Environment and Occupational Health
This domain tests environmental responsibility and occupational health and safety in electrical work. The exam covers e-waste, energy efficiency, hazard identification, risk assessment, PPE, lockout/tagout, fire safety and first aid.
Core rules
- E-waste contains metals, plastics and hazardous substances. Store it separately and send it to authorised recyclers. Burning cable or electronic waste releases toxic fumes.
- Risk = likelihood × severity. Control measures follow the hierarchy: eliminate, substitute, engineer, administrate, then use PPE.
- Lockout/tagout prevents unexpected energisation during maintenance. Only the person who applied the lock should remove it under the permit procedure.
- Electrical fires need a CO₂ or dry-powder extinguisher. Never use water on live electrical equipment.
- Use gloves, insulated tools, safety shoes and eye protection as the task requires. Keep workplaces ventilated and ergonomically arranged.
Worked example
A damaged extension lead has exposed live conductors near a walkway. Likelihood of contact is high and severity is serious, so the risk is high. The correct action is to isolate and remove the lead immediately, replace it, and route the new lead away from the walkway. A warning sign alone would not be an adequate control.
Traps
Do not burn e-waste or PVC insulation. Do not use water on an electrical fire. Do not rely on PPE as the first control. Do not remove another worker's lockout tag. Do not ignore near misses.