Do I need a SWMS for every electrical, HVAC or solar installation job?
Yes, under Australian WHS regulations, high-risk construction work (which includes electrical work, installation of services in construction, and work at heights) requires a documented Safe Work Method Statement before work begins. This applies to both new installations and maintenance work where high-risk activities are involved. The SWMS must be prepared before work starts, must be specific to the work and location, and must be kept on site and available to workers and inspectors. Each project may require a unique SWMS or you can adapt a template to the specific site conditions, but you cannot commence high-risk electrical, HVAC or solar work without having a compliant SWMS in place.
What qualifications do workers need for electrical and solar SWMS work?
Workers must hold appropriate electrical licences issued by state/territory regulatory authorities to perform electrical work. Solar installers require Clean Energy Council accreditation and Grid Connect Licence. HVAC technicians need refrigerant handling licences (ARCtick licence) to work with refrigeration systems. For work at heights (common in solar and air conditioning installation), workers should have Working at Heights training. Additional qualifications may include confined space entry training for work in roof cavities, First Aid certification, and specific manufacturer training for complex systems. All licensing and training records must be current and verifiable. Unlicensed persons cannot perform electrical connection work, even under supervision.
How do I ensure electrical isolation is done correctly?
Electrical isolation must follow a documented Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedure that forms part of your SWMS. The correct sequence is: identify the power source, notify affected parties, isolate the circuit at the switchboard or isolator, lock the isolation point with a personal safety lock, attach a danger tag with your details, test the circuit with a voltage tester to confirm it is de-energised, and only then begin work. Never rely on another person's tag or lock. Each worker must apply their own isolation device. Before re-energising, remove all tools and equipment, remove your personal tag and lock, notify all workers, and test that the circuit operates correctly. For complex systems or high-voltage work, additional isolation verification procedures may be required. Always assume circuits are live until proven otherwise with proper testing.
What PPE is required for electrical, HVAC and solar work?
Personal protective equipment requirements vary based on the specific task and electrical hazard level. Standard requirements include safety boots with electrical hazard rating, hard hat (for construction sites), safety glasses, and high-visibility clothing. For electrical work, insulated gloves rated for the voltage level, insulated tools, and arc-rated clothing may be required, particularly for live work or high-voltage systems. Solar installation requires fall arrest harnesses and lanyards when working at heights, with appropriate anchor points. HVAC work may require respiratory protection when handling refrigerants, heat-resistant gloves for brazing, and hearing protection for noisy environments. All PPE must comply with relevant Australian Standards, be properly fitted, regularly inspected, and replaced when damaged. Arc flash studies determine specific arc-rated PPE requirements for switchboard work.
Are there specific requirements for solar installation SWMS?
Yes, solar installation SWMS must address multiple specific hazards beyond general electrical work. These include working at heights on residential and commercial roofs (requiring fall protection plans and edge protection), structural assessment of roofs to ensure they can support worker weight and panel loads, management of DC electrical hazards (which cannot be isolated the same way as AC), protection from arc flash during commissioning, heat stress management when working on exposed roofs, manual handling of panels and mounting equipment, and coordination with grid connection requirements. Ground-based solar farms have additional considerations including working near overhead power lines, traffic management for large sites, and civil works hazards. Your SWMS must specify installation sequences, testing procedures, rescue plans for workers at heights, and emergency shutdown procedures. Clean Energy Council accreditation requires documented safety management systems that align with SWMS requirements.
