CHANGING LIGHT GLOBESand WORKING WITH ELECTRICITY

Purpose

This safe work practice (SWP) has been written to train and inform employees in the safe process of changing light globes and handling other electrical items. Only trained employees in this SWP should change a light globe.

Procedure

Caution!

Working with electricity is a dangerous and potentially lethal practice. If not handled correctly it may cause electrocution, burns or serious harm.Improper use of electricity can cause death.

People can be shocked by coming in to direct contact with electricity through exposed or live electrical components, or by handling faulty electrical appliances or equipment. In most instances, we are protected from shock by insulation, switches or guards.

  1. To change a light globe or before you move, inspect or handle electrical equipment or appliances, switch off or isolate the electricity at the source, e.g. turn of a lamp at the power point before changing a light globe. For ceiling lights, you must ensure that the light switch or circuit is turned off. This is your best way of avoiding an electric shock.
  2. Check electrical equipment, cords and attachments before each use. Ensure they are clean and not damaged.
  3. Report damaged equipment promptly.It may have to be isolated or removed from service until repaired. Damaged or broken equipment or light fittings will have to be inspected by a licensed electrician.
  4. Only licensed electricians are permitted to carry out electrical work where a connection to the mains power is required, e.g. installing ceiling lights. In certain circumstances, an electrician may be required to repair or test faulty equipment, inspect circuit boards following an incident or power failure, or even change certain types of light globes.
  5. For I.T. equipment and computer matters, shut them down before handling cables. Contact I.T.to discuss the steps.

  1. Ensure that Residual Current Devices or ‘safety switches’ are installed on circuit boards.
  2. Routinely test and tag portable electrical devices and safety switches. To help prevent electric shock, portable electrical appliances and equipment must be tested and tagged according to the Aus/NZ standard. Check these details with the Property Team.
  3. If using a ladder to change a light globe, the ladder user must be trained in the Safe Work Practice for ladders and have met the requirements of the Working at Height Permit.
  4. If you are changing the globe of a ceiling light, or carrying out tasks at height where electricity is present, you must only use a fibreglass ladder with an industrial rating of 120kg or above.

  1. If using a ladder to change a light globe, personal protective equipment (PPE) is required. Suitable fully enclosed shoes, gloves and safety eye glasses are required when changing light globes to avoid injury from the possibility of glass breaking or burns to hands.Be aware that light globes may be hot. Allow to cool before touching.
  2. When changing a light globe, be aware that that there may be reduced visibility (subject to availability of light source).
  3. Avoid using equipment in wet conditions or where water is present and avoid interruptions when working with electricity and use caution.

I acknowledge that I have read and understand the above procedures and requirements and agree to abide by them at all times.

Signed: ______Date: ______

Print Name: ______

Page 1 of 2 Version date: July 2015