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I have been asked if it is safe for our electricians to work alone on a 3 phase distribution board, what are peoples thoughts please.

Daniel S Robinson

Hi, I work as a Qualifying Supervisor for a company that covers four counties with electricians. Currently in one county there is a requirement that if some one will need to work in a live 3 phase board, two operatives will be present. The thinking being there is some one to watch your back and assist in case of a problem. The other county's have now come and said they don't do this. 

So my question is, if the electrician is carrying out dead tests on the worked on circuit that is housed in a DB that can't be isolated, should two people be present.

Looking at the various documents we have like The Electricity at work Regulations, Electricity at work document from HSE (HSG85) I understand a risk assessment is required and a safe system of work document.

I was just wanting to get an idea of what other company's do, and any guidance relating to such documents.

Thank you for your help and advice in advance.

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    Amazing guys thank you for your input. I'm due to discuss it with the four other QS's in the business next Monday. I really think if its a communal area and the board just houses sockets and lights there is no reason not to turn it off. If on the other hand it has the fire alarm, warden control systems and help lines I think we will put a process in place whereby we can work on the live board depending on its age and other factors. I will feed back what is decided. Just good to get other peoples thoughts. We are a housing association by the way with around 65 operatives so its important to get this right.

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  • 0

    Amazing guys thank you for your input. I'm due to discuss it with the four other QS's in the business next Monday. I really think if its a communal area and the board just houses sockets and lights there is no reason not to turn it off. If on the other hand it has the fire alarm, warden control systems and help lines I think we will put a process in place whereby we can work on the live board depending on its age and other factors. I will feed back what is decided. Just good to get other peoples thoughts. We are a housing association by the way with around 65 operatives so its important to get this right.

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