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Guidelines Part 19

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Guidelines Part 19 Contents

Guidelines Part 19 - General electrical requirements

G19.1-1 Electrical Safety Act repealed

Issued June 29, 2005

Section 19.1 of the OHS Regulation contains the following definitions:

"approved" as applied to electrical equipment, means that the equipment meets the requirements of the Electrical Safety Act;

"electrical worker" means a person who meets the requirements of the Electrical Safety Act for installing, altering or maintaining electrical equipment;

The Electrical Safety Act has been repealed. The current applicable Act is the Safety Standards Act. Any references in OHS Regulation Part 19 to the former Electrical Safety Act are considered to be references to the Safety Standards Act and regulations made under that Act, as applicable.

G19.1-2 Electrical qualifications

Issued June 29, 2005

The purpose of this guideline is to define a "qualified electrical worker" and a "qualified worker" under Part 19.

Section 19.1 of the OHS Regulation states:

"electrical worker" means a person who meets the requirements of the Electrical Safety Act for installing, altering or maintaining electrical equipment;

The Electrical Safety Act was repealed on April 1, 2004. The Safety Standards Act and the accompanying Electrical Safety Regulation were enacted to regulate electrical work and qualifications of workers who perform electrical work.

A "qualified electrical worker" must meet all the requirements of the Safety Standards Act and the Electrical Safety Regulation, including a certificate of qualifications (note that individuals qualified under the former Electrical Safety Regulation BC Reg 487/95 remain electrically qualified until their qualification expires).

For the purposes of Part 19 of the OHS Regulation, based upon s. 4 of the Electrical Safety Regulation, an individual must not perform regulated work in respect of electrical equipment unless the individual:

(a) holds appropriate industry training credentials in respect of electrical work,
(b) has successfully completed electrical training recognized by a provincial safety manager under the Safety Standards Act,
(c) is employed by an organization that utilizes electrical training programs that are approved by a provincial safety manager under the Safety Standards Act and the individual
(i) has successfully completed the relevant training, and
(ii) does not perform regulated work for any person other than the individual's employer who provided the training,
(d) is the manufacturer's technical representative, or
(e) is supervised by an individual who
(i) is specifically authorized under the Safety Standards Act to perform that type of electrical work, and
(ii) supervises the individual on site and provides guidance and assistance to the individual as the electrical work is performed.

For more information on qualifications for electrical workers, please contact the British Columbia Safety Authority at Suite 400, 88 - 6th Street, New Westminster, BC V3L 5B3, telephone: (604) 660-6286 or toll free: 1-866-566-SAFE (7233).

"Qualified workers"
Part 19 of the OHS Regulation also refers to "qualified workers"; such a reference does not specifically relate to the worker's electrical qualifications. Section 1.1 of the OHS Regulation states:

"qualified" means being knowledgeable of the work, the hazards involved and the means to control the hazards, by reason of education, training, experience or a combination thereof;

In those cases, the determination of whether a worker is "qualified" depends upon the particular circumstances of the work to be performed and that worker's knowledge, skills and abilities. An evaluation must be performed by the employer to determine whether the worker has sufficient knowledge, skills and ability to safely perform that particular type of work. If the OHS Regulation reference is to a "qualified worker" and not to "qualified electrical worker" then the worker does not necessarily need to be a "qualified electrical worker", as defined in the previous portions of this Guideline.

An officer of the Board, while performing an inspection, may determine that an individual does not meet the requirements of a "qualified electrical worker", or a "qualified worker", as required by the OHS Regulation.

G19.8(1) Standards acceptable to the Board

Issued June 29, 2005

Section 19.8(1) of the OHS Regulation states:

Electrical testing equipment may be used if it meets the requirements of
(a) CSA Standard C22.2 No. 160-M1985 (Reaffirmed 1992), Voltage and Polarity Testers, or
(b) CSA Standard CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 231 Series-M89, CSA Safety Requirements for Electrical and Electronic Measuring and Test Equipment.
(c) Repealed. [B.C. Reg. 312/2003, effective October, 29, 2003.]

Section 4.4(2) of the OHS Regulation states:

When this Regulation requires a person to comply with
(a) a publication, code or standard of the Board or another agency, the person may, as an alternative, comply with another publication, code or standard acceptable to the Board, or
(b) practices, procedures or rules of the Board or another agency, the person may, as an alternative, comply with another practice, procedure or rule acceptable to the Board.
[Amended by B.C. Reg. 312/2003, effective October 29, 2003.]

In addition to the standards specified in section 19.8(1), electrical testing equipment may also be used if it meets one of the following standards that are acceptable to the Board, where applicable:

Standard	Standard Title
CAN/ULC-D61243-1-00	Live Working - Voltage Detectors - Part 1: Capacitive Type to be Used for Voltages Exceeding 1 kV a.c.
CAN/ULC-D61243-2-99	Live Working - Voltage Detectors - Part 2: Resistive Type to be Used for Voltages of 1 kV to 36 kV a.c. [Amended March 2000]
CAN/ULC-D61243-3-00	Live Working - Voltage Detectors - Part 3: Two-Pole Low-Voltage Type
CEI/IEC 61243-1 (1993)	Live working - Voltage detectors - Part 1: Capacitive type to be used for voltages exceeding 1 kV a.c.
CEI/IEC 61243-2 (1995)	Live working - Voltage detectors - Part 2: Resistive type to be used for voltages of 1 kV to 36 kV a.c.
CEI/IEC 61243-3-(1998)	Live working - Voltage detectors - Part 3: Two-pole low-voltage type

G19.9 Insulated aerial device

Issued August 1999; Editorial Revision April 2005

Section 19.9(1) of the OHS Regulation states:

An insulated aerial device must be dielectrically tested at least annually in accordance with CSA Standard CAN/CSA-C225-M88 Vehicle Mounted Aerial Devices and its insulating capability certified by the testing agency.

Section 4.4(2)(a) of the OHS Regulation permits the reliance on other standards which are acceptable to the Board. The Board accepts the BC Hydro standard for testing the insulating capability of aerial devices.

Guidelines Part 19 - Working on low voltage electrical equipment

G19.12 Working close to energized equipment

Issued August 1999

Section 19.12 of the OHS Regulation states:

(1) Uninsulated, energized parts of low voltage electrical equipment must be guarded by approved cabinets or enclosures unless the energized parts are in a suitable room or similar enclosed area that is only accessible to qualified and authorized persons.

(2) Each entrance to a room and other guarded location containing uninsulated and exposed, energized parts must be marked with a conspicuous warning sign limiting entry to qualified and authorized persons.

(3) If uninsulated energized parts are not guarded with approved cabinets or enclosures

(a) suitable barriers or covers must be provided if a worker unfamiliar with the hazards is working within 1 m (3.3 ft) of the uninsulated, energized parts, or

(b) the worker must be informed of the potential hazards, and provided with and follow appropriate written safe work procedures.

This section applies to low voltage overhead wires, such as secondary lines and service drops from the distribution system into a customer's premises, which are normally isolated from worker contact by position. Overhead wires not protected by conduit or other approved shielding should be considered uninsulated, even though, when new, the wire generally has some insulating cover. Weathering and possible contact from equipment or tree branches means the integrity of the wire's insulation cannot be relied on for protection. A worker's (and public) safety is provided by isolating the wire from the normal reach of people. Where such wires come within reach, they must be guarded from contact by enclosure in a conduit or other approved shielding or enclosure.

If a work process will result in a short term and temporary encroachment by a worker into the area of low voltage wires normally isolated by position, such as by a worker using a ladder to facilitate painting or window cleaning, the requirements of this section may be met by barriers, covers or the use of written safe work procedures.

If a change in work arrangements or plant layout will result in ongoing loss of the "protective space" between workers and wires formerly isolated by position, such as a new work platform or stairway that permits workers to move close to the wires, the wires have to be repositioned to provide adequate clearance from contact or enclosed in conduit or other approved cover to prevent worker contact with energized parts. Work procedures are not an acceptable alternative in these circumstances.

G19.15(1) Ground fault circuit interrupters and other acceptable means

Issued December 4, 2007; Revised September 19, 2008

Regulatory excerpt
Section 19.15(1) of the OHS Regulation ("Regulation") states:

(1) When used outdoors or in a wet or damp location, portable electrical equipment, including temporary lighting, must be protected by an approved ground fault circuit interrupter of the class A type installed at the receptacle or on the circuit at the panel, unless another acceptable means of protection is provided.

Purpose of guideline
The purpose of this guideline is to discuss the use of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) as a safety device, describe good work practices for use of GFCIs, describe the application of this health and safety requirement in conjunction with the B.C. Electrical Code ("Code"), describe an Assured Grounding Program (AGP), and explain a restriction on the use of an AGP as another acceptable means of protection.

Background
Regulation s. 19.15(1) specifies when a GFCI or another acceptable means of protection must be used. For a number of years, WorkSafeBC regarded an AGP as another acceptable means of protection for outdoors or in wet/damp locations. However, with the adoption of the 2006 B.C. Electrical Code by the BC electrical authority - the BC Safety Authority ("BCSA") - only a GFCI may be used as a means of protection on construction and demolition sites. As a result, WorkSafeBC can no longer permit an AGP as another acceptable means of protection for outdoors or in wet/damp conditions which are construction or demolition sites.

The BCSA has published a directive describing the scope of the application of the GFCI restriction and setting out a variance application process that contractors may use if they wish to use an AGP on construction and demolition sites.

This guideline describes the use of GFCIs and AGPs. Further, it specifies that WorkSafeBC will normally accept an AGP if a contractor has obtained the appropriate variance from the BCSA or other appropriate variance-granting electrical authority as noted herein.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
A Class A GFCI is a device that detects any leakage current between neutral and ground conductors or an imbalance of the current in the hot and neutral conductors in an electrical circuit and trips (turns off) the circuit whenever the leakage current or imbalance reaches 4 - 6 mA. The prime function of a Class A GFCI is to provide protection against hazardous electrical shocks from defective circuits or equipment. It cannot ensure the safety of a worker. For example, it does not provide protection against shock should a person make contact with two of the circuit conductors on the load side of the GFCI.

A GFCI is designed to trip at a current level below the level hazardous to workers. To prevent nuisance tripping of GFCIs, the following good work practices are recommended:

Connect only one power tool to each GFCI
Cover power tools to protect them from the rain when they are not in use
Store power tools and extension cords in a dry location
Maintain extension cords and power tools in good condition
Use extension cords that meet the requirements of the Code rule 4-038
Use the shortest extension cord practicable, usually no longer than 45 metres (150 feet)

GFCIs in the B.C. Electrical Code
Section 20 of the Electrical Safety Regulation adopts the current edition of the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1, (CSA Standard C22.1) as the BC Electrical Code ("Code"). There are several requirements in the Code for use of a GFCI. For example, Section 26 of the Code requires that for residential occupancies electrical receptacles installed outdoors and within 2.5 m of finished grade be protected with a Class A GFCI.

There are also requirements for GFCI in marinas and wharves (Section 78), mobile homes (Section 70), and recreational vehicles (Section 72).

Rule 76-016 of the Code specifies that "15A and 20A receptacles installed to provide power for buildings or projects under construction or demolition shall be protected by ground fault circuit interrupters of the Class A type." An Explanation of the Rules of the CE Code, Part 1 (CSA C22.1HB-06) states, in part

Not all workers are informed about the potential shock hazards of long lengths of flexible cords or the increased potential for damage to cords and equipment caused by changing site and environmental conditions. In addition, unstable grounding conditions caused by site and environmental conditions can create areas where workers are using electrical equipment with a potential to ground lower than where the temporary service is connected to ground. Thus, Rule 76-016 requires that 15 A and 20 A receptacles on the work site be protected by a Class A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).

BC Safety Authority Directive
BCSA has issued Directive D-E3 0711018 to provide guidance on the application of Section 76 of the Code. In the directive, BCSA outlines the scope of application of Canadian Electrical Code Section 76, as follows:

Section 76 applies to temporary wiring installations for buildings under construction or demolition. This includes all installations serviced by a temporary power service. For equipment utilized in dry locations fed from a permanent power service located in a dry location, the wiring is not considered temporary, so the provisions of this section will not apply. (For residential construction, this would be at lock-up). Temporary distribution panels are not considered permanent, and are therefore subject to the rules in Section 76.

Further information about Code requirements and their application can be obtained from the electrical authority having jurisdiction, as follows:

British Columbia Safety Authority
City of Burnaby
Municipality of Maple Ridge
City of North Vancouver
District of North Vancouver
City of Surrey
City of Vancouver
City of Victoria
City of West Vancouver

General Application of Regulation s. 19.15
Regulation s. 19.15(1) refers to "portable electrical equipment." This includes extension cords, temporary lighting, pig-tail receptacles, and power tools that are used on 120 volt systems and are not part of a permanent electrical system.

S. 19.15(1) requires that portable electrical equipment be protected by a GFCI when used outdoors or in a wet or damp location, unless another acceptable means of protection is provided. An AGP can be another acceptable means of protection when implemented and maintained in accordance with procedures and restrictions in this guideline.

Application of Regulation s. 19.15 to Construction and Demolition sites
In circumstances where the Code specifically and exclusively requires the use of a GFCI (i.e. 15 and 20A receptacles on construction and demolition sites as described above), there are no other acceptable means of protection. The BCSA has recognized that there may be situations where an AGP can provide an acceptable level of protection. The BCSA directive provides that

If a general contractor on a building site wishes to use an assured grounding program suitable to WorkSafeBC instead of GFCIs as required in 76-016, then the electrical contractor may apply for a variance. No fees will be charged for this variance. As conditions of the variance, a copy of the approved assured grounding program must be posted at the job site with the electrical permit, and all workers on site must follow the posted assured grounding program.

Note that this variance application is distinct from a variance under the Workers Compensation Act and the application needs to be made to the electrical authority having jurisdiction, if that authority has a variance process.

In any event, an owner or prime contractor before starting construction or demolition will be required to declare on the Notice of Project (NOP) that is submitted to WorkSafeBC under section 20.2 of the Regulation that either

A GFCI means of protection will be used for the project, or
An application to the applicable electrical authority is to be made by the electrical contractor(s) to allow an AGP as an alternate means of protection on the project

Where an intention to use an AGP is declared on the NOP, the prime contractor will need to inform the electrical contractor of this intention. The electrical contractor, in turn, will need to apply to the appropriate electrical authority, and receive from the authority a variance from the B.C. Electrical Code before an AGP may be used. The NOP declaration may need to be included as part of the variance application to the electrical authority, depending on the practices of the particular authority*.

*The City of Vancouver requires that the site-specific declaration be included with any application to them for a variance from the B.C. Electrical Code requirements to allow an AGP.

Where a variance has been granted by the electrical authority and is posted at the construction site, WorkSafeBC will normally accept an AGP as an alternate means of protection on that site if the AGP meets the requirements set out herein. In some circumstances, an AGP can constitute another acceptable means of protection without a variance from the electrical authority having jurisdiction e.g. after lock-up on a residential construction site.

Assured Grounding Program (AGP)
The purpose of an Assured Grounding Program is to ensure that the hot wire, neutral wire, and in particular, ground wire of extension cords and power tool cords are connected to the proper terminals and are electrically continuous. This is done by performing a continuity test on every extension cord and power tool when it is first put into service, following repairs, and every three months. An Assured Grounding Program is described in the WorkSafeBC publication "Working Safely Around Electricity."

An Assured Grounding Program contains the following four parts:

Worker training
All workers using extension cords and power tools under an Assured Grounding Program must be trained on the program.
Daily visual inspection
Extension cords and power tools must be checked daily for damage by the persons who will be using them. Any damage found must be repaired before the cord or tool is used. Damaged extension cords and power cords of tools must not be spliced. The cords can either be replaced or shortened to remove the damaged portion.
Continuity and polarity testing every three months
A qualified worker must test every extension cord and power tool for circuit continuity and correct polarity before they are used for the first time, following repairs, and during the months of January, April, July, and October. A qualified worker is a person who has been authorized by a supervisor to perform the task and who has received appropriate training.
Colour-coding extension cords and power tools
Extension cords and power tools that have been tested must be tagged with a coloured band about 10 centimetres (4 inches) from the male plug. Coloured electrical tape is suitable for this purpose. A different colour is required for each quarter of the year (see below). These colours are standard for all worksites using an Assured Grounding Program in British Columbia.

Red: January, February, March
White: April, May, June
Blue: July, August, September
Green: October, November, December

As an example, a new extension cord tested on February 8 will have a red tag at the male plug. The extension cord must be retested and marked with a white tag during April. The old coloured tag should be removed when the new colour tag is affixed.

A worksite may have a combination of GFCIs and an AGP. An AGP can be a good inspectional tool when used in conjunction with GFCIs.

Guidelines Part 19 - Working on high voltage electrical equipment

G19.16-1 Isolation and lockout

Issued August 1999; Editorial Revision October 14, 2004; Editorial Revision June 29, 2005

Section 19.16(1) of the OHS Regulation states:

High voltage electrical equipment must, if practicable, be completely isolated, grounded, and locked out as required by this Regulation before starting work on it.

Section 19.16(2) states certain requirements must be met "If it is not practicable to completely isolate high voltage electrical equipment..."

Safe work procedures
Section 19.16(2)(a) states:

written safe work procedures acceptable to the Board must be followed,...

The "Safety Practice Regulations"(SPRs) of BC Hydro are the most broadly used written safe work procedures in BC, and are acceptable to the Board. There are other power system owners in BC, and all adopt the BC Hydro SPRs, with the occasional minor change. Most of these owners will have their own "cover" on their procedure book. Power system owners always require any contractor working on their system to follow the power system owner's SPRs.

Some employers will have high voltage equipment that is not part of a power system. If the employer cannot meet the lockout requirements of section 19.16(1) for work on such equipment, the employer must have written safe work procedures under section (2). Written safe work procedures that are different than the BC Hydro SPRs, must be reviewed by the electrical engineer in the Engineering Section, to determine their acceptability.

Use of single bucket aerial lifts for liveline work on high voltage overhead power lines
Section 19.16(2)(b) of the OHS Regulation states:

two or more qualified and authorized persons must be present while the work is being done, unless the procedures being followed under paragraph (a) specifically permit the work to be done by one person,...

A work crew performing liveline work on overhead high voltage power lines is permitted to use a single bucket aerial lift. Other components of the work procedures as outlined in the BC Hydro SPRs will still apply.

Protective equipment
Section 19.16(2)(c) of the OHS Regulation states:

appropriate electrical protective equipment, including rubber blankets, hoses, hoods, gloves and live line tools must be selected, used, stored, tested, and maintained in accordance with a standard acceptable to the Board,...

The employer must provide equipment meeting an acceptable standard and arrange appropriate testing. Some employers, such as BC Hydro, have their own testing facilities. Many employers will send some or all their equipment to a testing agency. If the employer's documentation of testing is not from a test agency recognized by the Board as an appropriate authority, the matter is to be referred to the Engineering Section.

Electrical protective equipment should be clearly marked to indicate the manufacturer, the standard it conforms to, and the date it was last tested or the date when its next test is due.

Electrical protective equipment which is damaged or shows excessive wear should be removed from service immediately, regardless of how much time remains before it is due for testing.

G19.16-2 Appropriate electrical protective equipment - Standards acceptable to WorkSafeBC

Issued June 29, 2005; Editorial Revision January 1, 2007

Regulatory excerpt

Section 19.16(2) of the OHS Regulation ("Regulation") states:

If it is not practicable to completely isolate high voltage electrical equipment,

(a) written safe work procedures acceptable to the Board must be followed,

(b) two or more qualified and authorized persons must be present while the work is being done, unless the procedures being followed under paragraph (a) specifically permit the work to be done by one person,

(c) appropriate electrical protective equipment, including rubber blankets, hoses, hoods, gloves and live line tools must be selected, used, stored, tested, and maintained in accordance with a standard acceptable to the Board, and

(d) the use of metal ladders, wire reinforced side rail wooden ladders, metal scaffolds or metal work platforms must be in accordance with the procedures established under paragraph (a).

Section 4.3 of the Regulation states:

(1) The employer must ensure that each tool, machine and piece of equipment in the workplace is

(a) capable of safely performing the functions for which it is used, and

(b) selected, used and operated in accordance with

(i) the manufacturer's instructions, if available,

(ii) safe work practices, and

(iii) the requirements of this Regulation.

(2) Unless otherwise specified by this Regulation, the installation, inspection, testing, repair and maintenance of a tool, machine or piece of equipment must be carried out

(a) in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and any standard the tool, machine or piece of equipment is required to meet, or

(b) as specified by a professional engineer.

(3) A tool, machine or piece of equipment determined to be unsafe for use must be identified in a manner which will ensure it is not inadvertently returned to service until it is made safe for use.

(4) Unless otherwise specified by this Regulation, any modification of a tool, machine or piece of equipment must be carried out in accordance with

(a) the manufacturer's instructions, if available,

(b) safe work practices, and

(c) the requirements of this Regulation.

Purpose of guideline
This guideline lists standards acceptable to WorkSafeBC, under section 19.16(2)(c), where applicable.

Standards acceptable to WorkSafeBC

The following standards are acceptable to WorkSafeBC, under section 19.6(2)(c) where applicable:

Standard Number	Standard Title
CAN/ULC-CEI/IEC 60832-99	Insulating Poles (Insulating Sticks) and Universal Tool Attachments (Fittings) for Live Working [Amended March 2000]
CAN/ULC-D60855-00	Live Working - Insulating Foam-Filled Tubes and Solid Rods for Live Working
CAN/ULC-60895-04	Live Working - Conductive Clothing for use at Nominal Voltage up to 800 kV a.c. and ±600 kV d.c.
CAN/ULC-CEI/IEC 60900-99	Hand Tools for Live Working up to 1 000 V a.c. and 1 500 V d.c. [Amended March 2000]
CAN/ULC-60903-04	Live Working - Gloves of Insulating Material
CAN/ULC-D60984-00	Sleeves of Insulating Material for Live Working
CAN/ULC-D61112-01	Blankets of Insulating Material for Electrical Purposes
CAN/ULC-D61229-00	Rigid Protective Covers for Live Working on a.c. Installations
CAN/ULC-D61230-99	Live Working - Portable Equipment for Grounding and Bonding [Amended March 2000]
CAN/ULC-D61235-00	Live Working - Insulating Hollow Tubes for Electrical Purposes
CAN/ULC-CEI/IEC 61236-99	Saddles, Pole Clamps (Stick Clamps) and Accessories for Live Working [Amended March 2000]
CEI/IEC 61230 (1993)	Live working - Portable equipment for earthing or earthing and short-circuiting
CEI/IEC 60832 (1988)	Insulating poles (insulating sticks) and universal tool attachments (fittings) for live working
CEI/IEC 60855 (1985)	Insulating foam-filled tubes and solid rods for live working
CEI/IEC 60895 (2002)	Live working - Conductive clothing for use at nominal voltage up to 800 kV a.c. and ±600 kV d.c.
CEI/IEC 60900 (1987)	Hand tools for live working up to 1 000 V a.c. and 1 500 V d.c. [Amended 1995]
CEI/IEC 60903 (2002)	Live working - Gloves of insulating material
CEI/IEC 60984 (1990)	Sleeves of insulating material for live working
CEI/IEC 61112 (1992)	Blankets of insulating material for electrical purposes
CEI/IEC 61229 (1993)	Rigid protective covers for live working on a.c. installations [Amended 1998]
CEI/IEC 61235 (1993)	Live working - Insulating hollow tubes for electrical purposes
CEI/IEC 61236 (1993)	Saddles, pole clamps (stick clamps) and accessories for live working

Where the aforementioned standards do not specify how the applicable electrical protective equipment must be selected, used, stored, tested, or maintained the equipment must be:

Selected and used in accordance with section 4.3(1)(b) of the Regulation
Tested and maintained in accordance with section 4.3(2) of the Regulation.

Guidelines Part 19 - Working close to energized high voltage equipment and conductors

G19.24 Minimum clearance

Issued June 29, 2005

Section 19.24 of the OHS Regulation states:

(1) The employer must ensure that at least the minimum applicable distance specified in Table 19-1 is maintained between exposed, energized high voltage electrical equipment and conductors and any worker, work, tool, machine, equipment or material, unless otherwise permitted by this Part.

(2) The employer must accurately determine the voltage of any energized electrical equipment or conductor and the minimum distance from it required by subsection (1).

Table 19-1: General limits of approach

Voltage Minimum distance

Phase to phase Metres Feet

Over 750 V to 75 kV 3 10

Over 75kV to 250 kV 4.5 15

Over 250 kV to 550 kV 6 20

Table 19-1: General limits of approach
Voltage	Minimum distance
Phase to phase	Metres	Feet
Over 750 V to 75 kV	3	10
Over 75kV to 250 kV	4.5	15
Over 250 kV to 550 kV	6	20

This section of the OHS Regulation applies to all workers unless the exceptions specified in sections 19.25 to 19.29 of the OHS Regulation apply. The employer has a responsibility to provide workers with and instruct them in safe electrical work practices if the intended work may lead to an encroachment on the general limits of approach to energized high voltage equipment, as allowed by the exceptions to the general limits of approach under sections 19.25-19.29. Therefore the employer must ensure that either:

the limits of approach specified in Table 19-1 are maintained; or
the additional requirements of the relevant sections of 19.25 to 19.29

G19.25 Assurance in writing

Issued August 1999; Revised June 29, 2005

Section 19.25 of the OHS Regulation states:

(1) If the minimum distance in Table 19-1 cannot be maintained because of the circumstances of work or the inadvertent movement of persons or equipment, an assurance in writing on a form acceptable to the Board and signed by a representative of the owner of the power system, must be obtained.

(2) The assurance must state that while the work is being done the electrical equipment and conductors will be displaced or rerouted from the work area, if practicable.

(3) If compliance with subsection (2) is not practicable the assurance must state that the electrical equipment will be isolated and grounded, but if isolation and grounding is not practicable the assurance must state that the electrical equipment will be visually identified and guarded.

(4) The safeguards specified in the assurance must be in place before work commences and effectively maintained while work is taking place.

(5) If guarding is used,

(a) neither equipment nor unqualified persons may touch the guarding, and

(b) a safety watcher must be designated, or range limiting or field detection devices acceptable to the Board must be used.

(6) The assurance must be available for inspection at the workplace, as close as practicable to the area of work, and must be known to all persons with access to the area.

This guideline provides information on: The circumstances in which section 19.25 applies; Information regarding the assurance in writing form, and; The hierarchy of protective measures intended by section 19.25.

Circumstances in which section 19.25 of the OHS Regulation requires assurance in writing
Prevention Manual Policy Item R19.25-1 states that the minimum distances specified in section 19.24 and Table 19-1 must be taken into account when planning the operation of a crane, or other equipment, close to overhead conductors. If the operation is planned, with due regard for environmental factors, the type of equipment, the capability of the operators, and movement on site so that no part of equipment, workers, or material comes within the stipulated distance, an assurance in writing under section 19.25(1) is not required.

Section 19.25 of the OHS Regulation does not apply merely when it is theoretically possible that a person or equipment could enter within the limits of approach of Table 19-1. Rather, it applies where both:

it is possible for a person or equipment to enter within the limits of approach, and
no systems are in place to ensure that this does not happen.

For instance, a tower crane may be positioned so that it is possible for the load line of the tower crane to travel within the limits of approach of a high voltage distribution line. However, the owner of the tower crane may put systems in place that prevent the tower crane from operating in an area that is in violation of the required limits of approach. In that case, section 19.25 does not apply.

Note that on construction sites, the electrical utility company in the area (for instance B.C. Hydro), is generally responsible for overhead conductors to the electrical service; contractors are generally responsible for electrical wiring and equipment at the electrical service throughout the job site. Electrical contractors are responsible to the electrical inspection authority having jurisdiction for the proper installation of the power distribution system on the job site as well as compliance with the OHS Regulation. In all cases, however, the owner of the power system is the electrical utility company.

Assurance in writing form
The "assurance in writing" form is generally referred to as a WCB form 30M33. The WCB form 30M33 is provided to and used by all power system owners in BC. It is currently the only assurance in writing form that is acceptable to the Board.

Generally, the 30M33 form only needs to be used when the requirements of section 19.25 of OHS Regulation apply to the work being performed. Generally the 30M33 form does not need to be used when the work is being performed in compliance with OHS Regulation sections 19.26, 19.27, 19.28 or 19.29. However, as part of the prior approval from the Board required by section 19.26, the Board may require that a 30M33 form be used.

Section 19.25(1) of the OHS Regulation requires that the 30M33 form be signed by the representative of the owner of the power system. The signature is an assurance that the safety precautions required by section 19.25 of the OHS Regulation have been performed by the utility. The signature of the representative of the utility owner is only an assurance that the work planned to be performed by the utility has been performed by the utility. The 30M33 is not an assurance by the utility that the safety procedures performed by the contractor are safe. A mechanically reproduced "approval", such as a rubber stamp, in lieu of a signature, is not acceptable.

The contractor has sole responsibility for their systems and procedures that are intended to allow the work to be performed safety.

The 30M33 form may also be used as a record of decisions between the utility and the contractor indicating what work will, or will not, be performed by the utility in advance of the work to be performed by the contractor.

Section 19.25 of the OHS Regulation applies to all workers who are not specially trained. Therefore, whenever the limits of approach contained in Table 19-1 cannot be maintained from the original or new location of the conductors, and any workers present do not meet the qualifications of sections 19.27, 19.28 or 19.29, then a 30M33 must be completed according to the instructions contained on the form.

Subsection 19.25(6) does not specifically require that the 30M33 forms be faxed to the Board. However, any party may send a copy of the 30M33 to the Board.

Hierarchy of requirements defined in sections 19.25(2)-19.25(3) of the OHS Regulation
Section 19.25(2) of the OHS Regulation states that if it is practicable, then the conductors must be displaced or rerouted so that the workers will not be working inside of the limits of approach specified in Table 19-1. If this option is practicable, then the other options listed in sections 19.25(3) and 19.25(4) are not available.

Section 19.25(3) of the OHS Regulation states that if it is not practicable to displace or reroute the conductors then the next available option, isolating and grounding the electrical conductors in their existing location, will be used. Once the conductors are isolated and grounded, there is no minimum limit of approach.

Visually identifying and guarding the electrical conductors under section 19.25(3) is only permissible if it is not practicable to displace or reroute the conductors or to isolate and ground the conductors. Merely visually identifying the conductors is not sufficient: electrically insulating or physical barrier guards must also be installed.

For conductors that are visually identified and electrically guarded, subsection 19.25(5) also applies.

Under sections 19.25(4) & (5) of OHS Regulation, the electrical hazard must be controlled by one of the previously listed methods before any untrained workers commence performing tasks that could place the untrained worker or their tools within the limits of approach specified in Table 19-1. Work performed according to the requirements of section 19.29 is not subject to the requirements of section 19.25.

Guarding Standards
Where conductors must be guarded, the following guarding practices are expected:

(a) up to 25 kV
- Highly visible coloured, such as orange or yellow, polyethylene covers 1/8" thick or ABS non-conducting covers; or a steel wire rope guard wire positioned such that contact with the conductor is restricted, and;
- Fluorescent-coloured flagging. (The fluorescent-coloured flagging is usually added to the guard wire.)

(b) from 25 kV to 60 kV
- guard wire, marked by bright coloured flagging, and suspended between a supplementary set of cross arms on the poles.

The above are intended to be "visible" guarding to create awareness of overhead lines. No contact with the guarding is permitted. The cover guarding is not to be considered as an insulator. Wires with integral insulation but not otherwise protected are not considered as guarded.

The visual identification flagging should be sufficient to keep the worker and equipment a minimum safe distance away from the hazardous contact point. The requirement to prevent workers or equipment from entering this safe distance from any area in which the worker is likely to pass or work, applies to general workers covered by OHS Regulation section 19.24 but not, for example, to qualified workers under OHS Regulation section 19.29.

Safety watcher
If the option of visual identification and electrical guarding is used, neither the limits of approach in Table 19-1 nor Table 19-2 apply. The limit of approach is that neither the equipment nor unqualified persons may touch the guarding or flagging (visual identification). Subsection 19.25(5) requires that a safety watcher or acceptable device must be designated to ensure that the guarding is not touched. Electrical guarding may provide some protection from electric shock in the event of brush contact but, because of site conditions, absolute assurance that no injury will occur cannot be given.

The safety watcher must be given authority to stop the movement of the equipment when circumstances are warranted. An effective means of communication must be established between the watcher and the equipment operator prior to commencement of work such that the stop signal is unambiguous.

When equipment is operated or intended to be operated in proximity to energized conductors or equipment, the hazard due to contact is prevalent while the equipment is in motion. Therefore, the safety watcher should focus on that motion. The safety watcher may perform other duties while the equipment is not moving. It is essential that the safety watcher is somebody other than the person controlling the movement of the equipment.

G19.26 Assurance not practicable

Issued June 29, 2005

Section 19.26 of the OHS Regulation states:

(1) If exposed high voltage electrical equipment and conductors cannot be isolated, rerouted or guarded, work must not be done within the minimum distance in Table 19-1 until approval is obtained from the Board and the following precautions are taken:

(a) the area within which equipment or materials are to be moved must be barricaded and supervised to restrict entry only to those workers necessarily engaged in the work;

(b) a safety watcher must be designated;

(c) a positive means must be provided for the safety watcher to give a clear, understandable stop signal to workers in the area, and the watcher must give the stop signal by no other means.

(2) While equipment is in motion in an area in proximity to energized electrical equipment or conductors, no person other than the equipment operator may touch any part of the equipment or the material being moved by it.

(3) No person may move a load or any rigging line from its position of natural suspension if it is in proximity to an energized electrical conductor or equipment.

If the workers are not specially trained and it is not possible to reroute, isolate or guard the conductors, then the work may still be permitted to be performed within the minimum distance in Table 19-1 if the requirements of section 19.26 are met. Section 19.26 requires prior approval from the Board and that specific precautions are taken. The purpose of this guideline is to outline some criteria that the Board considers when determining whether approval will be granted to work within the minimum distance in Table 19-1 under section 19.26.

Criteria considered in granting approval
In general, the Board considers the following criteria in determining whether it will grant approval to work within the minimum distance in Table 19-1:

Only necessary personnel shall be provided access to the restricted area in recognition of the hazards involved;
When equipment is operated in proximity to energized conductors or equipment, the hazard due to contact is prevalent while the equipment is in motion. Therefore, the safety watcher must focus on that motion;
An effective means of communication must be established between the watcher and the operator prior to commencement of work such that the stop signal is unambiguous;
The watcher must be given authority to stop the movement of the equipment when circumstances are warranted; and
No worker, not even the crane operator, is permitted at any time to move the rigging, suspension line or load from its position of natural suspension, while any part is within the limits of approach of Table 19-1. The crane operator may use the tag line to rotate the load about the suspension line. However, this must be done carefully so that the load is still suspended naturally. If it becomes necessary for an assisting worker to rotate the suspended load about the load line, then movement of the lifting equipment must be stopped. Once the suspended load has stopped, then an assisting worker may use a tag line to rotate the load about the load line. Once the load is rotated and the assisting worker has released the tag line and moved out of the danger area, then the equipment operator may resume moving the load with the crane.

Note: Before granting prior approval, the Board may impose restrictions that exceed those outlined in this guideline. For example:

The crane operator may be required to use a remote control that is not physically connected to the crane, and;
Assurance in writing (30M33) form may be required to be filled out to ensure that the work is coordinated with the electrical utility.

G19.27 Specially trained

Issued June 29, 2005

Section 19.27 of the OHS Regulation states:

(1) A worker who has taken a course of instruction approved by the Board may work up to the adjusted limits of approach in Table 19-2 when all the following conditions apply:

(a) the high voltage electrical equipment is energized to a potential of not more than 75kV;

(b) the Board has determined that rerouting, de-energizing or guarding of the equipment is not practicable for the type of work being performed;

(c) the work is not being done for the owner of the power system;

(d) the work is of a type that must be done regularly;

(e) the worker follows written safe work procedures acceptable to the Board.

(2) A qualified electrical worker may work closer than the limits specified in Table 19-2 provided the worker is authorized by the owner of the power system and uses procedures acceptable to the Board.

Table 19-2: Adjusted limits of approach

Voltage Minimum distance

Phase to phase Metres Feet

Over 750 V to 20kV 0.9 3

Over 20kV to 30kV 1.2 4

Over 30kV to 75kV 1.5 5

Table 19-2: Adjusted limits of approach
Voltage	Minimum distance
Phase to phase	Metres	Feet
Over 750 V to 20kV	0.9	3
Over 20kV to 30kV	1.2	4
Over 30kV to 75kV	1.5	5

The purpose of this guideline is to:

list situations for which the Board has determined that rerouting, de-energizing or guarding of the equipment is not practicable for the work being performed, under section 19.27(1)(b);
explain the process for submitting requests to the Board for a determination that rerouting, de-energizing or guarding of the equipment is not practicable under section 19.27(b) and for approval of written safe work procedures, under section 19.27(1)(e); and
highlight the distinctions between the requirements related to the adjusted limits of approach for workers, under section 19.27(1), and for qualified electrical workers, under section 19.27(2)

If a worker has taken a course of instruction approved by the Board, then they may be able to comply with section 19.27(1) and work up to the adjusted limits of approach in Table 19-2, without being a qualified electrical worker. It may be possible for work to be performed under section 19.27 of the OHS Regulation instead of sections 19.24, 19.25 or 19.26, if all of the workers involved have taken an appropriate course of instruction approved by the Board and the conditions under section 19.27(1) are met.

Examples of specified conditions under s. 19.27(1)(b)
Under section 19.27(1)(b), one of the conditions that must be met in order for a worker to be permitted to work up to the adjusted limits of approach in Table 19-2 is that the Board has determined that rerouting, de-energizing or guarding of the equipment is not practicable for the type of work being performed. The Board has determined that for the following types of work, it is not practicable to reroute, de-energize or guard the conductors:

Changing light bulbs, electrical components or suspension arms of street lights or traffic signals;
Installing, repairing, painting or removing street light poles or poles primarily intended to support street lights or traffic signals;
Installing, repairing, painting or removing poles primarily intended to support electric trolley lines; and
Moving houses or other large structures along public streets.

If an employer would like the Board to determine that rerouting, de-energizing or guarding of equipment is not practicable for additional types of work, then a request must be submitted to the Board prior to work commencing.

Requests for a determination of whether written safe work procedures are acceptable to the Board, under section 19.27(1)(e) of the OHS Regulation must also be submitted to the Board.

How to submit the requests for prior approval under s. 19.27
A request for approval under section 19.27(1) or 19.27(2) of OHS Regulation is to be submitted in writing to the Regulatory Practices Department, Program Design Division, and should include the following information, to allow for efficient processing:

A list of the types of work intended to be performed under OHS Regulation section 19.27.
An explanation for why the work must be done within the general limits of approach for energized equipment, as specified in Table 19-1.
Support for why it is impractical to reroute, de-energize or guard the conductors.
A copy of the written safe work procedures to be used by the workers.
A statement regarding whether the application is being made under section 19.27(1) or (2) of the OHS Regulation.
A statement regarding the qualifications of the affected workers.
A risk assessment showing how the proposed safe work procedures will provide effective protection to workers.
A description of how the matter has been discussed with representatives of the workers affected (those who will be doing the work), such as through their representatives on the health and safety committee. (Endorsement of the proposal by the health and safety committee and/or other worker representatives is a preferred means of showing this aspect has been effectively performed.)
The name, address and telephone number of a contact person who is familiar with the submission package and can be contacted by Board personnel for clarification of items in the submission and who can provide additional information, if necessary.

Requirements regarding the adjusted limits of approach for "workers" versus "qualified electrical workers"
"Qualified electrical workers" under section 19.27(2) are not necessarily bound by the adjusted limits of approach specified in Table 19-2, whereas the workers, under s. 19.27(1), who took the course of instruction approved by the Board, are. Qualified electrical workers who meet the requirements of s. 19.27(2) of the OHS Regulation are not subject to any minimum limit of approach.

The worker working up to the adjusted limits of approach under section 19.27(1) of the OHS Regulation is not required to be authorized by the owner of the power system. However, the qualified electrical workers who enter the adjusted limits of approach, under s. 19.27(2), are required to be authorized by the owner of the power system.

OHS Guideline G19.1-2 Electrical Qualifications, highlight the criteria to be used to determine whether a worker is a "qualified electrical worker" under section 19.27(2).

G19.28 Emergency work

Issued June 29, 2005

Section 19.28 of the OHS Regulation states:

(1) Sections 19.24 to 19.27 do not apply to emergency actions close to energized high voltage electrical equipment or conductors carried out by workers who have undergone a course of instruction approved by the Board.

(2) During emergency actions, all reasonable precautions must be taken to control the hazards including, where practicable,

(a) restricting entry into the area within which equipment or materials are to be moved to workers necessarily engaged in the work,

(b) designating a safety watcher,

(c) when equipment is in motion, preventing a person other than the equipment operator from touching any part of the equipment or the material being moved by it, and

(d) requiring the equipment operator to operate the controls from the seat provided on the equipment, or from a metal stand that is integral with the frame of the equipment and clear of the ground, or from a metallic mat bonded to the frame of the machine and located on the ground beside the machine.

The purposes of this guideline are: to clarify the expectations regarding the course of instruction required by workers under s. 19.28(1) of the OHS Regulation, and; highlight reasonable precautions that must be taken under s. 19.28(2), where practicable.

Course of instruction approved by the Board under s. 19.28(1)
Note that this section applies to first responders who have to rescue a person from an immediate threat. Workers who carry out emergency actions close to energized high voltage equipment or conductors are to have awareness of high voltage hazards and appropriate work procedures in proximity to such systems in order comply with section 19.28, and s. 115(2)(e) of the WCA. Specifically, an approved course certificate must be available from the workers for inspection by Board officers. The course may be provided by any agency acceptable to the Board.

Reasonable precautions to control hazards under section 19.28(2)
In addition to those precautions listed in subsection (2), the following are considered to be reasonable precautions to be taken to control the hazards that should be taken where practicable:

Only necessary personnel may be provided access to the restricted area in recognition of the hazards involved (see s. 19.28(2)(a);
When equipment is operated in proximity to energized conductors or equipment, the hazard due to contact is prevalent while the equipment is in motion. Therefore, the watcher must focus on that motion;
The watcher must be given authority to stop the movement of the equipment.
An effective means of communication must be established between the watcher and the operator prior to commencement of work such that the stop signal is unambiguous; and
Workers must be positioned so as not to become part of the current path to ground in the event of the equipment contacting energized components of the high voltage electrical system.

G19.29 Authorization by owner

Issued June 29, 2005; Editorial Revision June 6, 2006

Section 19.29 of the OHS Regulation states:

Qualified workers and workers under their direct supervision may work within the minimum distances to energized high voltage electrical equipment and conductors, as specified in Table 19-1 and Table 19-2, when authorized by the owner of the power system and using work procedures acceptable to the Board.

Section 19.29 of the OHS Regulation applies to qualified workers and workers under their direct supervision who are authorized by the owner of the power system. Even if these workers are not performing electrical work, they still need to be authorized by the owner of the power system and using work procedures acceptable to the Board, in order for them to be permitted to work within the minimum distances to the energized high voltage electrical equipment and conductors, specified in Table 19-1 and Table 19-2. There are no minimum limits of approach specified for these workers. Sections 19.24 to 19.28 do not apply to workers who qualify under section 19.29.

In order for workers to be under the direct supervision of the qualified workers, the qualified worker must have the authority to direct, limit or eliminate the scope of work performed by these workers. This generally means that the "workers under their direct supervision" are also employed by or contracted to the same employer as the qualified workers. The qualified worker must be in a location that allows constant surveillance of the other workers.

Section 19.29 of the OHS Regulation states that the work procedures must be acceptable to the Board. The Board must provide prior approval of these work procedures.

The decision on a request under OHS Regulation section 19.29 to determine whether work procedures are acceptable to the Board, will be made by one of the Board persons authorized to grant "prior approvals".

How to submit these requests
A request under OHS Regulation section 19.29 is to be submitted in writing to the Regulatory Practices Department, Worker and Employer Services Division, and should include the following information to allow for efficient processing.

The types of work intended to be performed under OHS Regulation section 19.29.
An explanation of why the work must be done within the normal limits of approach for energized equipment.
Evidential support for why it is impractical to reroute, de-energize or guard the conductors.
A written copy of the work procedures to be used by the workers.
A statement regarding the qualifications of the affected workers.
A risk assessment showing how the proposed safe work procedures will provide effective protection to workers.
A description on how the matter has been discussed with representatives of the workers affected (those who will be doing the work), such as through their representatives on the health and safety committee. (Endorsement of the proposal by the joint health and safety committee and/or other worker representatives is a preferred means of showing this aspect has been effectively done.)
The name, address and telephone number of a contact person who is familiar with the submission package and can be contacted by Board personnel for clarification of items in the submission and can provide additional information, if necessary.

Guidelines Part 19 - Tree pruning and falling near energized conductors

G19.30 Preliminary inspection

Issued August 1999

Section 19.30 of the OHS Regulation states:

(1) Before commencing tree pruning or falling close to energized high voltage overhead conductors, the worksite must be inspected by a qualified person, authorized by the owner of the power system, to identify any hazardous areas, including situations where any part of a tree to be pruned or felled is within the applicable minimum distance from an energized conductor as specified in Table 19-1, or may fall within that distance.

(2) Immediately before commencing work, an inspection must be performed by a qualified person to verify the results of the initial inspection done under subsection (1) are still valid.

Someone authorized by the owner of the power system must do the inspections. The power system owner will decide whom to authorize for this role and is responsible for ensuring only people who are qualified for the task are authorized.

This section provides for two inspections because there is often a time lag between the initial inspection for planning of the work and the actual start of the work. This lag may be several months. Growth of vegetation may cause areas not initially identified as "a hazardous area" now being considered hazardous. The purpose of the second inspection is to ensure all electrically hazardous areas are properly identified, so unqualified workers are not inadvertently dispatched or directed to work in electrically hazardous areas.

G19.34(5) Acceptable standard for insulated tools used by certified utility arborists

Preliminary issue November 18, 2009

Regulatory excerpt
Subsection 19.34(5) of the OHS Regulation ("Regulation") states:

An insulated tool acceptable to the Board may be used by a certified utility arborist

(a) up to the limit of approach in column A of Table 19-3, and

(b) from an insulated aerial device to remove vegetation closer than the limit of approach in column A of Table 19-3 up to but not touching an energized high voltage conductor of 75 kV or less.

Purpose of guideline
The purpose of this guideline is to specify criteria for acceptable insulated tools under subsection 19.34(5).

Acceptable insulated tools
Subsection 19.34(5) of the Regulation requires that insulated tools that are to be used up to the limits of approach or from an insulated aerial device be acceptable to WorkSafeBC. Insulated tools that meet the requirements of ASTM Standards on Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers are considered acceptable for the purposes of subsection 19.34(5). This compilation of standards includes specifications for a variety of electrical protective equipment, including but not limited to insulated and insulating hand tools, clampstick type live line tools, and measuring tools. The standards provide information on acceptance testing for insulated tools that are to be used for working on or near energized electrical apparatus or conductors.

G19.35 Tree pruning and falling equipment

Issued August 1999

Section 19.35(2) of the OHS Regulation states:

An insulated hand tool and insulated aerial device must be maintained in a clean condition and be dielectrically tested to a standard acceptable to the Board.

The BC Hydro standards for insulated equipment, and for dielectric testing of such equipment, are standards acceptable to the Board.

Guidelines Part 19 - Control systems

G19.36 Control systems - general requirements

Issued August 1999

Section 19.36 of the OHS Regulation, along with sections 19.37 to 19.40, applies to equipment, systems and processes controlled by a programmable logic controller or other computer system, including automated systems and remote control systems. These sections are not lockout procedures. Lockout requirements are covered by Part 10 of the OHS Regulation. Systems of this type require special consideration to ensure effective lockout procedures are implemented when required.

G19.36(1) Acceptable standard for control systems

Issued March 11, 2009

Regulatory excerpt
Section 19.36(1) of the OHS Regulation ("Regulation") states:

A control system must be designed, installed, operated and maintained in accordance with a standard acceptable to the Board.

Purpose of guideline
The purpose of this guideline is to specify an acceptable standard for control systems under section 19.36(1).

Acceptable standard for control systems
BS EN ISO 13849: 2006 Safety of machinery - Safety-related parts of control systems, as updated from time to time, is considered to be an acceptable standard under section 19.36(1) of the Regulation.

In some cases, control systems will meet a standard other than BS EN ISO 13849: 2006. In these cases, an application can be made to WorkSafeBC to have this alternate standard accepted.

Guidelines Part 19 - Electrofishing

G19.41 Electrofishing - Ensuring worker training and knowledge

Issued: September 28, 2005

Regulatory excerpt
Section 19.41 of the OHS Regulation states:

The employer must ensure that

(a) only certified workers trained in a course acceptable to the Board conduct electrofishing operations,

(b) workers are provided with a statement of their responsibilities and written safe work procedures, and

(c) workers are trained in and are knowledgeable of their responsibilities and work procedures.

Purpose of guideline
The purpose of this guideline is to provide recommendations for employers to use as means of ensuring that workers are trained in and knowledgeable of their responsibilities and work procedures under section 19.41(c) of the OHS Regulation.

Responsibility of the employer
Section 19.41(c) places the responsibility directly on the employer to ensure that workers are trained in and knowledgeable of their responsibilities and work procedures. Although a worker may have valid electrofishing certification under section 19.41(a), employers and representatives of the employers (i.e. crew supervisors) need to ensure the ongoing competence of the electrofishing operators in their employ.

Changes in electrofishing operations
A wide range of changes related to electrofishing operations typically occurs over a given time period. Certified electrofishing operators need to keep up-to-date on such information as:

changes in regulations governing electrofishing practitioners; for example, as set by fisheries regulatory agencies;
changes in electrical safety requirements for certification of electrofishing units; and
new safety features for electrofishing equipment.

For certified workers to remain knowledgeable of their responsibilities and work procedures, they may need to receive refresher training periodically.

Demonstrating worker training in and knowledge of responsibilities and safe work procedures
To demonstrate compliance with section 19.41(c), employers should document how workers have received training and demonstrated knowledge of applicable responsibilities and work procedures. Appropriate means for ensuring this include:

holding regular safety review meetings (i.e., annual, monthly and trip-specific, including 'tailgates') to remind certified electrofishing operators of safe work procedures and equipment safety features. It is recommended that employers have workers sign a form indicating the sort of information that has been reviewed at these meetings;
checking, on a regular basis, how workers conduct inspections of electrofishing equipment to ensure it is safe and in proper working order; and
recertification of workers, where appropriate.

Records of these activities should be kept in a central and accessible location for future reference by safety personnel (internal or external) as a means to maintain an effective training program, and in the event of an inspection or accident investigation.

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Disclaimer: The Worker and Employer Services Division issues Guidelines to help with the application and interpretation of sections of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation and with divisions of the Workers Compensation Act that relate to health and safety. Guidelines are not intended to provide exclusive interpretations but to assist with compliance. WorkSafeBC ("Workers' Compensation Board of B.C.") does not warrant the accuracy or the completeness of the online version of the Guidelines and neither WorkSafeBC nor its board of directors, employees or agents shall be liable to any persons for any loss or damage of any nature, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, which may be occasioned as a result of the use of the online version of the Guidelines.

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Guidelines Part 19

Guidelines Part 19 Contents

GENERAL ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

WORKING ON LOW VOLTAGE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

WORKING ON HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

WORKING CLOSE TO ENERGIZED HIGH VOLTAGE EQUIPMENT AND CONDUCTORS

TREE PRUNING AND FALLING NEAR ENERGIZED CONDUCTORS

CONTROL SYSTEMS

ELECTROFISHING

Guidelines Part 19 - General electrical requirements

G19.1-1 Electrical Safety Act repealed

G19.1-2 Electrical qualifications

G19.8(1) Standards acceptable to the Board

G19.9 Insulated aerial device

Guidelines Part 19 - Working on low voltage electrical equipment

G19.12 Working close to energized equipment

G19.15(1) Ground fault circuit interrupters and other acceptable means

Guidelines Part 19 - Working on high voltage electrical equipment

G19.16-1 Isolation and lockout

G19.16-2 Appropriate electrical protective equipment - Standards acceptable to WorkSafeBC

Guidelines Part 19 - Working close to energized high voltage equipment and conductors

G19.24 Minimum clearance

G19.25 Assurance in writing

G19.26 Assurance not practicable

G19.27 Specially trained

G19.28 Emergency work

G19.29 Authorization by owner

Guidelines Part 19 - Tree pruning and falling near energized conductors

G19.30 Preliminary inspection

G19.34(5) Acceptable standard for insulated tools used by certified utility arborists

G19.35 Tree pruning and falling equipment

Guidelines Part 19 - Control systems

G19.36 Control systems - general requirements

G19.36(1) Acceptable standard for control systems

Guidelines Part 19 - Electrofishing

G19.41 Electrofishing - Ensuring worker training and knowledge