Electricity At Work Regulations 1989

Electricity At Work Regulation 1989

The purpose of these Regulations is to ensure that precautions are taken to reduce the risk of death or injury from electricity in work activities.

They put duties on us in respect of systems, equipment and conductors and work activities on or near electrical equipment.
They apply to almost all places of work and to electrical systems of all voltages.
Guidance called 'Memorandum of guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989' is available from the HSE.

Regulation 4 says that systems must be constructed and maintained as to prevent danger. Every work activity (operation, use and maintenance) near a system should be carried out in a way that prevents danger. Protective equipment shall be suitable and properly used.
Regulation 5 states that no electrical equipment should be put to work if its strength or capacity may be exceeded, which may cause danger.
Regulation 6 details that electrical equipment that may be subject to adverse or hazardous environments should be constructed to prevent danger.
Regulations 7-11 outline the use of insulation, protection and placing of conductors, earthing, connections and protection from excess current.
Regulations 12-13 covers cutting off supply, isolation and making dead work equipment to prevent danger.
Regulations 14 and 15 detail safe working on or near live conductors and working space access and lighting.
Regulation 16 covers competence of employees.
Regulations 17-29 apply to mining and the defence sector.

This outlines the duties imposed on employers, the self employed and employees. Employee duties:

To co-operate with your employer so far as is necessary to enable any duty placed on the employer to be complied with.
To comply with the provisions of these regulations in so far as they relate to matters which are within their control.

For further Information, please do not hesitate to contact us.