Policy Statement
The Electrical Safety Policy aims to minimise the risks associated with the use of electrical equipment and systems within Oil Analysis Laboratories. This policy outlines the procedures for safe operation, maintenance, and handling of electrical devices, with special emphasis on dielectric breakdown and resistivity.
Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and interns working at Oil Analysis Laboratories who interact with electrical systems and equipment.
Objectives
- To ensure the health and safety of all staff involved in the use of electrical equipment.
- To comply with health and safety regulations concerning electrical safety.
- To maintain the integrity and reputation of Oil Analysis Laboratories.
Procedures
General Electrical Safety
- Training: Provide comprehensive training on electrical safety, including electric shock and fire risks.
- Equipment Inspection: Regularly inspect electrical equipment for wear and tear, and remove any faulty equipment from service immediately.
Double-Earthing
- Double-Earthing: Ensure that systems with high voltage are double-earthed to provide an additional layer of safety. This includes but is not limited to resistivity and dielectric breakdown testers and should be done by a trained electrician.
- Remote isolation – in cirmcustances where access during an emergency may not be freely available to turn off a device, then the use of remote isolation not only by circuit breakers, but also by smart switches should be used to remotely disconnect power to an item or instrument in the lab.
Safe Handling Techniques
- Off first: any electrical maintenance should only be performed when the entire circuit or the insturment itself is isolated by e.g. turning off and pulling the plug for at least 1 minute before commencing work.
- Mandatory testing – all electrical equipment should be compliant and tested in accordance with UK law and HSE recommendations.
- Red marking and taping – any instrument needing electrical repair should be marked as out of action with a red label and the circuit breaker point / plug point should be taped with out of action whilst any electrical work done to avoid accidential turning back on of any electrical supply during maintenance.
Reporting and Communication
- Incident Reporting: Any electrical incidents, including near misses, must be reported immediately as per the near miss policy.
- Power shutdowns: any power shutdowns that are planned should be communicated internally so that any other machinery, instruments or computers sharing the same circuit may be turned off to prevent damage to other instruments sharing the same circuit. Emergency backup power should be disabled to these circuits at these points.
By adhering to this Electrical Safety Policy, Oil Analysis Laboratories aims to ensure the health and safety of all staff, while also complying with relevant health and safety regulations.