High Voltage Risk Management

Developing a comprehensive risk management document for high-voltage vehicle work is an essential part of any business owner or leader’s responsibility; the approach to risk management can indeed have dual interpretations—either seen as bureaucratic, or as a constructive framework to enhance knowledge and safety. 

 

Here’s a structured outline for a risk assessment based on the context of Salvage Wire’s level 3 electric and hybrid vehicle training:

 

1. Identifying Risks

Begin by listing all potential hazards, such as:

• High Voltage Energy: e.g. Risk of electric shock or arc flash.
• Component Weight: Potential for muscular or skeletal injuries.
• Movement of Components or Vehicles: Risks related to shifting, lifting, or manoeuvring large, heavy objects.
• Others: Any environmental hazards, such as fire or chemical exposure.

 

2. Who Could Be Harmed

Consider all personnel who could be impacted, for example:

• Technicians: Risk from handling components or electrical shock.
• Other employees: who may be in the vicinity of these vehicles.
• Visitors/Contractors: Exposure to ongoing operations.
• Public: Potential exposure if incidents occur outside controlled areas.

 

3. Current Mitigations

Document the current safety protocols in place, which could be:

• Training and Certification: Ensure that employees have level 3 HV vehicle training and are certification.
• Tools and PPE: Availability and proper use of insulated tools, gloves, visors, and other required PPE.
  
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Follow either manufacturer SOPs or company-developed guidelines for handling or working on HV components and vehicles.

 

4. Risk Matrix: Likelihood vs. Consequence

Use a grid to assess the:

• Likelihood of Occurrence: From unlikely to highly probable.
• Consequence of Incident: Ranges from minor to catastrophic.

Example:

• Risk: Working on HV vehicle without training or PPE.
• Likelihood = High
• Consequence = Catastrophic
• Overall Risk = Unacceptable

 

5. Action Plan for Improvement

After identifying unacceptable risks, list steps to mitigate them which may include:

• Action: Train employees, enforce SOPs, provide necessary PPE.
• Responsible Person: Assign a team member or manager to oversee implementation.
• Deadline: Set a clear date for completion.

Then go back to the risk matrix and determine the overall risk – is it acceptable?

 

6. Review and Update Process

The document is dynamic and should be revisited periodically:

• Incident-based Review: Following any accidents or near misses.
• Scheduled Review: Quarterly, bi-annually, or annually depending on the nature of the risks.
• Component Changes: Reassess when new technology or components are introduced.

 

7. Document Archive

Retain older versions for reference to track progress and changes:

• File Versions: Save previous and current versions to maintain a clear historical record.

 

This framework allows organisations to proactively manage risks while fostering a positive culture of continuous learning and safety. 

 

For more details about certified High Voltage training from Salvage Wire  then please check out the training pages on the Salvage Wire website - https://www.salvagewire.com/training-courses and if you would like help to complete risk assessment documents then arrange your free 1 hour consultation at https://www.salvageinsight.co.uk