Gascoigne Training & Assessment

VEDN Underground Electrical Course

The Victorian Electrical Supply Industry is implementing an accreditation system. These changes will affect all civil contractors engaged or tendering for underground electricity infrastructure civil work activities, as only pre-qualified and approved contractors will be permitted to work on network electricity infrastructure projects.

The course has been designed by Victorian Electricity Distribution Network (VEDN) who consist of Victorian Electrical suppliers, Jemena, United Energy Distribution (UED), Powercor, Citipower and SPI Electricity (SPAusNet).

The changes include:

• A pre-tender qualification and approval process.
• An approved Integrated Management System (IMS).
• Additional training for personnel supervising and/or undertaking works.
• Project auditing and inspection requirements.

Training requirements:
As a third party contractor, at least 1 employee responsible for preparing trenches, installing conduits, pits and slabs MUST be appropriately trained and present on site during the preparation activities for Underground Electrical Infrastructure.

If you are contracted directly with any of the listed VEDN networks, ALL employees are to be appropriately trained. Depending on a contractors’ activities, further training in VEDN Worksite Auditor may also be required (1 day training, pre-requisite U/G Electrical Infrastructure).

Upon meeting all of the above requirements, including an approved management system, meeting audit criteria and having fully trained staff, will be registered and listed on the VEDN website.

Objectives:
The training course will provide participants with the knowledge and skills to safely undertake trench, pit and conduit construction, in accordance with industry requirements.

Content:

• Legislation affecting underground electrical infrastructure construction work.
• Electrical hazards and safety concerns, including risk analysis and the elimination of hazards.
• Environment issues.
• Construction plans and resource requirements.
• Trenching requirements.
• Pit installation requirements.
• Cable and confuit installation requirements.
• Cable protection and back filling requirements.
• Substation and public lighting column installation requirements.
• Specific Distribution Business requirements.

Outcomes:
On successful completion of this course the applicant will be able to describe the Victorian “No Go Zone” Regulations, prepare to install underground electrical infrastructure and installing electrical infrastructure. Additionally, individuals will be able to indentify hazards associated with the installation of electrical infrastructure and understand the Act, regulations and codes associated.