ELECTRICITY SUPPLY BOARD

IRELAND

ESB NETWORKS
ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES
2006

9803084-1

CONTENTS

FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Section 1 INTENT AND SCOPE OF THE RULES . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
1.10
1.11
1.12
1.13

Purpose of Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Scope of Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Issue of Safety Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Duties of all Persons in receipt of a copy of these Safety Rules .3
Doubts and Objections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Approved Persons, Procedures and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Approval of these Rules and Annex to these Rules . . . . . . . . . . .4
Date from which Rules are Effective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Approvals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
On-Site Risk Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
System Managers Permission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
System Controllers Permission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Section 2

ORGANISATION OF WORK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
2.10
2.11
2.12
2.13
2.14
2.15
2.16
2.17
2.18
2.19

Planning and Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Approval Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
The System Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
The System Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Change of System Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
The Operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Change Of Operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
The Person Issuing Work (PIW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Change of PIW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
The Person in Charge of Work (PICW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Change of Person in Charge of Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
The Telemess Co-ordinator (TCO) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Change of Telemess Co-ordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
The Work Organiser (WO) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Change of Work Organiser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Cable Identifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Commissioning and/or Testing Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Specialist personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Duties of staff working under Person in Charge of
Work or Specialist Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Change of Members of the PICWs work unit . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Assignment of Roles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

2.20
2.21

III

Section 3

COMMUNICATION BY TELEMESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9
3.10
3.11
3.12
3.13
3.14
3.15
3.16
3.17

Telemess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Telemess Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Drafting of Telemess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Method of Transfer from Sender to Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Register of Proofs of Disconnection Telemesses . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Permit to Work Telemess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Retention of Telemesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Request for Disconnection (RFD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Proof of Disconnection (POD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Proof of Readiness (POR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Proof of Partial Readiness (POPR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Request for Application of a Main Earth (RAME) . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Proof of Application of a Main Earth (PAME) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Request for Removal of a Main Earth (RRME) . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Proof of Removal of a Main Earth (PRME) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Request for Connection (RFC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Proof of Connection (POC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Section 4
4.1
4.2

4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
4.10
4.11
4.12
4.13
4.14
4.15

Section 5
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6

REQUIREMENTS TO ALLOW WORK ON APPARATUS .26

Systems and Boundaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Activities on live equipment undertaken from outside
the Close Proximity Zone including Operations activities
but excluding live work undertaken on live apparatus . . . . . . . .26
Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Recording of all switching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Issue of Request for Disconnection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Issue of Proof of Disconnection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Application of Local Earth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Declaring off, Removal of Local Earths, and Issue
of Proof of Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Additional Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
When to Treat New Apparatus as Part of the System . . . . . . . .31
When to Treat Apparatus as not Part of the System . . . . . . . . .32
Removal of Main Earths for Test Purposes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
The On-going Telemess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Any Other Control Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

DISCONNECTING, EARTHING and RECONNECTION . .34

Disconnected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Identifying the apparatus to be disconnected. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
How to Disconnect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Disconnection of a transformer Neutral . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Verifying the Point of Disconnection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Hold Off notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
IV

5.7
5.8
5.9
5.10
5.11
5.12
5.13
5.14
5.15
5.16
5.17
5.18
5.19
5.20
5.21
5.22
5.23
5.24
5.25
5.26
5.27

Section 6
6.1
6.2
6.3

Section 7
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6

Where to place a HO notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Discharging and earthing of Apparatus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Main Earths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Applying Main Earths to 400kV, 275kV, 220kV, 110kV
and 38kV overhead lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Applying Main Earths to 10kV and 20kV Overhead Lines . . . . .38
Applying Main Earths to LV Overhead Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Applying Main Earths to HV Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Main Earthing of LV cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Local Earths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Applying Local Earths to 400kV, 275kV, 220kV,
110kV and 38kV Overhead lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Applying local Earths to one circuit of a HV Double Circuit,
with the other Circuit Live . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Applying Local Earths to 10kV or 20kV Overhead Lines . . . . .40
Applying Local Earths to LV overhead networks . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Applying Local Earthing to a broken line or line about to be Broken . .40
Identification of Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Spiking of Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Where to earth Power Transformers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Earthing Instrument Transformers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Earthing of Switches and Disconnects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Earthing of Busbars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Reconnection of Apparatus after work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

ACTIVITIES ON LIVE APPARATUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

General precaution for Live Working . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
LV Live Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
10/20kV Rubber Glove work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

SAFETY CLEARANCE ZONES TO LIVE

EXPOSED APPARATUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Safety clearance zones and exposed live apparatus . . . . . . . . .46
The Vicinity Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
The Close Proximity Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
The Live Working Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Erection of Safety Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Summary of Safety Clearances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

CLOSE PROXIMITY ZONE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49i

VICINITY ZONE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49ii
Section 8
INDEX

DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
V

FOREWORD

These Electrical Safety Rules, together with their companion current Electrical
Safety Rules, Power Generation, lay down definite regulations designed to provide
safe conditions for work on electrical apparatus. These Rules are supported by a
separate Annex containing approved supplementary information on the
implementation of these Rules.
Separate Electrical Safety Rules, have been provided for ESB Networks systems on
the one hand, and the Generating Stations on the other, to facilitate precise wording
for individual situations. The underlying philosophy is the same for both sets of Rules.
A copy of these Rules shall be issued to all personnel who have to manage,
control, operate, supervise or carry out work on, or in the vicinity of ESBs
networks. All those to whom these Electrical Safety Rules have been issued are
required to familiarise themselves with the Rules and to comply with them. In case
of doubt as to the application of any particular regulation, the person concerned
should ask for an explanation or advice from his line manager. A copy of the
current Electrical Safety Rules, Power Generation, shall also be given to those
whose duties require that they have knowledge of them.
ESB regards the safety of personnel as a matter taking precedence over every
other consideration in the execution of work; no emergency can justify disregard
for the safety of personnel. ESB Networks expects the co-operation of the
recipients of these Safety Rules in securing the application of the provisions set
out herein. Also it requires that staff will develop in themselves and encourage in
others such a concern for safety as will reduce the number of accidents to zero
and consequently eliminate the resultant distress and loss.
The annex to these Rules will contain the references to the approved procedures
and the interpretations of these rules.
Basic Safety Guidelines, in a separate document, are also in place. These guidelines
are based on the current Power Generation and ESB Networks' Electrical Safety
Rules. These guidelines set out general instructions concerning procedures and
activities associated with work on or near ESBs electrical systems.
These Rules have been drafted following extensive consultations in ESB Networks and
with other business units. These Rules supersede all previous issues of the Safety
Rules (Electrical) relating to ESBs networks and are effective from February 2006.

Approved by
John Shine
Executive Director ESB Networks
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Section 1
INTENT AND SCOPE OF THE RULES

1.1

1.4

Terminology

1.4.1 "He is used throughout these Rules for simplicity and should be understood
as He or She as appropriate in the circumstances. Similarly the terms
his, him and himself should be understood to refer to both genders.

Purpose of Rules

1.1.1 These Rules have been compiled for the safety and protection of all who
manage, control, operate, supervise, or carry out work on or in the vicinity of
ESBs network systems. Advance work planning and good communication are
a fundamental requirement for the safety of all who work on ESBs networks.

1.5

1.2

1.5.2 Each person shall be satisfied that the work he proposes to undertake can
and will be undertaken safely. The work shall only be undertaken when the
on site risk assessment demonstrates that all the necessary controls have
been or will be put in place prior to task commencement.

Scope of Rules

1.2.1 These Rules apply to work at or within the Vicinity Zone of all parts of the
ESBs network, but excluding such parts as may form part of a Generating
Station, and
(a) Which have been connected to a source of electricity supply, or
(b

Which could be connected readily to a source of electricity supply, or

(c) Which may be subject to an induced charge from a source of electricity

supply, and which may be energised to a potential more than 50 volts
AC above earth or more than 75 volts DC above or below earth.
(d) To activities associated with the work planning, operation, identification,
disconnection, earthing, and connection of apparatus on ESBs networks.
(e) To work associated with the inspection and/or commissioning of
apparatus on ESBs network.
1.2.2 These rules apply up to and at the interface with other systems connected
to, but not part of, ESBs networks.

1.3

Duties of all Persons in receipt of a copy of these Safety Rules

1.5.1 It is the duty of all persons to whom a copy of these Safety Rules have been
issued to be thoroughly conversant with the Rules which are relevant to the
work being undertaken and to conduct their work in accordance with them.
The Safety Rules shall by then not be breached, even in an emergency.

1.5.3 Anyone attempting a rescue following any incident or accident must be

very careful and must not put themselves or others in any further danger.
1.5.4 Non-observance of these Rules or failure to discharge one's duty may give
rise to disciplinary action.
1.5.5 In the event of a mal-operation or safety incident the System Controller and
the System Manager shall be notified. All work shall stop until an instruction
is given by the System Manager.

1.6

Doubts and Objections

1.6.1 Any person who has difficulty in the interpretation or in the application of
any particular Rule shall seek clarification from his line manager.
1.6.2 Should any person consider that the work to be undertaken by him cannot
be carried out safely, then he shall so inform his immediate line manager,
who shall resolve any problems, or if not resolved, have the matter referred
to a more senior authority.

Issue of Safety Rules

1.3.1 A copy of these Safety Rules shall be given to all persons who manage, control,
operate, supervise, or carry out work on or in the vicinity of ESBs networks.
1.3.2 Each person shall sign a receipt for each copy of the Safety Rules issued
to them.

1.6.3 If, when working at, or within the Vicinity Zone of live apparatus, a person
encounters hazards which, following risk assessment, makes the work
unsafe to proceed, that person shall report the situation to his line manager.
The line manager shall evaluate the situation and provide such instruction
and assistance as may be required in order that the work may be carried
out safely.

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1.7

Approved Persons, Procedures and Equipment

1.10 Approvals

1.7.1

Where approvals are required to carry out a role, persons who carry out
that role shall be approved.

1.10.1 Existing Safety Approvals, where appropriate, shall remain valid until
reviewed and re-issued or until expiry date.

1.7.2

All activities associated with the management, control, operation,

supervision or work in or near the safety clearance zones of ESB's
networks shall be undertaken only in accordance with the requirements
specified in these Safety Rules.

1.10.2 Only Approved Persons may:

1.7.3

Such activities, and in addition activities on low voltage systems within

sub-stations, shall be in accordance with written procedures that have
been approved by the Manager responsible for interpreting these Rules.
The Annex to these rules shall contain the references to the procedures
and the interpretations of these rules.

1.7.4

Only equipment approved for a specific task shall be utilised for that task.
Such equipment shall be examined by the user before use to ensure that it
is in a safe condition.

1.7.5

An apparatus shall not be treated as being dead, or an apparatus on which

work has been carried out shall not be treated as being ready for operation,
on the basis of a prearranged signal, or understanding, or after an agreed
interval of time, or on the basis of deductions, assumptions or inferences.

1.8

(a) Enter a room or compound which contains exposed live apparatus.

(b) Enter an enclosure or cabinet which completely encloses exposed live
apparatus.
(c) Climb a pole, tower or structure which supports exposed live apparatus.

1.11

On Site Risk Assessment

1.11.1 An On Site Risk Assessment shall be properly completed prior to all

switching and work at or within the vicinity zone of ESBs networks.

1.12 System Managers Permission

1.12.1 The System Managers permission shall be obtained for all planned work
on the system for which he is responsible. This permission may be verbal
or in writing, as specified by the System Manager.

Approval of these Rules and Annex to these Rules

1.8.1 These Rules are approved by the Executive Director, Networks.

1.13 System Controllers Permission

1.8.2 Any subsequent changes shall be approved by the Executive Director

Networks or the Manager, who has been appointed by the Executive
Director Networks, to have responsibility for interpreting these Rules.

1.13.1 The System Controllers permission shall be obtained prior to the

commencement of activities on the system. This permission may be verbal
or in writing, as specified by the System Controller. In the case of the LV
system notification by the PIW of crews working on the system shall be
deemed to be sufficient.

1.8.3 The Annex to these rules shall be approved by the Manager responsible for
interpreting these Rules.

1.9

Date from which Rules are Effective

1.9.1 These Rules supersede all previous issues of the Safety Rules (Electrical)
relating to the Transmission, Distribution and Marketing functions and are
effective from a date in 2006 as decided by the Executive Director, ESB
Networks. All procedures approved under clause 4.15 of the Safety Rules,
1993 (Electrical), are revoked from this date. Such procedures, if not
already incorporated in these Rules, may in future be approved under Rule
4.15 of these rules.

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Section 2
Organisation of Work

2.1

Planning and Communication

2.1.1 Any activity or work which comes under the scope of these rules shall be
planned in advance.
2.1.2 If a change is required to the plan it shall be revised and communicated to
all involved to reflect any changes that impact on the activity or work.

2.2

Approval Levels

2.2.1 Only those persons who have been trained, assessed, and authorised to the
appropriate approval level, or who have been specifically appointed in
accordance with an approved procedure, shall be permitted to act in or
exercise the duties of the roles specified hereunder.
(a) System Manager

2.3

The System Manager

2.3.1 The System Manager has overall responsibility for the safe operation of the
system of which he is Manager. The System Manager may assume the role
of System Controller where he deems it fitting to do so.
2.3.2 The System Manager shall be appointed. The responsibilities of the System
Controller and System Manager regarding the day-to-day and longer term
management and control of each system shall be set out.
2.3.3 The System Manager or his delegate shall appoint the operator.
2.3.4 The System Manager or his delegate shall not appoint or consent to the
appointment of two or more Operators for the same point(s) of
disconnection on the same disconnected apparatus.
2.3.5 The System Manager or his delegate shall ensure that the operator he
assigns is aware of the roles of individuals who have been assigned by the
PIW(s) to issue RFD(s).
2.3.6 The System Manager shall be responsible for approving, in advance, all
work that affects the operation of the system.
2.3.7 The System Manager shall ensure that changes that affect operation of the
system are updated on the network diagram.

(b) System Controller

(c) Operator (OP)
(d) Telemess Co-Ordinator (TCO)

2.4

(e) Work Organiser (WO)

2.4.1 The System Controller shall be approved.

(f) Person who Issues Work (PIW)

2.4.2 Each system shall, at any one time, be under the operational control of one
approved person who shall be nominated by or with the consent of the
appropriate System Manager. This person shall be the System Controller.

(g) Person in Charge of Work (PICW)

(h) Commissioning and Test personnel.
(i)

Cable Identifier (CI)

(j)

Chargeperson

2.2.2 Persons, who do not hold a specific approval, may carry out the actions
associated with that approval, so long as they are under the direct
supervision of a person who holds that specific approval and are in training
for the approval concerned.
2.2.3 Every approval shall have a date of expiry and be subject to review.
2.2.4 An up-to-date list of all approved persons and their approvals shall be readily
available to appropriate Supervisors, System Managers and System Controllers.

The System Controller

2.4.3 The System Controller shall be responsible for knowing the operational state
of the HV system, for which he acts as System Controller throughout his
period of duty. On taking over duty, he shall ascertain the operational state
of the system and shall be aware of any changes in the state of the relevant
system throughout his period of duty.
2.4.4 The LV System Controller shall be aware of the normal operational state of
the LV system.
2.4.5 Where an on-going telemess is in operation local or central arrangements
shall be approved to ensure that successive System Controllers are made
aware of its existence either directly or by agreed means.

2.2.5 Every person who holds an approval must have their current approval
in their possession.

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2.4.6 No operations shall be carried out on ESBs networks without the prior
consent or instruction of the System Controller of that system, except under
the following circumstances:
(a) To prevent danger to persons or property or apparatus.
(b) During widespread serious fault conditions where it is not possible to
establish communication with the System Controller and where the
Operator is satisfied that the switching is urgently required and that it
does not create danger. The System Controller shall be informed of the
switching at the earliest opportunity.

2.5

Change of System Controller

2.6.8 The completion of every switching programme on HV apparatus, or every

significant step as agreed, shall be reported to the System Controller, either
directly or by agreed means.
2.6.9 The Operator shall inform the System Manager or his delegate of any
additional, retired or changed apparatus to allow for updating of the network
diagram.
2.6.10 In the event of an operational incident occurring, the Operator must inform
the System Controller and the System Manager, as soon as practicable after
the event.

2.7

Change Of Operator

2.5.1 The change over of duties between System Controllers shall be effected in
an approved manner (e.g. through an approved duty roster) by, or with the
consent of, the System Manager responsible for the system, or his
nominated representative.

2.7.1

During the course of work on apparatus which involves operation of the

system, an Operator shall be replaced only by or with the consent of the
appropriate System Manager.

2.7.2

Where the change-over is in accordance with an approved duty roster this

shall signify such consent.

2.6

2.7.3

The new Operator shall take responsibility for telemesses transferred to him.
There is no requirement to change the Operators name on the associated
HO notices.

2.8

The Person Issuing Work (PIW)

The Operator

2.6.1 The person appointed and assigned to perform the switching activities
associated with the operation of a system shall be the Operator.
2.6.2 The Operator shall be approved.
2.6.3 The Operator shall be assigned by or with the consent of the System
Manager. The System Controller may appoint himself to act as Operator with
the agreement of the System Manager.
2.6.4 Where an Operator is assigned to carry out specific switching associated
with the preparation/restoration of the system relating to work, the
responsibility for doing so in accordance with these Safety Rules shall rest
with the Operator.
2.6.5 Before carrying out any HV switching, and close to the time of that event, the
Operator shall obtain the prior consent of the System Controller (either
directly from the System Controller or from another source approved by the
System Controller).

2.8.1 The PIW shall be appointed.

2.8.2 A person may not commence any work on any apparatus, other than routine
work covered by standing instruction, unless the work has been specifically
assigned to him by the Person Issuing Work (PIW).
2.8.3 Each work activity shall be issued by one person only. Once issued, only the
PIW, a person acting on his behalf or with his consent, may interfere with the
work or issue any instruction concerning it, except where it may be
necessary to stop work to prevent danger.
2.8.4 Where more than one PIW is involved in the same work programme, one of
them shall take overall charge by agreement.

2.6.6 Where more than one Operator is involved in the same switching
programme one of them shall be nominated by the System Manager to be
the Operator-in-Charge.
2.6.7 The Operator shall ensure that any switching which he carries out on HV
apparatus is planned and recorded in an approved manner. The recording
of fault switching shall be carried out as soon as practicable.

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2.8.5 The PIW is the person who assigns and/or changes:

(a) The PICW.
(b) The Telemess Co-ordinator where such a person is required to
co-ordinate telemessing for the Persons in Charge of Work.
(c) Work Organiser where such a person is required to arrange and control
work for the Persons in Charge of Work.
(d) The Cable Identifier.
(e) The Chargeperson.
2.8.6 The PIW shall ensure that the work plan is communicated to all persons he
assigns. This work plan shall specify the roles and responsibilities of all
involved in the work to be done and where necessary the sequence of the
tasks involved.
2.8.7 The PIW shall agree the switch-out arrangements with the System Manager,
as appropriate for the voltage level concerned.
2.8.8 The PIW shall inform the relevant Operator when a change of Telemess
Co-Ordinator, Cable Identifier or Person in Charge of Work takes place.
2.8.9 The PIW shall inform the relevant Persons in Charge of Work when a change
of Work Organiser takes place in accordance with approved procedure.

2.9

Change of PIW

2.9.1 When a PIW has to be replaced a new PIW shall be appointed and shall
assume the full responsibility of the outgoing PIW. All relevant PICWs,
TCOs, CIs and WOs shall be informed of the change.

2.10 The Person in Charge of Work (PICW)

2.10.1 The PICW shall be approved.
2.10.2 A Person in Charge of Work (PICW) shall be assigned in charge of each
section of work by the PIW.

2.10.6 In the event of an electrical incident occurring on site that may impact on the
safe operation of the system, the PICW shall inform the System Controller
and the PIW, as soon as practicable after the event.
2.10.7 The PICW shall issue a Request for Disconnection in respect of the
proposed dead work.
2.10.8 On receipt of the Proof of Disconnection the PICW shall carry out, or
directly supervise, all checks for absence of voltage and the application of
Local Earths.
2.10.9 Before allowing any of the persons in his charge to start work, he shall
instruct his crew in their duties and in the controls necessary to work safely.
He shall point out to them the extent of the apparatus on which they may
work, and he shall warn them of any nearby apparatus which they must
avoid, and ensure that adequate protection is provided. He shall satisfy
himself that each member of his staff has clearly understood the instructions
given to him. He shall pay particular attention to:
(a) The erection of such screens and barriers and signs as he considers
necessary.
(b) The briefing of any persons who may join his work unit during the
course of the work.
(c) Any change in conditions that occur during the course of the work and
he shall make the persons in his charge aware of the change and shall,
if necessary, alter his instructions accordingly.
2.10.10 When the work is completed the PICW shall ensure:
(a) All persons in his charge are clear of the apparatus and
(b) All persons in his charge are instructed to remain outside the Close
Proximity Zone.
2.10.11 The PICW shall then remove or directly supervise the removal of Local Earths
fitted by him or by persons under his control. He shall satisfy himself that the
apparatus on which work has been completed is in a fit state to be put back
into commission as far as he and the persons in his charge are concerned.

2.10.3 Only one PICW shall be assigned for each section of work.

2.11 Change of Person in Charge of Work

2.10.4 The PICW shall ensure that work assigned to him is carried out safely, in
accordance with these Rules.

2.11.1 When a PICW has to be replaced, a new PICW shall be appointed and shall
assume full responsibility before any further work is carried out.

2.10.5 The PICW shall ensure that an On-Site Risk Assessment is completed and
agreed by his crew. He shall ensure that persons engaged in this work, who
are under his charge, are conversant with the state of the apparatus, including
low voltage and stored energy devices, on which they are about to work.

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2.11.2 The off-going PICW shall transfer his responsibility for telemesses to the
person replacing him and shall ensure that his replacement is adequately
briefed on the following points before taking over control:
(a) The identification of the people under his control.
(b) The extent of the apparatus that is live in the location where work is
being carried out.
(c) Details and location of his Local Earths
(d) Details of any special hazards.
2.11.3 A PICW shall be replaced by or with the consent of the PIW. Change-over
in accordance with an approved duty roster is permissible.
2.11.4 Where the off-going PICW is unable to affect such transfer the PIW shall be
notified and he shall make suitable arrangements concerning the
continuation of the work.
2.11.5 Where a change of PICW takes place and where Telemess Co-Ordinator
involvement does not arise, the PIW shall inform the Operator. The Operator
shall note the change on the telemess Register, and the Operator shall change
the name on the respective HO notice(s) as soon as practicable.
2.11.6 Where a change of PICW takes place and where a Telemess Co-Ordinator
is involved in this person's telemessing, the PICW, or, if unavailable, the PIW
shall inform the Telemess Co-Ordinator. The Telemess Co-Ordinator shall
note the change on his Telemess Register.

2.12 The Telemess Co-ordinator (TCO)

2.12.1 The TCO shall be approved.
2.12.2 Where work is being carried out, by different work units, on different pieces
of apparatus or at different parts of the system, the disconnection of which
is made by the same switching operations, one or more persons may be
appointed to co-ordinate telemessing for the Persons in Charge of the Work.
This person shall be the Telemess Co-Ordinator (TCO).
2.12.3 The TCO shall be appointed by the PIW prior to the commencement of work.
2.12.4 The PIW shall not appoint or consent to the appointment of more than one
TCO for the same work location.
2.12.5 The TCO shall act as intermediary for the purposes of telemessing between
PICWs and the Operator or the Operator-in-Charge.

for Disconnection in respect of the entire apparatus, on which work is to be

performed by all of the PICWs whose telemessing he is co-ordinating, and
his own work.
2.12.7 On receipt of the Proof of Disconnection the TCO shall issue Proof (s) of
Disconnection, identical to the POD he has received, to each PICW whose
telemessing he is co-ordinating.
2.12.8 The TCO shall receive Proof of Readiness from each and every PICW to
whom he had issued Proofs of Disconnection. He shall then issue a
comprehensive Proof of Readiness to the Operator or Operator-in-Charge.

2.13 Change of Telemess Co-ordinator

2.13.1 When a TCO has to be replaced, a new TCO shall be appointed and shall
assume full responsibility for continuing the co-ordination of the telemess
procedure associated with the work in progress.
2.13.2 A TCO shall be replaced by or with the consent of the PIW.
2.13.3 The off-going TCO shall transfer his responsibility for telemesses to the
person replacing him.
2.13.4 If, for any reason, the off-going TCO is unable to affect such transfer the
PIW shall be notified and he shall make suitable arrangements concerning
the continuation of the activity.
2.13.5 Where a change of TCO takes place, the Operator shall be informed of the
change by the PIW and the Operator shall change the name on the
respective HO notice(s) as soon as practicable. The change of TCO shall
be noted by the Operator on his telemess register.
2.13.6 Where a change of TCO takes place, the relevant PICWs shall be informed
by the PIW and they shall note the change on their Proofs of Disconnection

2.14 The Work Organiser (WO)

2.14.1 The WO shall be approved.
2.14.2 The WO shall be appointed by the PIW.
2.14.3 A Work Organiser (WO) may be appointed for multi-crew switch-outs to
provide additional flexibility to PIWs to arrange and organise work during the
switch-out in the most effective and efficient manner.

2.12.6 The TCO shall receive a Request for Disconnection from each PICW whose
telemess he is co-ordinating and then shall issue a comprehensive Request

2.14.4 Where work involving a number of PICWs is being carried out on different
parts of the apparatus stated on the Request For Disconnection, the
disconnection of which is made by the same switching operations, a person
may be appointed to be a WO.

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2.14.5 When a WO has been appointed, the Request for Disconnection from each
PICW to the TCO identifies the extremities of the work location as specified
by the WO. This allows the WO flexibility to move work units to different
locations on the disconnected and earthed apparatus as dictated by the
requirements of the work without further telemessing.
2.14.6 If there are a number of PIWs involved in the task, one or more WO may be
assigned by agreement of all these PIWs.
2.14.7 The WO shall be responsible for the following:

(b) have disconnected the cable as Operator for himself as Cable Identifier
before identification procedures can commence or
(c) Follow live identification procedures.
2.16.6 The Cable Identifier shall place an approved identification tag on an
identified cable before:
(a) Issuing a Proof of Disconnection or
(b) Commencing work on the cable himself as PICW.

(a) Organisation and direction of work units under his control.

2.16.7 On completion of the work the PICW shall issue a POR to the Cable Identifier.

(b) Specifying to all his PICWs their work areas and limits.

2.16.8 The Cable Identifier shall carry out required testing on the cable and following
successful completion of the test shall issue a POR to the Operator.

(c) Ensuring that PICWs under his direction are in a position to correctly
identify their work locations.
(d) Re-briefing and instructing all his PICWs each time their working
arrangements/responsibilities alter during the switchout.
(e) Recording and administering the allocation of and changes in work
assignments in accordance with the approved procedure.
2.14.8 The WO may also be appointed as the TCO.

2.15 Change of Work Organiser

2.15.1 When a WO has to be replaced, a new WO shall be appointed and shall
assume full responsibility for continuing the previous WOs duties. This
includes acceptance of responsibility for the WOs Control Sheet.
2.15.2 A WO shall be replaced by or with the consent of PIW.
2.15.3 The PIW shall inform all PICWs involved of the name of the new WO.

2.17 Commissioning and/or Testing Personnel

2.17.1 The commissioner for an apparatus shall be assigned by the relevant System
Manager or his nominee.
2.17.2 Only persons who have been approved shall carry out commissioning tests.
2.17.3 Commissioning tests on apparatus that has been disconnected shall only be
undertaken by a person who holds a POD or is working under a person who
holds a POD.
2.17.4 When carrying out commissioning tests that require work on apparatus
which is held by a PICW the commissioner and/or test personnel shall
discuss and agree all his activities with the PICW.
2.17.5 The commissioner and /or test personnel shall be responsible for his own
safety, the safety of all persons who may be affected by his activities and for
the safety of the apparatus.
2.17.6 He shall certify in writing to the PICW and inform the System Manager that
the apparatus conforms to the required specifications and is in a fit state to
be connected to the system, in order that the POR may be prepared.

2.16 Cable Identifier

2.16.1 The Cable Identifier shall be approved.
2.16.2 The Cable Identifier shall be assigned by the relevant PIW.
2.16.3 Only persons who have been approved may carry out identification procedures.
2.16.4 Approved Identification procedures shall be employed.
2.16.5 The cable identifier shall:
(a) hold a Proof of Disconnection telemess (with permission to remove
earths for test purposes), or

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2.18 Specialist personnel

2.18.1 Specialist personnel who are required to work on apparatus forming part of
the system shall be assigned by a PIW. This person shall be called the
Chargeperson.
2.18.2 The Chargeperson shall be a person who is not approved to issue a telemess.
2.18.3 The Chargeperson shall be in charge of each section of work on, or within
the Close Proximity Zone to, electrical apparatus which has been live or
which can be made live.
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2.18.4 Where appointed, the Chargeperson shall countersign the Proof of

Disconnection held by a PICW.
2.18.5 The Chargeperson shall identify the location of the Local Earths and ensure
that his work location is adequately covered by these earths.
2.18.6 The PICW is not responsible for the actions of the Chargeperson.
2.18.7 The Chargeperson shall ensure that before work commences an on site risk
assessment is completed and agreed by his crew. The Chargeperson shall
ensure that before work commences, all persons engaged on this particular
section of work who are under his charge are conversant with the state of
the apparatus on which they are about to work. He shall also point out the
limits of safe working.

2.19.2 No person may start work, on or in the Close Proximity Zone of electrical
apparatus, until he has been given a positive instruction to commence by the
PICW. Work and the work location shall be confined to that contained in the
instructions and the RFD held by the PICW.
2.19.3 If he is in any doubt about what apparatus he is to work on, or what
precautions he is to observe, he must not start work. If work has started, he
must cease work. In such circumstances he must make his difficulties known
to the PICW who will then repeat and explain his instructions.
2.19.4 When work is completed and crew has been instructed to remain clear of
the apparatus and he must not thereafter approach Close Proximity Zone of
the apparatus.

2.18.8 He shall pay particular attention to:

(a) The briefing of any person who may join his work unit during the course
of the work.
(b) The rebriefing of all members of this work unit if the working conditions
are changed.
2.18.9 The Chargeperson shall be responsible for his own safety, the safety of all
persons in his charge, and for the safety of the apparatus, tools and
equipment. If he needs clarification on any point relating to the safety aspect
of the work, he shall not proceed with the work, but shall refer the matter to
a more senior authority.

2.20 Change of Members of the PICWs work unit

2.20.1 If, during the course of work on apparatus, a member of the work unit is
replaced or an additional member is assigned to the work unit, the PICW
shall ensure that each such new member is adequately briefed on the
following points before commencing work:(a) The location of the Local Earths.
(b) The extent of the apparatus that is live in the location in which they are
working.

2.18.10 The Chargeperson shall check that his instructions are carried out.

(c) The limits of the activity to which each new member of the work unit
shall confine himself and the precautions to be observed.

2.18.11 The Chargeperson shall be responsible for issuing a DOF where it is required.

(d) Details of any special hazards.

2.18.12 When the work is completed he shall ensure:

(a) all persons in his charge are clear of the apparatus and

2.21 Assignment of Roles

(b) all persons in his charge are instructed to remain outside the Close
Proximity Zone and

2.21.1 No person may act in a role for which he does not hold a current approval.

2.18.13 He shall certify in writing to the PICW that the apparatus for which he is
responsible is in a fit state to be put into operation.

2.19 Staff working under Person in Charge of Work or Specialist

Personnel
2.19.1 It is the duty of each individual engaged in work on electrical apparatus to
co-operate with the PICW, to observe all precautions indicated by him, and
to carry out all instructions precisely.

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2.21.2 No person shall act in the role of PICW, TCO, WO or CI unless assigned
to that task by the PIW.
2.21.3 No person shall act in the role of Operator or Operator-in-Charge, unless
assigned by or with the consent of the System Manager.
2.21.4 The PIW and System Manager shall ensure that roles are clearly assigned.
Where more than one role is assigned to one individual, this must always be
stated in instructions.
2.21.5 It is not permissible for an Operator or Operator-in-Charge to simultaneously
act as a TCO for the same disconnected apparatus.

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Section 3
COMMUNICATION BY TELEMESS

3.1

3.2

3.2.1 All telemesses shall be written on an approved form.

3.3

Telemess

3.1.1 When it is necessary, as specified in these Rules, for the persons directly
involved in the disconnection of an apparatus for work, or the connection
of an apparatus after work, to communicate with each other about such
disconnection or connection, the message must be written on a standard
form known as a Telemess. The Telemess must be precise as to:

Telemess Forms

Drafting of Telemess

3.3.1 The following instructions shall be observed when making out a telemess:
(a) The telemess shall be written out by the sender on a standard
approved form
(b) All corrections shall be initialled.
(c) The date and agreed time of transmission, to the minute, at the time of
transfer, shall be inserted.

(a) The apparatus involved.

(b) The status of earths.

(d) It shall be addressed to a particular person, by name and location - this

person shall be known as the receiver - and it shall be signed by the
sender and receiver. The roles of both the sender and the receiver
shall also be stated.

(c) The operation or operations to be performed and as to the order in

which they are to be performed, or
(d) The operation or operations that have been performed.

(e) Where the sequence of operations is a relevant factor, the telemess

shall state the operations to be performed in the sequence in which
they are to be performed.

3.1.2 Detailed instructions on making out a Telemess are to be found on the

cover of the Telemess pad, and both sender and receiver of the Telemess
are equally obliged to ensure that these instructions are carefully followed.

(f) The system voltage may be described only in numerals, e.g. 38kV.

3.1.3 The following kinds of message may be sent by telemess:

(g) Only approved abbreviations shall be used. (See Definitions.)

(a) Request for Disconnection (RFD)

(b) Proof of Disconnection (POD)
(c) Proof of Readiness (POR)
(d) Proof of Partial Readiness (POPR)
(e) Request for Application of Main Earths (RAME)
(f) Proof of Application of Main Earths (PAME)
(g) Request for Removal of Main Earths (RRME)
(h) Proof of Removal of Main Earths (PRME)
(i)

Request for Connection (RFC)

(j)

Proof of Connection (POC)

3.1.4 The requirements of the telemess procedure apply equally to both sender
and receiver.

3.4

Method of Transfer from Sender to Receiver

3.4.1 A telemess may be sent from the sender to the receiver by hand, through
a Messenger or by Telephone, Radio or Radio - Phone.
3.4.2 When issued by hand the sender shall hand a written telemess directly to
the receiver.
3.4.3 When a Messenger is used the sender shall transfer a written telemess to
receiver through a messenger. The messenger shall sign the telemess at
the time of transfer. The messenger shall hand the telemess to the Receiver
who shall sign the telemess.
3.4.4 The contents of a telemess may be communicated by means of any of the
recognised media which provide immediate two-way communications
(e.g., phone, radio, radio-phone):
(a) The telemess shall be written out on an approved form by the sender
and dictated to the receiver who shall write it down word for word.
(b) The date and time of transmitting, as recorded in the telemess, shall
be agreed to by the sender and the receiver.

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(c) The receiver shall insert the reference number of the sender's form
and shall sign his own form.

3.8.3 When issued by a PICW it shall:

(a) Outline the work to be performed and state the exact location of this
work or

(d) The sender shall insert on his form the reference number of the
receiver's form and shall sign his own form to indicate that the
telemess has been repeated to him correctly.
(e) The receiver shall repeat back the completed telemess as he has it written.

3.5

(b) Specify the work location as within the limits specified by the Work
Organiser (WO), where a WO has been appointed,
3.8.4 When issued by a TCO it shall:
(a) Incorporate the overall work locations as specified by the RFDs
received including his own work location.

Register of Proofs of Disconnection Telemesses

3.5.1 The issue of each POD shall be recorded on a telemess register. The POD
is cancelled on receipt of the corresponding POR or POPR, by entering
date of receipt and serial number of the POR or POPR.

3.8.5 When issued by an Operator it shall:

(a) Include a statement on the status of the apparatus:
(i)

3.6

Disconnected and HO applied or

(ii) not disconnected.

Permit to Work Telemess

(b) Request the apparatus be disconnected or disconnected at certain

stated points.

3.6.1 The Permit to Work is a Telemess and the requirements of drafting of

Telemesses apply.

(c) Specify whether or not Main Earths are required.

3.6.2 The Permit to Work Telemess can only be transferred from sender to
receiver by hand.

(d) Request confirmation.

3.6.3 When appropriate to the work and where there are not more than four
points of disconnection, the RFD, associated POD and POR/POPR, may
also be combined onto a single approved form known as a Permit to Work
telemess.

3.8.6 When it is necessary to have earths removed for test purposes, the RFD
shall request this permission and shall request that no other work shall be
undertaken and no other Proof(s) of Disconnection shall be issued for the
apparatus by the Operator.

3.7

Retention of Telemesses

3.9

3.7.1

All Telemesses, including Permit to Work Telemesses, and their copies

shall be retained for a period of 12 months.

3.9.1 A Proof of Disconnection (POD) is a declaration in writing stating that:

3.8

Request for Disconnection (RFD)

3.8.1 A Request for Disconnection (RFD) is a request in writing to have

specifically named apparatus disconnected.
3.8.2 When issued it shall:
(a) Identify the apparatus involved.
(b) Include a statement as to whether or not earthing is required. When
the apparatus includes an overhead line or a cable, it shall include a
request to have earths applied.

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Proof of Disconnection (POD)

(a) specifically named apparatus has been disconnected at certain stated

points and
(b) Hold Off notices have been affixed at these points.
(c) It shall include a statement as to whether or not this apparatus has
been earthed
(d) If earthing has been carried out, these earths shall be called Main
Earths. A Main Earth Notice shall be affixed to all Main Earths and the
POD shall state the exact location of the Main Earths with Main Earths
Notice.
(e) Where permission to remove Main Earths for test purposes has been
included in the RFD, the POD shall state that the Main Earths may be
removed and no other PODs have been or will be issued for this
apparatus by the operator.
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3.9.2 The issue of a POD means (even if not specifically stated therein) that:
(a) This apparatus shall not be connected to a source of supply, and
(b) Any Main Earths specified in it shall not be removed, except where
permission is given to remove earths for test purposes, until a Proof of
Readiness or Partial Readiness has been received.
3.9.3 In situations where the same POD is required by a number of people (who
had earlier issued RFDs), photocopies of the POD may be issued by hand,
provided that each copied POD has the name of the receiver and their
signature. The POD shall be uniquely identified by adding the suffix A, B,
etc. to the photocopied PODs number.
3.9.4 A person who issues a POD shall keep a record in the telemess register
in the Telemess Pad or in an approved register indicating to whom the
POD and its copies were issued.
3.9.5 For every POD issued by an Operator, a corresponding Hold Off notice(s)
shall be put in place.
3.9.6 The Operator who is also to work as a PICW on the disconnected
apparatus shall place a completed Hold Off notice(s) in his own name for
his own work.
3.9.7 In accepting a POD the person so doing shall satisfy himself that the
disconnected apparatus totally includes that described in his RFD.

3.10.2 When apparatus, in respect of which a POD was issued, has been altered
either by the installation of extra or new apparatus (which can be
disconnected or which can be used to disconnect other apparatus) or the
removal of existing apparatus, the POR shall identify the alteration.

3.11 Proof of Partial Readiness (POPR)

3.11.1 A Proof of Partial Readiness (POPR) is a report in writing for a particular
part of the system which clears the apparatus in that part to:
(a) Allow an Operator to change the stated points of disconnection or to
change the location of the Main Earth(s).
(b) Be made available for operation subject to removal of any remaining
Local Earths or any other impediments which need to be cleared.
(c) Accommodate additional work.
(d) To allow a new apparatus, when not complete, to become part of the
system.
3.11.2 The person making the report shall:
(a) State that all persons who were working on the apparatus are clear of
the apparatus.
(b) State the exact location of all Local Earths still remaining:
(i)

3.10 Proof of Readiness (POR)

3.10.1 A Proof of Readiness (POR) is a report in writing stating that a specifically
stated apparatus, for which the person making the report is responsible, is
ready for operation as far as the sender is concerned. It shall state that:
(a) All persons who were working on the apparatus are clear of the apparatus.
(b) All Local Earths put on by, or under the direct supervision of the PICW,
have been removed, or
(c) All Local Earths put on by or under the direct supervision of the
PICWs, whose telemessing is being co-ordinated by the TCO, have
been removed, or
(d) All POD(s) issued by the sender have been cancelled by receipt of a
corresponding POR(s).

put on by or under the supervision of the sender,

(ii) put on by or under the supervision of the PICW, whose

telemessing is being co-ordinated by the sender,
(iii) put on by or under the supervision of the PICW(s) consequent to
POD(s) that was issued by the sender.
(c) Identify the apparatus, if any, which is not in a fit state to be put into
operation and, where relevant, the apparatus which is in a fit state to
be put into operation.
3.11.3 Before recommencing work on the apparatus a new RFD must be
completed and the PICW must have a new POD.
3.11.4 The Operator who receives the POPR shall ensure that any item of plant
identified in the POPR which is not fit for operation remains disconnected
in the process of changing the existing point(s) of disconnection to the
alternative point(s) of disconnection.

(e) All tools, materials and other obstructions under the control of the
sender are clear.
(f) The apparatus, referred to in the proof of readiness, is in a fit state to
be put into operation.
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- 23 -

3.12 Request for Application of a Main Earth (RAME)

3.12.1 A Request for Application of a Main Earth (RAME) is a request in writing
to have a Main Earth applied to specifically named apparatus at a certain
stated point(s).
3.12.2 It shall include a statement that the apparatus has been disconnected at all
points, from which it can be made live and Hold Off notices have been applied.
3.12.3 It shall specify the location of any Main Earths fitted.

3.13

Proof of Application of a Main Earth (PAME)

3.13.1 The Proof of Application of Main Earth (PAME) is a report in writing stating
that specifically named apparatus has been earthed at a certain stated
point(s) and that a Main Earth notice(s) has been affixed.

3.16.2 It shall be preceded by a POR which shall state:

(a) That all persons who were working on the apparatus are clear of the
apparatus,
(b) That all earths, other than those, if any, at the location of the receiver
have been removed and,
(c) That the apparatus is in a fit state to be put into operation.
3.16.3 The RFC and the preceding POR shall be combined on the one form and
issued as one entity. In situations where the apparatus has already been
connected to the system this shall be stated.

3.17 Proof of Connection (POC)

3.17.1 A Proof of Connection (POC) is a report in writing stating that specifically
named apparatus has been connected to the system.

3.14 Request for Removal of a Main Earth (RRME)

3.14.1 The Request for Removal of a Main Earth (RRME) is a request in writing to
have a Main Earth removed from specifically named apparatus. It shall:
(a) Include a statement that all persons are clear of and that all Local
Earths have been removed from the apparatus.
(b) Identify the location of other Main Earths, if any, which remain.
(c) State that HO notices are not to be removed from point(s) of disconnection
and that the apparatus is not to be connected to the system.

3.15 Proof of Removal of a Main Earth (PRME)

3.15.1 The Proof of Removal of a Main Earth (PRME) is a report in writing stating
that a Main Earth (and associated Main Earth notice) has been removed
from specifically named apparatus at a certain stated point(s). It shall state
HO notice(s) have not been removed from point(s) of disconnection and
that the apparatus is not connected to the system.

3.16 Request for Connection (RFC)

3.16.1 The Request for Connection (RFC) is a request in writing to have
specifically named apparatus connected to the system. It shall request the
removal of any remaining Main Earths, if any, at the location of the receiver
and request that HO notice(s) be removed from point(s) of disconnection.

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- 25 -

Section 4
REQUIREMENTS TO ALLOW WORK ON APPARATUS

4.3.4 A person to whom a key to locking facilities has been issued, shall not give
this key to any person other than another person to whom the particular key
has also been issued.

4.1

4.4

Systems and Boundaries.

4.1.1 Every HV and LV apparatus forms part of a system which shall be defined
by the System Manager responsible for that system.
4.1.2 Each system so defined may, with permission from the relevant System
Manager, be further divided by the System Manager. Each sub-division
must itself have a System Controller, as detailed in Section 2.
4.1.3 The following shall be clearly identified.
(a) All cubicles in a station.

Recording of all switching

4.4.1 All planned and operational switching which is to be carried out to

disconnect, reconnect, or connect for the first time, HV and LV apparatus,
shall be written in advance.
4.4.2 All fault switching shall be recorded.
4.4.3 The completion of every switching programme on HV and LV apparatus or
every significant step as agreed shall be reported to the System Controller,
either directly or by agreed means.

(b) All circuits emanating from a station.

(c) End poles, end masts and outside cable terminations.
4.1.4 Every control panel containing small wiring in a transformer or switching
station shall display a notice stating the highest voltage of the small wiring
in the panel.

4.5

Issue of Request for Disconnection

4.5.1 The PICW shall issue a RFD which shall:

(a) Identify the apparatus on which it is intended to work.
(b) Request the apparatus be disconnected.
(c) Specify whether earthing is or is not required.

4.2

Activities on live equipment undertaken from outside the

Close Proximity Zone including Operations activities but
excluding live work undertaken on live apparatus

4.2.1 Any work activities on live apparatus shall only be carried out by trained
personnel who are approved. All such activities shall be approved by the
Manager responsible for these Rules.
4.2.2 The only operations and activities which may be performed on live
apparatus forming part of the ESBs systems when working
unaccompanied are those which have been approved by the Manager
responsible for these rules. Procedures must indicate whether the task can
be carried out accompanied or unaccompanied.

(d) Specify the work to be performed.

(e) State the exact location of this work {Exception. See Work Organiser 2.14}
4.5.2 Where a TCO has been appointed the TCO, shall issue a RFD which shall:
(a) Identify the apparatus on which it is intended to work.
(b) Request the apparatus be disconnected.
(c) Specify whether earthing is or is not required.
(d) State the overall work locations as specified by the RFDs received
including his own work location.
4.5.3 The CI shall issue a RFD which shall:
(a) Identify the apparatus on which it is intended to work.

4.3

Locks

(b) Request the apparatus be disconnected.

4.3.1 Lock-off facilities shall be used where provided.

4.3.2 Where locks are fitted to secure apparatus, e.g., at switching points, the
locks shall be of an approved type.
4.3.3 Keys may be issued to approved persons whose duties require the use of
such keys. The issue of keys shall be recorded in an approved manner.
- 26 -

(c) State that earthing is required.

(d) State that permission is required to remove earths for test purposes.
(e) Specify the work to be performed.

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4.5.4 In situations where more than one Operator is involved in the same
switching, the Operator-in-Charge shall issue a RFD to the other
Operator(s), which shall:

4.7

Application of Local Earth

4.7.1

On receipt of a POD the PICW shall personally carry out or directly

supervise all tests for the absence of voltage and the application of Local
Earthing where applicable.

4.8

Declaring off, Removal of Local Earths, and Issue of Proof

of Readiness

(a) Identify the apparatus that is required to be disconnected.

(b) State the status of the apparatus i.e. Disconnected and HO applied or
not disconnected.
(c) Request the apparatus be disconnected.
(d) Specify whether or not Main Earths are required.

4.6

4.8.1 When the work is completed the PICW shall issue a Proof of Readiness when:

(e) Request confirmation.

(a) All persons in his charge are clear of the apparatus and

Issue of Proof of Disconnection

(b) All persons in his charge are instructed to remain outside the Close
Proximity Zone,

4.6.1 When issued by an Operator or Operator-in-Charge and when the RFD

has been complied with, he shall issue a Proof(s) of Disconnection stating:

(c) He has personally removed or directly supervised the removal of all

Local Earths put on by him, or under his supervision.

(a) That specifically named apparatus has been disconnected at certain

stated points and,

(d) He has received a Declaration of Fitness, where such is required, for

the apparatus about to be connected.

(b) That Hold Off notices have been affixed at these points and,

(e) Adequate precautions have been taken to prevent accidental contact

with any part of the apparatus which is about to be made live and that
all persons under his charge are aware of the situation on site before
issuing a POR.

(c) The exact location of the Main Earths where fitted and,
(d) That Main Earth Notice are applied to Main Earths fitted and,
(e) Where permission to remove Main Earths for test purposes has been
included in the RFD, the POD shall state that the Main Earths may be
removed and no other PODs have been or will be issued for this
apparatus by the operator.
4.6.2 When issued by a TCO who is in receipt of a POD from an Operator or
Operator-in-Charge, the TCO shall issue to each PICW, whose
telemessing he is co-ordinating, Proof(s) of Disconnection identical to the
POD he has received.

4.8.2 Where a TCO has been appointed he shall:

(a) Receive Proofs of Readiness from each and every PICW to whom he
had issued Proofs of Disconnection.
(b) Issue a comprehensive Proof of Readiness.
4.8.3 Where a CI has been appointed he shall:
(a) Receive Proofs of Readiness from each and every PICW to whom he
had issued Proofs of Disconnection.

4.6.3 When a CI, who has received a RFD, issues a Proof(s) of Disconnection
it shall:
(a) Specify that the named apparatus has been disconnected at certain
stated points and
(b) State that Hold Off notices have been affixed at these points.
(c) State the exact location of the Main Earths.
(d) State that Main Earth Notices are applied to Main Earths fitted.
(e) State that the cable has been identified and an Identification Tag fitted
when required.

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(b) Issue a comprehensive Proof of Readiness confirming tests have been

carried out.

4.9

Connection

4.9.1 Prior to the connection of an apparatus to a system, the Operator who is

to perform the switching shall be in possession of the appropriate PORs.
A Declaration of Fitness may be required even though a POR is issued.
4.9.2 In situations where only part of an apparatus is to be connected to a
system, the Operator shall be in possession of the appropriate Proof(s) of
Partial Readiness and where necessary, a Declaration of Fitness.
- 29 -

4.9.3 On receipt of the POR(s), the Operator or the Operator-in-Charge shall

remove personally, by direct supervision or through the telemess
procedure:
(a) All Main Earth(s) and Main Earth notice(s) and
(b) All HO notice(s).
4.9.4 The HO notices shall only be removed when all earths and relevant Main
Earth notices are removed from the apparatus about to be connected.

(a) The System Manager shall be informed (either directly or by agreed

means) and permission obtained to carry out the additional work.
(b) The Person(s) who is/are holding the original Proof(s) of Disconnection
shall:
(i)

Stop working on the apparatus and declare all persons off.

(ii) Return the apparatus to the Operator-in-Charge or Operator via

the Proof of Partial Readiness telemess procedure.

4.10 Additional Work

4.10.1 If additional work is to be carried out on disconnected apparatus which is
outside the location specified by a PICW on a RFD, then the following shall
apply:
(a) The System Manager shall be informed (either directly or by agreed
means) and permission obtained to carry out the additional work.
(b) The Person in Charge of the additional Work shall be in possession of
a POD which will allow this work to be carried out.
(c) This POD shall be obtained from the Operator-in-Charge or from an
Operator or a TCO who already holds an appropriate POD, provided
that the PODs already issued permit the accommodation of this work.
4.10.2 If additional work is to be carried out on disconnected apparatus which is
within the location specified by another PICW on a RFD, then the following
shall apply:
(a) The System Manager shall be informed (either directly or by agreed
means) and permission obtained to carry out the additional work.
(b) The Person(s) who is/are holding the original Proof(s) of
Disconnection shall:
(i)

4.10.3 If additional work is to be carried out which requires the moving of a point
of disconnection or moving Main Earths, then the following shall apply:

(c) New RFDs shall be issued to the Operator / TCO.

(d) PODs shall be issued to each TCO / PICW.

4.11 When to Treat New Apparatus as Part of the System

4.11.1 When new apparatus has reached the stage where the apparatus, or part
of it, is capable of being connected readily, and in an approved manner, to
the system, the PIW shall ensure that the System Manager is informed that
the installation of the new apparatus is approaching this particular stage.
4.11.2 The PICW shall issue a Proof of Readiness or Proof of Partial Readiness
to the Operator.
4.11.3 The operator shall be in possession of the POR/POPRs before connecting
the apparatus.
4.11.4 The System Manager shall ensure that from this stage the apparatus shall
be treated as if it were part of the system.
4.11.5 After connecting the apparatus to the system, the Operator shall ensure
that the System Controller is notified.

Stop working on the apparatus and declare all persons off.

(ii) Return the apparatus to the Operator-in-Charge or Operator via

the Proof of Partial Readiness telemess procedure.
(c) New RFDs shall be issued to the Operator / TCO.
(d) PODs shall be issued to each TCO / PICW.

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- 31 -

4.12 When to Treat Apparatus as not Part of the System

4.14 The On-going Telemess

4.12.1 An apparatus shall be considered not part of the system when any one of
the following applies:

4.14.1 In all cases of change-over of duties the person going off duty shall ensure
that all telemesses in his possession which are still outstanding are transferred
in an approved manner to the person coming on duty. For example, the
following telemesses shall be transferred in an approved manner:

(a) When it is physically and completely removed.

(b) When it is not possible by any approved procedure to connect it to the
system.
(c) When no part of the apparatus shares a live pole or other live
apparatus.
(d) When no part of the apparatus, which is being considered, breaches
the Close Proximity Zone of any apparatus connected to the system.

(a) Any RFDs and/or any PODs which have been received by the person
going off duty and which have not been acted upon by the named
Receiver.
(b) Any PODs which have been issued by the person going off duty and
which have not been counteracted by the receipt of follow-on PORs.
The receiver of the on going POD shall log the details of the POD into
his Telemess register.

4.13 Removal of Main Earths for Test Purposes

(c) Any RFDs which has been issued by the person going off duty (inter
Operator).

4.13.1 Some testing procedures require that the apparatus not be earthed at
certain stages during the period of testing. In these cases any Main Earths
which have been applied may be removed.

(d) Any PODs which have been received by the person going off duty and
which have not been counteracted by a follow-on PORs from the
named Receiver.

4.13.2 Only approved persons shall carry out tests on unearthed apparatus.
4.13.3 The person carrying out the tests shall have confirmation by telemess that
only one POD is issued by the Operator for the apparatus under test and
no other work is in progress on that part of the system under test during
the period of testing.
4.13.4 The person removing any Main Earth for test purposes shall be in
possession of a POD giving permission to remove Main Earths for test
purposes or a Request for the Removal of Main Earths (RAME) for test
purposes.
4.13.5 The person carrying out the tests shall ensure that the Main Earths have
been re-applied at the end of the tests. If work needs to proceed Local
Earths where applicable must be re-applied.

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4.14.2 When there is a change of Operator, there is no requirement to change the

HO notice(s).

4.15 Any Other Control Procedures

4.15.1 Should it not be possible or practicable to follow the control procedures
laid down in these Electrical Safety Rules, then other control procedures,
which are equally safe, shall be followed, provided that:
(a) A written risk assessment has been carried out and a safe working
procedure drawn up which details each stage of the work and the
control procedures to be applied at each stage and,
(b) The safe working procedure has been approved in writing by the
Manager responsible for interpreting these Rules.

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SECTION 5
DISCONNECTING, EARTHING and RECONNECTION.

5.1

Disconnected

5.1.1 The term disconnected shall only be used when disconnecting an apparatus
for dead work. Any apparatus forming part of or capable of forming part of
a system, and which it is intended to make dead for work, shall be
disconnected at every point from which it can be made live. Each and every
such point shall be treated as a separate point of disconnection.
5.1.2 No point shall be called a point of disconnection until a properly completed
HO notice is applied to the point of disconnection.
5.1.3 No point of disconnection shall be established until the operator is in
possession of an appropriate RFD or the operator is disconnecting for
himself as PICW.

5.2

Identifying the apparatus to be disconnected.

5.2.1 The person issuing the RFD shall positively identify the apparatus to be
disconnected on an approved telemess form. He shall also ensure that his
work area is totally included in the apparatus to be disconnected. Any of
the following aids should be used towards this identification:

5.3.3 Automatic Features: Where disconnection to allow work on apparatus is

made by means of a device which is fitted with an automatic control feature
(e.g. automatic timing device), the feature shall be rendered inoperative.
This includes the switch wire on automatic control.
5.3.4 Remote Control: Where disconnection to allow work is made by means of
a device which is subject to remote control, each and every such remote
control point shall be disabled and HO notice applied and treated as a
separate point of disconnection.
5.3.5 Disconnection using HV Isolators: Where the fuses or solid links are
detachable they shall be removed from their support equipment by the
Operator and their custody shall be controlled.

5.4

5.4.1 In the case of a transformer with a common or shared neutral, except LV PME
systems, disconnection of the transformer must include disconnection of the
neutral. In all other cases the neutral shall be directly connected to earth.

5.5

(a) Check the distinguishing name, number, make, mark, or description of

the apparatus. Care shall be taken to ensure that the limits of the
Close Proximity Zone to live apparatus are observed.
(b) Associate the apparatus with the points of disconnection, either
physically or through the use of approved maps, network, line or mimic
diagrams.

(b) Associate the apparatus with the proposed points of disconnection,

either physically or through the use of approved maps, sketches, line
or mimic diagrams.

(c) The disconnection at each point must provide a visible break in the supply
circuit. Where a visible break is not provided the device through which
the disconnection is effected shall be of an approved type.

How to Disconnect

5.3.1 Disconnection of the apparatus at each point shall be carried out by means
of the approved equipment installed for this purpose.

Verifying the Point of Disconnection

5.5.1 The point(s) of disconnection shall be verified by one or a combination of

the following methods:-

(a) Check the distinguishing name, number, make, mark, or description of

the apparatus. Care shall be taken to ensure that the limits of the
Close Proximity Zone to live apparatus are observed.

5.3

Disconnection of a transformer Neutral

5.6

Hold Off Notices

5.3.2 Disconnection may be made at a point where such equipment is not

installed, e.g. through the breaking of jumpers, provided the work involved
in making the disconnection at that point is treated as a separate job
independent of the work for which the disconnection is required, and
provided approved practices are observed and approved clearances are
obtained with the break.

5.6.1 When an apparatus has been disconnected at a point for the purposes of
work, security against reconnection shall be provided.

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- 35 -

5.6.2 Security against re-connection is primarily effected by the placing of HO

notices. The disconnection is not completed until all properly completed
HO notices are in position.

5.6.3 A HO notice shall only be used at a point of disconnection and at a remote

switch controlling a point of disconnection. A notice such as a "Not to be
Operated" notice should be used in all other instances where there is need
to prevent the operation of any apparatus.

5.8

Discharging and earthing of Apparatus

5.8.1 Prior to earthing, where practicable, at every point of application of Main

and Local Earths the absence of voltage shall be verified with a voltage
detector approved for the voltage concerned.

5.6.4 The affixing in an approved manner and subsequent removal of each HO

notice shall be carried out by or under the direct supervision of the
Operator carrying out the switching.

5.8.2 Discharging of all apparatus is considered to be effected through the

positive application of earths.

5.6.5 The HO notice shall be completed with the name of the Operator and the
name of the person from whom a Proof of Readiness/Partial Readiness is
required.

5.8.3 Earths fitted by, or under the direct supervision of the Operator, in
response to an RFD with earths required, are known as Main Earths. Each
such earth shall have a Main Earth notice attached, with the name of the
Operator thereon. This applies to portable and fixed earths.

5.6.6 A separate HO notice shall be affixed by, or under the direct supervision of
the Operator who carried out the disconnection, at each and every point of
disconnection for each and every POD issued in respect of that point.
5.6.7 When switching for himself, the Operator shall apply a HO notice at each
point of disconnection and enter his name as Operator and as the person
from whom a Proof of Readiness/Partial Readiness is required. This
applies at all voltages.
5.6.8 A HO notice shall be affixed in such a manner that it cannot be displaced,
and that there cannot be any doubt about the point to which it refers.
5.6.9 A HO notice shall only be removed by an Operator who has received Proof
of Readiness/Partial Readiness or a Request for Connection. On removal
each notice shall be destroyed to prevent unauthorised use.
5.6.10 Where any of the points from which the apparatus can be made live is a
normally open point, the NO notice shall be covered by, or shall be
removed and replaced by, a HO notice.
5.6.11 When a person is working at a metering location, with a cutout continuously
in view, the requirement to apply a HO notice may be dispensed with.

5.7

Where to place a HO notice

5.7.1

HO notices shall be placed by, or under the direct supervision of the

Operator who carried out the disconnection on each of the following,
where applicable:(a) All point(s) of disconnection from which the apparatus can be made live.
(b) The local actuating switch or button of the point of disconnection.
(c) The remote control switch of the point of disconnection.
(d) The devices that prevents remote operation of the point of disconnection.

- 36 -

5.8.4 Earths fitted by or under the direct supervision of the PICW, are known as
Local Earths. Each such earth shall have a Local Earth notice attached with
the name of the PICWs thereon.
5.8.5 Where a permanently installed earthing switch is provided, it shall be
closed once. A manually operated earthing switch shall be closed with a
positive action and not immediately reopened.
5.8.6 Operation of a permanently installed earthing switch shall be checked
visually, where the facility is provided, to ensure that the earthing switch is
closed. Where the apparatus does not afford the facilities for observation
of the application of the earth then such apparatus shall be of an approved
type.
5.8.7 All automatic features on the earthing switch(es) shall be rendered
inoperative and a Main or Local Earth notice shall be affixed at each switch
and at master Remote Control Switch or at every remote control point.

5.9

Main Earths

5.9.1 Main Earths are required on all overhead lines and on all cables. Main
Earths are required for other apparatus when requested on a RFD.

5.10 Applying Main Earths to 400kV, 275kV, 220kV, 110kV and

38kV overhead lines
5.10.1 A 400kV, 275kV, 220kV, 110kV or 38kV overhead line which has been
disconnected, and on which it is intended to work, shall have Main Earths
fitted on all phases of the disconnected line at every point from which the
line can be made live. Such earths shall be fitted by or under the direct
supervision of the Operator responsible for carrying out the switching.

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5.10.2 Where Faulted Phase Earthing (FPE) exists in a substation, a 110kV or

38kV overhead line which has been disconnected in that substation, and
on which it is intended to work, may have the Main Earths applied on all
phases of the disconnected line at a point outside of the substation. These
Main Earths shall be fitted by or under the direct supervision of the
Operator responsible for carrying out the switching.

5.15 Local Earths

5.11 Applying Main Earths to 10kV and 20kV Overhead Lines

5.15.3 Where work is to be carried out on any cable which is used for either
electricity or telecommunication purposes, and which, in the opinion of a
competent person, could be subjected to induced voltages from adjacent
circuits, approved precautions shall be taken to prevent danger from any
induced voltage.

5.11.1 A 10kV or 20kV overhead line which has been disconnected and on which
it is intended to work, shall have Main Earths applied on all phases of the
disconnected line conveniently adjacent to the work position, subject to the
requirement that there shall be a Main Earth between every point of
disconnection and the work position.

5.15.1 Local Earths and Local Earth notice shall be fitted, when required, by or
under the direct supervision of the PICW.
5.15.2 A cable connected to an overhead line shall have Local Earths fitted as
near as practicable to the line/cable junction when Main Earths are not
fitted to the cable terminations.

5.15.4 Where work is to be carried out on a cable, the metal sheath or screen of
which is insulated from earth at the point of work, approved precautions
shall be taken to prevent danger from any sheath voltage.

5.12 Applying Main Earths to LV Overhead Lines

5.12.1 A LV overhead line which has been disconnected, and on which it is
intended to work, shall have Main Earths applied. These Main Earths shall
be fitted by or under the direct supervision of the Operator.

5.13 Applying Main Earths to HV Cables

5.13.1 A cable which has been disconnected for work shall be discharged and
have main earths applied.
5.13.2 Where a cable terminates on a cable end box and main earths cannot
conveniently applied at that point, it shall be earthed in an approved
manner, between the point of disconnection and the work location and as
close as possible to the work location.

5.14 Main Earthing of LV cables

5.16 Applying Local Earths to 400kV, 275kV, 220kV, 110kV and

38kV Overhead lines
5.16.1 Any overhead lines on which it is intended to work shall have Local Earths
fitted on all phases or by following approved local earthing procedures for
the relevant voltage. These earths shall be within sight of the persons at
work. Additional earths may be required in certain circumstances, and shall
be applied and removed.

5.17 Applying local Earths to one circuit of a HV Double Circuit,

with the other Circuit Live
5.17.1 Where work is permitted on one circuit of a double circuit OH line while
the other circuit is live, the PICW, on receipt of the POD, shall identify at
the point of work, or witness the identification of the circuit that has been
disconnected and earthed according to the POD.

5.14.1 An LV cable which it is intended to make dead for work shall be

disconnected at every point from which it can be made live. Main earths
shall be fitted between the point(s) of disconnection and the cable. If a
cable cannot be directly earthed, then the phase cores shall be connected
to the neutral core. In the exceptional cases where it is not practicable to
earth the cable approved precautions shall be taken.

5.17.2 The PICW shall complete, or directly supervise the completion of, the
marking of the tower on which work is to be carried out. .

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- 39 -

5.17.3 The PICW shall apply or directly supervise the application of the Local Earths
to the conductors forming the circuit that is disconnected on the tower.
5.17.4 This shall be repeated for every tower on which work is to be carried out.

5.18 Applying Local Earths to 10kV or 20kV Overhead Lines

5.21 Identification of Cables

5.18.1 Local Earths shall be fitted closer to the work position than the nearest
Main Earth. These shall be fitted such that they are visible to the PICW and
to any others under his charge.

5.21.1 Prior to work a cable shall be identified and Identification Tag applied.

5.18.2 Where an Operators Main Earths, are close to this Operators work
position, when he is now acting as PICW, and are visible at all times to him
and to any others under his charge, then these Main Earths may also act
as Local Earths.

5.21.2 The cable shall be identified by a Cable Identifier in an approved manner

at the point of work.
5.21.3 The identification shall be confirmed after attaching the Identification Tag.
5.21.4 The cable so identified shall be pointed out to the PICW by the Cable
Identifier.

5.19 Applying Local Earths to LV overhead networks

5.22 Spiking of Cables

5.19.1 When the Main Earths are visible at all times to the person or persons at
work, these earths may be deemed, by the PICW, to act also as the Local
Earth. Even when acting as a Local Earth it shall continue to be treated as
a Main Earth.

5.22.1 A cable, which has been disconnected and earthed, on which it is intended
to work shall, when required, be spiked at the point of work.

5.19.2 If the Main Earth is not visible at all times to the person or persons at work,
a Local Earth shall be fitted on all conductors by, or under the supervision
of, the PICW. This earth shall be fitted in such a manner that it is visible at
all times to the person or persons at work.
5.19.3 If the LV overhead network cannot be earthed, Live Working procedures
shall be applied.

5.22.2 Approved checks shall be made in conjunction with the spiking procedure
to ensure that the correct cable has been spiked.
5.22.3 If the cable has become open circuited due to a fault, and if it has to be
spiked on both sides of the open circuit, it shall be earthed at the point(s)
of disconnection on each side of the open circuit before being spiked.
5.22.4 In certain approved conditions spiking may not be required.

5.23 Where to earth Power Transformers

5.20 Applying Local Earthing to a broken line or line about to be
Broken
5.20.1 A 400kV, 275kV, 220kV, 110kV or 38kV line which it is proposed to break
shall be earthed locally on each side of the intended break point, and these
Local Earths shall be bonded together prior to the line being broken.
5.20.2 A 400kV, 275kV, 220kV, 110kV or 38kV overhead line that is broken shall
be earthed locally on each side of the break point. Before the ends of the
broken conductor are reconnected, the Local Earths on each side of the
break point shall be bonded together.
5.20.3 A 10kV, 20kV or LV OH line which it is proposed to break shall be earthed
locally on each side of the intended break point.
5.20.4 A 10kV, 20kV or LV OH line that is broken shall be earthed locally on each
side of the break point before the conductors are reconnected.

5.23.1 The primary and secondary terminals of a transformer shall be earthed at

the transformer. This may not be possible in certain cases and if so
approved procedures shall be followed.
5.23.2 Where the transformer has a third (or tertiary) winding which has its
terminals brought out, this winding or the connecting leads to the terminals
of this winding shall be earthed on all phases. If the third or tertiary terminals
are not brought out they shall not constitute points through which supply can
be restored and they may be disregarded for earthing purposes.
5.23.3 Where the neutral (or neutrals) is brought out and is directly earthed
independently of the system it shall remain so earthed.
5.23.4 Where the neutral (or neutrals) is brought out to a disconnect through
which it can be directly earthed, independently of the system, the
disconnect shall be closed to ensure that the neutral is directly and
independently earthed, e.g., the disconnect on the 110kV neutral of some
110kV/38kV transformers. The remote control feature shall be disabled
and the appropriate earth notice (Main or Local) affixed.
5.23.5 If the neutral is brought out to a disconnect through which it can be

- 40 -

- 41 -

connected to the system the disconnect shall be opened to ensure that the
neutral is not connected to the system and the neutral shall be directly and
independently connected to earth. The station earth grid may be used as
the earth electrode.

5.24 Earthing Instrument Transformers.

5.24.1 VT's and CT's and combined VT/CT's that have been disconnected and
on which it is intended to work shall be earthed on all phases on the
primary side only.

5.27 Reconnection of Apparatus after work

5.27.1 Prior to reconnection the PICW shall:
(a) Ensure all persons in his charge are clear of the apparatus and
(b) Ensure all persons in his charge are instructed to remain outside the
Close Proximity Zone.
(c) Remove or directly supervise the removal of Local Earths.
(d) Issue POR or POPR.
5.27.2 Prior to reconnection the TCO shall:
(a) Receive POR or POPR from all relevant PICW.

5.25 Earthing of Switches and Disconnects.

5.25.1 Switches or disconnects that have been disconnected and on which it is
intended to work shall be earthed on all connecting leads to their terminals.
5.25.2 Where it is not practicable to apply earths to specific switches or
disconnects prior to the commencement of work, approved procedures
shall be followed.
5.25.3 Where it is not practicable to retain the earths in order to carry out
maintenance on elements of specific switchgear, it is permissible to remove
these earths on condition that the person involved shall ensure, through the
telemess procedure in situations where conditions are not similar to those
outlined in Rule 4.13, that no other work is in progress on that part of the
system during the period of removal of earths. These earths shall be reapplied at the earliest opportunity.

(b) Where applicable ensure all persons in his charge are clear of the
apparatus and
(c) Where applicable ensure all persons in his charge are instructed to
remain outside the Close Proximity Zone.
(d) Remove or directly superwise
(e) Issue a POR or POPR. the removal of Local Earth if applicable.
5.27.3 Prior to reconnection the Cable Identifier shall:
(a) Receive POR from PICW.
(b) Test cable.
(c) Issue POR or POPR.
5.27.4 To Reconnect the Operator shall:
(a) Receive all relevant PORs and note them on the telemess register.

5.26 Earthing of Busbars

5.26.1 Each section of busbar on which it is intended to work shall be earthed in
the following manner:
(a) Where a permanent earth switch is installed the busbar shall be
earthed at this point.

(b) Remove or directly supervise the removal of all Main Earths.

(c) Remove HO notices. The first HO can only be removed when all Main
Earths are removed.

(b) Where above switch is not operational or not installed the busbar shall
be earthed as close as practicable to the point of work.
(c) Where an earthed busbar conductor is about to be broken or opened,
earths shall be applied on each side of the break.
(d) Where it is not practicable to apply earths to the busbars of specific
switchgear approved procedures shall be followed.

- 42 -

- 43 -

SECTION 6
ACTIVITIES ON LIVE APPARATUS

6.1.11 Live work shall be carried out on only one phase at a time.
6.1.12 When rubber gloves are required for live work, they shall be put on before
the worker enters the Close Proximity Zone.
6.1.13 The clearances specified in the live work procedures shall be observed.

6.1

General precaution for Live Working

6.1.14 For HV live poling, excavators (and winch tractors) shall be earthed.

6.1.1 Live work shall not be undertaken until the System Manager has been
advised and permission received. The System Controller shall also be
advised on completion of Live Work.

6.2

6.1.2 Any person about to carry out live work shall satisfy himself that he can do
the particular job in safety.

6.2.1 Exposed live apparatus that is not being worked on and other exposed
metalwork, close to persons at work on live apparatus, shall be shrouded.

6.1.3 Live work shall only be carried out by trained personnel who are approved.

6.2.2 When working alone, the only live work which may be performed on live LV
apparatus is that which has been approved by the Manager responsible for
interpreting these rules.

6.1.4 Tools, gloves, equipment and Insulating Aerial Devices (IADs) that require a
displayed Use Until date shall not be used beyond the dates marked on them.
6.1.5 The crews line manager shall be responsible for ensuring that, where
required, all approved live working tools, gloves, equipment and IADs are
subject to periodic testing.

LV Live Work

6.2.3 For all types of live work on LV apparatus, other than work approved under
6.2.2, there shall be at least one other work unit member in the immediate
vicinity while work is in progress.

6.1.6 Only approved persons shall operate an IAD.

6.1.7 Each worker shall be responsible for the care of all their live working tools,
gloves, equipment and IADs, and the inspection once daily and before
use, of all live working tools and equipment which are to be used that day.
Insulated tools and equipment must be cleaned, dried, and stored.
Defective tools and equipment shall not be used.

6.3

10/20kV Rubber Glove work

6.3.1 Rubber gloves shall be worn when working on unearthed metalwork that is
supporting live conductors or apparatus, or working on unearthed
metalwork that is or could be in electrical contact with such metalwork.
(e.g. the upper portion of staywires).

6.1.8 At HV, when required by procedures, a dedicated observer shall be

appointed, to monitor all work aloft while live work is being performed. If
the dedicated observer is taken from this specific duty, all live work shall
cease and shall only resume when the observer returns.

6.3.2 Cover-up and tools may be left on the line until weather improves or up to
five consecutive days if work conditions preclude the removal of the
equipment. However, it is the responsibility of the user to ensure that the
equipment is dry and safe to handle when work is restarted.

6.1.9 Live work shall not be carried out during adverse weather conditions. If
work has been started and adverse weather occurs, the job must be left in
a safe condition and completed later.

6.3.3 Cover-up shall not be used to insulate one conductor from another nor to
protect poles, trees etc. Cover-up is designed to provide protection for the
worker only.

6.1.10 Should the protective equipment on an apparatus which is being worked

on live operate (tripping of CB or recloser, blowing of fuse), then:

6.3.4 Rubber glove work shall only be carried out from an IAD or an insulated
platform.

(a) The System Controller on becoming aware of the device operation

shall immediately contact the PICW and
(b) The apparatus shall not be reenergised again by an Operator until the
relevant PICW has been consulted.

- 44 -

- 45 -

SECTION 7
Safety clearance zones to live exposed apparatus

7.1

Safety clearance zones and exposed live apparatus

7.1.1

The safety clearance zones are set out below in relation to exposed live
apparatus, with the level of risk increasing as each zone is breached and
the distance to the live apparatus is reduced. They are the Vicinity Zone,
Close Proximity Zone and Live Zone respectively.

7.1.2

7.1.3
7.1.4

7.1.5

A person shall be considered to have entered a safety clearance zone

when any part of the body of the person, including any object being held
or operated, except objects insulated for the voltage concerned, is at or
within the Zone limit.
Persons, working within or at the limit of these clearances, shall work in
accordance with approved procedures appropriate to the zone concerned.
A live apparatus is considered to be exposed (or bare), for the purpose of
clearance zone application, when it is unscreened, not covered by insulating
material rated for the voltage concerned or if covered by insulation, the
insulation covering is so damaged as not to provide adequate insulation. In
order to be classified as exposed (or bare), the apparatus must also be
accessible from a horizontal direction or, it must be possible for a person
or object to fall on to it from a working position or it must be accessible
from below.
Work shall not be carried out from a position near unscreened live
apparatus, where it would be possible for a person or object on falling, to
fall within the clearance zone, or to contact live apparatus, unless the work
is carried out in accordance with approved procedures.

7.2

The Vicinity Zone

7.2.1

The clearances specified for the Vicinity Zone are intended to be used by
those who need to carry out work adjacent to exposed live apparatus but
not on the apparatus

7.2.2

The Vicinity Zone extends from live apparatus in a radial and horizontal
directions as shown in table below:
Distance in Metres

Nominal Voltage

Close ProximityZone

Close Proximity Zone

in Radial Direction

in Horizontal Direction
(where access is possible)

LV

0.3

0.3

1-20kV

1.3

2.6

38kV

1.5

2.9

110kV

2.0

3.35

220-275kV

4.0

4.35

400kV

5.4

6.4

7.3

The Close Proximity Zone

7.3.1

Work within the Close Proximity Zone shall be regarded as work on the
apparatus.

7.3.2

The Close Proximity Zone extends from the live apparatus in radial and
horizontal directions, as detailed in the table below:
Distance in Metres

Nominal Voltage

Close ProximityZone

Close Proximity Zone

in Radial Direction

in Horizontal Direction
(where access is possible)

- 46 -

LV

0.05

0.3

1kV to 20kV

0.75

2.6

38kV

1.0

2.9

110kV

1.2

3.35

220kV, 275kV

2.1

4.35

400kV

3.5

6.4

- 47 -

7.3.3

The complete insulator supporting a HV item will always be regarded as

being within the Close Proximity Zone.

7.3.4

The Close Proximity Zone shall apply when:-

7.6

Summary of Safety Clearances

7.6.1

The following table summarises Safety Clearances in the 3 zones - the Vicinity,
Close Proximity and Live Zones

Approvals are required to enter these zones

(a) The outer protective covering or insulation of a cable is damaged.

(b) Any action that if taken would be liable to impair the insulation or outer
protection covering of a cable.

Voltage

(c) An action which impairs or is liable to impair the insulation or outer

protection covering of totally insulated apparatus.
LV

Live Zone

Close Proximity Zone*

Vinicity Zone**

Radial

Radial

Horizontal

Radial

Horizontal

Contact

0.05m

0.3m

0.3m

0.3m

7.4

The Live Working Zone

1kV 20kV

0.3m

0.75m

2.6m

1.3m

2.6m

7.4.1

The clearances defined as the Live Working Zone shall be observed when
carrying out live work.

38kV

0.5m

1.0m

2.9m

1.5m

2.9m

7.4.2

The Live Zone extends from the live apparatus in a radial direction as
detailed in the table below:

110kV

1.0m

1.2m

3.35m

2.0m

3.35m

220 275kV

1.9m

2.1m

4.35m

4.0m

4.35m

400kV

2.7m

3.5m

6.4m

5.0m

6.4m

Voltage

Live Zone in Metres

LV

Contact

1kV 20kV

0.3

38kV

0.5

110kV

1.0

220 275kV

1.9

400kV

2.7

7.5

Erection of Safety Screens

7.5.1

Safety screens (permanent or temporary) shall be fitted between the live

apparatus and the person doing the work when it is not possible to carry
out the work using live or dead work procedures.

7.5.2

When the screen is not insulated for the voltage concerned the screen
shall be earthed.

7.5.3

An earthed safety screen shall be installed using dead work procedures.

- 48 -

Only enter when working to approved live work procedures or when the
apparatus is dead.

**

Stay outside when not working to an approved procedure.

- 49 -

CLOSE PROXIMITY ZONE

VICINITY ZONE

R -RADIAL

H - HORIZONTAL

0.05

0.15m

LV

1 - 20 kV

0.75m

2.6m

1 - 20 kV

38 kV

1.0m

2.9m

110 kV

1.2m

220/275 kV

2.1m

400 kV

3.5m

LV

49i

R -RADIAL

H - HORIZONTAL

0.3

0.3m

1.3m

2.6m

38 kV

1.5m

2.9m

3.35m

110 kV

2.0m

3.35m

4.35m

220/275 kV

4.0m

4.35m

6.4m

400 kV

5.0m

6.4m

49ii

SECTION 8
DEFINITIONS

Connected:

Joined to a live system(s) at the point(s) specified.

Cover-up:

Approved insulating material used when carrying out

Live work.

Danger:

Means danger to health or danger to life or limb from

shock, burn, or other injury of persons attendant
upon the generation, transmission, distribution or
use of electrical energy arising from their association
with items of ESB networks.

Danger Notice:

A notice attached to apparatus or to its protective

screens or barriers, alerting people to the danger of
approaching too closely or interfering with such
apparatus.

Dead:

Disconnected from any live system and earthed.

Declared Off:

Confirmation that all persons who had been

engaged in work on a particular apparatus are now
clear of same and have been instructed to remain
clear by the PICW.

Declaration Of Fitness:

A report to certify that the apparatus complies with

the required standards in order that the POR or
POPR may be issued by the PICW.

Dedicated Observer:

An approved live worker who continuously observes

the work from the ground while live working is in
progress and who shall have no other duties which
would distract him from this.

Direct Supervision:

In the presence of the person being supervised

during the course of the task or activity.

Discharged:

Free from all electrical charges which are at a

potential above or below that of earth.

Disconnected:

Separated from a live system or systems, by the

application of a HO notice at the point or points of
disconnection
specified,
using
approved
procedures and equipment.

Earthed:

Connected to the general mass of earth in an

approved manner. When applied to apparatus, all
phases short-circuited and connected to earth in an
approved manner.

Earth electrode:

One or more conductive parts embedded in the

ground for the purpose of making effective electrical
contact with the general mass of earth.

For the purposes of these Safety Rules the following definitions shall apply:
Adverse Weather:

Weather Conditions that:

a) Prevent the commencement of live working or
b) Require a live working procedure to be stopped.

Apparatus:

Any item or group of items of plant which forms part,

or which is about to form part, of a system.

Approved:

Sanctioned in writing by an official representative at

the appropriate level of authority.

Cable:

A length of one or more conductors, solid or

stranded, each being provided with its own insulation
to form a core; the assembly of one or more cores
being provided with an overall protective covering.
Excluded are insulated conductor(s) used in the
"wiring" of electrical installations, such as for control,
protection and signalling.

Cable Identifier:

A person appointed and assigned in an approved

manner for the identification, in an approved manner,
of cables which are at a specific voltage. The term
also includes the identification of all joints, boxes,
pillars and sealing ends associated with a cable.

Chargeperson:

The person other than approved persons, who is in

immediate and direct charge of work on specific
apparatus and of the people who work on such
apparatus which is on ESBs networks.

Close Proximity Zone:

The distance from exposed live apparatus that when

breached the person is considered to be working
live.

Commissioner:

A person who is an agent of the System Manager, to

ensure that an apparatus conforms to required
specifications.

Competent:

Having sufficient knowledge,

experience to work safely.

- 50 -

training

and

- 51 -

Earth Lead:

The final conductor by which the connection to the

earth electrode, or other means of earthing, is made.

High-Voltage (HV):

A voltage normally exceeding 600 Volts AC between

phase and earth or 1000 Volts AC between phases.

Local Earth Notice:

A notice in approved form that must be attached to

a local earth lead that identifies the owner of the
earth lead.

Low Voltage (LV):

A voltage not normally exceeding 600 Volts AC

between phase and earth or 1000 Volts between
phases.

A voltage normally exceeding 900 Volts DC pole to

earth or 1500 Volts DC between poles.
Hold Off Notice:

Immediate Vicinity:

A notice in approved form, displayed in an approved

manner, at every point of disconnection and their
control points from which an apparatus, on which it
is intended to work, can be made live. Also known
as HO notice.

A voltage not normally exceeding 900 Volts DC pole

to earth or 1500 Volts DC between poles.
Main Earth:

An approved means of earthing a system or

systems, or part of a system or systems, where
earthing is required, to enable a telemess to be
issued in respect of same.

Main Earth Notice:

A notice in approved form that must be attached to

a Main Earth that identifies the Operator who
applied the Main Earth, and the date on which it was
placed.

Messenger:

A person who delivers a telemess from a Sender to

a Receiver.

Normally Open Notice:

A notice in approved form attached to apparatus at

a point on a system or between systems which is
designated as a normally open point. Also known as
NO Notice.

The distance from a work site that:

a) enables intervention or
b) to provide immediate assistance in the event of an
incident.

Identification Tag:

An approved tag which is attached in an approved

manner to a cable, conductor or other apparatus, at a
point of work, to certify the identification of a particular
cable, conductor or other apparatus. It shall bear the
name of the approved person who carried out the
identification. It shall be cross-referenced with the
serial number of the associated POD.

Insulated Aerial Device (IAD): An aerial device with an insulated boom which is

approved for live working.

Live:

Electrically energised or liable to be energised to a

voltage above 50 Volts AC or 75 Volts DC by being
connected to or liable to be connected to a system,
or by induction from a system.

Live Work:

All work in which the worker reaches into the Close

Proximity Zone with either parts of his body or with
tools, equipment, or devices being handled. Live
working shall not apply to activities such as voltage
detection, application of earths and switching
operations and voltage measurement.

Live Working Zone:

The space around live parts within which live

working procedures shall be employed.

Local Earth:

An approved means of earthing an apparatus at or

as close as possible to the work position.

- 52 -

On Site Risk Assessment: This is a formal process, recorded on an approved

standard form, which details all the hazards at a
work site and the controls put in place to control or
eliminate them.
Operator:

A person appointed and assigned in an approved

manner to perform the activities associated with the
operation of a system.

Operator-in- Charge:

The person who is nominated as the Operator-inCharge of the Switching, where more than one
Operator is involved in the switching programme.

Person in Charge of
Work (PICW):

The person who is in immediate and direct charge

of the work which is about to be done or is being
done and of the people who are about to
work or are working on an apparatus.

- 53 -

Person Issuing Work:

Remote Control:

The person who appoints:

The Person in Charge of Work The Cable Identifier
The Telemess Co-Ordinator where a Telemess CoOrdinator is required to co-ordinate telemessing for
the Persons in Charge of the Work.
The Work Organiser where a Work Organiser is
required to manage the work being done by a
number of PICWs
The Chargeperson
The act of changing the state of a device when the
person is not adjacent to the device.

Second Point of Contact: The Second Point of Contact is defined as the point
at which current would leave the body if contact is
made between two points at different potential. It is
also the point at which current would leave a tool (or
any piece of equipment) if contact is made with a live
part by any part of the tool (or piece of equipment).
No electrical incident is possible without this second
point of contact.
Spike:

Station:

An approved metal bar or blade driven by approved

means into all cores of a cable at the point where the
cable is to be cut.

System:

An arrangement of apparatus, with clearly defined

boundaries, used in connection with the generation,
transmission and distribution of electrical energy.

System Controller:

The duly appointed person in charge of the

operation of a defined system or a defined portion of
a system at a particular time.

System Manager:

The duly appointed person in charge of managing a

defined system or a defined portion of a system at a
particular time.

Task:

A piece of work assigned or done as part of ones

duties.

Telemess:

The form used by persons when communicating

with each other in connection with the
preparation/restoration of the system, associated
with work on, or in close proximity to, electrical
apparatus.

Telemess Co-Ordinator:

The person appointed to co-ordinate telemessing for

PICWs, working on a system. He represents the link
between the Operator and the PICWs in the
operation of the telemess procedure. He shall be
appointed by the PIW.

Unscreened Cubicle:

A cubicle from which some of the screens have

been temporarily removed.

Vicinity Zone:

A zone extending outside the Close Proximity Zone.

Voltage:

The DC value, or in the case of AC the RMS value,

of the nominal voltage by which a system or part of
a system is designated.

Work on the System:

A person is considered to be working on the system

when they have entered the Close Proximity Zone.

Work on Cables:

Action which involves cutting or piercing or otherwise

reducing the insulating properties or mechanical
protection of the outer covering of a cable, e.g., when
jointing or terminating a cable. Also includes the
testing of cables and the handling of live cables, e.g.,
when re-routing or moving a live cable.

Work Organiser:

The person, duly appointed by the PIW to provide

additional flexibility in organizing work for multiple
crews, during a switch-out.

For Outdoor Apparatus

The area inside the HV compound boundary erected
to prevent access by unauthorised persons to
outdoor apparatus which is connected, or which
could be connected readily and in an approved
manner, to a system.
For Indoor Apparatus
The interior of any structure which contains HV or LV
apparatus which is connected, or which could be
connected readily and in an approved manner, to a
system.

Switching:

The operation of switchgear, fuses or other

approved methods of breaking or making a circuit
and for the application/removal of Main Earths.

- 54 -

- 55 -

Approved Abbreviations for use in the telemess procedure:

BBL
Back Bone Line
CB
Circuit Breaker
CT
Current Transformer
DA
Busbar Disconnect A
DB
Busbar Disconnect B
DC
Direct Current/voltage
DE.
Earth Disconnect
DL
Line Disconnect
HO
Hold-Off Notice
HV
High Voltage
kV
kilovolt
LV
Low Voltage
MCB.
Miniature Circuit Breaker
NO
Normally Open
SA
Busbar A Sectionaliser
SB
Busbar B Sectionaliser
Trafo
Transformer
VT
Voltage Transformer
Approved abbreviations for telemess type.
RFD
Request for Disconnection
POD
Proof of Disconnection
POR
Proof of Readiness
POPR
Proof of Partial Readiness
RAME
Request for Application of Main Earth
PAME
Proof of Application of Main Earth
RRME
Request for Removal of Main Earth
PRME
Proof of Removal of Main Earth
POC
Proof of Connection
RFC
Request For Connection

INDEX

A
Additional work
Annex
Apparatus
Approvals
Approved
Approved equipment
Approved procedures
Automatic Features

19, 25
1, 4, 5
25, 26, 30, 34, 41, 44
4, 6
2, 4, 5, 12, 33, 41, 45
28
2, 33, 34, 38, 42
28

B
Barriers
Break point
Briefing
Broken line
Busbars

10, 41
33
10, 12, 14
32
34

C
Cable
12, 13, 18, 22, 24, 31, 32, 33, 35, 39, 41, 42, 44, 45
Cable Identifier (CI)
6, 9, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24,33, 35, 41, 43, 45
Change
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14
Change over
7
Chargeperson
6, 9, 13, 14, 41, 43
Close Proximity Zone 10, 13, 14, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 34, 35, 36, 38, 39, 40, 41,
42, 44
Commissioner
13
Commissioning
6, 13
Connected
41, 42
Connection
3, 16, 24, 29, 42, 44
Controller
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 22, 23, 25, 36, 44
Cover-up
37, 41

D
Approved abbreviations for Role
OP
Operator
OIC
Operator in Charge
TCO
Telemess Co-Ordinator
WO
Work Organiser
PIW
Person who Issues Work
PICW
Person in Charge of Work
CI
Cable Identifier
- 56 -

Dead
41
Declaration of Fitness
24
Dedicated observer
36
Discharging
30
Disconnect
28, 45
Disconnected 7, 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34
Disconnection
3, 7, 11, 12, 16, 17, 19, 20, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31, 33, 42
Disconnects
34

- 57 -

Double circuit
Duties

32
3

E
Earthing switch
30
Earths
10, 13, 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 44

F
Fault switching
Faulted Phase Earthing (FPE)

8, 22
31

H
HO notices
Hold Off
HV
HV system

8, 20, 25, 29, 30, 35

18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 29, 42
7, 8, 22, 23, 28, 31, 32, 36, 39, 42, 44, 45
7

I
IADs
Identification tag
Induced voltage
Instrument Transformers
Insulating Aerial Devices

36
13
31
34
36
4, 5, 22, 26, 28, 29, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41
36
36, 41, 42
38, 39, 40
10, 13, 14, 19, 20, 24, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33
22
5, 7, 22, 23, 29, 31, 32, 33, 37, 38, 39, 40, 43, 44, 45
31
37
7

M
Main Earth
Main Earth Notice
Metering location

On-going telemess
7
On-Site Risk Assessment
3, 5, 9, 14
Operations
7, 11, 12, 16, 17, 22, 43
Operator (OP) 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 15, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30,
31, 32, 35, 36, 43, 44, 45

P
Permission to remove Main Earths
12,18, 23, 26
Permit to Work
17
Person in Charge of Work (PICW) 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 23,
24, 25, 28, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 41, 42, 43, 45
Person who Issues Work (PIW)
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 25, 44, 45
Planned
5, 6, 8, 22
Proof of Application of Main Earths (PAME)
16, 20, 45
Proof of Connection (POC)
16, 21, 45
Proof of Disconnection (POD) 10,11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26,
29, 32, 42, 45
Proof of Partial Readiness (POPR)
16, 17, 19, 20, 25, 34, 35, 42, 45
Proof of Readiness (POR) 11,13, 16, 17, 18,19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 29, 34, 35, 42, 45
Prior consent
7, 8
Proof of Removal of Main Earths (PRME)
16, 20, 45

L
Live apparatus
Live poling
Live work
Live Zone
Local Earths
Locks
LV
LV cable
LV Live Work
LV System

16, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 35, 43, 44, 45
18, 23, 24, 43
30

N
Neutral
New apparatus
Not part of the system

29, 31, 33, 34

19, 25
26

- 58 -

Request for Application of Main Earths (RAME)

16, 20, 26, 45
Recommencing work
20
Reconnection
29, 34, 35
Recorded
8, 17, 22, 43
Recording
8
Recording
12, 22
Removal of Main Earths
16, 26
Request for Connection (RFC)
16, 20, 21, 29, 45
Request for Disconnection (RFD)7, 9, 11, 12,14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25,
28, 30, 45
Request for Removal of Main Earths (RRME)
16, 20, 45
Retention of Telemess
17
Rubber gloves
36
Rules
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 16, 22, 27, 41, 49

S
Safety clearance zones
Safety Rules
Screens
Section of work
Spiking of Cables
Switches
Switching

4, 38
2, 3, 5, 8, 41, 49
10, 40, 41, 44
9, 13, 14
33
34
5, 7, 8, 11, 12, 22, 23, 24, 29, 31, 43
- 59 -

Switch-out
System Controller
System Manager

9, 12, 45
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 22, 23, 25, 36, 44
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 15, 22, 25, 36, 41, 44

Acnowledgement of Receipt
Of

T
Table
38,
Telemess
7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 24, 25, 26, 28, 34, 35, 43,
Telemess Co-Ordinator (TCO)
6, 9, 11, 12, 15, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25,
Telemess register
11, 17,
Test personnel
Transformer
22,

39,
44,
34,
19,

40
45
45
35
13
29, 33

ESB NETWORKS
ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES
2006

V
Vicinity Zone

3, 4, 38, 40, 44

W
Work location
Work Organiser (WO)
Work plan

11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 23, 31

6, 9, 11, 12, 15,18, 23, 43, 45
3, 9

I have received on the date under my signature, one copy of ESB NETWORKS
ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES 2006.
I am aware that if there are any rules which i do not clearly understand, they will
be explained to me, on request, by a nominee of the Manager responsible for
interpreting the rules.

Signed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Staff No. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Date
.......................................................

To be retained by line Manager

- 60 -

Acnowledgement of Receipt
Of

ESB NETWORKS
ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES
2006

I have received on the date under my signature, one copy of ESB NETWORKS
ELECTRICAL SAFETY RULES 2006.
I am aware that if there are any rules which i do not clearly understand, they will
be explained to me, on request, by a nominee of the Manager responsible for
interpreting the rules.

Signed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Staff No. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Date
.......................................................

This copy is to be retained with the book