Regulatory Framework and Licensing Requirements
Core concepts
Understand the regulatory framework governing electrical work in NSW, including the role of the relevant regulator, the licensing scheme for electricians, and the requirements for supervision of apprentices and unlicensed workers. Know the obligations for certificates of compliance, notification of electrical work, and record keeping. Understand the requirements for testing and verification before energising, and the consequences of performing unlicensed work.
Traps in questions
Questions often test who may perform electrical work and under what supervision, and whether a certificate of compliance is required for a particular job. Candidates confuse the roles of the regulator and the network operator. Another trap is whether a licence is required for work on extra-low voltage systems or for replacing a light switch. Be careful with the difference between a licence and a registration, and with the requirement to notify certain work.
Worked example
An electrician completes a new final subcircuit. Before energising, the electrician verifies the installation, completes the required testing, and issues a certificate of compliance. The certificate records the work performed, the tests carried out, and the results. The work is then notified as required by the regulator.
Rule of thumb
Electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician or under appropriate supervision, and must be verified and certified before it is energised.