ 49
Appendix A (informative) SWMS risk assessment form.................................................................................................................51
Appendix B (informative) Arc flash guidelines........................................................................................................................................58
Appendix C (informative) Electric shock survival................................................................................................................................70
Appendix D (informative) Lock out tag out.................................................................................................................................................73
Appendix E (informative) Bowtie analysis...................................................................................................................................................75

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Appendix F (informative) Guidance on materials containing asbestos in the electrical

industry...............................................................................................................................................................................................77
Bibliography.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 82
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vii DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Foreword
Application of typefaces
Three different typefaces are used in this document. Each of these has a specific purpose as follows:
(a) Normal print indicates requirements that form the main part of a clause. It also indicates
deemed to comply methods that satisfy the requirements. Normal print is used in the
appendices to present informative material for guidance only.
(b) Italic print indicates exceptions or variations to requirements. Exceptions generally give specific
examples where the requirements do not apply or where they are varied for certain applications.
They may contain requirements. Examples are also presented in italic text.
(c) Reduced normal print indicates Notes which give explanations and advice. They are preceded
by “NOTE” in the manner used in previous editions.
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It is important not to read text in any single typeface without consulting the preceding or following
paragraphs, which may contain additional or modifying requirements.
National requirements
Certain provisions of the document have a different application in Australia and New Zealand. The
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following symbols appearing in the outer margin indicate that the identified section or clause is:
(i) Applicable in Australia only. A
(ii) Applicable in New Zealand only. NZ
Informative appendices
An informative appendix is for information or guidance only. Informative appendices provide additional
information intended to assist in the understanding or use of the document.
Informative
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For information and guidance only.
Normative
A term used to describe an element of a document to which it is necessary to conform in order to be able
to claim compliance with the document.
Deemed to comply
The term “deemed to comply” means that a requirement can be met by following a specified
document or method.
So, where an installation is carried out in accordance with the specified document or method, within the
text of this document, the installation is “deemed to comply” with the requirements of this document.
Conformance to a deemed to comply document may exceed the minimum requirements of this document.
Notes
Notes to clauses are informative and give explanations or advice. They do not form a mandatory part of
this document.
Cross-references
Where reference to another clause has been made, such reference, unless otherwise stated, includes all
appropriate subclauses and paragraphs of the clause or portion thereof referred to.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 viii
Provision for revision

This document is not intended to discourage invention or to exclude materials, equipment and methods
that may be developed. Revisions will be made from time to time in view of such developments and
amendments to this edition will be made where essential.
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1 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Australian/New Zealand Standard

Safe working on or near low-voltage electrical installations
and equipment
Section 1 Scope and general
1.1 Scope
This document outlines principles and procedures for safe work on or near low-voltage and extra-
low voltage electrical installations and equipment. It provides a minimum set of procedures, safety
requirements and recommendations to manage the hazards associated with electricity, specifically
arc blast, arc flash, electric shock, and electrocution. Adopting these requirements will provide a safe
environment for work on or near low-voltage as well as for extra-low voltage electrical installations
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and equipment.
This document applies to all persons carrying out work on or work near low-voltage and extra-low
voltage electrical installations and equipment for both a.c. and d.c..
NOTE The general principles of this document can be applied in the risk management of other voltages outside
this range where specific procedures and documents are not available.
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In New Zealand, these practices may also apply to work carried out on or near works.
Warning disclaimers are used in this document where there is potential for injury or death to the user.
This text is bold print and full capitals.
NZ
1.2 Application
This document may be applied through legislative requirements, made in each State and Territory of
Australia and in New Zealand, concerned with the safety of electrical installations. The document may
also be applied in conjunction with any additional requirements, exemptions or restrictions in such
legislation.
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1.3 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document.
NOTE Documents referenced for informative purposes are listed in the Bibliography.
AS 1892.2, Portable ladders, Part 2: Timber

AS 2210.2, Personal protective equipment, Method 2: Test methods for footwear
AS 4202, Insulating covers for electrical purposes
AS/NZS 1336, Eye and face protection—Guidelines
AS/NZS 1337.1, Personal eye protection, Part 1: Eye and face protectors for occupational applications
AS/NZS 1715, Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment
AS/NZS 1716, Respiratory protective devices
AS/NZS 1801, Occupational protective helmets
AS/NZS 1892.3, Portable ladders, Part 3: Reinforced plastic
AS/NZS 1892.5, Portable ladders, Part 5: Selection, safe use and care

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AS/NZS 2161.4, Occupational protective gloves, Part 4: Protection against thermal risks (heat and fire)
AS/NZS 3000, Electrical installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand wiring rules)
AS/NZS 3190, Approval and test specification—Residual current devices (current-operated earth-
leakage devices)
AS/NZS 61008.1, Residual current operated circuit-breakers without integral overcurrent protection for
household and similar uses (RCCBs), Part 1: General rules (IEC 61008‑1, Ed. 3.2 (2013) MOD)
AS/NZS 61009.1, Residual current operated circuit-breakers with integral overcurrent protection for
household and similar uses (RCBOs), Part 1: General rules (IEC 61009‑1, Ed. 3.2 (2013) MOD)
AS/NZS 61558 (all parts), Safety of power transformers, power supply units and similar
AS/NZS IEC 60903, Live working — Electrical insulating gloves
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AS/NZS IEC 61111, Live working — Electrical insulating mats
ENA NENS 09, National guidelines for the selection, use and maintenance of personal protective equipment
for electrical arc hazards
1.4 Terms and definitions AF

For the purposes of this document, the definitions in AS/NZS 3000 and those below apply.
1.4.1
approved
having a relevant organization’s endorsement for a specified function
1.4.2
arc blast
rapid heating and expansion of air and molten metal resulting from an arc fault
Note 1 to entry: The arc blast may result in metal and droplet spray, ejected debris, noise, and pressure wave(s)
from build-up and release from inside enclosed electrical equipment
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1.4.3
arc fault
unintended and uncontrolled discharge of electrical energy through air, typically through the result of
malfunction, contaminant build up, insulation breakdown, or physical interaction
1.4.4
arc fault condition
condition where arcs are produced through fault or failure of electrical equipment
1.4.5
arc flash
generation and transfer of heat, plasma gas, light and sound from an arc fault
1.4.6
arc flash boundaries
distances from the energized equipment that should be maintained to manage arc flash risk
1.4.7
asbestos
naturally occurring mineral made up of tiny, microscopic fibres
[SOURCE: Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency, available at https://w ww.asbestossafety.gov
.au/modified]

3 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
1.4.8
competent person
person, who has acquired, through training, qualification or experience or a combination of these, the
knowledge and skill enabling that person to perform the required task correctly
1.4.9
de-energized
separated from all sources of supply, but not necessarily isolated, earthed or out of commission
1.4.10
discharge
removal of an electric charge by the application of a discharge device
1.4.11
disconnected
physically separated from any source of electrical energy, and where necessary insulated or secured in
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a position clear of any electrical equipment that is capable of being energized
1.4.12
earthed
connected to the general mass of earth
electrical equipment
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Note 1 to entry: Requirements for earthing are set out in AS/NZS 3000.
1.4.13
wiring systems, switchgear, control gear, accessories, appliances, luminaires, and fittings used
for such purposes as generation, conversion, storage, transmission, distribution, or utilization of
electrical energy
[SOURCE: AS/NZS 3000:2018, 1.4.50]
1.4.14
electrical incident
electrical event that may cause an injury to a person or damage to property
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1.4.15
electrical installation
electrical equipment installed for the purposes of conveyance, control, measurement or use of
electricity, where electricity is or is to be supplied for consumption
Note 1 to entry: This includes electrical equipment supplied from a distributor’s system or a private
generating system.
Note 2 to entry: An electrical installation usually commences at the point of supply and finishes at a point (in
wiring) but does not include portable or stationary electrical equipment connected by plug and socket-outlet
(other than where a socket-outlet is used to connect sections of the fixed installation).
[SOURCE: AS/NZS 3000:2018, 1.4.52, modified]

1.4.16
electrical work
physical work of installing, maintaining, repairing, altering, removing, or adding to an electrical
installation or supervision of that work
1.4.17
electrically safe work condition
state in which an electrical conductor or circuit part has been disconnected from energized parts,
locked, or tagged in accordance with established requirements, tested to confirm the absence of voltage,
and if necessary, temporary grounded for personal protection

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1.4.18
energized
connected to a source of electrical supply or subject to hazardous induced or capacitive voltages
1.4.19
fault-finding
process of taking measurements or carrying out tests on electrical installations and equipment to
locate faults or prove operability

Note 1 to entry: This may also include the process of applying testing instruments or devices to various
parts of the electrical installation and equipment to determine how the electrical installation and equipment
are operating.
1.4.20
hazard
potential source of harm
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[SOURCE: ISO/IEC Guide 51:2014, 3.2]
1.4.21
hazardous area
area in which an explosive atmosphere is present or may be expected to be present, in quantities
1.4.22
incident energy
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that require special precautions, when working on electrical installations and equipment or using
test equipment
amount of thermal energy impressed on a surface, a given distance from the source, generated during
an electrical arc event
Note 1 to entry: Incident energy is typically expressed in cal/cm2.
1.4.23
isolator
safety device which provides, in the open position, breaks appropriate to the voltage and
insulating medium
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1.4.24
material containing asbestos
see asbestos (1.4.7)
1.4.25
may
indicates the existence of an option
1.4.26
on or near
within 500 mm in any direction of exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts
Note 1 to entry: An example of working on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts, is
a situation where there is a reasonable possibility that body parts, or any conducting medium being carried,
during the course of the work may come closer than 500 mm to the exposed energized conductors or live
conductive parts.
Note 2 to entry: The term “on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts” does not apply if
the uninsulated and energized part is safely and securely shielded by design or segregated and protected with
barricades or insulated shrouding or insulating material to prevent inadvertent or direct contact.
Note 3 to entry: The term “on or near” includes an activity which may affect the properties of conductors or
conductive parts and cause them to be exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts.

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1.4.27
ripple-free d.c
operation of switching devices, links, fuses, or other connections intended for ready removal or
replacement, proving that electrical conductors are de-energized, earthing or short-circuiting, locking
or tagging of electrical apparatus and erection of barriers or signs
1.4.28
personal protective equipment

PPE
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
1.4.29
risk
combination of the probability of occurrence of harm and the severity of that harm
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[SOURCE: ISO/IEC Guide 51:2014, 3.9]
1.4.30
risk assessment
overall process of risk identification, risk analysis and risk evaluation
[SOURCE: ISO Guide 73:2009, 3.4.1]
1.4.31
safety observer
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person who has been specifically assigned the responsibility of observing and warning against the
unsafe approach to electrical equipment, exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts and
other potential risks
1.4.32
shall
indicates that a statement is mandatory
1.4.33
should
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indicates a recommendation
1.4.34
testing
use of test instruments or test equipment by a competent person
1.4.35
voltage
differences of potential normally existing between conductors or between conductors and earth
1.4.35.1
extra-low voltage
ELV
not exceeding 50 V a.c. or 120 V ripple-free d.c
1.4.35.2
low voltage
LV
exceeding extra-low voltage, but not exceeding 1 000 V a.c. or 1 500 V d.c
1.4.35.3
high voltage
HV
exceeding low voltage

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1.4.36
work near
performance of a function in an area near exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts and/or
electrical equipment
Note 1 to entry: Functions may include cleaning, pest control or other tasks that are not defined as electrical
work (1.4.16).
1.4.37
work on
work includes undertaking or supervising the following: constructing, manufacturing, assembling,
installing, connecting, maintaining, repairing, altering, testing, verifying, assessing, or inspecting,
removing, or adding to an electrical installation or equipment
1.4.38
zero energy state
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isolator position in which the energy source has been deemed to have been dissipated and controlled
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7 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Section 2 Principles of risk management
2.1 General
Before commencing work on or near any electrical installation or equipment, a competent person shall
determine whether it is safe to do so. This is achieved by applying a risk management system. All work
shall be planned and organized to minimize the risk associated with the work.
The most effective way to control risk is to eliminate it. If a risk assessment indicates that risks cannot
be sufficiently controlled to enable the work to be performed safely, then the work shall not proceed.
This section sets out the principles of risk management for the identification and assessment of risk. It
also provides information regarding means of reducing risk and the work permit system.
NOTE 1 AS ISO 31000 provides guidance on the establishment and implementation of the risk
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management process.
NOTE 2 AS/NZS 4804 provides guidance on the development and implementation of occupational health and
safety management systems.
NOTE 3 Appendix E provides information on a risk assessment technique involving a bowtie analysis.
2.2 Principles
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The principles of risk management comprise —
(a) identifying the hazards (see Clause 2.3);
(b) assessing and prioritizing the risks (see Clause 2.4); and
(c) applying control measures to the identified risks (see Clause 2.5).
2.3 Identify the hazards
2.3.1 General
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The first step of the risk management process is to identify the factors that have the potential
to cause harm.
Before undertaking work, all hazards and environmental considerations shall be identified.
Hazard identification is the process used to identify all possible conditions, situations, practices, and
behaviours in the workplace where people may be exposed to injury, illness or disease, or when damage
may be done to the environment, property, plant or equipment.
Examples of hazards and environmental considerations include the following:
(a) Electric shock.
(b) Arc flash.
(c) Position of exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts.
WARNING: ALL ELECTRICAL CONDUCTORS AND PARTS, INCLUDING NEUTRAL AND EARTHING
CONDUCTORS, SHALL BE TREATED AS ENERGIZED UNTIL PROVEN DE-ENERGIZED. ALWAYS
TEST BEFORE TOUCHING.
(d) Cramped conditions.
(e) Moving equipment, such as cranes or transfer cars.

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(f) Hot or wet conditions.

(g) Hazardous areas (see Clause 4.2.3).
NOTE All non-electrical sources of energy (e.g. counterweights on machines and stored hydraulic and
pneumatic energy) should be isolated, controlled or secured to prevent the release of energy. The AS/NZS 4024
series provides guidance on the safeguarding of machinery.
2.3.2 Electrical hazards
Electrical hazards within electrical installations shall be identified before any work is carried out.
Electrical hazards can arise from work and the interaction that occurs in the installation, and this can
include the following:
(a) Work required to be performed.
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(b) Physical work area.
(c) Work design and management.
(d) Equipment, materials, and substances used.
(e) Design, construction, installation, maintenance, and testing of the electrical installation or
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electrical equipment.
(f) Any design change or modification.
(g) Work being performed on or near electrical installation or electrical equipment.
(h) Inactive electrical protection.
To assist with hazard identification, consultation should occur with the following:
(i) Personnel and other workers.
(ii) Suppliers of the equipment.
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(iii) Health and safety representatives and specialists.
2.3.3 Electric shock
Potential sources of electric shock shall be identified before any work is carried out. There are many
possible sources of electric shock, including the following:
(a) Voltages between phases, and between phases and neutral.
(b) Voltages between phases and earth (including metalwork, damp situations, other conductive
surfaces, and persons nearby).
(c) Voltages across open switch contacts.
(d) Voltages across undischarged capacitors, e.g. electromagnetic interference filters.
(e) Voltages on disconnected conductors (particularly neutrals).
(f) Voltages caused by static electricity.
(g) In multiple earthed neutral (MEN) electrical installations or systems, the rise in the earth
potential in an electrical installation due to a high resistance return path to the supply neutral.
(h) Induced voltages.
(i) Voltages across secondary terminals of transformers, including current transformers.

9 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
(j) Voltages between different earthing systems.

(k) Incorrect wiring connections.
(l) Faulty electrical equipment or wiring, which may result in the frame of the electrical
equipment being energized.
(m) Voltages from other sources of supply, e.g. illegal connections, uninterruptible power supplies,
motor generators, inverters, solar panels, batteries, and wind generators.
(n) Lightning.
(o) Breaking of the continuity of the incoming water supply.
(p) Voltages triggered inadvertently through the operation of float switches, thermostats, time
switches and photo-electric cells, etc.
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(q) Penetration with tools or fixings of structures containing concealed conductors.
(r) Voltages caused by electrical welders.
NOTE See Appendix C for electric shock survival guidance.
2.3.4 Arc blast and flash injuries

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Arc blast, flash risks and the possibility of resulting injuries shall be taken into account in the design,
operation and maintenance of electrical installations.
A person working on or near energized conductors or electrical equipment is at risk of injury, including
serious burns and death from arcing faults. With short (bolted) circuit fault currents of up to 25 times
the rated current of the supply transformer, arc fault impedance can reduce arcing fault current to less
than half the prospective short circuit current. These reduced arc fault currents may not initiate the
operation of legacy protective devices, which can increase the duration of the arcing fault.
The main mechanism for injury from arc blast and flash is from thermal effects due to radiated heat
and the fault generated plasma cloud often described as a fireball. The energy impacting the body of
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the worker can be modelled as the incident energy. Incident energy as low as 1.2 cal/cm2 can produce
second degree burns and ignite personal protective equipment (PPE) made of cotton. Three-phase
electrical equipment with protective devices rated from 63 A and above may have prospective incident
energy levels above 1.2 cal/cm2.
Incident energy exposure to the worker may be quantified using IEEE 1584 or an equivalent standard.
The incident energy is a function of voltage, prospective fault current, component and switchgear
geometry, distance, and protective device characteristics.
A person conducting a business or undertaking with high current equipment with a rated capacity of
800 A and above should complete an arc fault study as part of their hazard identification and control
process. This does not preclude other installations needing to assess the risk of arc flash.
See Section 11 for further information on PPE. See Appendix B for further information and controls for
arc flash and blast.
WARNING: ARCS THAT ARE PRODUCED UNDER ARC FAULT CONDITIONS HAVE THE ENERGY TO
CAUSE AN EXPLOSION, MELT METALLIC SWITCHBOARD CUBICLES AND EQUIPMENT, CAUSE
SEVERE BURNS AND FLASH BURNS TO THE FACE, EYES AND BODY AND CAUSE INJURY THROUGH
IMPACT FROM FLYING DEBRIS OR DISLODGED COMPONENTS.
CIRCUIT PROTECTION DEVICES MAY NOT OPERATE AS A SAFEGUARD IN SUCH CIRCUMSTANCES.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 10
2.3.5 Hazardous areas
A competent person shall carry out design, construction, maintenance, testing and inspection of
electrical equipment in hazardous areas (EEHA).
NOTE 1 Refer to AS/NZS 60079.14 for more information on explosive atmospheres. Refer also to AS/NZS 4761.1
which sets out the general competencies for a person working with electrical apparatus in hazardous areas and
the requisite technical training to achieve those competencies.
Hazardous areas which contain gases, vapours and dusts that are combustible and potentially explosive
present risk of injury as there is the possibility of explosion, fire and/or associated equipment damage.
Sources of ignition that may generate an electrical spark include the following:
(a) Clothing made from wool, wool blends, nylons (unless treated with an antistatic process) and
polyvinyl materials (especially those with a nylon base) may generate an electrical spark
sufficient to ignite a flammable gas or vapour mixture.
T
(b) Personal effects, e.g. jewellery, watches, cigarette lighters, matches, battery-operated items
such as hearing aids, mobile telephones, pagers, electronic car keys, key ring torches and
electronic devices.
(c) Electric tools, test equipment and instruments, e.g. mains and battery-powered appliances
such as inspection hand lamps, drills, and torches.
AF
(d) Actions such as —
(i) any form of hot work including welding or brazing;
(ii) using a hacksaw;
(iii) drilling or grinding of any type;
(iv) impact of a hammer or chisel onto concrete or metal;
(v) rubbing or movement of plastics; or
(vi) using the test equipment given in Item (c).
DR
The sources of ignition given in Items (a), (b) and (c) should not be taken into or worn in a hazardous area.
The actions listed in Item (d) should not be undertaken unless a competent person determines that —
(A) the sources of ignition given in Items (a), (b) and (c) are safe and authorizes them for use in
the areas into which they are to be taken; or
(B) the areas where the work is to be carried out are safe, i.e. an explosive atmosphere
does not exist.
NOTE 2 AS/NZS 60079.14 and AS/NZS 60079.17 specify requirements for the selection, installation and
maintenance of electrical equipment in hazardous areas. AS/NZS 3800 specifies requirements for the repair of
electrical equipment to be used in explosive atmospheres.
2.3.6 Other risk factors
Other potential sources of risk shall be identified before any work is carried out. Potential sources of
risk include the following:
(a) Live conductors.
(b) Adjacent live conductors such as —
(i) concealed conductors, e.g. they may be present within building cavities and slabs,
concealed by earth (dirt) or other material;

11 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
(ii) overhead conductors (see Section 5); and

(iii) underground conductors (see Section 6).
(c) Cramped working conditions.
(d) Confined spaces.
(e) Multiple sources of supply including stored or generating sources, e.g. solar, wind, co-gen,
battery banks, uninterruptible power supply (UPS), inverters, capacitors.
(f) Damp situations.
(g) Environmental factors, e.g. heat, cold, vibration and noise.
(h) Height, e.g. working at heights and danger of falling objects.
T
(i) Operational pressures to carry out work or to restore electricity supply.
(j) Instability of the work area.
(k) Conductors, cables or equipment under tension or likely to fall.
(l) Proximity of other work functions and other mobile plant and equipment including moving
AF
machinery such as gantry cranes or transfer cars.
(m) Working below ground.
(n) Corrosive and toxic materials.
(o) Radiation, e.g. microwave antennas, radio towers, mobile phone antennas, and radar.
(p) Material containing asbestos.
(q) Hazardous substances, e.g. polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) (see Clause 4.2.11).
(r) Accumulation of conductive dust.
DR
(s) Failure to conform with practices and procedures.
(t) Working in isolation from others.
(u) Equipment design, e.g. not operating switches under load unless they are designed for
the purpose.
(v) Position of exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts.
2.3.7 Safe work clearances
If any person is required to work within 3 m of energized exposed conductors or parts, a competent
person shall identify appropriate risk treatments (see Figure 2.1).
Safety shall not be compromised because of operational pressures to carry out the work.
Figure 2.2 depicts the 500 mm safe work clearance for work on or near low-voltage (LV) and extra-low
voltage (ELV) equipment within an enclosed switchboard panel. The 500 mm safe work clearance is
shown in the circle.
NOTE 1 In some cases, the identification and possibility of encroaching within 3 m of energized exposed
conductors or parts will be obvious, e.g. overhead lines and cables and crane collector rails. In other cases, it
will not be immediately obvious, e.g. power tools drilling into structures (see Clause 8.3). Work equipment may
extend into the 3 m distance, e.g. ladders (see Clause 8.4), elevating work platforms (EWPs) and scaffolding (see
Clause 8.5).

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 12
NOTE 2 Appendix A provides a typical form for use in the assessment of risk.
WARNING: INFORMATION REGARDING ALL HAZARDS AND THE CONTROL MEASURES REQUIRED
FOR MITIGATION SHALL BE READILY AVAILABLE.
3 m exc lu s i o n zo n e required
by Clause 2.3.7 for ot h er t h a n
c o m petent per s o ns
T
O n or near
m 3 m
m
AF 0
50
En ergized ex p o s e d
c o n d u c tor s or par t s
Figure 2.1 — Illustration of 3 m exclusion zone and “on or near”

DR
Figure 2.2 — 500 mm safe work clearance for work on or near low-voltage and extra-low
voltage equipment within an enclosed switchboard panel

13 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
2.4 Assess and prioritize risk

The second step of the risk management process is risk assessment.
Prior to undertaking work, a risk assessment shall be carried out at the work site to assess the level of
risk associated with all hazards that have been identified.
Where hazards are identified, the risks shall be prioritized, and control measures implemented in
accordance with Clause 2.5.
NOTE 1 An example of a risk matrix is included in Appendix E.
NOTE 2 AS/NZS 31010 provides guidance on risk assessments.
2.5 General risk control measures
T
The third step of the risk management process is applying risk control measures.
Before undertaking work, control measures shall be applied to hazards which have been identified.
Figure 2.3 depicts the hierarchy of control. The hierarchy of control is a system for controlling risks in
the workplace. It is a step-by-step approach for eliminating or reducing risks and ranking risk controls.
AF
Risk control reduction strategies use a hierarchy of control to identify the likelihood, severity and
consequences of certain risks and hazards. The hierarchy of control is a step-by-step approach to
eliminating or reducing risks, using the hierarchical process of the highest level of protection and
reliability, through to the lowest and least reliable protection.
The steps in the hierarchy of control strategy, from most effective to least effective, are as represented
in Figure 2.3.
M o s t ef fe c t i ve
Eliminat i o n
Substituti o n
DR
Isolat i o n
En g i n e e r i n g
Ad m in i s tr ati o n
PPE
Least ef fe c t i ve
Figure 2.3 — Hierarchy of control
If elimination of the hazards and risks cannot be achieved, then the hierarchy shall be applied to select
controls that most effectively reduce the risk.
NOTE Legislation may have additional requirements for the elimination of hazards and risks.
The following is a hierarchy of controls such that the level of risk mitigation decreases with the order:
(a) Eliminate the hazard, which is always the first priority, e.g. by switching off and isolating.
This may require rescheduling the work to a time when it can be de-energized.
(b) Substitution, e.g. use of battery-powered tools instead of mains powered. This is not always
an option but should be considered whenever possible.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 14
(c) Use separation methods such as barriers or distance from the hazard.
(d) Minimize risk through engineering, e.g. design, automation, provision of local isolation,
containment or limitation, e.g. residual current devices (RCDs).
(e) Minimize risk by administration, e.g. policy, procedures, safe work practices, signage
and training.
(f) Minimize risk with PPE. Relying on PPE as the first line of defence is the least desirable
approach and should only be used in conjunction when other alternatives are unavailable, or
as an additional precautionary measure.
It is normal to use a combination of control measures to reduce the risks associated with a serious
hazard to a tolerable level. It should be noted that the nature and duration of a given task may be a
cause to amend the specific controls from job to job and location to location on a project, e.g. in relation
to fatigue or exposure.
T
Risk control procedures shall be developed in accordance with Figure 2.4 and reviewed before work
commences in accordance with Figure 2.5.
AF
DR

15 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
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(S e e Figure 2.5)
Figure 2.4 — Risk control procedures

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 16
2.6 Means of reducing risk

A person should maximize electrical safety where possible when working with electrical installations
or equipment. Electrical safety is inversely proportional to the level of risk and depends upon —
(a) appropriate job planning by a competent person;
(b) the correct isolation and testing procedures and techniques;

(c) the use of safety equipment and tools, test instruments and PPE that are fit for purpose;
(d) the work being carried out by competent persons;
(e) the display of warning notices to reduce the risk of injury or death; and
(f) the use of barriers to prevent inadvertent contact with energized parts.
T
Work should be planned in advance, particularly where other services are likely to be present or
affected, e.g. gas, telephone, data communications, water pipes, other electrical circuits, other energy
AF
sources, and where other trades are likely to be working.
Work should be planned to avoid jeopardizing the operation of lighting and electrical equipment
essential for safety or for the preservation of life, e.g. emergency lighting and dialysis machines.
Use risk assessment and this

S te p 1 S t a n d a r d to d eve l o p and
implement appr ove d s afe
wor k i n g pro c e d ures /SW M S
Use risk assessment prior to

c o m m e n c i n g wor k to i d e n t if y
DR
S te p 2
ad d i t i o n a l ha z a r ds or r i s ks at
wor k s ite
C h a n g e(s)
Ye s required to
S te p 3
S te p 1
d o c u m ent s?
No
S te p 4 C o m m e n c e wor k
S t o p p er forming work if c h a n g e o c c ur s.
S te p 5
Retur n to S te p 2 .
Figure 2.5 — Safe working procedures

17 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
2.7 Work permit system

Some electrical installations may have a work permit system to control access to any work being
performed on or near electrical installations or equipment where potential for injury or equipment
damage exists. The work permit system should set out relevant conditions for —
(a) accessing electrical equipment;
(b) using electrical or mechanical isolation of equipment;
(c) using safety observers;
(d) using safety equipment;
(e) restoring operational status; and
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(f) other relevant matters.
NOTE Work permit systems may require practices additional to those set out in this document.
AF
DR

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 18
Section 3 Isolation, fault-finding and testing
3.1 Isolation
3.1.1 Isolation principles

Work shall not be carried out on or near de-energized exposed conductors and parts until a competent
person has —
(a) positively identified the electrical equipment and conductors, all energy sources and the
isolation points in accordance with Clause 3.1.2;
(b) isolated electrical equipment and conductors from all energy sources in accordance with
Clause 3.1.3;
T
(c) secured the isolation in accordance with Clause 3.1.4;
(d) discharged any stored energy, where necessary, e.g. within capacitors in accordance with
Clause 4.2.2;
(e) proven the de-energization of all relevant electrical equipment and conductors in accordance
with Clause 3.1.5; AF
(f) identified the limits of the safe area of work in accordance with Clause 3.1.7; and
(g) displayed warning notices to reduce the risk of injury or death. For example —
If the electrical installation is complex, the isolation procedures should be checked by another
competent person.
3.1.2 Identification of electrical equipment and isolation points

DR
The following components shall be positively identified:
(a) Electrical equipment to be worked on.
(b) Points of isolation.
(c) All energy sources.
NOTE Methods used to positively identify include line diagrams, labelling or ID numbering.
3.1.3 Isolation of electrical equipment
The electrical equipment to be worked on shall be isolated from all sources of electrical supply either by
opening switches, removing fuses or links, opening circuit breakers, or removing circuit connections.
Procedures shall be adopted to identify alternative power supplies connected to the electrical
installation. Isolation procedures should include steps to isolate all alternative supplies.
NOTE 1 Alternative sources of supply may include inverter/UPS systems, standby generators, solar cells, neutral
backfeed from intermixed circuits, ring main systems, main power with separate auxiliary power supplies for
control, transformation up (backfeed from ELV controls), multiple control supplies, luminaires supplied from
emergency sources of supply, and batteries.
Control circuits or control systems (such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), emergency stops,
control selector switches) shall not be used as a means of isolation, e.g. by operation of a stop button.

19 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
WARNING: CIRCUIT WIRING OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT OR CONDUCTORS MAY BECOME

ENERGIZED DUE TO ANY OPERATION OF AUTOMATIC CONTROL DEVICES, E.G. THERMOSTATS,
SWITCHES, PLCs, AND OTHER INTERFACE DEVICES.
NOTE 2 Active conductors should be disconnected first, followed by neutral conductors. Earth conductors
should be disconnected last.
3.1.4 Isolation securing devices and identification
3.1.4.1 General
Isolating devices shall be secured in the open position or zero energy state in such a manner as to
prevent inadvertent operation of the isolator. It may be necessary to apply some form of third-party
adaptor to the isolator to facilitate the attachment of the isolation-securing device or devices. No
person shall operate an isolator (e.g. switches, valves, protective devices) or use equipment to which an
T
isolation-securing device is attached.
Where a facility exists to lock an isolation switch, it shall be used.
The securing device need not be an integral part of the switch. Securing devices shall require a
deliberate action to engage or disengage. Securing devices may be —
(a)
(b)
(c)
AF
an additional component, such as a clip, screw, bolt, pin, or padlock that will prevent the
switch from being operated;
a personal danger tag, lock-out or permit system; or
some other system that provides an equivalent level of safety.
NOTE For further information on the lock out tag out process for isolation, see Appendix D.
3.1.4.2 Padlocks
Personal padlocks should be used for locking isolating devices. Personal padlocks should be red in
colour and uniquely keyed to prevent inadvertent removal by others. Each personal padlock should
DR
identify the person’s name, company, and contact details. The identification may be achieved by either
engraving on the padlock or by attaching a personal identification tag to it. The use of a multi-lock device
shall be employed where more than one person is required to attach a personal lock to an isolator.
Figure 3.1(A) shows a typical lock and multi-lock device. Figure 3.1(B) shows a typical personal
identification tag.

Figure 3.1(A) — Typical personal red lock and multi-lock device

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 20
1DPH
«««««««««
&RPSDQ\
«««««««
&RQWDFW3KRQH1R
««««««««
Figure 3.1(B) — Typical personal identification tag
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3.1.4.3 Tags
3.1.4.3.1 General
AF
Tags shall be attached with a lock, string or tie. The entries on the tag shall be legible and permanent.
PVC tape shall not be used to secure a tag.
If a formal permit system is used, the designated sign on and tagging procedures shall be used.
NOTE AS 1319 specifies requirements for the design and use of safety signs.
3.1.4.3.2 Danger tags
Danger tags shall be placed at all points of switching, isolation or disconnection, except where a padlock
is used in accordance with Clause 3.1.4.2.
Figure 3.1(C) displays examples of typical danger tags.
DR
DANGER
DANGER
DO NOT D O N OT
O P E R AT E
O P E R AT E
THIS DEVICE
OR REMOVE N a m e:
T H I S TAG Company:
Contac t Details:
My Life May be Endangered D a t e:
This tag MUST NOT be removed This tag MUST NOT be removed
except by the person named above except by the person named above
or, as provided under or, as provided under an
an approved approved procedure
SEE OTHER SIDE
Figure 3.1(C) — Typical danger tags
3.1.4.3.3 Warning tags
If used, warning tags shall be affixed as a warning that the device or electrical equipment is not to be
operated, except as indicated on the tag.
Figure 3.1(D) displays examples of typical out of service warning tags.

21 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
OUT OF OUT OF
SERVICE SERVICE
DO NOT USE OR DO NOT USE OR
OPERATE OPERATE
Pl a c e d by:
NAME This Tag

MUST NOT
OR G ANIS AT ION be removed
unless
DAT E
authorised by
a competent
R E AS ON
person
T
Figure 3.1(D) — Typical out of service warning tags
3.1.4.3.4 Removal of tags
A tag shall only be removed with the permission of the signatory or in accordance with tag
removal procedures. AF
3.1.5 Proving de-energization
Any voltage test used to prove de-energization shall be conducted in the following sequence:
(a) Visually check test equipment for any signs of damage.
(b) Check the suitability for the voltage present, as outlined in Section 10.
(c) Test the voltage tester on a known voltage source for correct operation.
(d) Test between all conductors and a known earth.
(e) Test between all conductors.
DR
(f) Retest the voltage tester on a known voltage source for correct operation.
NOTE Where an alternative power source is not available to prove the voltage tester, an insulation resistance
tester set on 250 V scale may be used.
WARNING: WHEN VOLTAGE TESTERS ARE USED TO PROVE DE-ENERGIZATION, THEY SHALL
BE TESTED FOR CORRECT OPERATION IMMEDIATELY BEFORE USE, AND AGAIN IMMEDIATELY
AFTER USE, TO CONFIRM THAT THE INSTRUMENT IS STILL WORKING CORRECTLY. SPECIAL
ATTENTION SHALL BE GIVEN TO THIS PROCEDURE IF THE TEST RESULT INDICATES
ZERO VOLTAGE.
Only competent persons shall perform the tests.
WARNING: THE USE OF TESTERS THAT DETECT AN ELECTRIC FIELD SURROUNDING AN
ENERGIZED CONDUCTOR ARE NOT SUITABLE FOR CABLES THAT ARE SURROUNDED BY A
METALLIC SCREEN, CABLES CARRYING DIRECT CURRENT, AND IN SIMILAR CIRCUMSTANCES.
3.1.6 Bonding of conductors
Differences in potential may develop in the voltages of local earths with respect to the general mass of
earth due to the presence of earth fault currents. When earth faults occur on high-voltage conductors
or equipment, this can drive high fault currents through earthing electrodes at substations.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 22
Such differences in earth voltages may cause harm from electric shock to any person exposed to
them. Therefore, where such voltages are transmitted along conductors from a remote position, the
conductors and equipment to be worked on should be bonded to a local earth before work commences.
This action will ensure that if an earth voltage difference between the remote point and the work site
occurs during the work, the person in contact with the conductors or equipment will not be exposed to
that difference.
Where the work risk assessment identifies the need for bonding, the conductors shall be bonded
together and connected to the general mass of earth at the work site. Bonding to earth may be affected
by connecting conductors to the earthing system with conductors that are adequate to carry the
potential short circuit currents to the electrical installation earthing system. The cross-section area of
the conductor shall not be less than 6 mm2.
Temporary bonding conductors shall always be connected together and attached to the general mass
of earth before any attempt is made to attach them to any de-energized component of the electrical
T
installation.
PPE shall be used or worn that is suitable for work involving attaching or removing temporary
bonding conductors.
NOTE Suitable PPE is specified in Section 11.
3.1.7 Identify the safe area of work

AF
All personnel who are to work in the safe area shall be advised of its limits and the location of any
adjacent exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts. The safe area of work should be
identified by erecting barriers or warning signs.
3.1.8 Work on de-energized electrical equipment
Work on de-energized electrical equipment shall only proceed if the electrical equipment is isolated
and any adjacent exposed conductors or conductive parts in the work area are either —
(a) de-energized and isolated; or
DR
(b) separated by barriers or a distance based on a risk assessment.
NOTE Clause 2.3.7 specifies minimum safe work clearance.
Figure 3.2 illustrates the requirements of this clause.

23 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
START
Isolate
Ye s and secure
exposed conductors
(Clause 3.1)
No
T
Are ex p o s e d
c o n d u c tor s t hat are n ot Fo llow
i s o late d (Clause 3.1) either ; t h e infor m at i o n
(a) l o c ate d where wor k c a n not be
AF No prov i d e d o n wor k i n g Ye s
Ye s
u n d er t ake n o n or near t h e m; or o n ex p o s e d e n e r g ize d
(b) sep a r ate d by suita b l e b a r ri e r s, c o n d u c tor s or live
c over s or m at s (Clause 8.6)? c o n d u c t ive p ar t s
(Clause 4. 2 .1)
No
S t o p wor k or d o n ot
c o m m e n c e wor k
DR
C o n t i n ue or
c o m m e n c e wor k
Figure 3.2 — Work on de-energized electrical equipment
3.2 Fault-finding and testing

Before commencing the fault-finding procedure, a visual inspection and assessment of component
failure shall be carried out to determine whether fault-finding can be carried out with the installation
or equipment de-energized. There is a risk of electric shock, electrocution, arc blast and flash burn
injuries when fault-finding or testing is being performed on or near exposed energized conductors or
live conductive parts. To manage this risk, the following precautions shall be taken:
(a) Before commencing any fault-finding work on or near exposed energized conductors or live
conductive parts, an assessment of the associated risks shall be made. The risk assessment
shall determine whether isolation, the use of barriers or a safety observer is required.
NOTE 1 Regulatory authorities and legislation in some jurisdictions may have requirements for the
use of a safety observer during fault-finding work.
(b) Only competent persons shall undertake fault-finding work on or near exposed energized
conductors or live conductive parts.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 24
(c) When fault-finding work is to be carried out on or near exposed energized conductors or
live conductive parts, a risk assessment shall identify the required controls to prevent the
possibility of simultaneous contact with conductors at different voltages or to earth.
(d) PPE that is appropriate and suitable for the task to be carried out shall be worn or use.
PPE shall be of correct fit for the person carrying out the task and in good condition (see
Section 11).
(e) All fault-finding work on exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts shall be done
from a stable work position.
(f) Before commencing work, suitability and correct operation of test equipment shall be
confirmed and checked.
(g) Correct test equipment for the application shall be used and the operating range selected.
T
NOTE 2 Refer to HB 187 for the selection of test equipment based on identified risk factors, e.g.
voltage and fault level.
(h) Potential risks associated with the following shall be taken into account:
(i) Bridging out of safety and control circuit interlocks.
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
AF
Inadvertent initiation of equipment operation.
Inadvertent energization of electrical equipment.
Bridging of terminals.
(v) Forcing of contactors and interlocks.
(vi) Forcing of software interlocks, e.g. PLCs.
(i) Extreme caution shall be taken to not open-circuit the secondary winding of a current
transformer (CT) in case high voltages (HV) are generated.
(j) Caution shall be taken when inserting fuses or closing links carrying full load current or
DR
under a suspected fault condition.
(k) When work is left unfinished, the workplace shall be left in a safe state for access by others.
See the requirements of Clauses 3.1.4.2, 3.1.4.3 and 4.2.15.
(l) Electrical equipment shall be returned to service in its original state. Where this is not
possible, a competent person shall assess any changes made to the equipment.
After electrical testing of cables, a considerable build-up of capacitive charge may occur and remain on
the cable. Such cables shall be properly discharged to earth before handling so that all the capacitive
charge is removed.
NOTE 3 In New Zealand, a set of voluntary rules in the Electricity Engineers Association of New Zealand’s safety NZ
manual and an associated guide are in use in the electricity supply industry.
3.3 Testing plug-in electrical equipment

For personal safety, when performing energized fault-finding or testing on electrical equipment
that plugs into a 3-pin flat-pin socket outlet rated at up to and including 20 A, an RCD or an isolating
transformer shall be used.

25 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
RCDs shall be —
(a) Type II (30 mA);
(b) Type I (10 mA) complying with AS/NZS 3190; or
(c) comply with AS/NZS 61008.1 or AS/NZS 61009.1.
Isolating transformers shall comply with the AS/NZS 61558 series.
T
AF
DR

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 26
Section 4 Risk control for specific situations
4.1 General
Each hazard presents its own kind and level of risk. This section specifies some of the ways of controlling
these risks. Some typical factors to be considered include the following:
(a) Equipment being installed.
(b) The environment that the electrical equipment is to be installed in.
(c) Energy storage systems.
(d) Building materials that may exist.
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4.2 Specific situations
4.2.1 Work on exposed energized conductors and live conductive parts
Work on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts shall be undertaken only when
it is determined that — AF
(a) the work is necessary in the interests of safety and the risk of harm would be greater if the
equipment or parts were de-energized;
(b) the work on energized electrical installations and equipment is in accordance with mandatory
risk controls; and
(c) the preparations specified in this clause have been carried out.
NOTE 1 Local legislative authorities may have additional requirements regarding work on energized electrical
installations and equipment.
A competent person shall carry out work on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive
parts or electrical equipment. In some situations, specific training and authorization may be required
DR
or necessary before proceeding with the work.
Conductive items such as tape measures, rules, reinforced tapes, ladders, EWPs, scaffolding and guards
on portable lamps shall not be used on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts.
NOTE 2 The AS/NZS 1892 series specifies requirements for ladders.
Bracelets, rings, neck chains, exposed metal zips, watches and other conductive items shall not be worn
while working on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts. Earplugs or earmuffs,
if worn, shall not be conductive.
A safety observer shall observe any work on or near exposed energized conductors or live
conductive parts.
The safety observer shall —
(i) inform and warn of any dangers, e.g. inadvertent contact with energized electrical circuits
and equipment, and if necessary, stop the work that is in progress;
(ii) not perform any other task that may compromise the safety observation;
(iii) communicate quickly and effectively with those performing the work;
(iv) be proficient in electrical rescue and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR);
NOTE 3 See Appendix C for information on CPR.

27 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
(v) wear the correct PPE;

NOTE 4 See Table 11.2 for guidance on selection of this equipment.
(vi) not have any known temporary or permanent disability that would adversely affect their
performance; and
(vii) be present as a risk control measure for electrical safety when electrical work is being carried
out on energized circuits and electrical equipment.
Electrical safety depends on factors such as job planning, safe working practices, and training in live
work techniques and test procedures.
Workers shall be trained and competent in live working test procedures and in the use of
testing equipment.
T
The risk of electric shock, elecrocution, arc blast and flash burn injuries exists when performing work
on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts.
WARNING: WORKING ON ENERGIZED CIRCUITS AND EQUIPMENT IS NOT AS SAFE AS WORKING
DE-ENERGIZED.
To manage this risk, the following precautions shall be taken:
AF
(A) Before commencing any work on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive
parts, an assessment of the associated risks shall be made and documented.
(B) Isolation shall be the first option. This may require rescheduling the work to a time when it
has been de-energized.
(C) Where a risk assessment procedure determines that isolation or the use of barriers
is impracticable, a safety observer shall be used as a precaution against potential
injury or damage.
NOTE 5 Regulatory authorities and legislation in some jurisdictions may have requirements for the
use of a safety observer for energized (live) electrical work.
DR
(D) Only a competent person shall undertake work on or near exposed energized conductors or
live conductive parts.
(E) When work is to be carried out on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive
parts, precautions shall be taken or procedures put into place to prevent the possibility of
simultaneous contact with conductors at different voltages.
(F) PPE that is appropriate and suitable for the task shall be worn. PPE shall be of correct fit for
the person carrying out the task and in good condition (see Section 11).
NOTE 6 Section 11 provides guidance on PPE.
(G) All work on exposed energized conductors or live conductive parts shall be done from a stable
work position.
(H) When working on energized electrical equipment that has earthed metal, precautions shall be
taken so that earthing continuity is maintained to any component of the electrical equipment
at all times. Alternatively, the work shall be carried out in accordance with an approved
procedure. Temporary protective earthing conductors may be required to be installed when
removing electrical equipment from earthed metal, e.g. an electrical component separated
from its normal earthing medium. Temporary protective earthing conductors shall be rated
to withstand the prospective short-circuit current of the primary protection without failing.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 28
(I) Tests may have indicated a de-energized situation in neutral connections. When these
connections are removed, precautions shall be taken as a voltage may be present between
conductors or between conductors and earth.
(J) Only conductors at the same voltage should be worked on at any one time. Insulating barriers,
covers or mats shall be used in the work area between conductors of different phases
or voltage. Alternatively, the work shall be carried out in accordance with an approved
procedure. The conductive path between a person and a conductor and between a person and
an earth (including building materials such as concrete and steel that may be earthed), or
between persons shall be broken by one or more of the following methods:
(i) Insulating barriers, covers or mats.
(ii) Insulating tools.
(iii) Insulating gloves.
T
(K) When work is left unfinished the workplace shall be left in a state safe for access by others, in
accordance with the requirements of Clause 4.2.15.
(L) Electrical equipment shall be returned to service in its original state or that changes made
have been approved.
AF
NOTE 7 In New Zealand, a set of voluntary rules in the Electricity Engineers Association of New Zealand’s safety NZ
manual and an associated guide are is in use in the electricity supply industry.
4.2.2 Capacitors
When working on electrical installations or equipment that includes capacitors, substantial energy can
be present even when they are de-energized. In such circumstances, voltages might be produced that
could cause electrocution, arcs, flash burns or electric shock to persons, or ignite gases or solid material.
Capacitors and associated circuitry shall be proved to be de-energized and fully discharged before
commencing work on them and their associated circuit wiring. This may be achieved by using and
maintaining, for the duration of the work, safe discharging devices or by following the instructions
for use. A voltage tester shall be used to prove that the capacitors are discharged, immediately before
DR
performing work, because capacitors that do not have discharge devices attached might reinstate the
full line voltage. The voltage tests shall be on the d.c. scale of the tester.
NOTE If a capacitor is not discharged, then the requirements of Clause 4.2.1 for work on or near exposed
energized conductors or live conductive parts apply.
Steps should be taken against the harmful effects of arcing when applying discharging devices. Short-
circuiting or earthing of capacitor terminals with metal objects such as spanners or screwdrivers can
result in electrocution, arcs, flash burns or electric shock and should not be attempted. Use only devices
that are suitable for the work to be carried out.
4.2.3 Hazardous areas
Work on or near electrical installations or equipment within hazardous areas (e.g. petrochemical
installations, grain storage, flour mills, spray booths and fine particle process areas) shall only be
performed using safe work methods for those premises.
NOTE 1 AS/NZS 3800 specifies requirements for the repair of electrical equipment to be used in explosive
atmospheres.
NOTE 2 Regulatory authorities may have requirements regarding competency when working in
hazardous areas.

29 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
4.2.4 Trafficable areas
When working near traffic areas, traffic management procedures for the installation of screens,
barriers and signage shall be employed. Lighting should be installed for safety and protection where
lighting levels have been identified as a factor in a risk assessment.
NOTE Traffic areas include vehicular and pedestrian areas.
Preventive action should be taken, when working in a passageway or narrow access area. For example,
where a door might be inadvertently opened or closed and propel persons into an energized electrical
source, the door should be restrained while work is being undertaken.
4.2.5 Areas of reduced mobility
When working in areas of reduced mobility, care should be taken due to the restriction of movement
T
and the inability to readily escape from the area.
Examples of areas of reduced mobility are as follows:
(a) Restricted areas in and around switchboards.
(b) Ceiling and roof spaces.
(c)
(d)
(e)
Spaces under floors.
Ladders, scaffolds, or EWPs.
Trenches.
AF
(f) Pits or tunnels.
(g) Confined spaces.
NOTE AS 2865 identifies the hazards when entering and working in confined spaces. It sets out the precautions
to be taken to prevent occupational injuries and fatalities associated with such work environments.
4.2.6 Illumination
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Work areas shall be provided with lighting that is both adequate and suitable for the work and
emergency evacuation. Lamps should be protected against breakage.
NOTE AS/NZS 3012 provides guidance on lighting levels.
4.2.7 Batteries and d.c. supplies
Hazards associated with batteries and d.c. supplies include the following:
(a) Arc flash.
(b) Electric shock.
(c) Toxic fume.
(d) Chemical.
(e) Mechanical failure.
(f) Fire.
Before working on or near batteries and d.c. supplies or electrical equipment that contains them, a risk
assessment process shall be conducted to ensure appropriate precautions are put in place, including —
(i) reference to manufacturer’s instructions;

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 30
(ii) the use of insulated tools; and

(iii) the use of PPE relevant to the incident energy available.
Battery terminals shall remain protected by insulating covers where practicable at all times while
electrical work on or near them is being carried out.
NOTE 1 Short-circuiting of d.c. conductive parts, supply terminals or battery connections may create
substantial arcs that can cause personal injuries, arc flash/fault events, ignite hazardous gases or material or
start fires.
NOTE 2 AS/NZS 5139 provides guidance on safe practices during battery installation and maintenance.
4.2.8 Electrical equipment producing high voltages
Electrical equipment producing HVs including cold cathode systems of illumination, outline lighting
T
systems, X-ray equipment and open-circuited secondary terminals of current transformers may have
open circuit voltages up to 15 000 V.
4.2.9 Electromotive force — Induced voltage
Electromotive force (EMF) is generated when magnetic field fluctuations occur through a surface.
AF
Devices that can generate EMF include solar cells, electrical generators, transformers, and
thermoelectric devices (typically used in heating and cooling systems). EMF is generated in the vicinity
of power lines, mobile phones, mobile phone tower and similar transmitters.
Symptoms experienced by a person who is sensitive to EMF can include headaches, sleeping disorders,
depression, aches, and pains.
The following controls may reduce the risk of EMF:
(a) Design of the layout of the work environment or location.
(b) Use of barriers, signs, and other similar systems.
(c) Use of equipment that emits less intense EMF.
DR
(d) Limit on the duration of the exposure.
4.2.10 Material containing asbestos
A risk is presented when working with material containing asbestos, especially if the material is
handled in a way that causes the release of asbestos fibres.
In the bonded condition, materials containing asbestos that have been well maintained do not represent
a significant health risk unless disturbed.
Any removal, drilling, cutting or pressure washing shall not be undertaken unless the work is carried
out in accordance with a risk assessment and safe working procedures that enable capture of released
asbestos particles or fibres.
NOTE 1 Local or state regulatory authorities may have additional requirements for the handling and removal
of asbestos, and the training of personnel.
In Australia, where asbestos is identified or assumed to be present in a workplace, a register should AS

be kept to record these instances. Before any work is undertaken at a workplace, the register should
be reviewed.
NOTE 2 Domestic premises may not require a register but may have material containing asbestos.
NOTE 3 Local or state regulatory authorities may have additional requirements for recording the identification
and location of asbestos in a register.

31 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
In New Zealand, there are workplace requirements around asbestos identification. Indication shall be NZ
provided for the known or assumed presence of asbestos within a workplace.
Additional precautions shall be taken when an electrical switchboard or electrical equipment
containing asbestos is found to be damaged. The additional precautions may include wearing PPE such
as respiratory masks, safety eyewear, and disposable gloves for visual inspection.
NOTE 4 An example of such a precaution is to engage a competent person to review, assess and control
the situation.
Asbestos may be present in many structures and objects, including the following electrical areas and
items of equipment:
(a) Fuse boxes.
(b) Switchboard mounting panels.
T
(c) Meter enclosures.
(d) Switchboard insulation lining.
(e) Textile fuse carriers.
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
Conduits.
Cement sheets.
AF
Underground pits and pit lids.
Aged wiring and insulation material.
NOTE 5 Appendix F provides further guidance on asbestos in the electrical industry.
4.2.11 Identification of polychlorinated biphenyl-containing electrical equipment
Where electrical equipment is identified as containing PCB, steps shall be taken regarding its safe
handling and disposal.
DR
NOTE 1 Local or state authorities may have specific requirements regarding the disposal of the PCBs.
NOTE 2 Refer to ANZECC’s information booklet on the identification of PCB-containing capacitors.
4.2.12 Lightning
Lightning may present a risk to persons while they are working on electrical installations or equipment.
When working outdoors, there may be a risk from the direct or indirect effects of a lightning strike.
When indoors, persons may be at risk indirectly if lightning currents are conducted into the building
where they are working.
NOTE Refer to AS 1768 for guidelines on the protection of persons and property from risks arising from
exposure to lightning, including avoiding contact with metallic structures and objects, or electrical installations
and equipment while local thunderstorms are present.
4.2.13 Cutting cables or wiring enclosures
When carrying out work that involves cutting cables or wiring enclosures, the cables within a wiring
enclosure shall be treated as energized.
Cutting cables or wiring enclosures shall not proceed until processes are followed and tests are
performed that prove the cable is isolated prior to cutting.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 32
WARNING: THE USE OF TESTERS THAT DETECT AN ELECTRIC FIELD SURROUNDING AN

ENERGIZED CONDUCTOR MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR CABLES THAT ARE SURROUNDED BY A
METALLIC SCREEN OR CABLES CARRYING DIRECT CURRENT.
4.2.14 Removing out-of-service electrical equipment and cables
Before removal of out-of-service or decommissioned electrical equipment, the electrical equipment and
cables shall be isolated from all sources of supply and tests made to confirm the electrical equipment
and cables are de-energized in accordance with Clause 3.1.8.
4.2.15 Control measures when leaving work unfinished
The work site shall be left in a safe state for access by others.
Means of making the work site safe should include the following:
T
(a) Terminating exposed conductors in a manner that provides a degree of protection of IP
2X in accordance with AS 60529 and, where necessary, providing mechanical protection
or restraint.
(b) Affixing safety or information tags as required.
(c)
(d)
(e)
AF
Installing barriers or barrier tape, or other means necessary to keep unauthorized persons
out of the work site.
Informing relevant parties that the work is not complete and advising of potential hazards.
Taking any necessary precaution to confirm that electrical installations and equipment
cannot become energized.
(f) Switchboards and equipment are clearly and correctly labelled in relation to their status.
(g) Providing sufficient information for workers to allow them to safely continue the work. This
includes having a handover procedure when work continues over a change of shift.
DR

33 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Section 5 Elevated electrical equipment, poles structures and

overhead conductors
5.1 General
A minimum safe distance from overhead conductors and lines shall be maintained to avoid contact,
shock or injury. The safe distance shall be determined before work commences.
Extra caution should be exercised when working on or near exposed energized overhead conductors
or other energized electrical equipment in elevated positions. In elevated positions, even a slight
shock could result in a potentially fatal fall. Fall-arrest systems and devices and other necessary
safety equipment and PPE shall be used. If the work requires a safety observer, they shall be skilled in
rescue procedures.
Poles and structures shall be tested and inspected to establish, as far as practicable, whether they are
T
structurally sound for the work to be carried out. The testing and inspection shall be performed before
climbing the poles or structures or accessing them by means of EWPs. EWPs should be used whenever
practicable. Section 8 covers requirements and guidance on tools and equipment for working at heights.
NOTE AS/NZS 1891 contains requirements for fall-arrest devices. AS 2550.10 contains requirements for EWPs.
AS/NZS 4576 provides guidelines for the use of scaffolding.
5.2
AF
Precautions before working on poles or structures
A person shall not climb a pole or structure unless they have the following:
(a) Authorization, training and competence to carry out the work.
(b) Performed a safe-to-climb assessment and there is no danger of collapse during the course
of the work.
NOTE 1 Particular care should be taken with poles whose loading conditions are to be significantly
changed during the course of the work, e.g. made freestanding or have the tensions in any direction
increased or decreased.
DR
(c) Confirmed minimum safe approach distances to other live circuits that are on or near the pole
are maintained, or that action has been taken so that other circuits are de-energized.
(d) Obtained and used the safety equipment, including fall-arrest systems and devices and pole
top rescue kits.
(e) A safety observer is present who is trained to carry out a pole-top rescue.
NOTE 2 Climbing a pole should only be performed as a last resort. This would be after considering
other work and heights controls and being able to justify why they used a lessor order work at heights
control over higher order controls such as elevated work platforms or scaffolding.
(f) Determined the age of the pole if climbing one. Any wood poles in service for 25 years or more
shall be regarded as structurally unsafe and not suitable for climbing. Such poles may need
to be reinforced before climbing either at the ground line with approved steel members, or
where the structural forces acting on them are increased.
NOTE 3 The age of poles is calculated from the date of original installation.
5.3 Work on conductive poles or structures

Extreme care should be exercised when the following items are encountered near live
electrical equipment:
(a) Earth situations.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 34
(b) Earth wires.

(c) Conductive fittings and brackets.
(d) Concrete or metal poles and structures.
When working on isolated low-voltage lines supported by conductive poles or structures, the lines shall
be (temporarily) electrically connected to each pole or structure.

This requirement applies also to wood poles with exposed earth downleads or other exposed earth
bonding conductors (except low-voltage neutrals).
This requirement does not apply to the following:
(i) If the line is treated as live and live working procedures are adopted.
T
(ii) If work is carried out from an insulated EWP positioned so that simultaneous contact with
the pole and any conductor is avoided.
(iii) If the exposed conductive equipment, such as earth downleads, may be effectively covered
with insulating covers to prevent inadvertent contact between different potentials.
5.4 Erection of electrical equipment or conducting materials

AF
Precautions shall be taken to prevent any electrical equipment or conducting material (including
building material) being erected from encroaching the minimum safe approach distances to live exposed
electrical conductors. If adequate precautions cannot be taken, the exposed electrical conductors shall
be de-energized.
DR

35 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Section 6 Working below ground on cables or services
6.1 General
A safe system of work shall be used when undertaking work which involves penetrating or excavating
the ground at or below surface level to identify the location of underground cables and services.
6.2 Site assessment
A site assessment shall be conducted before work begins to determine if the scope of work (including
the type of work, materials to be used and sequence of work) is affected by any underground services.
The site assessment shall determine what safety measures are required to protect services, persons,
and property.
A site assessment shall include the following:
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(a) A completed and documented risk assessment.
(b) A visual inspection of the work area, including checking for visual indications, e.g. pits, cables,
conduits or pipes that are entering the ground, and signs.
(c)
(d)
alongside access routes.
AF
Provision to maintain minimum safe working distances from any overhead poles and lines,
and powerlines that cross or run alongside the workplace, or powerlines that cross or run
Information, documents, plans and drawings obtained as part of job planning and that remain
readily accessible.
(e) Positive identification of services located in the ground using trenchless techniques, e.g. non-
destructive digging (NDD) or pot holing.
(f) Investigation using locating devices to determine and mark service location, e.g. network and
installation in accordance with AS 5488.1.
6.3 Excavation of and near to cables and services

DR
When excavating cables or working in areas known to contain cables or other services, these cables
shall always be treated as energized until proven otherwise. The following requirements apply:
(a) Carry out a services search — A services search shall be carried out as follows:
(i) In Australia, contact Dial Before You Dig, a free telephone service in public areas AS
(1100.com.au).
In New Zealand, consult the local telephone directory for the local area service NZ
before digging.
(ii) Cable location records for the property concerned.
(iii) Cable search instruments or services, e.g. cable locators, or commercially
available services.
(b) Excavate with extreme caution — Cables might not be enclosed in a wiring enclosure and older
cables might not be provided with a warning tape. Excavation of cables that may be energized
shall be carried out with extreme caution after a site assessment and in accordance with
the following:
(i) A safety observer shall observe with the sole task of continually guiding the excavator
so that it keeps clear of, and does not make contact with or damage, any cables.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 36
(ii) Jackhammers or crowbars shall not be used to excavate cables due to the risk of
cable penetration.
(iii) Mechanical excavation shall be only with a toothless bucket, down to the wiring
enclosure or warning tape.
(iv) The final excavation to expose a cable shall be with non-invasive excavation
methods, i.e. hand tools or hydro/vacuum excavation only.
6.4 Identify the cable
Before commencing work on a cable, the cable shall be positively identified at the work site by an
electrical or non-electrical method of identification.
No work shall begin on a cable unless it is proven that the cable is de-energized.
T
6.5 Cable identification methods
There are several cable identification methods as follows.
(a) Electrical methods include —
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
current injection;
pulse injection;
AF
audio frequency signal generator;
(iv) interrupted earth; and

(v) use of fault location equipment.
(b) Non-electrical methods include —
(i) visual tracing from a proven isolation point;
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(ii) rodding of wiring enclosures; and
(iii) cable plans.
A non-electrical method shall not be used as the sole means of identification.
6.6 Other site risk factors when excavating underground

Other risk factors shall be considered in the site risk assessment, including the following:
(a) Excavation and pit hazards, such as —
(i) depth (shoring may be required); and
(ii) hollows, pits, and sumps, e.g. collection of toxic fumes and gases.
NOTE 1 Air monitoring and confined space entry may be required.
(b) Traffic hazards.

(c) Lack of ventilation.
(d) Elevated temperatures.
(e) Induced voltages and transferred earth potential.
NOTE 2 Work site equipotential bonding or complete insulation methods may be required.

37 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
6.7 Cutting underground cables and wiring enclosures

Cables and wiring enclosures shall be positively identified before the commencement of cutting.
NOTE Local or state regulatory authorities may have additional requirements for working below ground on
cables and services including NO GO ZONE requirements.
T
AF
DR

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 38
Section 7 Energization of electrical installation and equipment
7.1 Initial energization of the electrical installation and equipment

Before the initial energization of the electrical installation and equipment, the following steps shall be
taken in the order listed:
(a) Review the documentation that has been provided.
(b) Confirm with the site owner or representative that the electrical installation and equipment
is ready for energization.
(c) Confirm that the risk assessment has been prepared for the work required.
(d) Use the tools and testing instruments that are suitable for the task.
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(e) Wear the correct PPE for the task.
(f) Visually inspect the installation and equipment to confirm that —
(i) all equipment has been terminated correctly;
(ii) earthing conductors are connected as required, checking all parts;
AF
(iii) wiring systems are and have the required protection;
(iv) switchboards are complete and suitable for the environment; and
(v) the steps in Clause 7.2 are followed when re-energizing the electrical installation
and equipment.
(g) Test the electrical installation and equipment, including —
(i) confirmation of the earthing system and its parts;
(ii) insulation resistance of all conductors;
DR
(iii) polarity;
(iv) correct circuit configuration and connections;
(v) verification of impedance, commonly referred to as confirmation of earth fault loop
impedance; and
(vi) operation of RCDs.
NOTE AS/NZS 3000 provides guidance on the energization of electrical installations.
7.2 Re-energization of the electrical installation and equipment

When undertaking re-energization, the following steps shall be completed in the order listed:
(a) Notify all relevant persons that testing is about to commence or supply is about to be
restored, including:
(i) other workers in the area; and
(ii) the site owner or person in control of the site.
(b) Confirm that any required documentation has been prepared.

39 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
(c) Visually inspect that —

(i) all tools, surplus material and wastes have been removed;
(ii) all guards, covers and barriers have been reinstated; and
(ii) the work site has been reinstated.
(d) Conduct visual inspections and tests in accordance with AS/NZS 3000 and check that —
(i) tests are relative to the work performed; and
(ii) there is confirmation that the earth system is complete and tested.
(e) Cancel applicable work permits including —
(i) site based permits; and
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(ii) access and entry to external parties’ assets such as distribution company assets.
(f) Remove applicable personal tags and locks.
NOTE Consideration should be given to the other workers who may also have their personal locks or
tags applied. AF
(g) Conduct re-energization of the work performed. Only the parts that had been worked on shall
be re-energized.
(h) Conduct functional testing, including —
(i) phase rotation;
(ii) correct sequence operation; and
(iii) confirm other electrical equipment or parts of the electrical installation that may
have been dependant on this work operates correctly.
(i) Confirm that all equipment, guards and covers are reinstated to original condition.
DR
7.3 Extra-low voltage
Testing shall be carried out on parts of electrical installations and equipment designed to operate at
ELV. Such testing shall confirm the following:
(a) Continuity of the earthing system for protective ELV circuits.
(b) Insulation resistance of conductors tested at 250 V d.c. and a reading of not less than 0.5 MΩ.
(c) Polarity for protective ELV circuits.
(d) Correct circuit connections.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 40
Section 8 Safety equipment and tools
8.1 General
All safety equipment and tools shall be regularly maintained and tested. They shall be visually
inspected before every use. If found defective, they shall not be used, but tagged as defective and
removed from service.

For requirements regarding equipment when working on or near exposed energizes conductors or live
conductive parts, see Clause 4.2.1.
8.2 Insulated tools and equipment

Insulated tools and equipment shall be of an approved type, in good working order, and regularly
maintained and tested. Tools and equipment shall not be used if any doubt exists that their
T
insulation may fail.
NOTE IEC 60900 and EN 60900 contain specific requirements for insulated hand tools.
8.3 Portable electric tools
8.3.1 General
AF
Battery-powered tools should be preferred to mains-powered tools since their use diminishes shock risk.
Standards applicable for the use of portable electric tools include —
(a) AS/NZS 3760, which specifies procedures for the in-service safety inspection and testing of
electrical equipment; and
(b) AS/NZS 3012, which specifies requirements for the use of portable electric tools used on
construction and demolition sites.
NOTE Regulatory authorities may have additional requirements.
DR
8.3.2 Protection
Protection shall be provided by supplying all portable electrical tools, appliances, and equipment
through an RCD or through an isolating transformer. RCDs shall be Type II (30 mA) or Type I (10 mA)
complying with AS/NZS 3190 or AS/NZS 61008.1 or AS/NZS 61009.1. Isolating transformers shall
comply with the AS/NZS 61558 series. The secondary winding shall not be connected to the primary
winding or earthed.
When in use, portable RCDs or isolating transformers should be as close as practicable to the point of
supply, e.g. at the supply end of an extension lead and not at the appliance end.
RCDs do not provide protection —
(a) if there is no current path to earth or if the portable electric tool comes in contact with an
alternative source of electricity, e.g. a drill bit contacting an embedded electrical conductor in
a wall, floor or ceiling;
(b) against electric shock or electrocution from between the electrode and return leads
when welding;
(c) where the current leakage path is from active to neutral or phase to phase; or
(d) for a portable electric tool supplied from an isolating transformer or isolated winding generator.

41 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
NOTE 1 RCDs do not prevent electric shock but are designed to reduce the likelihood of electrocution by
disconnecting the supply rapidly to safeguard the user.
NOTE 2 RCDs do not provide protection on all types of supply. Whether or not an RCD performs satisfactorily
on a given supply depends on the type of RCD.
Isolating transformers do not provide protection —

(i) if the secondary winding is earthed;

(ii) if the portable electric tool comes in contact with an alternative source of electricity, e.g. a
drill bit contacting an embedded electrical conductor in a wall, floor or ceiling;
(iii) against electric shock from between the electrode and return leads when welding; or
(iv) where the current leakage path is between live conductors.
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8.3.3 Risk of exposed conductive parts becoming energized
Caution shall be exercised when using portable electric tools or equipment having exposed conductive
parts where there is a risk of exposed conductive parts contacting exposed energized conductors or
live conductive parts, e.g. by drilling or cutting into conductors concealed in the building structure.
or live conductive parts.
8.4 Ladders and step ladders

AF
NOTE Chuck keys tied on portable drills are a risk if they come into contact with exposed energized conductors
8.4.1 General
Portable ladders and platforms shall comply with AS 1892.2, AS/NZS 1892.3, AS/NZS 1892.5 or
equivalent. They should be used in accordance with instructions for use.
NOTE 1 Ladders are the least preferred work at height option.
NOTE 2 Guidelines for use of ladders may be provided by work health and safety legislation.
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8.4.2 Use of electrically conductive ladders
Metallic, wire-reinforced, or otherwise conductive ladders shall not be used on or near

electrical equipment.
NOTE 1 Ladders that are damp or dirty can become conductive and create a potential risk.
NOTE 2 The AS/NZS 1892 series specifies requirements for ladders.
8.5 Elevating work platforms and scaffolding

When working on EWPs or scaffolding, individuals should not over-reach.
NOTE 1 EWPs include scissor lifts, boom lifts and cherry pickers.
NOTE 2 AS 2550.10 contains requirements for EWPs.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 42
8.6 Insulating barriers, covers and mats
8.6.1 Barriers
Barriers shall be made of material which effectively separates a person from adjacent energized
electrical equipment. Barriers shall be visually inspected for defects before and after each use. Defective
items shall be tagged accordingly.

Warning signs should be placed adjacent to, or form part of, barriers placed to prevent inadvertent
access to areas where electrical work is being performed.
8.6.2 Insulating covers and mats
Insulating mats for use with electrical equipment rated at voltages less than 650 V shall comply with
and be tested according to the requirements of AS/NZS IEC 61111. Insulating covers for use with
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electrical equipment rated at voltages less than 650 V shall comply with and be tested according to the
requirements of AS 4202.
Insulating mats and covers shall be visually inspected for possible defects before and after each use.
Defective items shall be tagged accordingly.
AF
NOTE IEC 61112, ASTM D1048, AS/NZS IEC 61111, ASTM D178, IEC 61229, IEC 61479, ASTM D1049 specify
requirements for insulating covers and mats for voltages above 650 V.
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43 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Section 9 Test equipment
9.1 General
Only testing equipment suitable for the tests being performed shall be used for testing. Testing
equipment should be used in accordance with its operating instructions.
Testing equipment should be checked before each use so that —
(a) it is in working condition, clean, and has no cracked or broken components;
(b) the insulation on leads, probes and clips of test equipment are in working condition; and
(c) it operates correctly.
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9.2 Electrical safety
For electrical safety, the combination of leads and instruments used should be capable of withstanding
the highest voltages and fault current levels which occur at the test location. Table 9.1 lists the categories
and their typical use.
NOTE Care should be taken with the transport and storage of test equipment, including leads.
AF
Table 9.1 — Impulse voltage and typical use
Over-voltage
Circuit voltage Suitability Examples
category
I ELV Measurements on ELV DC circuits, ELV lighting
circuits not directly
connected to mains
II LV Measurements on Appliances
equipment directly
connected to an LV
installation
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III LV Measurements Final subcircuits, distribution boards,
performed on an LV submains, LV DC circuits
installation
IV LV Measurements Mains and main switchboards
performed at the
source of an LV
installation
NOTE Category I meters are not suitable for testing LV installations.
9.3 Suitability of equipment

The purpose of test equipment is to minimize the risk of electric shock, electrocution or injury, e.g.
burns to personnel or damage to the electrical equipment during testing. Test equipment shall comply
with the following:
(a) When used in hazardous areas, test equipment shall be clearly marked as being suitable for
use in such locations.
(b) Test probes, leads and other equipment shall be selected so that they cannot inadvertently
short-circuit between energized conductors or live conductive parts, and energized
conductors or live conductive parts and earth.
(c) The terminals of test equipment shall be shrouded when testing for de-energized and all other
test sockets.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 44
NOTE 1 Measuring instruments should be designed to prevent inadvertent contact with any
energized test socket, conductor or both when the equipment is in use.
(d) Test leads and testing equipment shall be provided with overcurrent protection.
NOTE 2 AS/NZS 60079.14 and AS/NZS 60079.17 specify requirements for the selection, installation and
maintenance of electrical equipment in hazardous areas.
NOTE 3 Clause 3.1.8 specifies requirements for proving de-energization.
NOTE 4 AS 61010.1 provides a classification for instruments on the basis of their immunity to overvoltages
liable to be experienced in different parts of an electrical installation. Devices should be rated as Category III or
IV to enable their use on all parts of the electrical installation.
NOTE 5 Refer to HB 187 for guidance on selecting multimeters.
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AF
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45 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Section 10 Supervision
10.1 General
A competent person shall supervise all work carried out in relation to electrical equipment and
installations.
10.2 Supervision of work
A competent person providing supervision shall check that—
(a) the work is carried out by competent person(s);
(b) the electrical installations or electrical equipment comply with AS/NZS 3000 and are
not dangerous;
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(c) all electrical incidents are investigated and reported;
(d) maintenance systems for the electrical installations and electrical equipment are installed,
monitored, and kept up to date for safety; and
(e) any documentation for the performance of electrical work is recorded and provided
AF
when required.
NOTE 1 Local and state legislation may have additional requirements for the installation and testing of
electrical installations and electrical equipment.
NOTE 2 Both a supervising and a supervised person should have completed the national competencies for the
tasks they perform.
10.3 Supervision of equipment

A competent person providing supervision shall check that the electrical installation work on energized
electrical equipment is conducted —
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(a) by a competent person who has tools, testing equipment and PPE that —
(i) is suitable for the work;
(ii) has been properly tested; and
(iii) is maintained in good working order; and
(b) in accordance with a safe work method statement (SWMS) prepared for the work.
NOTE See Appendix A for further information on a SWMS.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 46
Section 11 Personal protective equipment

PPE shall be selected in accordance with the risk assessment and with the type of work being performed.
Protective clothing worn when working on or near exposed energized conductors or live conductive
parts shall be appropriate for the purpose, fit correctly, cover the full body (including the arms and
legs) and be in working condition while the work is being performed.
PPE shall be in accordance with the requirements of Table 11.1. See also Appendix B for further
guidance on PPE.
Table 11.1 — Personal protective equipment
PPE Requirements
Eye protection Eye protection without metal frames shall comply with AS/NZS 1337.1 and be
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selected in accordance with AS/NZS 1336.
Face shield Face shield shall be rated at 10 cal/cm2 protection, fitted with a chin return.
Arc flash suit and hood Arc flash suit and hood shall be rated at a minimum rating of 40 cal/cm2 protection.
Footwear Shoes or boots shall comply with AS 2210.2. Refer also to AS/NZS 2210.1 for
guidance on the selection, care and use of footwear.
Insulating gloves
incorporating outer gloves
Arc resistant gloves
Outer gloves (leather)

to use.
AF
Gloves shall comply with AS/NZS IEC 60903 and insulated to the highest potential
voltage expected for the work being undertaken, and air tested each time prior
Gloves shall comply with AS/NZS 2161.4 (e.g. gloves made from leather or other
non-melting heat-resistant material).
For the purpose of outer protection of insulating gloves, leather outer gloves
shall be worn.
Hearing protection Earplugs or earmuffs shall comply with AS 1270.
Protective clothing Flame-retardant clothing covering the full body (including arms and legs) shall
be worn. The clothing shall not be made from conductive material or contain
metal threads.
Arc rated protective clothing Clothing from ankle to wrist with a minimum rating of 4 cal/cm2 shall be worn.
Clothing shall be marked as compliant with ENA NENS 09.
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Industrial fall-arrest systems Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices shall comply with AS/NZS 1891.4.
and devices Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices shall be checked and inspected each
time before use with particular attention being paid to buckles, rings, hooks,
clips and webbing.
Safety helmets Headwear shall comply with AS/NZS 1801.
Respiratory protection Respiratory protection shall comply with AS/NZS 1715 and AS/NZS 1716.
NOTE 1 Regulatory authorities may have additional requirements for PPE.
NOTE 2 Where insulated and protective outer gloves are worn together, they are to be matched in accordance
with the insulated glove’s instructions for use.
Table 11.2 provides guidance on the selection of PPE for electrical risks. Other site risks requiring PPE
should be taken into account in the risk assessment performed for the task.
Clothing worn under PPE may be a fire risk, e.g. synthetic undergarments.

Table 11.2 — Guide to the selection of PPE based on electrical risk
Single-phase Three-phase installations
Task installations (No intentional protective device delay)
≤ 230 Vac, ≤ 63 A ≤ 400 Vac, ≤ 63 A ≤ 400 Vac, ≤ 160 A ≤ 400 Vac, > 160 A, ≤ 250 A ≤ 400 Vac, > 250 A, ≤ 800 A ≤ 400 Vac, > 800 A, ≤ 2 000 A
Work PPE for the task PPE for the task PPE for the task PPE for the task being PPE for the task being PPE for the task being
(isolated and being performed being performed being performed performed performed performed
tested)
Switching, PPE for the task PPE for the task Minimum arc rated Minimum arc rated PPE 4 Minimum arc rated PPE 4 Minimum arc rated PPE 4
isolating, being performed being performed PPE 4 cal/cm2 cal/cm2 cal/cm2 cal/cm2
removing Arc rated long Arc rated long sleeve shirt Arc rated long sleeve shirt Arc rated long sleeve shirt
fuses or links sleeve shirt and and pants (or coverall) and pants (or coverall) and pants (or coverall)
(in normal pants (or coverall)
operating
conditiona) Arc rated face Arc rated face shield with Arc rated face shield with Arc rated face shield with
shield with chin chin return chin return chin return
return
47
Arc rated, leather, Arc rated, leather, or Arc rated, leather, or Arc rated, leather, or voltage
or voltage rated voltage rated rubber gloves voltage rated rubber gloves rated rubber gloves with
DR rubber gloves with with leather protective with leather protective leather protective outer
leather protective outer outer
outer
Safety glasses Safety glasses Safety glasses Safety glasses
Authorized PPE for the task PPE for the task Minimum arc rated Minimum arc rated PPE 8 Minimum arc rated PPE 40 Minimum arc rated PPE 75
live work, being performed being performed PPE 4 cal/cm2 cal/cm2 cal/cm2 cal/cm2
proving Arc rated long Arc rated long sleeve shirt Arc flash suit and hood Arc flash suit and hood
isolation, sleeve shirt and and pants (or coverall)
energized
testing or
AF
pants (or coverall)
fault-finding
Racking of Arc rated face Arc rated face shield with Arc rated leather, or
T Arc rated, leather, or voltage
withdrawable shield with chin chin return voltage rated rubber gloves rated rubber gloves with
circuit return with leather protective leather protective outer
breakers and outer
MCC units

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
PUBLIC COMMENTING DRAFT Table 11.2 (continued)
Single-phase Three-phase installations
Task installations (No intentional protective device delay)
≤ 230 Vac, ≤ 63 A ≤ 400 Vac, ≤ 63 A ≤ 400 Vac, ≤ 160 A ≤ 400 Vac, > 160 A, ≤ 250 A ≤ 400 Vac, > 250 A, ≤ 800 A ≤ 400 Vac, > 800 A, ≤ 2 000 A
Work on or Arc rated leather, Arc rated, leather, or Hearing protection Hearing protection
near isolated or voltage rated voltage rated rubber gloves
DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
electrical rubber gloves with with leather protective

equipment leather protective outer
where outer
energized Safety glasses Safety glasses
equipment
is within the Leather boots Leather boots
same open
metal clad
enclosure
a Normal operating condition exists when it is satisfied that the equipment is properly installed and maintained, used in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions, doors and covers are closed, in place and secured, and there is no evidence (such as unusual smells, sounds or temperatures) of impending failure.

NOTE 1 This table takes account of a maximum supply fault level of 28 kA (approximately that of a 1 MVA transformer). For higher fault levels and supply
scenarios exceeding 800 A, a risk assessment including an arc flash incident energy analysis should be performed.
48
WARNING: BRACELETS, RINGS, NECK CHAINS, EXPOSED METAL ZIPS, WATCHES, AND OTHER CONDUCTIVE ITEMS SHALL NOT BE WORN WHILE
NOTE 2 Where significant motor load is present on three-phase installations, PPE for the next horizontal level (i.e. one column to the right) should be used.
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WORKING ON OR NEAR EXPOSED ENERGIZED CONDUCTORS OR LIVE CONDUCTIVE PARTS.
WARNING: PPE SHALL BE WORN WITH COLLAR UP, TOP BUTTONS DONE UP AND SLEEVES DOWN. SYNTHETIC UNDER GARMENTS WORN UNDERNEATH
PPE MAY BE A FIRE RISK. AF
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49 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Section 12 Electrical incidents
12.1 Medical attention

Measures shall be taken to protect personnel from potential hazards. Any person who receives an
electric shock or is involved in an electrical incident causing injury should seek medical attention
immediately. Guidance on how to manage electric shock situations is given in Appendix C.

NOTE The full effects of an electric shock or an electrical incident might not be immediately obvious; symptoms
may materialize later.
12.2 Preservation of incident scene

Incident scenes shall be preserved so that the cause and the possibility of a recurrence of the incident
can be determined.
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NOTE Legislation may require that the incident scene be preserved and not unnecessarily altered to permit any
relevant authorities to undertake an investigation.
12.3 Reporting
12.3.1 General
AF
All electrical incidents and electric shocks shall be immediately reported to a competent person.
NOTE 1 Regulation may impose additional reporting requirements.
NOTE 2 The purpose of reporting an incident is to trigger a proper investigation, and ultimately to prevent
future occurrences of similar incidents. Electrical incidents should be reported, even where no electric shock
occurred, so that procedures or safety measures are reviewed and, where necessary, updated.
12.3.2 Incident report
The following information should be included in an incident report:

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(a) Identify what happened, including whether the incident involved the following:
(i) Death.
(ii) Serious injury or illness.
(iii) Dangerous event.
(iv) Near miss.
(b) Date and time of the incident.
(c) Address where the incident occurred, including a description of the specific location.
(d) Details of the incident.
(e) Name of person involved in the incident, contact details, occupation and relationship of that
person to the person reporting the incident.
(f) Where an injury has occurred, details of the injury, including the treatment provided, whether
the injured person was taken to a medical centre or hospital and contact details for that centre
or hospital.
(g) Details of the person conducting the business or undertaking.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 50
(h) Details of any action that has been taken or is intended to be taken to prevent a recurrence of
the incident.
(i) Name, contact details and position of the person reporting or notifying the incident.
NOTE The incident report may include additional information.
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AF
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51 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Appendix A
(informative)
SWMS risk assessment form

A.1 Safe work method statement
A safe work method statement (SWMS) is a tool that is used to identify the hazards and risks that exist
on site when performing high-risk construction work (HRCW). The SWMS should identify how the
HRCW risks will be controlled in terms that are understood by workers.
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Table A.1 provides an example of a SWMS template and risk assessment matrix.
A.2 Information included in the SWMS

The SWMS should include information about the following:
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(a) Work activity that has been identified as HRCW.
(b) Risks and hazards to health and safety. This involves ascribing a value to the level of risk that
would exist if no action were taken.
(c) The methods that are to be used to control or remove risk. This involves ascribing a value to
the level of risk that would exist if the methods of control were implemented to reduce it.
(d) An outline of how the methods of control are to be implemented. This involves assigning
responsibility for the controls.
(e) Consultation that has occurred in the development of the SWMS.
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Table A.1 — SWMS template and risk assessment matrix
Date Company performing the

Date: of next work:
review: ABN:
Location of work: SWMS prepared by (name):
Plant/equipment:
Name Signature
DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Reviewed and
approved by:
Description of task/
activity:
(include names
and signatures of
workers who were
consulted in SWMS
Permit required: Isolation required: PPE required above site standard Equipment required:
development)
(indicate by ticking): (indicate by ticking): (indicate by ticking): (indicate by ticking):

Hot work Electrical Chemicals Oxy cutting Gloves (riggers) Barricading/signs
goggles
52
Confined space Mechanical High voltage Chemical goggles Fall arrest Electrical earth leakage
DR equipment unit
Excavation/penetration Pneumatics Liquids Face shield Respirator Fire extinguisher
Work at height Hydraulic Dust masks Hard hat Lifting equipment
High voltage Outdoor work Other: Fans/extraction
PPEC
Other: Welding screens
Other:
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Potential environmental aspects Hazardous materials/substances Manual handling
This item requires continual review to include the (List any chemicals and hazardous materials to be Will hazardous manual handling be possible during the
specific area or activity’s requirements. Please tick box: used or present in the work area — ensure SDS is job? E.g. Lifting, pushing, pulling, twisting or bending?
available) If so, tick the box that most likely describes the manual
handling risk.
Will there be hazardous manual handling in
Air Pollution (dust, fumes)
this job?
Hazard to flora or fauna Will the task involve high forces?
Will the task require repetitive forceful
Noise (plant and equipment)
movement?
Is the duration of the task likely to cause fatigue
Spills to drains/waterways
or soreness?
Are there any environmental factors which are
Spills to ground
likely to increase the chance of injury?
Will the task involve awkward posture or
Soil erosion
movements?
53
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Waste — General/hazardous/prescribed Other:
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DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
 Risk of a person falling more  Work on a telecommunication tower  Demolition of load-bearing structure
than 2 m
 Likely to involve disturbing  Temporary load-bearing support for  Work in or near a confined space
asbestos structural alterations or repairs
 Work in or near a shaft or  Use of explosives  Work on or near pressurized gas
trench deeper than 1.5 m or a mains or piping
High risk construction work:

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
tunnel
 Work on or near chemical,  Work on or near energized electrical  Work in an area that may have a
fuel, or refrigerant lines installations or services contaminated or flammable atmosphere
 Tilt-up or precast concrete  Work on, in or adjacent to a road,  Work in an area with movement of
elements railway, shipping lane or other traffic powered mobile plant
corridor in use by traffic other than
pedestrians
 Work in areas with artificial  Work in or near water or other liquid  Diving work
Adjacent activities that could impact on

extremes of temperature that involves a risk of drowning
the work:
Communication with adjacent workers:

Other employees / contractors /
subcontractors in the area?
54
Method to communicate between all

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parties:
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T
PUBLIC COMMENTING DRAFT RISK ASSESSMENT OF JOB STEPS
Step no. Job step Potential hazard/aspect Initial risk Required controls Responsibility Residual
score risk score
List the steps required to Against each step, list the For each identified hazard/ Nominate the person who will
perform the t ask in the hazards/aspects that could aspect, list the control measures implement control measures
sequence they are carried out cause harm required to eliminate or
minimize (use hierarchy of
controls)
55
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AF
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DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
PUBLIC COMMENTING DRAFT RISK ASSESSMENT TABLE
Consequences Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Catastrophic
6 7 8 9 10
Likelihood (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
Almost Certain
5 6 7 8 9
(5)
DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Likely
4 5 6 7 8
(4)
Occasional
3 4 5 6 7
(3)
Unlikely
2 3 4 5 6
(2)
Rare
Risk scoring:
(1)
8 to 10 Extreme
This is an unacceptable level of risk. All tasks with extreme risk must be controlled immediately. Control measures can involve

eliminating, substituting, isolating or engineering out the source of the risk from the activity or equipment.
6 to 7 High
This is an unacceptable level of risk. All tasks with a high risk must be controlled as much as is reasonably possible before the task
can be safely commenced. The timeframe for implementing new controls before the task should be as soon as is reasonably possible,
56
and within 24 h of understanding the nature of the risk. Focus should remain on hard controls such as eliminating, substituting,
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isolating or engineering out the source of the risk from the activity or equipment.
3 to 5 Moderate
This level of risk is not ideal and all efforts should be made to ensure the risk is as low as is reasonably possible before commencing
the task safely. All controls should be implemented prior to the task being executed and their effectiveness should be reviewed
2 Low
regularly.
These risks are considered acceptable. Accordingly, if there are controls which can be initiated that are easy and inexpensive they
should still be administered to reduce the risk to as low a level as is reasonably possible.
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PUBLIC COMMENTING DRAFT OTHER JOB REQUIREMENTS
List worker skills/competencies, inductions and licences required: List items of plant/equipment/tools required:
Relevant codes of practice, legislation, standards or critical risk Maintenance checks, site/workplace inspections as required:
Regulations:
controls that may be applicable, e.g. Work Health and Safety Act and  Plant log books completed
Specific permits required, e.g. working at heights, hot works etc: Supporting documentation:
 Equipment visually inspected before using
RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervisor — Supervision of activity, review of SWMS with work crew, visual inspection of the work environment.
Supervisor: I agree that the work described may proceed in accordance with the controls/precautions specified.
Workers — Participate and contribute to the implementation of the SWMS, raises any hazards, near misses with the supervisor.
Supervisor name: Signature: Date:

Contact email: Contact phone:
57
4
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NOTE 1: Every member of the work team needs to sign the SWMS form to acknowledge awareness and participation.
NOTE 2: If risk level, activities, work practices, hazards, content of SWMS and/or controls change, please add details above, review with workers and have them
Workers: I have read and understand this SWMS.

sign their understanding and compliance with revised requirements.
Name Signature Date Name Signature Date

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[SOURCE: Based on and modified with permission from Siemens, EHSQMS – 2.1.3 v3 SWMS Template]
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DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 58
Appendix B
(informative)
Arc flash guidelines

B.1 General
This appendix provides guidance on HV and LV high current electrical installations. It outlines factors
which are important for understanding and managing arc flash hazards.
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It is commonly assumed that substantial arc flash incidents only occur in HV situations; however, it
is important to understand that these incidents can and do occur in LV installations due to high
fault currents.
HV and LV high current installation owners and operators should take account of and manage their arc
flash or fault hazards. This does not preclude the need for management of these risks by owners and
operators of other installations. AF
An arc flash is a serious hazard that has the potential to cause death, serious injury, damage to equipment
and loss of electrical supply. An arc flash is an unexpected and violent, electrical short circuit in the air
that produces an arc and associated explosions of gases and molten metal.
Arc flash incidents occur when low impedance electrical connections are inadvertently made across
phases, phase to neutral or from phase to earth. These connections can occur by accidental contact
across terminals from tools or equipment, a breakdown in insulation, or from a build-up of contaminates
such as carbon or dust. Most arc flash incidents occur when high risk activities, such as operating or
racking of circuit breakers or tools, or equipment come into contact with live parts in the vicinity of
work areas. Arc flash incidents can occur at any time.
B.2 Identify the hazard

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Hazards may occur as a result of the type of electrical equipment used, how and where it is used, or
how it is maintained. For example, fatigued cables and poorly maintained terminations increase the
risk of an arc fault event occurring. An arc flash hazard may also be present wherever LV high current
switching occurs.
B.3 Assess the risk of arc flash

If an arc flash or fault assessment is undertaken as part of a risk assessment, it should include
the following:
(a) Assess the risk of an arc flash event occurring.
(b) Determine the likelihood of personnel being exposed to an arc flash event.
(c) Give information regarding the consequence if exposure occurs.
The risk assessment process should include areas where persons are working on or near high-energy
switch rooms or equipment.
Higher risk tasks include live switching or racking, fault-finding, installing earths and carrying
out isolations. The risk assessment should also take account of the automatic operation of inherent

59 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
protection, even if there is no direct interaction with energized boards, e.g. persons in the vicinity when
protection activates.
NOTE Refer to Australian Energy Council’s guideline on managing arc flashes and IEEE 1584 for further
information on assessing arc flash hazards.
B.4 Use the hierarchy of controls to treat the risk

The hierarchy of controls should be used to treat the risk, in the following order:
(a) Eliminate the exposure of personnel to arc flash hazards by only interacting with de-
energized and isolated equipment.
(b) Substitute manual operating systems for automated operating systems.
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(c) Isolate personnel from the hazard by installing physical separation from energized equipment
or conductors. Switchboards can be constructed to contain the energy associated with
an arc event.
B.5 Engineering controls
(a)
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Engineering controls should be used if elimination, substitution and isolation are not possible.
Engineering controls include the following:
Limit incident energy with reduced fault current and/or reduced fault clearance times by
adjusting breaker protection settings.
(b) Make system modifications such as —
(i) arc flash detection and suppression systems;
(ii) remote controls and switching;
(iii) remote racking in or racking out devices;
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(iv) upgrade switchboard form type;
(v) upgrade or modify boards to allow for racking with the door closed;
(vi) fixed circuit breakers over rack able breakers for new installation or upgrades;
(vii) insulated bus bars;
(viii) installation design considerations for isolation and maintenance tasks; and
(ix) replacement of fuses which provide faster clearance times.
B.6 Administrative controls

Administrative controls should be used if elimination is not possible. Substitution, isolation and
engineering controls may be supplemented with administrative controls, which include the following:
(a) Labelling all switch rooms, plant and relevant locations to identify incident energy levels and
any actions or precautions that should be taken.
(b) Demarcating arc flash boundaries.
(c) Making arc flash registers and diagrams available for employees and contractors.
(d) Establishing effective policies and procedures that reduce exposure, including training
and inductions.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 60
(e) Implementing an incident energy and PPE category system as detailed in IEEE 1584 and ENA
NENS 09 or equivalent standards.
B.7 Personal protective equipment

PPE is the least effective control and should not be relied upon unless combined with other controls.
Higher order controls should be adopted first. PPE should only be selected when the risk of injury
has been reduced, so far as is reasonably practicable. PPE may then be used to treat the residual risk,
see Appendix E.
NOTE PPE does not prevent injury but may reduce severity.
To determine if PPE is required, the following steps should be taken:

(a) Understand the hazard.
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(b) Identify assets or asset groups with arc flash or fault hazard potential.
(c) Quantify the hazard by calculating the incident energy in each relevant location.
(d) Assess the risk by using the organisational risk management framework.
(e)
(f)
AF
Reduce the risk, so far as is reasonably practicable, using the hierarchy of controls.
Select the appropriate PPE if a residual risk of injury is present, e.g. incident energy of greater
than 1.2 cal/cm2 remains.
See Figure B.1 for an example of a PPE category system.
2 2 2 2 2
0 c a l /c m 4 c a l /c m 8 c a l /c m 25 c a l /c m 4 0 c a l /c m
PPE PPE PPE PPE PPE
CATEGORY CATEGORY CATEGORY CATEGORY CATEGORY
0 1 2 3 4
DR
HAZ ARD - Be aware
of heat stres s w he n
wear ing Cat 4
c l othi n g
Figure B.1 — An example of a PPE category system

61 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
B.8 Safe work clearance on or near low voltage and extra low voltage within an
enclosed switchboard
When working within an enclosed switchboard panel to protect against arc fault hazards, the 500 mm
safe work clearance should be extended to include the whole panel.
B.9 High risk arc flash tasks
B.9.1 Compartment tasks
Where there are no exposed conductive parts, the following tasks may involve introducing tools and
equipment small enough to create electric shock or arc flash risks:
(a) Installation and termination of cables in compartments with exposed conductors or terminals.
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(b) Disconnection and re-termination of cables and equipment in compartments with exposed
conductors or terminals.
These tasks should only be completed after extending the electrically safe work condition to include the
entire compartment.
B.9.2 Switchboard tasks

AF
Where there are no exposed conductive parts, the following tasks can create arc flash risks:
(a) Removal of busbar or other fixed covers.
(b) Any work on the incoming side busbar system or anything directly connected.
(c) Removal or insertion of bolts or screws that enter blind holes in back plates, equipment
mounting plates, etc.
(d) All drilling except on an open door where both sides can be seen.
(e) Metal work modifications where both sides of the panel cannot be seen.
DR
(f) Blowing out any of this equipment.
(g) Any activity (except operating work) on any isolating device where the incoming side
is still live.
(h) Working on top of or above high current switchgear fitted with arc venting.
These tasks should only be completed after extending the electrically safe work condition to include the
entire switchboard.
NOTE Refer to AS/NZS 3000 for further information on protection against switchboard internal arcing
fault currents.
B.10 Arc blast

Arc blast is a function of current and equipment configuration. It is not a function of incident energy.
NOTE Refer to AS/NZS 3000 for arc blast information.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 62
B.11 Arc flash and PPE

Layers of PPE should only be worn for short duration tasks. In the event of an arc flash incident, melting
synthetic materials or non-arc rated PPE such as cotton may ignite increasing the severity and extent
of injuries.
B.12 Arc flash labelling

Arc flash labelling should be designed to meet the requirements of danger signage and include the
critical information clearly and legibly. Figure B.2 provides examples of arc flash labelling.
The information should include the following:
(a) Equipment name or identification.
T
(b) Voltage level.
(c) Incident energy level.
(d) Arc flash boundaries.
(e) PPE level required. AF
HEADER stays constant Label example
DANGER
DANGER ARC FLASH HAZARD
As per OCE, ENG, G01, 01
ARC FLASH HAZARD Equipment

Coal Handling Plant 415V SWBD A Pass LS
As per OCE, ENG, G01, 01 Name:
Voltage Level, Fault Current,

415 45.35
Volts: kA:
INTERNAL AREA Door OPEN
may change Incident Energy
Cal/cm ˆ2
12.4 Arc Flash Boundary, m: 1.90
3 WARNING
3 WARNING Arc Flash Hazard | Wear Category 3 PPE
DR
Arc Flash Hazard | Wear Category 3 PPE
• B u s nam e or e q u i p m e nt nam e
• B u s vo ltage leve l
FOOTER stays constant • Ac t i v it y to b e p er fo r m e d
• In c i d ent energ y l eve l
• Arc fl a s h b o u n d ar y
• PPE
[SOURCE: Reproduced with permission from Australian Energy Council, Electrical Arc Flash Hazard
Management Guideline, 2019]
Figure B.2 — Arc flash labelling

63 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
B.13 Arc flash hazard management

Arc flash hazard management is shown in Figure B.3.
1.
U n d e r s t a n d t h e H AZ A R D
HAZARD RISK
2.
I d e n t if y a s s e t s or asset gro u p s
w i t h arc fl a s h H AZ A R D p ote ntia l
RD
ZA RI
HA SK
T
3.
Q u a nt if y t h e H AZ A R D (c alc ul ate
t h e arc fl a s h inc i d ent en e r g y o n
eac h a s s et or a s s et gro u p)
4.
Assess the R I S K (u s i n g your
framewor k)
AF
organisati o n’s r is k m a n ag e m ent
HAZARD
A HA Z AR D i s
s o m e t h i ng t hat has t h e
p ote ntial to har m you.
RISK
RISK is the like l i h o o d

of a haz a r d c au s i ng
h a r m.
5. 6. 7.
Deve l o p and imp le m e nt R I S K
Vali d a t e c o n t ro l M o nitor an d
treatm e n t s u s i n g t h e hierar c hy
effectiveness r eview.
of c o ntrols
DR
Figure B.3 — Arc flash hazard management

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 64
B.14 Arc flash boundaries

Arc flash boundaries are set around the following two key criteria:
(a) The distance for the standard levels of PPE to provide protection.
(b) The amount of energy to which a person is exposed during an arc flash.
Figure B.4 shows arc flash boundaries.
T
0
4
1.0
AF
2 7m
3.4
3m
DR
Figure B.4 — Arc flash boundaries

65 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
B.15 Arc fault scenarios

Figure B.5 shows the process flow for the application of the recommendations set out in Table B.1.
Table B.1 provides incident energy and arc flash boundary recommendations in the absence of an
engineering study.
Figure B.6 shows the increasing arc flash risk with work activity.
W hat i s
protec t i n g t h e Sel e c t Resulting PPE
Sel e c t e q uipm e nt
b oar d protecti o n and bou n d ar y
r at i n g in c o lumn A Sel e c t vo ltage
u p s t r ea m? d ev ic e r at i n g requirements
(Either le s s t h a n r a n g e in
If un k n own, or transformer are shown in
8 0 0A or greater c o lumn B
s el e c t s ize i n c o l u m n columns E
t h a n 8 0 0A)
Tr ansformer. D and F
T
(Co lumn C)
Figure B.5 — Process flow for application of Table B.1
Table B.1 — Incident energy and arc flash boundary recommendations

AF
in absence of an engineering study
A B C D E F
Equipment Nominal Upstream device Upstream Minimum arc Arc flash
voltage type device rating rating PPE, boundary
cal/cm2
Switchboards 230 V ≤ 15 kVA NOTE 1 < 0.46 m
rated ≤ 800 A (1φ) Transformer ≤ 75 kVA 8 1.5 m
(IEEE 1584 equipment ≤ 250 kVA 40 3.0 m
type: Panel/MCC) ≤ 150 A NOTE 1 < 0.46 m
Minimum working Fuse ≤ 600 A 8 1.5 m
distance: 46 cm ≤ 800 A 40 3.0 m
DR
≤ 80 A NOTE 1 < 0.46 m
Circuit breaker
≤ 300 A 8 1.5 m
T/M or M
≤ 800 A 40 3.0 m
rated ≤ 800 A (3φ) ≤ 40 kVA 4 1.0 m
Transformer
(IEEE 1584 equipment ≤ 75 kVA 8 1.5 m
type: Panel/MCC) ≤ 400 kVA 40 3.5 m
Minimum working ≤ 63 A NOTE 1 < 0.46 m
distance: 46 cm Fuse ≤ 250 A 8 1.5 m
≤ 800 A 40 3.5 m
Circuit breaker ≤ 100 A 4 1.0 m
(At maximum ≤ 250 A 8 1.5 m
settings,
instantaneous ≤ 630 A 40 2.5 m
enabled)
Short time
≤ 400 A 40 2.5 m
pickup: ≤ 10x rated

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 66
Table B.1 (continued)

A B C D E F
cal/cm2
Short time
delay: ≤ 100 ms ≤ 630 A 40 3.0 m

No instantaneous
Circuit breaker
Short time
≤ 630 A 40 3.0 m
Short time
delay: ≤ 300 ms
T
No instantaneous
Circuit breaker
Short time
≤ 630 A 75 3.5 m
Short time
delay: ≤ 500 ms
AF
No instantaneous
690 V ≤ 10 kVA NOTE 1 < 0.46 m
(3φ) Transformer ≤ 40 kVA 4 1.0 m
≤ 75 kVA 8 1.5 m
≤ 63 A NOTE 1 < 0.46 m
Fuse ≤ 250 A 8 1.5 m
≤ 800 A 75 4.0 m
(At maximum ≤ 250 A 8 1.5 m
settings,
DR
instantaneous ≤ 630 A 40 2.5 m
enabled)
Circuit breaker
Short time ≤ 315 A 40 2.0 m
Short time
delay: ≤ 100 ms ≤ 630 A 40 2.5 m
No Instantaneous
Circuit breaker
Short time
≤ 630 A 40 3.0 m
Short time
delay: ≤ 300 ms
No instantaneous
Circuit breaker
Short time
≤ 630 A 75 4.0 m
Short time
delay: ≤ 500 ms
No instantaneous

67 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022

A B C D E F
cal/cm2
rated > 800 A (3φ) ≤ 40 kVA 4 1.0 m

(IEEE 1584 Transformer ≤ 75 kVA 8 1.5 m
Equipment type: ≤ 400 kVA 40 3.5 m
Switchgear)
Minimum working ≤ 1 600 A 40 3.5 m
distance: 61 cm Fuse
≤ 2 000 A 40 4.0 m
Circuit breaker ≤ 1 600 A 40 3.5 m
T
(At maximum
settings,
≤ 2 000 A 75, NOTE 2 4.5 m
instantaneous
enabled)
Circuit Breaker
AF Short time ≤ 800 A 40 3.5 m
Short time
delay: ≤ 100 ms ≤ 2 000 A 75, NOTE 2 6.5 m
No instantaneous
Circuit breaker
≤ 800 A 40 3.5 m
Short time
Short time
delay: ≤ 300 ms ≤ 2 000 A 75, NOTE 2 6.5 m
No instantaneous
DR
Circuit breaker
Short time
delay: ≤ 500 ms ≤ 2 000 A 75, NOTE 2 6.5 m
No instantaneous
690 V ≤ 10 kVA NOTE 1 < 0.46 m
(3φ) ≤ 40 kVA 4 1.0 m
Transformer
≤ 75 kVA 8 1.5 m
≤ 400 kVA 40 3.5 m
≤ 800 A 75 4.0 m
Fuse
≤ 2 000 A 75 4.0 m
(At maximum
settings,
≤ 2 000 A 40 4.0 m
instantaneous
enabled)
Circuit breaker

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 68

A B C D E F
cal/cm2
Short time
delay: ≤ 100 ms ≤ 2 000 A 75, NOTE 2 7.0 m

No instantaneous
Circuit breaker
Short time
delay: ≤ 300 ms ≤ 2 000 A 75 7.0 m
T
No instantaneous
Circuit breaker
Short time
delay: ≤ 500 ms
AF ≤ 2 000 A 75, NOTE 2 7.0 m
No instantaneous
NOTE 1 Suitable PPE should be worn for the task being performed.
NOTE 2 In some cases, for 2 000 A circuits, incident energy exceeds 75 cal/cm2. 75 cal/cm2 is the maximum arc
rated PPE prescribed by this document. Empirical evidence suggests that any arc rated PPE is better than none.
For 2 000 A circuits, the risk should be assessed and as with all scenarios, work on de-energized conductors is
the priority.
NOTE 3 This table is based on the following assumptions:
(a) Motor contributions are not factored into calculations.
(b) Devices are tested over a range of prospective fault levels including 0.5 kA, 1 kA, 2 kA, 5 kA, 10 kA,
20 kA, 28 kA, 36 kA.
DR
(c) Calculations are in accordance with IEEE 1584:2018.
(d) VCBB electrode configuration (i.e. vertical electrodes terminating in an insulating barrier inside an
enclosure) are considered in all cases. Standard box dimensions in accordance with IEEE 1584 are applied.

69 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Wor k o n Vi c i n i t y of In s p e c t i o n O p erating In s p e c t i o n Te sting Work on the Racking R e s t o r a t ion Commissioning Racking Restoration
the equipment (panel equipment (panel vo ltag e, equipment (panels (panel af ter a fault
ACTIVIT Y
equipment c l o s e d) (panels o p e n) including (isolated c l o s e d) o p e n) or

(i s o l ate d, c l o s e d) pr ov ing but operation of
pr ove n de-energised not proven equipment
de-energised d e - energised ) with
and possible
ear t hed) defect
RISK
Wor k o n Per s o n Per s o n Per s o n Per s o n Per s o n Per s o n Per s o n Per s o n Per s o n Per s o n Per s o n
plant, s t a n d i n g s t a n d i n g i n o p erating i n s p e c t i n g te sting r e m ov i n g r a c k i ng sw it c h in g sw it c h in g r a c k i ng sw i t c h i n g
with near front of equipment open open c o m p o n e nt c ir c u i t electrical electrical c ir c u i t electrical
i s o l at i o n s e l e c t r i c al e l e c t r i c al with panel, panel, from breaker, e q u i p m e nt e q u i p m e nt breaker, e q u i p m e nt
l o c ke d and e q u i p m e n t panel, o p erating using using open panel on o n for t h e p a n e l o p e n on
t ag g e d , reading a handle IR multimeter panel, c l o s e d, fir st t i m e with af ter a
ear t h s m eter o n thermometer u s i ng with r a c k i ng fault
applied, t h e fro nt insulated r a c k i ng handle
barriers panel screwdriver handle
and signs
T
AFTER
FIRST TIME FAU LT
PLANT
I S O L AT I O N S
ON ON ON
EARTH
Wor ker s in sta n d a r d PPE Wor ker s in Wor ker s in live wo r k PPE (h e l m et Wor ker s in Wor ker s in Wor ker s in o p erating PPE
(h e l m e t , s afet y g l a s s e s , ank l e to o p erating and face shield,safet y g la s s e s , o p erating o p erating (h e l m et an d fac e s h i e l d, s afet y
wrist hi visibilit y c l othes, safet y PPE b a l a c lava , ank l e to wri st hi v i s i b i l it y PPE PPE g la s s e s , b a lac lava , ank l e to wri st
b o ot s) (helmet and c l othes, insulated glove s, s afet y (helmet and (ar c fla s h h i g h v i s i b i l i ty c l othes, insulated
face shield, b o ot s) face shield, suit) g l ove s w i t h l eat h er over
safety S afet y o b s er ver with LV res c u e k it safety g l ove s, s afet y boot s)
glasses,
balaclava,
ankle to wrist
high visibility
clothes,
insulated
gloves with
leather over
gloves,
safety boots)
AF glasses,
balaclava,
ankle to wrist
high visibility
clothes,
insulated
gloves with
leather over
gloves,
safety boots)
Figure B.6 — Increasing arc flash risk with work activity

DR
B.16 Risk mitigation
The use of PPE reduces the arc flash energy reaching the skin, in the event of an arc flash. See Section 11
for requirements and guidance on the use of PPE.
At a minimum, PPE that should be worn near energized electrical equipment are the following:
(a) Safety glasses.
(b) Safety boots.
(c) Ankle to wrist non-flammable clothing.
(d) Arc flash rated PPE.
(e) Insulated gloves for exposure to live LV.
(f) Insulated tools for exposure to live LV.
An additional risk that should be taken into account is the flammability of the PPE.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 70
Appendix C
(informative)
Electric shock survival

C.1 General
This appendix provides details of how to manage an electric shock situation using the DRSABCD method.
This information is provided for guidance only. People associated with the installation of electrical
T
equipment or repair of electrical installations should have undertaken approved training in current
resuscitation methods.
NOTE 1 State or federal regulators may provide further guidance on First Aid Code of Practice information.
An example of the signage for the basic life support steps is provided in Figure C.1.
C.2 Basic life support

AF
When providing first aid support to a patient, there is a recognized process that is commonly visible on
signage in many workplaces. The use of the DRSABCD method as shown in Figure C.1 allows the person
who provides first aid to assess whether the patient has life threatening injuries or symptoms, and
guides them through the process.
C.3 DRSABCD method

C.3.1 Danger
When working on or near LV and ELV electrical installations and equipment, the area should be
DR
determined as safe for —
(a) the person who provides first aid;
(b) any bystanders; and
(c) the patient or casualty.
Power should be immediately isolated or switched off. If this is not practicable, the patient or casualty
should be pulled or pushed clear of the electrical contact using non-conductive material, such as wood,
rope, plastic or rubber. Metal or anything that is conductive, wet or damp should not be used.
C.3.2 Response
The patient or casualty should be checked for a response. This may involve touching or talking to the
patient or casualty.
If the patient or casualty is responsive, they should be made comfortable. Their breathing should be
monitored and injuries managed.
If no response is received from the patient or casualty, help should be sought immediately .

71 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
C.3.3 Send for help

Help should be sought by dialling 000 (Australia) or 111 (New Zealand) for an ambulance or by asking a
bystander to make the call. The person making the call should stay on the line.
C.3.4 Airway
A check should be made for open or clear airways. Any foreign material should be removed. The patient
or casualty should be left in the position in which they were found.
Where practicable, the person’s airways should be opened by tilting their head back and lifting their chin.
C.3.5 Breathing
Breathing should be checked using look, listen and feel.
T
If the patient or casualty is breathing normally, their breathing should be monitored while awaiting help.
If the patient or casualty is not breathing normally, an ambulance should be called and CPR started (see
Clause C.3.6).
C.3.6 CPR AF
CPR should be started with 30 compressions to every 2 breaths.
CPR should be performed if the patient or casualty is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
Bystander CPR should be actively encouraged. Compression-to-ventilation ratio should be 30:2 for all
ages. Chest compressions should be performed for all who are not breathing normally. Where applicable,
trained and willing bystanders should be encouraged to give rescue breaths. Chest compressions should
be provided at a rate of approximately 100 to 120 per min. Interruptions to chest compressions should
be minimized.
C.3.7 Defibrillate
A defibrillator should be applied as soon as practicable and voice prompts followed.
DR

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 72
D − Danger
• M ake sure that the area is safe for yo u, pati e nt and ot h e r s
R — Res p o n s e
• Che c k t h e res p o n s e by a s k i n g nam e, s q u e eze t h e han d or arm

• If res p o n s i ve m ake c o mfor t a b le, m o n i tor the response and c h e ck for injur i e s
S — Se n d
• Call 0 0 0 or a s k s o m e o n e to c all 0 0 0
• Ask s o m e o n e to g et t h e d efibrillator and fir st aid k it
A — Air way
• O p e n m o u t h, c l ear any forei g n m ater i a l, c l ear the air way, plac e in t h e re c over y p o s i t i o n
T
B — Breat h i ng
• Che c k t h e breat h i n g by looking, listen and fe e l

• If breathing place in recover y p osition , m o n i tor and treat any injur i e s
• If n ot breat hing star t CPR
C — CPR
D — Defibrillati o n
AF
• C o m m e n c e 3 0 c h e st c o m pressions then 2 b r e a t hs
• C o n t i n ue t ill help arrive s or t h e pati e nt re c over s
• If acc e s s i s available to a defibrillator have t h i s set u p w h i l e CPR i s b e i ng p er fo r m e d

• Tur n o n t h e d efibrillator and follow the prompt s
Figure C.1 — Steps in the DRSABCD method

DR

73 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Appendix D
(informative)
Lock out tag out

D.1 General
Lock out tag out (LOTO) is a system used for isolating and disabling equipment so that it cannot be re-
energized inadvertently.
T
When performing maintenance on electrically powered equipment, the equipment should be de-
energized and isolated to allow safe access to it.
Examples of equipment used for isolating electrical equipment from the electrical source may include
circuit breakers, isolators, switches, links, and fuses.
To perform the isolation correctly, a competent person should use the following:
AF
(a) Padlocks and lockout devices to ensure the integrity of the isolation at the isolation points.
(b) The tag and lock to identify the equipment that has been isolated and the person who has
performed the isolation.
D.2 Process steps for lock out tag out

The steps to perform LOTO should be as follows:
(a) Plan the isolation including completion of safety documentation, e.g. safe work method
statement (SWMS), job safety and environmental analysis (JSEA), Take 5.
DR
(b) Identify the isolation point.
(c) Identify the circuit.
(d) Provide notification that power will be turned off and an explanation as to why.
(e) Test the tester on a known live supply.
(f) Turn off or isolate then lock out circuit protection, e.g. LOTO.
(g) Attach the danger tag.
(h) Test the circuit to prove it is isolated.
(i) Check the tester is still working by testing it on a known supply.
(j) Release any stored energy and test for residual energy.
(k) Undertake the maintenance or installation.
(l) Test the installation.
(m) Check work performed and restore all safety systems, e.g. covers, guards.
(n) Remove all locks and devices.
(o) Re-establish the power supply.

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 74
(p) Confirm operation and correct functioning.
D.3 Equipment
The following equipment should be used in the LOTO process:
(a) Personal locks or padlocks with the following attributes:

(i) Red in colour.
(ii) Uniquely keyed.
(iii) Use one key only to prevent inadvertent removal by others.
(iv) Indelibly labelled with the name, company, and contact details or the user.
T
(v) Only the user who attached the lock may remove the lock.
(b) Personal danger tags marked with the user’s name, contact details and a description of
the isolation.
(c) Lockout devices or hasps allowing one or more locks to be applied and to prevent activation of
an isolated device. AF
DR

75 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Appendix E
(informative)
Bowtie analysis
A bowtie analysis is a risk assessment technique that involves describing and analysing the pathways of
a risk from causes to consequences in a simple way. The analysis is represented as a bowtie where the
knot of the bowtie is the initiating event.
The initial step in development of a bowtie analysis is identification of an event. The central “knot” of
the bowtie represents that event.
T
On the far-left side of the bowtie “knot”, the causes or sources of the event are listed. These should
include all the ways the event may be initiated.
The left-side of the bowtie is formed by drawing lines between the causes and the event. These lines
are used to describe the barriers or controls that might prevent the causes leading to the event. The
barriers are shown as vertical bars across the lines, to represent potential stopping points.
AF
On the far right-hand side of the bowtie, consequences of the event are listed. These are identified by
considering all the outcomes that might occur as a result of the event.
Lines are drawn from the event to the various listed consequences. Barriers are then identified that
mitigate the consequences.
The left side identifies measures to prevent the risk event. The right side shows measures to mitigate
the consequences of the risk event after it has occurred.
Figure E.1 shows an example of a bowtie analysis for voltage testing on a live domestic switchboard.
NOTE An explanation of a bowtie analysis is given in Clause B2.1 of SA/SNZ HB 89:2013 and the process is set
out in Clause B2.4.
DR

Damaged Vo ltage
te sting on a El e c t r i c
te st
li ve d o m e s t i c shock
equipment
switc h b oar d
Place
In s p e c t m eter Te st
Use the i n s u l a t i ng H ave an
te st leads by e q u i p m e n t by Vo ltage Conduct
c orrect meter m at s or e m e r g e n cy M e d i c al
c o m petent c o m petent r ate d LV
and test leads c over s over p l a n in Treatment
wor ker wor ker PPE Rescue
ex p o s e d p la c e
li ve p ar t s
DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Li ve El e c t r i c
conductive shock /
p ar t s Arc flas h
R e m ove all D o n ot u se Use

Assess
Check c o n d u c t i ve u n i n su late d Te st s afet y
i f s afet y
insulation items & hand tools b e fore d ev i c e
o b s er ver
o n to o l s restrain o n live to u c h e.g. RCD
required
l o n g hair p ar t s or AFDD

O t h e r s /p u b l i c
ex p o s ure to B u r ns
li ve p ar t s
76
DR
Pl ace
C o m m u n i c ate Assess if i n s u l a t in g H ave an
Ere c t Ar c - r ate d
B arricade to other s in s afet y m at s or e m e r g e n cy M e d i c al
ad e q u ate PPE
area area what will o b s er ver c over s over p l a n in Treatment
signage
b e o c c urr i n g required ex p o s e d live p la c e
p ar t s
AF
N o t e: S y m b o l s
Preve n t at i ve To p R e c over y
T hr eat s Wor k t a s k C o n s e q u e n c es
me a su re s eve nt measures
T
Figure E.1 — Example of bowtie diagram for voltage testing on live domestic switchboard
77 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Appendix F
(informative)
Guidance on materials containing asbestos in the

electrical industry
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of tiny, microscopic fibres which can be present in
electrical equipment and building materials.
Asbestos can be friable (easily crumbled by hand) or non-friable (bonded), see Figure F.1 for examples.
T
(a) Friable
AF (b) Non-friable
[SOURCE: Reproduced with permission from Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency, Asbestos
Awareness for Electricians, 2021, p. 8]
Figure F.1 — Examples of friable and non-friable asbestos
If material containing asbestos is disturbed, fibres can become airborne and inhaled. Breathing these
DR
fibres can cause diseases such as mesothelioma or other cancers. Asbestos is now a prohibited building
material in Australia and New Zealand; however, buildings and structures may still contain asbestos
materials. If the building or structure was built before 1990, it should be assumed that it contains
asbestos until it is proven otherwise.
NOTE 1 Different countries have different standards in relation to asbestos. Some materials imported from
overseas may still contain asbestos.
Asbestos is dangerous to health and safety when disturbed in situ, see Table F.1 for risks.
Table F.1 — Materials containing asbestos format and physical description, use and
associated risks
Type Description Use Risk
Friable Easily crumbled by hand Sprayed insulation, Fine fibres are easily
millboard debris and released into the air and
asbestos felt vinyl backing inhaled
Non-friable (bonded) Bonded securely as part Adhesive substances or When disturbed, damaged
of another compound, e.g. materials, e.g. lino glues and or if deteriorated, fibres
cement sheeting or “super 6” mastics or resins may be released and become
corrugated roofing airborne
[SOURCE: Reproduced with permission from Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency, Asbestos Awareness for
Electricians, 2021, p. 4]

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 78
Table F.2 provides examples of material that may contain asbestos.

Figures F.2 and F.3 show examples of where material containing asbestos might be located in an
industrial structure and a residential structure.
NOTE 2 For further information on working with materials containing asbestos, refer to the relevant authority.
Table F.2 — Examples of materials containing asbestos

Materials containing asbestos Examples
(a) Example of woven asbestos in a fuse holder
T
(b) Examples of asbestos cement sheet, insulated board
AF
and millboard
DR

79 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
Table F.2 (continued)

(c) Example of electrical meter and cabinet boxes
T
(d) Example of ceiling space asbestos sheet debris from
fan cut out and damaged upper asbestos sheet ceiling
AF
(e) Example of asbestos pit lids
DR
(f) Example of asbestos pipe lagging

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 80
Table F.2 (continued)

(g) Example of asbestos millboard in a hot water system
T
[SOURCE: Reproduced with permission from Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency, Asbestos Awareness for
Electricians, 2021, p. 8]
AF
DR
[SOURCE: Reproduced with permission from Worksafe New Zealand, Asbestos Guidance, Figure 2]
Figure F.2 — Example of asbestos locations in an industrial complex

81
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AF Figure F.3 — Example of asbestos locations in a residential building
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[SOURCE: Reproduced with permission from Worksafe New Zealand, Asbestos Guidance, Figure 3]

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
DR AS/NZS 4836:2022 82
Bibliography
AS 1319, Safety signs for the occupational environment

AS 1768, Lightning protection
AS 2550.10, Cranes, hoists and winches—Safe use, Part 10: Mobile elevating work platforms
AS 2865, Confined spaces
AS 5488.1Classification of subsurface utility information, Part 1: Subsurface utility information
AS 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
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AS 61010.1, Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use,
Part 1: General requirements (IEC 61010‑1:2001, MOD)
AS ISO 31000, Risk management—Guidelines
AS/NZS 2210.1, Safety, protective and occupational footwear, Part 1: Guide to selection, care and use
AF
AS/NZS 3012, Electrical installations—Construction and demolition sites
AS/NZS 3760, In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment
AS/NZS 3800, Electrical equipment for explosive atmospheres — Repair and overhaul (IEC 60079:2015
(ED.3.1), MOD)
AS/NZS 4024 (all parts), Safety of machinery
AS/NZS 4576, Guidelines for scaffolding
AS/NZS 4761.1, Competencies for working with electrical equipment for hazardous areas (EEHA), Part 1:
Competency Standards
DR
AS/NZS 4804, Occupational health and safety management systems—General guidelines on principles,
systems and supporting techniques
AS/NZS 5139, Electrical installations — Safety of battery systems for use with power
conversion equipment
AS/NZS 60079.14, Explosive atmospheres, Part 14: Design selection, erection and initial inspection
(IEC 60079‑14:2013 (ED.5.0) MOD)
AS/NZS 60079.17, Explosive atmospheres, Part 17: Electrical installations inspection and maintenance
(IEC 60079‑17 (ED.5.0), MOD)
AS/NZS IEC 31010, Risk management — Risk assessment techniques
IEC 60900, Live working – Hand tools for use up to 1 000 V AC and 1 500 V DC
IEC 61112, Live working – Electrical insulating blankets
IEC 61229, Rigid protective covers for live working on a.c. installations
IEC 61479, Live working – Flexible conductor covers (line hoses) of insulating material
IEEE 1584, IEEE Guide for Performing Arc-Flash Hazard Calculations
ASTM D178, Standard Specification for Rubber Insulating Matting
ASTM D1048, Standard Specification for Rubber Insulating Blankets

83 DR AS/NZS 4836:2022
ASTM D1049, Standard Specification for Rubber Insulating Covers

EN 60900, Live working – Hand tools for use up to 1 000 V AC and 1 500 V DC
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NOTES
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AF
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Standards Australia
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DR AS/NZS 4836:2022

DR AS/NZS 4836:2022, Safe working on or near low-voltage electrical

Keeping Standards up-to-date

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© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

Section 5 Elevated electrical equipment, poles structures and overhead conductors..........................33

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

Appendix F (informative) Guidance on materials containing asbestos in the electrical

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

(i) Applicable in Australia only. A

(ii) Applicable in New Zealand only. NZ

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

Provision for revision

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

Australian/New Zealand Standard

AS 1892.2, Portable ladders, Part 2: Timber

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

1.4 Terms and definitions AF

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

[SOURCE: AS/NZS 3000:2018, 1.4.52, modified]

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

locate faults or prove operability

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

personal protective equipment

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

Section 2 Principles of risk management

2.3 Identify the hazards

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

(f) Hot or wet conditions.

2.3.2 Electrical hazards

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

(j) Voltages between different earthing systems.

2.3.4 Arc blast and flash injuries

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

2.3.5 Hazardous areas

the requisite technical training to achieve those competencies.

2.3.6 Other risk factors

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

(ii) overhead conductors (see Section 5); and

2.3.7 Safe work clearances

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

Figure 2.1 — Illustration of 3 m exclusion zone and “on or near”

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

2.4 Assess and prioritize risk

NOTE 2 AS/NZS 31010 provides guidance on risk assessments.

2.5 General risk control measures

Figure 2.3 — Hierarchy of control

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

Figure 2.4 — Risk control procedures

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X

2.6 Means of reducing risk

(b) the correct isolation and testing procedures and techniques;

Use risk assessment and this

Use risk assessment prior to

Figure 2.5 — Safe working procedures

© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand 202X