Duties of high voltage electrical installation owners and operators

Did you know, if you are a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) at a premise with high voltage (HV) electrical installations, or have management or control of a HV electrical installation?

If so, then you have a duty to ensure the installation is designed, constructed, operated, and maintained in accordance with:

• Electrical Safety Act 2002
• Electrical Safety Regulation 2013
• Managing electrical risks in the workplace code of practice 2021 (PDF, 1.25 MB).

The PCBU or person in control must ensure only licensed electrical workers perform or supervise electrical work and that they’re properly briefed on the task to be completed. If electrical work is contracted to another PCBU, they must hold an electrical contractor licence.

HV electrical installations must be designed and constructed to a standard that is consistent with good industry practice, with careful consideration of the ongoing safety of workers and members of the public, integrity of electrical equipment, and risks to property.

Maintenance should be regularly conducted on HV installations.

Operational procedures of HV installations should be incorporated into site safety management plans or in a specific HV electrical installation safety management plan.

PCBU’s will need to monitor and review safety management plans related to HV installations on a regular basis, ensuring there is an effective process for reporting, receiving, and considering safety incidents, hazards and risks.

Find out more about the Duties of high voltage electrical installation owners and operators.