Working conditions
Electrical works carried out by unqualified individuals
Unqualified individuals may perform low-risk electrical works provided that they have been trained for the job or have familiarised themselves with the relevant electrical safety regulations. A sufficient level of familiarisation with the regulations can be achieved either through independent studies or instruction.
General information on topic
The following electrical works may be performed by an unqualified person as long as they have been trained for the job or have familiarised themselves with the relevant regulations and observe due diligence:
- removal and attaching of covers of installation boxes with a rated voltage not exceeding 250 volts, installation, repairs and maintenance of single-phase plugs, lead wires, extension cords and interior lighting and similar works
- electrical works on AC-voltage equipment with a rated voltage not exceeding 50 volts or DC-voltage equipment of 120 volts
- operational works on electrical systems the live components of which are protected against accidental contact, and
- repairs of electrical equipment constructed for one’s own use if the work is part of a leisure-time activity involving electrical equipment.
Instructions for employee
Never undertake even the smallest electrical job unless you are familiar with it and the associated safety regulations or have been trained for the job.
Instructions for employer
As a rule, electrical works should always be left to qualified electricians.
Legislation
Occupational Safety and Health Act (738/2002)
- Section 14 – Instruction and guidance to be provided for employees
- Section 39 – Physical agents and electrical safety
Electrical Safety Act (1135/2016)
Government Decree on the safety of tree harvesting (749/2001, in Finnish)
Links to other websites
Glossary
Unqualified individual
A person who is not a professional or who has not been trained
Trained individual (in the context of electrical works)
A person who has been trained by professionals to perform electrical works safely
Professional (in the context of electrical works)
A person who has the necessary qualifications and experience to assess risks and perform electrical works safely
Training and instruction (in the context of electrical works)
Verbal or written instructions given for working with electrical equipment
Electrical works
Works performed on, or in the vicinity of, electrical equipment, such as testing and measuring, repairs, replacements, modifications, extensions, installation and inspections
Non-electrical works
Works performed in the vicinity of electrical equipment, such as construction, excavation, cleaning or painting