Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00407:body:0:p33
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00407
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 86476–89346

the risk assessment prepared for the relevant work.
Safe work method statements must be written in a way that makes them readily understandable
by the workers who are to use them.
A copy must be readily accessible to any worker who is to carry out the electrical work covered
by the statement.
Safe work method statements must be kept up-to-date. They must, for example, be revised if a decision is made to change relevant safe work procedures at the workplace.
Appendix D to this Code includes a preventative actions checklist that may help you to identify hazards associated with electrical work and develop safe work methods.
If the electrical work falls within the description of 'high risk construction work' then the construction regulations in the WHS Regulations will also apply. For more information see the Code of Practice: Construction work.

Record keeping requirements

Regulation 162 A person conducting a business or undertaking carrying out electrical work must keep:
    * a copy of the risk assessment until at least 28 days after the work to which it relates is completed, and
    * a copy of the safe work method statement until the work to which it relates is completed.
If a 'notifiable incident' under Part 3 of the WHS Act occurs in connection with the work to which the assessment or statement relates, the person must keep the assessment or statement
(as the case requires) for at least two years after the incident occurs.

Hazards indirectly caused by electricity—conductive materials
Persons can be exposed to electrical risks, including risks of electric shock, arcing and explosion, without directly contacting exposed energised parts of electrical equipment. Other conductive materials can provide current paths for the electric shock, fault current or both.
All materials should be regarded as conductive unless proved otherwise. Gases and liquids should be regarded as conductive. Particular care should be taken when exposed energised parts are near earthed situations.
The electric shock path to earth can be via conductive materials, such as concrete, timber with
a high moisture content or water. For example, ladders that are damp or dirty may become conductive and create a potential hazard.
When working near exposed energised parts or working energised, the tools and equipment used should be non-conductive or insulated. Examples include:
    * torches
    * telescopic devices
    * rulers and tape measures
    * insulated hand tools, for example screwdrivers, pliers, cable cutters, spanners and crimpers
    * electrical or hydraulic powered tools.
Metallic personal items including watches and watchbands should not be worn by workers carrying out work near exposed energised parts. Metal objects worn on or close to the body increase the risk of electric shock. Additionally, electrical burns can be more serious because