Energy Qld Authorisation Course

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T0911 - Introduction to Electrical Network Infrastructure for Authorised Persons

 

This course is for contract workers who want to apply to the Electricty Entity (Energex/Ergon) for approval as an ‘'Authorised person’.

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Authorised Person

 

The Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 sets out some requirements for those working near electric lines.

 

It recommends 'exclusion zones' or areas close to lines where people are not allowed to enter. These zones vary depending on whether you're classified as an 'Authorised Person (Electrical or Non-Electrical)', an 'Instructed Person' or an 'Untrained Person'.

 

Authorised Person (Electrical)

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An Authorised Person (Electrical) is permitted to work closer to the electric lines than an Untrained Person due their knowledge and competencies (refer Electrical Safety Code of Practice 2020 Working Near Overhead and Underground Electric Lines Appendix B Exclusion Zones for Overhead Electric Lines).

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Authorised Person (Non-Electrical)

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An Authorised Person (Non-Electrical) does not hold a Queensland electrical mechanic licence. However, has enough technical knowledge and experience to do non-electrical work that involves being near electric lines and has been approved by to work near electric lines.​​​

 

Applying to become an Authorised Person (Electrical or Non-Electrical)​​​​

 

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​Skills acquired:

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On successful completion of this module including all prerequisites and assessments you should have these skills:

• Apply electrical safety and technical knowledge relevant to the type of work and the operation of plant or vehicles near overhead and underground electric lines.

• Interpret the application and intent of the Electrical Safety Code of Practice – Working Near Overhead and Underground Electric Lines.

• Describe the difference between Authorised Persons, Instructed Persons and Untrained Persons as outlined in the Electrical Safety Code of Practice – Working Near Overhead and Underground Electric Lines.

• Explain basic electrical concepts and the effect of electricity on the human body.

• Identify hazards that may be present and the control measures to be implemented to manage the risks associated with work carried out on or near overhead and underground electric lines.

• Identify electricity network infrastructure assets, substation components and voltages.

• Identify exclusion zones applicable to people, vehicles and operating plant for various electric line voltages, types of conductors and cables, environmental conditions, training and authorisations of people on the electricity. network.

• State the emergency planning, response and reporting procedures required in the event of an electrical incident or accident.

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What an Authorised person (electrical)

is allowed to do:

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An electrical mechanic who holds a current Queensland electrical mechanic licence and is approved as an Authorised Person (Electrical) can:

• Remove and replace Low Voltage (LV) service fuses when a customer's LV service line needs to be isolated to eliminate the exclusion zone around the LV service line, or to work on the customer's mains and/or switchboard

• Isolate a customer's LV service line at an underground service pillar or service pole by removing a fuse wedge(s) from a service line, in accordance with electricity industry practices i.e., from ground level using appropriate insulated tools, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and insulating mats.

In those situations where the service fuse/circuit breaker is not located or accessible at the supply end of the LV service line, the Authorised Person (Electrical) needs to contact the Distributer to either arrange for isolation of the customers premises, or arrange for a Safety Advice where removal of the exclusion zone around the LV service line is required.

Please note: Any controls used by the Authorised Person (Electrical), to confirm isolation and ensure supply to the customer's connection isn't inadvertently re-energised, must comply with Sections 14 and 15 of the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013.​

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