Site Safe Electrical Safety on Construction Sites

Question 1

What does RCD stand for in the context of electrical safety on NZ construction sites?

Accepted Answer

Residual Current Device

Answer

RCD stands for Residual Current Device, which detects imbalances in electrical current and cuts power within milliseconds to prevent electrocution.

Question 2

How often must portable electrical tools be tested and tagged on a NZ construction site?

Accepted Answer

Every 3 months

Answer

On construction sites in NZ, portable electrical equipment must be tested and tagged every 3 months (quarterly) due to the high-risk environment.

Question 3

What is the minimum safe approach distance for non-electrical workers near overhead power lines up to 33kV in NZ?

Accepted Answer

4 metres

Answer

WorkSafe NZ requires a minimum approach distance of 4 metres from overhead power lines up to 33kV for non-electrical workers to account for line sag and movement.

Question 4

Who is legally permitted to perform electrical work on a NZ construction site?

Accepted Answer

A Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW)

Answer

Only a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW) is permitted to carry out electrical work in New Zealand under the Electricity Act 1992.

Question 5

What should you do immediately if you accidentally strike an underground cable while excavating?

Accepted Answer

Stop work, move everyone away, and call the network operator

Answer

If you strike an underground cable, you must immediately stop work, move everyone away from the area, and contact the network operator as the cable may remain live.

Site Safe Practice Test

Site Safe Practice Test

Site Safe Electrical Safety on Construction Sites