Posted By Mark Talbot Hi, Regardless of the use of the electricity the Eletricity at Work Regs 1989 apply: Work on or near live conductors 14. No person shall be engaged in any work activity on or so near any live conductor (other than one suitably covered with insulating material so as to prevent danger) that danger may arise unless- (a) it is unreasonable in all the circumstances for it to be dead; and (b) it is reasonable in all the circumstances for him to be at work on or near it while it is live; and (c) suitable precautions (including where necessary the provision of suitable protective equipment) are taken to prevent injury. Persons to be competent to prevent danger and injury 16. No person shall be engaged in any work activity where technical knowledge or experience is necessary to prevent danger or, where appropriate, injury, unless he possesses such knowledge or experience, or is under such degree of supervision as may be appropriate having regard to the nature of the work. Yes, in my opinion, they need training or close supervision.

Posted By Frank Hallett The above comments are extremely pertinant; but it seems that [as usual] the IT Dept are assumed to know all there is to know and left to police themselves! Comprehensive Risk Assessments AND comprehensive training for those in charge is essential within the immediate future. This should then be followed up by a stringent supervisory process to ensure that the IT Dept actually work in the safest possible way - abide by the RA's. This may even need an external policer for a short time so that the real situation is properly identified and brought to Board level notice - after all, they must carry the load of any potential enforcement action if it arises. Frank Hallett