Safety and Technical Regulation

The technical and safety standards for the electricity industry are defined in the Regulations under the Electricity Act 1996. The Regulations are divided into two parts:

1. Electricity (General) Regulations 1997
2. Electricity (Principles of Vegetation Clearance) Regulations 1996.

The Electricity (General) Regulations 1997 cover all technical issues associated with:

• Aerial lines
• Underground lines
• Sub-stations
• Earthing and electrical protection systems
• Electrical installations

There are also comprehensive Divisions that deal with electrical installation work, certificates of compliance and the safety requirements for people working on or near electrical equipment.

The electricity supply industry utilities (the network operators, retailers and system controller) are licensed by the Essential Services Commission (ESCOSA).  The ESCOSA website  includes a list of current licence holders, their licences and the ESCOSA issued Codes that are binding on those in the electricity supply industry.