By Mr Desmond LAU 
The CV Division, the Hong Kong Institute of Utility Surveyors and the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (Hong Kong Branch) jointly organised a technical meeting entitled Code of Practice (CoP) on Working near Electricity Supply Lines 2005 Edition for Frontline Construction Workers and Safety Officers on 17 October 2005. The speaker was Ir Steven Chow from Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD).

Construction activities inevitably involve some underground (U/G) works, such as excavation in the vicinity of U/G cables and overhead (O/H) works, using cranes or hoists near O/H electricity lines. However, some of the safety aspects in these construction activities may be overlooked. In order to further reduce personal injuries and property damage, the old version of CoP which had been used for some time, had to be revised. The new CoP (2005 Edition) has been released with effect from 1 October 2005.

Under the new CoP, the responsibilities of the working party (WP), electricity suppliers (ES), and competent persons (CP) are clearly defined. WP is responsible for executing the safety system of work comprising two key elements - reasonable measures to ensure safety and reasonable steps appropriate to the nature of the works. The ES shall provide accurate and updated cable plans to support both WP and CP. CP shall coordinate with WP to investigate and locate any U/G cables and shall produce a Competent Person Written Report. The duties of CP are non-delegable.

The CoP provided details on the reasonable steps that should be taken when working near U/G cables. Cable plans must be obtained from the electricity supplier. A CP must be appointed to carry out the cable detection work and supervise trial holes excavation. When working near U/G cables, the CoP detailed the safety practice associated with the use of tools, protection of exposed U/G cables and excavation and backfilling processes.

When working near O/H lines, WP must carry out proper planning in consultation with the ES. Appropriate measures regarding the safe working distances are detailed in the CoP.

The seminar was well received by members of the institutions. Sincere gratitude must be given to the guest speaker, Ir Steven Chow, and the event organisers, Ir Victor Lo and Ir King Wong, for the success of this event.