164Use of socket outlets in hostile operating environment

164 Use of socket outlets in hostile operating environment

(1)  This regulation applies in the following circumstances:

(a) electrical equipment is used in an environment in which the normal use of electrical equipment exposes the equipment to operating conditions that are likely to result in damage to the equipment or a reduction in its expected life span, including conditions that involve exposure to moisture, heat, vibration, mechanical damage, corrosive chemicals or dust;

(b) electrical equipment is moved between different locations in circumstances where damage to the equipment or to a flexible electricity supply cord is reasonably likely;

(c) electrical equipment is frequently moved during its normal use;

(d) electrical equipment forms part of, or is used in connection with, an amusement device.

(2)  In a circumstance set out in subregulation (1) , a person conducting a business or undertaking at a workplace must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that any electrical risk associated with the supply of electricity to the electrical equipment through a socket outlet is minimised by the use of an appropriate residual current device.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) an individual, a fine not exceeding $6 000; or

(b) a body corporate, a fine not exceeding $30 000.

(3)  Without limiting subregulation (2) , the residual current device must have a tripping current that does not exceed 30 milliamps if electricity is supplied to the equipment through a socket outlet not exceeding 20 amps.

(4)  Subregulation (2) does not apply if the supply of electricity to the electrical equipment –

(a) does not exceed 50 volts alternating current; or

(b) is direct current; or

(c) is provided through an isolating transformer that provides at least an equivalent level of protection; or

(d) is provided from a non-earthed socket outlet supplied by an isolated winding portable generator that provides at least an equivalent level of protection.