Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173:body:0:p52
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 133762–136658

and ice formation;
       abnormal vibrations, deformation and mechanical shock;
       unusually high or low temperatures; and
       explosive mixtures when used in certain areas.
The risk of electric shock is high on board as moisture, high humidity and high temperature (including sweating) reduces the contact resistance of the body. In these conditions, severe and even fatal shocks may be caused at voltages as low as 60V. Cuts and abrasions also significantly reduce skin resistance.
Working with electrical equipment in small spaces increases the risk due to the difficulty of being able to exit quickly should an equipment fault occur. Similarly, small spaces make it difficult to avoid contact with items such as extension leads used with portable power tools.
General guidance on electrical safety is available in Safe Work Australia's Code of Practice: Managing electrical risks at the workplace
Seafarers must receive adequate training before being permitted to work on electrical installations. Seafarers not authorised to carry out electrical work should never install new equipment or alter existing equipment.
Work on or near live equipment should be avoided if possible but when it is essential for the safety of the ship or for testing purposes, the following precautions should be taken:
       A second person, who should be competent in the treatment of electric shock, should be continually in attendance.
       Adopt a working position to avoid accidental contact with live parts. Insulated gloves should be worn where practicable.
       Contact with the deck, particularly if it is wet, should be avoided. Footwear may not give adequate insulation if it is damp or has metal studs or rivets. The use of dry insulating mats at all times is recommended.
       Contact with bare metal should be avoided. A hand-to-hand shock is especially dangerous. To minimise the risk of a second contact should the working hand accidentally touch a live part, one hand should be kept in a trouser pocket whenever practicable.
       Wrist watches, metal identity bracelets and rings should be removed. They provide low resistance contact with the skin. Metal fittings on clothing or footwear are also dangerous.
The installation should be maintained and protected to minimise the possibility of fire, external explosion, electrical shocks and danger to seafarers.
All live parts should be effectively insulated and enclosed in conduits or otherwise protected and should be maintained in that condition.
The enclosures of live circuits, such as terminal boxes, should be designed to prevent accidental contact and to ensure that only authorised persons can access them.
All electrical equipment should be regularly inspected to ensure that it is suitable for its intended use. Any electrical faults or other defects should be immediately reported to the appropriate person and