Workplace Communication
Domain 12 - Workplace Communication. This domain tests the records, reports and spoken exchanges that keep a distribution network safe and accountable.
What good communication looks like
- Fault reports carry the 24-hour time, date, feeder name, pole or span number, nature of the fault, action taken and the name of the reporter.
- Switching instructions are repeated back word for word before being executed, then recorded in the log book with the time of operation.
- The shift handover covers the network state, open permits, de-energised sections, pending complaints and material issued.
- Consumer complaints are logged with the complaint number, address, telephone number and committed restoration time, and the consumer is informed if the time slips.
- Tool-box talks before work restate the hazard, the isolation point, the escape route and each person's task.
Worked example
At 14:32 the 11 kV Kotla feeder tripped. The patrol found a snapped conductor in span 46 near pole 23. The report should read: '14:32, 11 kV Kotla feeder tripped on overcurrent; patrolling found conductor snapped in span 46 near pole 23; feeder isolated, AB switch opened, permit applied for; material required - 30 m Rabbit, two PG clamps; estimated restoration 18:00.' This tells the control room what happened, what is being done and what is needed, without vague phrases like 'some problem in the line'.
Traps
- Passing switching instructions verbally with no repeat-back and no log entry.
- Using 'yesterday' or 'morning' instead of clock time.
- Reporting a fault without the pole or span number, forcing a second patrol.
- Recording opinions rather than observations in the log book.