High School

Produce risk assessments and Method Statements/Standard Operation Procedures (SOP) to reduce the risk of harm while working on two different pieces of electrical apparatus, as specified below. Include a permit to work with the Transformer Task.

a) Step Down Transformer 415V to 230V
b) Single Phase Motor (either a capacitive start or a shaded pole motor)
c) Three Phase Squirrel Cage Motor

Your Risk Statement and Method Statement/SOP should address:
- Isolation
- Safe Isolation
- Method of confirming correct control unit is being locked off
- Switch off
- Lock off
- Communication and notices

Your two investigations should detail:
- Hazard Evaluation
- Recording of risk
- Controlling risk
- PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
- Working environment for an on-site fault-finding investigation
- Removal of unit to the workshop for repair and subsequent re-installation

Answer :

To address the question regarding risk assessments and Method Statements/Standard Operation Procedures (SOP) for electrical apparatus tasks, we need to detail comprehensive procedures for both the apparatus mentioned: Step Down Transformer and Single Phase Motor or Three Phase Squirrel Cage Motor.

Part A: Step Down Transformer (415V to 230V)

Risk Assessment

  1. Hazard Evaluation:

    • Electric shock from live circuits.
    • Burns from hot surfaces.
    • Mechanical hazards during transportation.
  2. Recording of Risk:

    • Document potential exposure to live parts during maintenance.
    • Identify the risk of injury from transformers malfunctioning.
  3. Controlling Risk:

    • Ensure the transformer is de-energized before any work begins.
    • Use insulated tools and PPE (personal protective equipment) such as gloves and goggles.
    • Employ qualified personnel for inspection.
  4. PPE:

    • Insulating gloves, face shields, and flame-resistant clothing.
  5. Working Environment:

    • Maintain a dry and clean area around the transformer.
    • Proper lighting and ventilation.

Method Statement/SOP

  1. Isolation and Safe Isolation:

    • Isolate the power supply by switching off at the main control panel.
    • Verify isolation with a voltage tester.
  2. Method of Confirming Correct Control Unit is Being Locked Off:

    • Use lockout devices on the breaker and attach a tag with information.
    • Ensure it is secured with a lock and only authorized personnel hold the key.
  3. Switch Off and Lock Off:

    • Switch off the transformer.
    • Apply a padlock to the switchgear to prevent unauthorized access.
  4. Communication and Notices:

    • Place warning signs and notices indicating maintenance work is in progress.

Permit to Work

  • Issue a Permit to Work (PTW) that details authorized personnel, scope of work, and duration.

Part B: Single Phase Motor or Three Phase Squirrel Cage Motor

Risk Assessment

  1. Hazard Evaluation:

    • Risk of shock from live wires.
    • Mechanical injury during maintenance.
  2. Recording of Risk:

    • Log potential hazards related to electrical faults.
    • Document previous maintenance issues for reference.
  3. Controlling Risk:

    • Ensure all power sources are de-energized.
    • Perform regular inspection and maintenance.
  4. PPE:

    • Electrical safety boots, gloves, and protective eyewear.
  5. Working Environment:

    • Ensure a clean, organized workspace with no clutter.

Method Statement/SOP

  1. Isolation and Safe Isolation:

    • De-energize the motor using the local isolator and confirm with voltage detectors.
  2. Method of Confirming Correct Control Unit is Being Locked Off:

    • Lock out the isolator and tag it with maintenance details.
  3. Switch Off and Lock Off:

    • Use tags on all relevant switches to alert personnel.
  4. Communication and Notices:

    • Notify relevant personnel and display signage.

On-Site Fault Finding, Removal to Workshop, and Re-installation

  1. Fault Finding:

    • Use diagnostic tools to identify issues.
    • Follow SOP for safe testing procedures.
  2. Removal to Workshop:

    • Ensure motor and wiring are safely removed and transported.
  3. Re-installation:

    • Reverse the removal process using detailed SOP guidelines.

By following these detailed SOPs and risk assessments, the risk of harm is minimized, ensuring a safe working environment for electrical apparatus tasks.