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Using safety observers
Where live work is being conducted that is not testing electrical equipment, it is mandatory to have a safety observer.
Where the work involves testing electrical equipment, a safety observer may not be required; however a risk assessment may indicate the need for a safety observer.
A safety observer is required for testing electrical equipment work where the risk assessment shows there is a high risk to electrical safety in performing the testing work.
The safety observer (electrical) is there to:
- warn workers of danger;
- perform rescue and resuscitation, if needed; and
- stop work before risks become too high.
The safety observer (electrical) should not:
- carry out work that compromises the role of observation;
- have to observe more than one task at a time;
- be situated in the work basket of an elevating work platform; or
- be regarded as the sole control measure to ensure electrical safety.
Refer to Section 6.3.4 of the Code of Practice for more details on safety observer (electrical).
Read more information on safety observer zones.
Last updated 22 July 2009
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