Image author: Michal Jarmoluk A basic prerequisite for working on or near electrical installations is to ensure that the work can be carried out safely in accordance with applicable safety regulations.Regardless of the type of work to be carried out and the qualifications of the personnel performing the work - whether electricians (EFK) or electrically instructed persons (EuP) - the work must be organized in a way that makes it possible to ensure and comply with applicable rules and regulations.

The minimum requirements to be observed in Europe in order to carry out electrical work are specified in the European Standard EN 50110, Operation of Electrical Installations. Besides, additional rules may apply in different countries. For example, in Germany, stricter regulations for work activities must be observed.

DGUV - The German Social Accident Insurance (www.dguv.de) and DIN VDE - the German Standardization Committee. The most important regulations for safe working at or near electrical installations are given in DGUV Vorschrift 3 (Regulation 3) and in DIN VDE 0105-100, "Betrieb von elektrischen Anlagen" (Operation of electrical installations). These apply in addition to the generally applicable regulations of the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) and the Occupational Safety and Health Act (ArbSchG).

The responsibility for safety when working on and in the vicinity of electrical systems lies with the employer who, at all times, must ensure that the persons carrying out the work are sufficiently qualified and instructed by means of safety instructions and training. According to DGUV V1, instruction should take place at least once a year. However, safety instructions should be given more often if this is necessary to achieve safe work activities.