Work safely in the Utilities Environment
URN: EUSSM001
Business Sectors (Suites): Smart Metering
Developed by: Energy & Utility Skills
Approved on:
2024
Overview
This standard is about working safely in the Utilities Environment. It can be applied in any environment within the Energy and Utilities Sector.
To meet this standard you will demonstrate you can:
• work with people from other trades to complete activities
• communicate effectively with colleagues and customers
• reduce risks through monitoring, checking information and complying with relevant rules and regulations.
You will be expected to work with minimal supervision, taking personal responsibility for your own actions and for the quality and accuracy of the work carried out.
This standard is suitable for anyone working in the Utilities Sector.
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
- use available information to identify the location of where work needs to be carried out
- communicate the planned work activity to all affected parties in accordance with organisational policies and procedures
- select, inspect and wear relevant personal protective equipment for completing work activities in line with organisational policies and procedures
- carry out a site-specific risk assessment of the work, identifying hazards and the required control measures
- apply the control measures necessary to meet safety requirements for the work activity
- carry out a pre-use inspection of the tools and equipment to be used, checking condition and service information
- work safely at all times in accordance with relevant industry standards, legislation, regulations and advisory safety signs and labels
- maintain a tidy workplace with exits and gangways free from obstruction
- follow suppliers’ and manufacturers’ instructions for the safe use of equipment, materials and products
- report unavailable or defective tools, equipment and resources to the relevant organisational contact
- handle and dispose of waste materials in accordance with legislative and organisational procedures, where appropriate
- use safe and correct lifting and carrying techniques when moving tools equipment or materials
- store tools and equipment safely and securely, leaving the work area in a safe condition in accordance with organisational procedures
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
- the principles of health and safety in the workplace, environmental legislation and relevant regulations
- your organisation’s safety rules, policies, procedures and authorisation processes in relation to working safely, including procedures for recording updated information
- who to contact when assistance is needed
- how to carry out a risk assessment, identify hazards and assess risks of the site and proposed activity
- the control measures that can be used to eliminate and reduce hazards
- the hazards associated with work on or near gas and electrical systems and equipment and how to deal with them
- the relevant warning signs and seven main groups of hazardous substances defined by Classification, Packaging and Labelling of Dangerous Substances Regulations
- the correct personal protective equipment for the work and how to select , inspect and use this
- the dangers of gas and electricity and how an electric shock can be received including: direct contact, induced voltage and arcing
- how to respond in the event of an emergency situation in the workplace including; the first aid facilities that exist, alarm sounding procedures and evacuation procedure
- when to act on your own initiative and when to seek help and advice from others
- how to identify the potential dangers of existing electrical installation and faulty electrical tools and equipment, including:
- the potential electrical dangers on construction sites, in business and private properties
- signs of damaged or worn electrical cables, power tools and property hard wiring systems
- signs of visual faults in electrical components
- trailing cables
- the proximity of cables to any service pipework and meter installation
- buried and hidden cables
- how to identify appropriate measures to be taken when working at heights in accordance with organisational procedures
- the appropriate measures to be taken when working in confined spaces in accordance with organisational procedures
- how to handle and dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste materials
- how to leave the work area secure and the importance of doing so
Scope/range
Scope Performance
Scope Knowledge
Values
Behaviours
Skills
Glossary
Links To Other NOS
External Links
Version Number
2
Indicative Review Date
2027
Validity
Current
Status
Original
Originating Organisation
Energy & Utility Skills
Original URN
EUSSM001
Relevant Occupations
Electrical Engineers, Electrical Maintenance Technician, Electrical Trades, Engineering Technicians, Gas Team Leaders, Craftspersons and Technicians, Power Craftsperson
SOC Code
Keywords
safety, smart, meter, gas, power