Electricity at Work Regulations
The GB regulatory regime requiring that all electrical systems are constructed, maintained, and used so as to prevent danger, and that work on electrical equipment is done safely by competent persons.
Also known as
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
EAWRExact equivalentThe Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (SI 1989/635) impose duties on employers, employees and self-employed persons to ensure that electrical systems are constructed, maintained and used in such a way as to prevent danger. Regulation 16 requires that no person shall work on or near to a live conductor unless it is unreasonable in all circumstances for it to be made dead and unless suitable precautions are taken.
Irish HSA
“electrical safety”Close equivalentThe Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 (Part 3, Chapter 3) implement requirements for electrical safety in Irish workplaces. The regulations require that electrical equipment is constructed, installed, protected, used and maintained to prevent danger, and that work on electrical installations is done by competent electricians.
US OSHA
“electrical safety”Close equivalentOSHA 29 CFR 1910 subpart S covers electrical safety in general industry. Key provisions include 1910.303 (wiring design and protection), 1910.333 (selection and use of work practices) and 1910.334 (use of equipment). Qualified persons must perform live electrical work; unqualified persons must not work on or near exposed live parts.
Practitioner note: The duty covers systems and working practice, not just equipment. Live working is permitted only where it is unreasonable to work dead and suitable precautions are taken.