Live Working Policy Document

1. Introduction

This Live Working Policy (“Policy”) sets forth the conditions under which live electrical work may be conducted, outlining the responsibilities, procedures, and safety measures required to ensure compliance with the United Kingdom’s electrical safety regulations, including the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

2. Scope

This Policy applies to all employees, contractors, and subcontractors (“Personnel”) engaged in live working activities on behalf of [Company Name] (“the Company”).

3. Definitions

Live Working: Any work activity conducted on electrical equipment or systems that are energised and operational.

4. Authorisation

4.1. Personnel Qualification

Only qualified electricians who have undergone appropriate training and demonstrated competence in live working techniques are authorised to perform live work.

4.2. Adherence to Standards

All Personnel must familiarise themselves with and strictly adhere to relevant safety standards, regulations, and best practices governing live working.

5. Risk Assessment

5.1. A comprehensive risk assessment shall be conducted prior to any live work, covering hazard identification, risk evaluation, control measures, and consideration of safer alternatives.

6. Permissible Circumstances for Live Working

6.1. Live working is permitted only when essential operations cannot be interrupted, it is impractical to de-energise the system, and adequate safety measures are feasible.

6.2. Approval from the Technical Director and acquisition of all necessary permits and clearances are required before commencing live work.

7. Lone Working

7.1. Lone working on live electrical systems is discouraged. When necessary, additional safety measures and regular check-ins must be implemented.

8. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

8.1. Personnel performing live work must utilise specified insulating gloves, flame-resistant clothing, safety goggles, insulating footwear, and other necessary PPE.

9. Alternatives to Live Working

9.1. De-energising the system, out-of-hours working, or partial de-energisation should be considered as safer alternatives to live working.

10. Training and Competency

10.1. Regular training and competency assessments are required for all Personnel involved in live working to ensure awareness of hazards and adherence to safe practices.

11. Review and Continuous Improvement

11.1. This Policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with current regulations and industry standards.

12. Compliance

12.1. Failure to comply with this Policy may result in disciplinary action. Personnel are responsible for adhering to this Policy and reporting any concerns or violations.

13. Client Considerations

13.1. Clients are advised on alternatives to live working to minimise the need for such activities, ensuring safety and operational continuity.

14. Additional Costings

14.1. Live working incurs additional costs due to specialised requirements. Clients will be informed of any additional charges related to live working activities.

15. Policy Governance

This Policy is governed by the laws of the United Kingdom and is subject to the jurisdiction of UK courts. It is the responsibility of all Personnel to familiarise themselves with and adhere to the provisions of this Policy.

16. Implementation

This Policy is effective as of  10/10/2022 and remains in force until amended or revoked by the Company. All Personnel are required to comply with this Policy as part of their employment or engagement terms with the Company.