Updated electrical safety standard

An updated version of AS/NZS 3012 Electrical installations—Construction and demolition sites, has been released. 

AS/NZS 3012:2010 sets the requirements for the electrical safety of installations that are used to provide electrical power for construction and demolition work.  This new version supersedes the 2003 version.

The main differences between the 2010 version and the 2003 version include:

• new maximum allowable lengths apply for flexible extension leads used with equipment where safety is dependant on reliable starting of motors such as motors that may draw high starting currents;
• the use of domestic-type double adaptors and multi-plug adaptors is clearly prohibited;
• the inspection and tests on construction wiring and some of the tests on isolated winding generators must now be carried out by a person authorised to carry out the electrical installation work required, e.g., a licensed electrician;
• a requirement to protect temporary construction wiring against mechanical damage by use of insulating conduit, flexible electrical hose, armoured cable or equivalent means;
• a requirement for energized permanent wiring to be identified and assessed for risk of damage from construction activities.

Copies of this standard are available from the SAI Global website:  http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store/default.aspx