Method statement for safe electrical isolation
A safe-electrical-isolation method statement must identify every supply and energy source, the correct isolation point and the sequence for lock-off, proving dead, work and reinstatement. Electric shock, arc flash, inadvertent energisation, backfeeds and stored energy are foreseeable hazards. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require precautions against danger and competence appropriate to the work. Isolation and verification must be carried out by a competent person using suitable, maintained test equipment; live work is exceptional and needs separate legal justification. Prove the voltage indicator on a known source before and after testing the circuit, retain personal control of lock-off keys, and confirm equipment covers and people are clear before authorised re-energisation.
- ✓5 steps from preparation to completion
- ✓Covers: 3 key hazards and their controls
- ✓Permits: electrical permit to work where required
In short
A method statement sets out how a task will be carried out safely, step by step: preparation, set-up, the work itself and completion, with the plant, permits, competence and supervision needed. It puts the controls identified in the risk assessment into a safe system of work.
What it must include
- ✓Task description, location and duration
- ✓Step-by-step sequence of works
- ✓Plant, equipment and materials
- ✓Permits and isolations required
- ✓Competence, training and supervision
- ✓PPE and emergency arrangements
You stay the duty holder: review the document for your site before work starts. SitePaper is a drafting tool, not a consultancy.