Roles of a 1X non-electrically qualified workers

What is Happening?

Essential Energy would like to clarify the role of non-electrically qualified person(s) that are authorised under the Class 1X. We have seen an increase of reported occurrences where Class 1X personnel have constructed network assets and worked unsupervised on contestable projects.

Essential Energy recognises the need for Class 1X personnel to engage in trade assistant work and/or general labourer tasks on contestable projects. It’s important to note Class 1X Competent Assistants and Plant Operators are not qualified to undertake the construction of network assets. Their role is limited and must only provide assistance to qualified and authorised person(s) during the construction of network assets.

Class 1X Non-Electrically Qualified Person(s) are Authorised under these Classes:

• Competent Assistant (Groundline / Ladder / EWP)
• Plant Operator
• Apprentice Powerline Worker / Apprentice Cable Jointer / Apprentice Electrician.

Class 1X apprentices are encouraged to assist with the construction of network assets under the supervision of qualified & authorised personnel. The level of supervision required shall be determined by the ASP and should be based on the level of workplace experience and exposure to the task being performed.

Please note that only qualified and authorised personnel with authorisation Class(s) 1A, 1B or 1C undertake the construction of network assets and the attendance of a qualified and authorised person(s) relevant to the work being performed must always be on-site.

Class 1X Competent Assistants / Plant Operators working on or near the network are prohibited from:

• Performing work on a pole or structure supporting energised HV or LV electrical apparatus
• Work greater than two metres aloft on any network structure or network asset
• Making and/or breaking electrical connections (including earth grids)
• Carrying out testing on electrical apparatus.

Where it is suspected that Class 1X personnel have performed prohibited tasks, Essential Energy will commence an investigation into the matter. This may result in temporary suspension of the ASP’s company, cancellation of project connections and network assets to be reinstalled by appropriately qualified and authorised personnel.

What do you need to do?

1. Communicate this information to relevant members of your organisation.

Further Information

1. If you need further information, please email aspinfo@essentialenergy.com.au.