Method Statement : Electrical Strip-Out

Explanation

Electrical strip-out involves the systematic removal of electrical apparatus and cables, including switches, wall outlets, distribution boards, and boxes, within a specified area of a building. This process is typically undertaken by a competent engineer to ensure the safe and efficient decommissioning of electrical systems. The primary aim of the job is to prepare the area for renovation or demolition by eliminating outdated or redundant electrical installations, thereby mitigating potential hazards and ensuring compliance with current safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Project Manager: Ensure overall coordination and compliance with health and safety regulations during the strip-out process.
• Site Supervisor: Oversee daily operations, ensuring that all safety procedures are followed and that the work area is secure.
• Competent Engineer: Perform the electrical strip-out, ensuring all equipment is de-energised and safe to handle.
• Health and Safety Officer: Conduct risk assessments and monitor adherence to safety protocols throughout the project.
• Electrician’s Mate: Assist the competent engineer in the removal of electrical apparatus and cables, following safety guidelines.
• Waste Management Coordinator: Ensure proper disposal of electrical waste and hazardous materials in accordance with environmental regulations.
• First Aider: Provide immediate medical assistance in case of any injuries on site.

Equipment

• Insulated screwdrivers
• Wire cutters
• Voltage tester
• Cable strippers
• Pliers
• Multimeter
• Insulated gloves
• Safety goggles
• Hard hat
• Steel-toed boots
• High-visibility vest
• Dust mask
• Lockout/tagout kit
• Ladder or step stool

Operation

• Conduct a thorough risk assessment of the specified area to identify potential hazards.
• Ensure all personnel involved are trained and competent in electrical safety procedures.
• Verify that all electrical systems and circuits are de-energised and locked out/tagged out.
• Obtain necessary permits and approvals for the strip-out work.
• Inspect the area for the presence of hazardous materials, such as asbestos or lead, and arrange for safe removal if necessary.
• Ensure appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is available and worn by all personnel.
• Establish clear communication protocols among team members.
• Set up barriers or signage to restrict access to the work area and inform others of the ongoing work.
• Review emergency procedures and ensure first aid equipment is readily accessible.
• Confirm that all tools and equipment to be used are in good working condition and suitable for the task.
• Verify isolation by confirming that all electrical circuits have been isolated and locked out, using a voltage tester to ensure no live electricity is present.
• Remove covers and panels from electrical apparatus, using appropriate tools to avoid damage or injury.
• Systematically disconnect wiring from switches, outlets, and distribution boards, ensuring all wires are clearly labelled for future reference if necessary.
• Safely remove electrical components, such as switches and outlets, ensuring they are handled with care to prevent damage or injury.
• Gently extract cables from conduits or trunking, taking care not to damage the cables or surrounding structures.
• Segregate and dispose of all removed materials in accordance with relevant waste management regulations, ensuring hazardous materials are handled by authorised personnel.
• Conduct a final inspection of the area to ensure no hazards remain and that the site is left in a safe condition.
• Record the completion of the strip-out process, noting any issues encountered and actions taken to resolve them.

Risk Assessment : Electrical Strip-Out

Who might be harmed: Competent Engineers conducting the strip-out. | Other on-site workers in proximity to the strip-out area. | Maintenance personnel involved in the project.

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Electrocution

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all electrical circuits are de-energised and locked out before commencing strip-out activities.
• Use insulated tools and equipment specifically designed for electrical work to prevent accidental contact with live components.
• Verify the absence of voltage using appropriate testing devices before handling any electrical apparatus.
• Provide comprehensive training for all personnel on electrical safety procedures and the risks associated with electric shock.
• Maintain a safe distance from live electrical parts and ensure barriers or covers are in place where necessary.
• Implement a permit-to-work system to control and authorise all electrical strip-out activities.
• Ensure personal protective equipment, such as rubber gloves and insulating mats, is used where necessary.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Arc Flash : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical Engineers | Maintenance Technicians | Construction Workers | Site Supervisors

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Eye Damage | Electrocution

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure all electrical equipment is de-energised and verified with appropriate testing devices before commencing strip-out activities.
• Provide and require the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as arc-rated clothing, gloves, and face shields, for all personnel involved in the strip-out.
• Implement a lockout/tagout procedure to ensure that equipment remains de-energised during the strip-out process.
• Establish and maintain a safe working distance from live electrical components, using barriers or insulating materials as necessary.
• Conduct a thorough risk assessment and safety briefing prior to commencing work, highlighting potential arc flash hazards and emergency procedures.
• Ensure only trained and competent personnel are involved in tasks where there is a risk of arc flash.
• Maintain clear communication among team members to coordinate activities and avoid accidental energisation of equipment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Asbestos Exposure : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical Engineers | Construction Workers | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Conduct a thorough asbestos survey before commencing strip-out activities to identify any asbestos-containing materials.
• Ensure all personnel involved in the strip-out are trained in asbestos awareness and safe handling procedures.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as disposable coveralls and respiratory protection, when working near identified asbestos materials.
• Implement strict access controls to limit entry to areas where asbestos is present to authorised personnel only.
• Utilise wet methods or HEPA-filtered vacuum systems to minimise the release of asbestos fibres during removal.
• Clearly label and seal all asbestos waste in designated containers for safe disposal by a licenced contractor.
• Regularly monitor air quality in the work area to ensure asbestos fibre levels remain below permissible exposure limits.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Fire Risk : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical Engineers | Construction Workers | Building Occupants | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all electrical circuits are de-energised and locked out before commencing strip-out activities to prevent ignition sources.
• Inspect and test all electrical equipment and wiring for damage prior to removal to identify potential fire hazards.
• Maintain a clear and organised work area to prevent accumulation of flammable materials.
• Provide fire extinguishers and ensure they are readily accessible in the work area.
• Conduct regular fire risk assessments throughout the strip-out process to identify and mitigate emerging hazards.
• Train all personnel in emergency fire procedures and the use of fire extinguishing equipment.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the work area to disperse any flammable vapours or gases.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Hazardous Materials : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical Engineers | Maintenance Workers | Construction Workers | Waste Disposal Personnel

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Dermatitis | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Conduct a thorough assessment to identify any hazardous materials present before commencing the strip-out.
• Ensure all personnel are trained in the recognition and safe handling of hazardous materials specific to the site.
• Utilise appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and respirators, when handling or working near hazardous materials.
• Implement containment measures, such as sealing off areas with hazardous materials, to prevent the spread of contaminants.
• Engage licenced professionals for the removal and disposal of hazardous materials, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
• Maintain proper ventilation in work areas to reduce the concentration of airborne hazardous substances.
• Establish a decontamination procedure for personnel and equipment exiting areas with hazardous materials.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Manual Handling Injuries : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical Engineers | Maintenance Technicians | Construction Workers | Apprentices or Trainees | Subcontractors

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Conduct a manual handling risk assessment prior to commencing the strip-out to identify potential hazards and necessary precautions.
• Provide training for all personnel on safe lifting techniques and the use of mechanical aids.
• Utilise trolleys, hoists, or other mechanical aids to transport heavy electrical components whenever possible.
• Ensure that work areas are clear of obstructions to allow for safe movement and handling of materials.
• Encourage team lifting for heavy or awkward items to distribute the load and reduce strain.
• Limit the weight of loads to be manually handled by breaking down larger components into smaller, manageable parts.
• Schedule regular breaks to prevent fatigue and reduce the risk of injury during manual handling tasks.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Falls from Height : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical Engineers | Maintenance Personnel | Construction Workers | Contractors

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure all personnel use appropriate fall protection equipment, such as harnesses and lanyards, when working at heights.
• Install guardrails or barriers around open edges and floor openings to prevent accidental falls.
• Utilise stable and secure ladders or scaffolding that are inspected before use for any defects.
• Provide training for workers on safe practises and procedures when working at heights.
• Ensure that all work areas are kept tidy and free from obstructions to minimise trip hazards.
• Conduct a risk assessment prior to commencing work to identify potential fall hazards and implement necessary controls.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Inhalation of Dust/Fumes : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical Engineers | Construction Workers | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure that all workers wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) that is suitable for the type of dust or fumes present during the strip-out process.
• Utilise local exhaust ventilation systems to capture and remove dust and fumes at the source during electrical strip-out activities.
• Implement wet methods or use dust suppression techniques to minimise airborne dust during the removal of electrical components.
• Conduct air monitoring to assess the levels of dust and fumes in the work area and ensure they remain below occupational exposure limits.
• Restrict access to the work area to authorised personnel only, reducing the number of individuals potentially exposed to dust and fumes.
• Provide training to all workers on the hazards of inhaling dust and fumes and the correct use of control measures and personal protective equipment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Cuts and Lacerations : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical Engineers | Maintenance Technicians | Construction Workers | Apprentices or Trainees | Subcontractors

Type of harm: Cuts and Abrasions

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure all personnel wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including cut-resistant gloves, when handling electrical components.
• Use tools specifically designed for cutting and stripping wires to minimise the risk of accidental cuts.
• Inspect all tools and equipment for damage before use to ensure they are in safe working condition.
• Keep work areas tidy and free from sharp debris to prevent accidental contact with sharp edges.
• Provide training on safe handling techniques for electrical components to reduce the risk of cuts and lacerations.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Trips and Falls : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical Engineers | Site Workers | Contractors | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Head Injury | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Ensure all work areas are kept tidy and free from debris by regularly removing waste materials and unused equipment.
• Use appropriate signage to clearly mark any uneven surfaces or potential trip hazards in the work area.
• Implement a clear pathway for movement of personnel and equipment, ensuring it is well-lit and unobstructed.
• Provide adequate lighting in all work areas to enhance visibility and reduce the risk of trips and falls.
• Ensure all cables and wires are securely fastened or covered to prevent them from becoming trip hazards.
• Conduct regular inspections of the work area to identify and rectify any potential trip hazards promptly.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

COSHH Assessment : Electrical Strip-Out

Asbestos

Asbestos was historically used for its fire-resistant and insulating properties in electrical insulation, building materials, and various industrial applications.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical engineers conducting the strip-out. | Other construction workers in the vicinity. | Building occupants if the area is not properly contained.

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Conduct a thorough asbestos survey to identify and assess asbestos-containing materials before commencing work.
• Ensure all workers are trained in asbestos awareness and safe handling procedures.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators with P3 filters, to prevent inhalation of asbestos fibres.
• Implement wet methods to suppress dust and minimise airborne asbestos fibres during removal.
• Establish controlled work areas with physical barriers and signage to prevent unauthorised access.
• Utilise local exhaust ventilation systems to capture and remove airborne asbestos fibres at the source.
• Regularly monitor air quality within the work area to ensure fibre levels remain below permissible exposure limits.
• Ensure proper decontamination procedures are in place for workers and equipment exiting the controlled area.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Lead

Lead is commonly used in electrical strip-out tasks for its properties in soldering and as a component in certain types of cables and paints.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical engineers conducting the strip-out. | Other workers present in the vicinity. | Maintenance personnel involved in subsequent clean-up.

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Asphyxia | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Use appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) such as a P3 mask to prevent inhalation of lead dust or fumes.
• Implement local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems to capture and remove airborne lead particles at the source.
• Ensure work areas are well-ventilated to dilute and disperse lead contaminants in the air.
• Conduct regular air monitoring to assess lead levels and ensure they remain below occupational exposure limits.
• Provide training for workers on the hazards of lead inhalation and proper use of protective equipment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Ingestion : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical engineers conducting the strip-out.

Type of harm: Illness | Death

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure workers wash hands thoroughly before eating, drinking, or smoking.
• Provide designated eating areas away from work zones to prevent contamination.
• Implement a strict no food or drink policy in areas where lead is present.
• Use disposable wipes for cleaning hands and face to remove lead residues.
• Provide training on the dangers of lead ingestion and safe work practises.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical engineers conducting the strip-out.

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, to prevent direct skin contact with lead-containing materials.
• Implement proper hygiene practises, including washing hands and exposed skin thoroughly after handling lead materials.
• Use barrier creams to provide an additional layer of protection against potential skin exposure to lead.
• Ensure work areas are kept clean and free from lead dust to minimise skin contact risks.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were historically used as insulating fluids in transformers and capacitors due to their non-flammability and chemical stability.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical engineers conducting the strip-out. | Maintenance personnel working in the vicinity. | Construction workers involved in related activities. | Building occupants if the area is not properly contained.

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Ensure proper ventilation in the work area to disperse airborne PCBs.
• Use appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as a P3 mask, when handling PCBs.
• Implement a strict no-smoking policy to prevent inhalation of PCB-laden smoke.
• Conduct air monitoring to assess PCB levels and adjust controls accordingly.
• Limit time spent in areas with potential PCB exposure to reduce inhalation risk.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Ingestion : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical engineers conducting the strip-out.

Type of harm: Illness | Death

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all workers wash hands thoroughly before eating, drinking, or smoking.
• Provide training on the risks of PCBs and safe handling procedures.
• Implement a strict no food or drink policy in areas where PCBs are present.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, to prevent contamination.
• Conduct regular health monitoring for workers potentially exposed to PCBs.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical engineers conducting the strip-out.

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including chemical-resistant gloves and coveralls, to prevent skin exposure.
• Implement proper decontamination procedures for tools and equipment to avoid secondary skin contact.
• Provide training on safe handling practises and emergency procedures for PCB exposure.
• Ensure availability of washing facilities with soap and water for immediate decontamination.
• Use barrier creams as an additional protective measure against skin absorption.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Silica dust

Silica dust is not intentionally used in electrical strip-out; rather, it is a byproduct generated when cutting or drilling into materials such as concrete or masonry that contain crystalline silica.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Electrical engineers conducting the strip-out. | Construction workers in the vicinity. | Maintenance personnel working nearby.

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Use water suppression techniques to minimise airborne silica dust during cutting.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the work area to disperse dust particles.
• Provide workers with appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as N95 masks.
• Implement dust extraction systems to capture and remove silica dust at the source.
• Conduct regular air monitoring to assess silica dust levels and effectiveness of controls.
• Limit access to areas where silica dust is being generated to essential personnel only.
• Train workers on the hazards of silica dust and proper use of control measures.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Toolbox Talk : Electrical Strip-Out

Introduction

Electrical strip-out involves the systematic removal of electrical apparatus and cables, including switches, wall outlets, distribution boards, and boxes, within a specified area of a building. This process is typically undertaken by a competent engineer to ensure the safe and efficient decommissioning of electrical systems. The primary aim of the job is to prepare the area for renovation or demolition by eliminating outdated or redundant electrical installations, thereby mitigating potential hazards and ensuring compliance with current safety standards.

Hazards

Electrical strip-out activities present several significant hazards that must be carefully managed to ensure the safety of all personnel involved. The primary danger is the risk of electric shock, which can occur if live wires are inadvertently contacted during the removal process. Additionally, there is a potential for arc flash incidents, which can result in severe burns or other injuries. The presence of asbestos-containing materials in older buildings poses a serious health risk if disturbed, necessitating appropriate precautions. Fire hazards are also a concern, particularly if damaged wiring or electrical components are not properly handled. Furthermore, hazardous materials such as lead-based paint or PCBs may be present in older electrical equipment, requiring careful management to prevent exposure. Physical hazards include the risk of injury from lifting heavy components or working at heights, as well as the potential for cuts or lacerations from sharp edges. Finally, cluttered work areas can lead to trips and falls, while exposure to harmful fumes or dust during equipment removal must be controlled to protect respiratory health.

Electrical Strip-Out : Rules

• Do ensure all electrical systems are de-energised and locked out before commencing work.
• Do verify the absence of voltage using appropriate testing equipment.
• Do wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves and safety goggles.
• Do conduct a risk assessment prior to beginning the strip-out process.
• Do maintain clear communication with team members throughout the operation.
• Do use insulated tools specifically designed for electrical work.
• Do follow proper manual handling techniques when lifting or moving heavy components.
• Do ensure the work area is well-lit and free from obstructions.
• Do dispose of removed materials in accordance with environmental regulations.
• Do report any hazards or incidents immediately to a supervisor.

Electrical Strip-Out : Warnings

• Do not commence work without verifying that all electrical circuits are de-energised and locked out.
• Do not use damaged or inappropriate tools for electrical work.
• Do not ignore the presence of asbestos or other hazardous materials; ensure proper identification and handling.
• Do not work alone; always have a colleague present for safety and assistance.
• Do not bypass safety protocols or procedures under any circumstances.
• Do not leave exposed wires or open circuits unattended.
• Do not remove personal protective equipment (PPE) while in the work area.
• Do not obstruct emergency exits or access to fire extinguishers with equipment or debris.
• Do not dispose of electrical waste improperly; follow designated disposal procedures.
• Do not assume all equipment is safe; always test for live circuits before proceeding.

Induction Record

Company name:		Project title:
Location:		Contract No:

Subject:	Risk Assessment and Method Statement : Electrical Strip-Out	Tutor:
Date:		Signature:

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