The Electrical Safety Policy applies to all employees who are working with the University electrical systems and electrical work equipment.
Scope
This policy applies to all electrical systems and electrical work equipment to the extent that they are within the Universities control, bar the exceptions listed below
This policy does not apply to electrical equipment that is not owned or provided by the University which is used in residential accommodation for domestic purposes. This equipment is however covered by the University accommodation terms and conditions for students.
This policy does not apply to electrical equipment owned by staff, students or visitors. The University recognizes that such equipment may be connected to the University electrical system. The University will accept the use of privately owned double insulated (Class II) equipment in non-residential buildings as long as it is maintained in good condition and working order and is used in appropriate circumstances.
This policy does not apply to equipment owned by contractors. The University recognizes that such equipment may be connected to the University electrical system. The University will expect contractors to work to a suitable standard that is at least the equivalent of this policy (see the Management of Contractors Policy).
Legislation
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 Electricity at Work
Regulations 1989 and memorandum of guidance
Non-statutory Standards
Standards have been set for fixed electrical installations, most notably BS7671:2018 Requirements for Electrical Installations IET Wiring Regulations. Although it is not a statutory instrument, compliance with it will usually ensure compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations
Definitions
Electrical equipment means anything used, intended to be used or installed for use, to generate, provide, transmit, transform, rectify, convert, conduct, distribute, control, store, measure or use electrical energy.
A system means an electrical system in which all the electrical equipment is, or may be, electrically connected to a common source of electrical energy, and includes such source and such equipment. Competence means having the necessary knowledge and experience of the type of work to be undertaken and the skills and ability to complete the work safely.
Students are required to:
Cooperate with the University with regard to compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the Electrical Safety Policy.
Not connect non-University equipment to University electrical systems other than that equipment which is permitted within this policy.
Monitoring
University Health and Safety Committee will be responsible for:
Monitoring and reviewing this policy. Reviews will be carried out every three years from the date of approval.
Further Information
The Health & Safety Executive, Electrical safety at work portal – contains free guidance documents The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and memorandum of guidance (HSR25 third edition) – available free of charge on the Health & Safety Executive site.