Work safely in the Utilities Environment

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.

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1. use available information to identify the location of where work needs to be carried out
2. communicate the planned work activity to all affected parties in accordance with organisational policies and procedures
3. select, inspect and wear relevant personal protective equipment for completing work activities in line with organisational policies and procedures
4. carry out a site-specific risk assessment of the work, identifying hazards and the required control measures
5. apply the control measures necessary to meet safety requirements for the work activity
6. carry out a pre-use inspection of the tools and equipment to be used, checking condition and service information
7. work safely at all times in accordance with relevant industry standards, legislation, regulations and advisory safety signs and labels
8. maintain a tidy workplace with exits and gangways free from obstruction
9. follow suppliers’ and manufacturers’ instructions for the safe use of equipment, materials and products
10. report unavailable or defective tools, equipment and resources to the relevant organisational contact
11. handle and dispose of waste materials in accordance with legislative and organisational procedures, where appropriate
12. use safe and correct lifting and carrying techniques when moving tools equipment or materials
13. store tools and equipment safely and securely, leaving the work area in a safe condition in accordance with organisational procedures

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1. the principles of health and safety in the workplace, environmental legislation and relevant regulations
2. your organisation’s safety rules, policies, procedures and authorisation processes in relation to working safely, including procedures for recording updated information
3. who to contact when assistance is needed
4. how to carry out a risk assessment, identify hazards and assess risks of the site and proposed activity
5. the control measures that can be used to eliminate and reduce hazards
6. the hazards associated with work on or near gas and electrical systems and equipment and how to deal with them
7. the relevant warning signs and seven main groups of hazardous substances defined by Classification, Packaging and Labelling of Dangerous Substances Regulations
8. the correct personal protective equipment for the work and how to select , inspect and use this
9. the dangers of gas and electricity and how an electric shock can be received including: direct contact, induced voltage and arcing
10. 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
11. when to act on your own initiative and when to seek help and advice from others
12. how to identify the potential dangers of existing electrical installation and faulty electrical tools and equipment, including:
    1. the potential electrical dangers on construction sites, in business and private properties
    2. signs of damaged or worn electrical cables, power tools and property hard wiring systems
    3. signs of visual faults in electrical components
    4. trailing cables
    5. the proximity of cables to any service pipework and meter installation
    6. buried and hidden cables
13. how to identify appropriate measures to be taken when working at heights in accordance with organisational procedures
14. the appropriate measures to be taken when working in confined spaces in accordance with organisational procedures
15. how to handle and dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste materials
16. how to leave the work area secure and the importance of doing so

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2

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31 Mar 2027

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Current

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Original

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Energy & Utility Skills

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EUSSM001

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Electrical Engineers, Electrical Maintenance Technician, Electrical Trades, Engineering Technicians, Gas Team Leaders, Craftspersons and Technicians, Power Craftsperson

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safety, smart, meter, gas, power

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