Electrical Safety Check Template for Local Government
A procedure for conducting electrical safety checks on workplace electrical equipment, installations, and work practices to prevent electrical injuries and comply with WHS electrical safety requirements.
Purpose
To identify and manage electrical hazards in the workplace, ensure electrical equipment is safe and maintained, and prevent electrical shock, burns, and fire from faulty electrical systems.
Scope
Covers all workplace electrical equipment including portable electrical equipment, fixed installations, and electrical work practices. Applies to all workplaces and workers who use or may be exposed to electrical equipment.
Prerequisites
- Electrical equipment register listing all portable and fixed electrical equipment
- Testing and tagging schedule aligned with AS/NZS 3760 requirements
- Licensed electricians engaged for all electrical installation and repair work
- Residual Current Devices (RCDs) installed and tested on all power circuits
Supports Local Government Act compliance, freedom of information requirements, and public accountability standards.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Review the Electrical Equipment Register
Confirm the electrical equipment register is current and includes all portable and fixed electrical equipment in the workplace.
- 1.1Verify all electrical equipment is listed in the register
- 1.2Check testing and tagging records are current per the AS/NZS 3760 schedule
- 1.3Identify any equipment overdue for testing
- 1.4Note any new equipment that has been added since the last review
Conduct Visual Inspections of Electrical Equipment
Visually inspect electrical equipment for damage, wear, or defects that could create electrical hazards.
- 2.1Check power cords for cuts, fraying, exposed wires, or damaged insulation
- 2.2Inspect plugs and connectors for cracks, burn marks, or bent pins
- 2.3Check equipment housings for cracks, damage, or missing covers
- 2.4Verify test tags are current and the equipment is within its test period
- 2.5Check extension leads and power boards for overloading or daisy-chaining
- Train all workers to conduct a quick visual check of electrical equipment before each use — this is the first line of defence
Verify RCD Functionality
Test all Residual Current Devices (RCDs) to confirm they are functional and will trip within the required parameters.
- 3.1Identify all RCDs protecting workplace circuits
- 3.2Push the test button on each RCD to confirm it trips
- 3.3Arrange for a licensed electrician to conduct formal RCD testing per the required schedule
- 3.4Record test results and any RCDs that fail testing
Inspect Electrical Installations and Work Areas
Check fixed electrical installations, switchboards, and work areas for safety concerns including access, labelling, and condition.
- 4.1Verify switchboard access is clear — no storage or obstructions within the required clearance zone
- 4.2Check switchboard labelling is accurate and legible
- 4.3Inspect for exposed wiring, temporary installations, or unauthorised modifications
- 4.4Check that outdoor and wet-area circuits are protected by RCDs
Review Electrical Work Practices
Verify that electrical work practices in the workplace comply with WHS requirements, including the use of licensed electricians for all electrical work.
- 5.1Confirm all electrical work is performed by licensed electricians
- 5.2Verify isolation and lock-out/tag-out procedures are followed for electrical maintenance
- 5.3Check that workers do not perform unauthorised electrical repairs or modifications
- 5.4Review safe work method statements for any electrical work in progress
- Workers must not repair or modify electrical equipment unless they hold the appropriate electrical licence
Document Findings and Corrective Actions
Record all findings, remove defective equipment from service, and assign corrective actions for any electrical safety issues identified.
- 6.1Complete the electrical safety inspection report
- 6.2Tag out and remove any defective equipment from service immediately
- 6.3Assign corrective actions for non-conformances with owners and due dates
- 6.4Arrange for a licensed electrician to repair or replace defective equipment
Quality Checkpoints
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Expected Outcomes
Percentage of portable electrical equipment with a current test tag per the required schedule
Percentage of RCDs that pass testing within the required parameters
Number of electrical incidents including shocks, burns, and fires, targeting zero
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I find a piece of equipment with a damaged cord?
Stop using the equipment immediately, disconnect it from the power supply, and tag it as out of service. Report it to your supervisor. Do not attempt to repair it unless you are a licensed electrician. Arrange for a licensed electrician to assess and repair or replace the equipment.
What is an RCD and why is it important?
A Residual Current Device (RCD) is a safety switch that monitors the flow of electricity through a circuit. If it detects current leaking to earth — such as through a person receiving a shock — it rapidly disconnects the power supply, typically within 30 milliseconds. RCDs are a critical layer of protection against electrical shock.
Who can test and tag electrical equipment?
Testing and tagging can be performed by a competent person who has the knowledge and skills to perform the testing correctly. This does not necessarily require an electrical licence, but the person must be trained in the use of the testing equipment and understand the requirements of AS/NZS 3760.
How often does portable electrical equipment need to be tested and tagged?
The frequency depends on the environment. AS/NZS 3760 provides guidance — construction and demolition sites require testing every 3 months, factories and workshops every 6 months, and offices and retail environments every 12 months. Hostile environments require more frequent testing.
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