Worker Protection Code - Newfoundland Power Inc. › Reference... · 2020-03-21 · Worker...
Transcript of Worker Protection Code - Newfoundland Power Inc. › Reference... · 2020-03-21 · Worker...
WORKER PROTECTION CODE
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 1 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Organizational Responsibilities
3.0 Definitions
4.0 Control Authority
5.0 Worker Protection
5.1 Application of Worker Protection
5.1.1 Visible Air Gaps
5.1.2 Switching and Grounding for De-Energized Work
5.1.3 Equipment Moved Outside Minimum Approach Distance
5.2 Hold Off
5.2.1 Application of Hold Off
5.2.2 Hold Off Requirements
5.3 Self-Protection
5.3.1 Application of Self-Protection
5.4 Protection Guarantee
5.4.1 Application of Protection Guarantee
6.0 Worker Protection Permit
6.1 Worker Protection Permit Procedures and Responsibilities
6.2 Worker Protection Permit Required Information and Checks
6.3 Application of Worker Protection Permit
6.3.1 Multiple Work Units
6.3.2 Release of a Worker Protection Permit
6.3.3 Worker Protection Permit for Outside Party Workers
6.3.4 Transfer of Protection Guarantee Permit
7.0 Danger Tag
7.1 Application
7.2 Preparation
7.3 Installation/Removal
7.4 Limitations
7.5 Exceptions for Danger Tag Removal
7.6 Danger Tag Relocation - Form No. 76E
8.0 Caution Tag
8.1 Procedures/Responsibilities
9.0 Defective Tool & Test Equipment Tag
9.1 Procedures/Responsibilities
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 2 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
1.0 Introduction
The primary purpose of the Worker Protection Code (WPC) is to guarantee the status of high
voltage electrical lines and equipment or generation systems and equipment. Through formalized
procedures and communications, the WPC provides various forms of protection to safeguard
workers from the energy and hazards that electric power systems, generation systems and
equipment may otherwise present at the worksite.
Electrical power systems and equipment are encountered throughout utility operations in
generating facilities, substations, transmission and distribution lines. SCADA and protective
relaying and automation technologies provide remote control and automatic operation of
electrical lines and equipment and generation systems. The application of these technologies is
expanding. Newfoundland Power workers, contractors and other outside parties must be
adequately protected before undertaking work on high voltage electrical systems lines, equipment
and generation systems . The level of protection provided must take into consideration the nature
of the work to be carried out, sources of energy, proximity to energy sources, hazards that may
exist at the worksite and the risk of exposure to these hazards.
The WPC is a formal process for providing and maintaining safe working conditions at the
worksite. Before undertaking any work on high voltage electrical lines and equipment or
generation systems that may pose a safety hazard to workers, an appropriate form of protection
must be secured according to the procedures outlined in the WPC.
The WPC shall be reviewed annually and revised to ensure that the addition of any new
technologies, equipment and controls does not compromise Worker Protection and the
provisions of the WPC.
Any matters of interpretation or application of the WPC shall be referred to and resolved by the
WPC Committee. The members of the committee are Neville Collins (Chair), Mike Greening,
Bob Murdoch, Eric Stephenson, and Brad Tooktoshina.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 3 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
2.0 Organizational Responsibilities
For the WPC to be effective in providing protection for workers, it is essential that all involved in
the planning, supervision and carrying out of work on electrical lines, equipment and generation
systems be trained and competent in the application of, and comply with, the requirements of the
Grounding and Bonding Code, Risk Management and Job Safety Planning Code, Equipment
Lockout OPR 300.14, Newfoundland Power’s Operating Procedures, Switching Order
Guidelines, electrical and generation system switching.
Directors are responsible to ensure that all workers under their responsibility are trained and
competent as outlined in OPR500.15 – Identification and Assessment of Training Awareness and
Competency. Employees involved in the preparation and approval of switching orders shall have
met the qualifications, training and experience requirements as outlined in OPR300.01 Switching
Order Preparation and Approval. Employees involved in the carrying out of steps on a switching
order shall have met the competencies requirements as outlined in OPR106.14 Switching.
The Director responsible for the System Control Center, (SCC) shall select members for the
WPC Committee and give guidance in making any changes to the code and support the
committee with development and delivery of training and resolution of issues pertaining to the
application of the WPC.
With the support of the Director responsible for the SCC as outlined above, the WPC Committee
is responsible for revisions to the code and to ensure the WPC remains effective in providing safe
conditions for work on high voltage lines, equipment and generation systems. The WPC
Committee will oversee the development of training material for the WPC and assist with
delivering training as necessary. Any issue involving interpretation of the code, or requiring
clarification on application of the code, shall be referred to and resolved by the WPC Committee.
If the issue needs immediate resolution, the matter shall be decided by the Manager responsible
for the System Control Center.
SCC Power System Operators are responsible for ensuring the orderly carrying out of switching
sequences and the issuance of Worker Protection Permits as per the requirements of the WPC.
Employees who prepare, check and approve Switching Orders must be trained and competent in
switching order procedures. They are responsible for understanding the Switching Order, how
the work is to be completed, the form of protection to be used, and the requirements for isolating
and grounding the work area, (grounding not always required for generation system work).
Supervisors and Workers In Charge of work on high voltage lines, equipment and generation
systems are responsible for recognizing the hazards and understanding the risks associated with
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 4 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
the work their employees and Work Unit members carry out. They must know the appropriate
form of protection to use in a given work situation and they must be aware of the applicable safe
work procedures to be used. They are responsible to ensure the appropriate form of protection is
provided for all workers and/or contractors under their responsibility and that the requirements of
the WPC are adhered to at all times.
Directors, Managers and Supervisors of work on high voltage lines, equipment and generation
systems are responsible for checking worker compliance with the WPC and the other associated
safety codes and work procedures by completing work observations as prescribed in the
Company’s Work Observation Program. Refer to OPR300.05 – Work Observation Program.
For the purpose of this code any responsibility assigned to specific job classifications also apply
to workers designated to temporarily fill the role.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 5 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
3.0 Definitions
Apparatus
All equipment pertaining to the generation, transmission, distribution and use of
electricity.
Approved Work Procedure
A procedure written and approved by the Company that enables a worker to safely work
on or near electrical systems and equipment with hazardous electrical energy present at
the worksite. It is identified by a unique procedure number such as found in T and D
Work Methods, Electrical Maintenance Work Methods or Operating Procedures on
Webster.
Caution Tag
An electronic and/or paper tag used to warn of abnormal status or potentially hazardous
conditions.
Control Authority
The employee authorized to issue a Worker Protection Permit.
The Control Authority will be the SCC Power System Operators except when a Local
Authority is established. (See Local Authority)
Check for Potential
The testing for voltage before a ground is installed on any isolated line or equipment.
Danger Tag
An electronic and/or paper tag used to indicate that equipment is being used to establish a
Protection Guarantee, Self-Protection, or a Hold Off.
Dead
See De-Energized.
De-Energized (Dead)
The state of an electrical system, line or equipment that is disconnected, isolated and
grounded and at a potential equal to or not significantly different from that of ground at
the work site.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 6 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
Defective Tool & Test Equipment Tag
A paper tag used to indicate that a tool or piece of test equipment is defective and out of
service. Any tools or test equipment tagged as such must not be used by a worker.
Device
A piece of equipment that can be operated to connect, disconnect or ground parts of an
electrical power system. Examples include group operated disconnects, ground switches,
hook stick operated disconnects, Normally Opened Cutouts, inline disconnects, solid
blade and fused disconnects, circuit breakers, grounding trucks, reclosers, etc.
Disconnected
The state of an electrical line or piece of equipment when no energy is being intentionally
applied. The line or equipment has been removed from service by the operation of a
breaker, recloser, switch or other switching device. A disconnected line or equipment is
not isolated or grounded. NOTE: The disconnected system, line or equipment may be
affected by electromagnetic induction, capacitive coupling, or exposed to the risks of
lightning or static charge.
Dynamic Energy
A source of mechanical or electrical energy having sufficient potential or capacity which
is capable of operating any interconnected equipment within their normal operating
parameters.
Earth (Ground)
Reference for zero potential, also referred to as “earth” potential.
Electromagnetic Induction
Produces both an induced voltage and current. When the predominant effect is due to
current, this is known as magnetic field induction.
Emergency
Any condition that poses an immediate threat to life, limb or property. Examples include
live conductor down on the ground or a vehicle, house fire, pole fire, penstock failure, etc.
Energized (Live)
The state of an electrical system, line or equipment connected to a source of dynamic
energy at a potential significantly different from that of ground (earth) at the work site and
which presents an electrical hazard.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 7 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
Equipment
A component of the electrical system such as a breaker, recloser, transformer, voltage
regulator, switch, generator and other electrical apparatus.
Generation Systems and Equipment
Include all mechanical and electrical equipment associated with the prime mover and
ancillary equipment in a generation power plant.
Grounding
Connecting lines or equipment to earth potential. Grounding has the following attributes;
1. Provision of a continuous conductive path to the earth that has sufficient ampacity to
carry any fault current that may be imposed on it.
2. Has a sufficiently low impedance to limit the voltage rise above ground potential to safe
levels.
3. Facilitates the operation of the protective devices in the circuit as quickly as possible.
4. Shunts any excess energies induced by electric and magnetic fields or static
Hazardous Energy
Electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal or other source of energy
at a level that can cause potential harm to workers.
High Pressure
Generation systems and equipment operating at 250 psi of pressure or greater.
High Voltage
Equal to or greater than 750 volts.
Hold Off
A temporary mode of operation for equipment protection that prohibits the re-energizing
of lines, equipment or generating facilities. The equipment will remain in this mode until
assurance is received from the Worker in Charge that all workers are clear and it is safe to
return the equipment to its normal mode of operation. Hold Off does not protect the
worker from the hazardous energy present at the worksite.
Isolated (Electrical)
The state of an electrical system, line or equipment when it is separated from all sources
of electrical energy by an Isolation Point(s).
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 8 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
Isolated (Generation)
The state of generation systems and equipment that is separated from all sources of
hazardous energy by a suitable barrier. When a mechanical system is "isolated", it means
that the associated mechanical equipment has been rendered and secured in-operative by
disconnecting, stopping, depressurizing, draining, venting or other effective means.
Isolation Point
A barrier of adequate rating that separates a system, line or equipment from a source of
electrical or mechanical energy. An electrical Isolation Point is referred to as a Visible
Air Gap. Mechanical Isolation points include valves and gates.
Live
See Energized.
Local Authority
A person authorized to act as a Control Authority within an Operating Area when the
SCC cannot attend to all Area needs or when communications with the SCC are lost.
Normally Open Cutouts
Switches that are installed between two feeders to facilitate the transfer of load from one
feeder to another. Identified with a black on yellow background sign that states:
Authorization to close shall only be granted with an approved Switching Order or
permission from a Control Authority. Caution: Cutouts may be Energized top and bottom.
Outside Party
All companies, utilities, organizations and persons other than Newfoundland Power and
qualified Newfoundland Power Utility Contractors.
Prime mover
A machine that transforms energy from thermal, electrical or pressure form to mechanical
form.
In the case of a hydroelectric generating facility, includes all equipment from the
head gate to the tail race.
In the case of a diesel-electric generating facility, includes the diesel engine.
In the case if a Gas Turbine generating facility, includes the gas turbine, power
turbine, and exhaust system.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 9 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
Protection Guarantee
A Protection Guarantee provides formal assurance to a worker that all sources of
hazardous energy associated with a line, system or piece of equipment are removed or
controlled and will remain in that state while the Protection Guarantee is in effect. A
Protection Guarantee is granted by the Control Authority to a Worker in Charge and
requires a Switching Order approved and dispatched by the Control Authority to isolate
and ground the work area as required.
Qualified Worker
A worker who through possession of a recognized post-secondary degree or diploma,
trade certificate, or professional standing, has successfully demonstrated his or her ability
to perform the required duties and tasks of the work.
Release
The relinquishing of all protection afforded by a Worker Protection.
Remote Control
Refers to a device when controlled from the System Control Centre or location remote
from the device location.
Self-Protection
Self-Protection allows a Worker in Charge to take direct responsibility for ensuring that a
section of distribution line, feeder equipment or generation equipment is De-Energized
and will remain in that state for the duration of the work.
Switching Order
A sequence of switching steps either prepared on the Switch application with three levels
of approval (identified by 6 digits assigned by the Switch application) or prepared and
approved in the field by Qualified Workers (identified by 7 digits assigned by the Control
Authority).
System Control Centre (SCC)
The location from which the operation of the Newfoundland Power island-wide system is
controlled and/or monitored.
Visible Air Gap
A visible electrical Isolation Point of suitable size (air insulation adequate for the voltage
levels present), that isolates a system, line or equipment from an Energized section of the
system.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 10 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
Worker Protection
Either of the three forms of protection provided by the Worker Protection Code:
Protection Guarantee, Self-Protection or Hold Off.
Worker Protection Permit
A Control Authority administered permission given to a Worker in Charge to perform
work on high voltage electrical lines or equipment, and generation systems. The three
types of Worker Protection Permits issued under the Worker Protection Code are
Protection Guarantee Permit, Self-Protection Permit and Live Line Permit.
Work Unit
An individual, a crew or a number of crews working together on the same project under
the same Worker Protection Permit. The Worker Protection Permit for a Work Unit
consisting of more than one crew shall normally be held by the Worker in Charge of the
project who must be capable of communicating with all workers at all times.
Worker in Charge (WIC)
A qualified Newfoundland Power or contractor worker responsible for a Work Unit.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 11 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
4.0 Control Authority
All switching, system re-configuration or work on high voltage electrical lines and equipment or
generation systems and equipment, requires authorization from the Control Authority to proceed.
Under normal circumstances the SCC is the Control Authority for all of Newfoundland Power’s
operations.
In large and wide-spread outage situations when the SCC cannot attend to all Area needs, the
Manager responsible for the SCC may request the Manager, Area or Regional Operations to have
a Local Authority established. Generally, the Local Authority will only assume responsibilities
for work on distribution lines. The Local Authority must document any form of Worker
Protection issued, along with any system changes made, and report this to the SCC, when
practical to do so.
In the event communications with the SCC are lost, the Manager, Area or Regional Operations
may designate a Local Authority. The Local Authority must assume all the responsibilities of the
Control Authority and must have received WPC training and be thoroughly familiar with the
substations, transmission and distribution lines in the area for which he/she will be the Local
Authority. The Local Authority must frequently attempt to contact the SCC to provide updates
on any form of Worker Protection in effect and any system changes.
5.0 Worker Protection
The WPC provides for various forms of Worker Protection: Hold Off, Self-Protection and
Protection Guarantee. No form of protection is better or safer than the other when used for the
purpose for which it was intended. Each form of protection has applications when work is to be
performed on high voltage electrical lines and equipment or generation systems and equipment.
The Worker in Charge is responsible for establishing an appropriate form of Worker Protection
for himself/herself and/or his/her Work Unit, and obtaining the appropriate Worker Protection
Permit from the Control Authority. A Work Unit may consist of several workers or crews as
long as each are involved in the same Risk Management and Job Safety Planning process and are
working on the same job.
5.1 Application of Worker Protection
5.1.1 Visible Air Gaps
The electrical system line or equipment on which a Self-Protection or a Protection Guarantee is
established, must be isolated from all sources of electrical energy by Visible Air Gap(s) that
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 12 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
provides adequate Worker Protection except for the two cases outlined below. Points to consider
should include the normal supply points, customer owned generation, by pass switches, feeder
paralleling switches, etc. Each of these supply points must be isolated and suitably tagged.
Where metal clad switchgear or concealed contacts are used, it is not always possible to establish
a Visible Air Gap.
The following apply in these cases:
1. Circuits supplied by metal clad switchgear will be considered isolated if the breaker is in
its fully racked down or out position.
2. Concealed contacts should be avoided whenever possible. However, if impractical to
avoid, extreme caution must be exercised to ensure the circuit is isolated. This can be
achieved by checking the circuit with an approved potential test indicator. In cases when
the above checking methods cannot be used, particular attention must be paid to the
position of external indicators associated with the switch.
5.1.2 Switching
When a Protection Guarantee or Self-Protection is to be used to perform work, the Worker in
Charge must initiate the process by contacting the Control Authority.
Switching Orders for Protection Guarantees are normally prepared and approved on the SWITCH
application.
All workers required to take an active part in the switching required to establish a Protection
Guarantee must have an approved copy of the Switching Order. In the case of Self-Protection,
the Switching Order must be checked by at least one other qualified worker. If no other qualified
worker is available in the field, then the steps must be communicated to and approved by the
Control Authority.
The Switching Order used to establish a Protection Guarantee or Self-Protection must be
reviewed with all workers at the worksite prior to the start of the job.
All grounding required to establish a Protection Guarantee or Self-Protection must be installed in
accordance with the Grounding and Bonding Code (GBC).
5.1.3 Equipment Moved Outside Minimum Approach Distance
Work on electrical equipment that has been physically moved to a location where it cannot be
connected to the system, or under the influence of electromagnetic induction, does not require a
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 13 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
form of Worker Protection, provided that the minimum approach distance to other Energized
lines and equipment can be maintained. (i.e. metal clad switchgear breaker physically moved
from the cubicle to the floor).
5.2 Hold Off
A Hold Off provides a guarantee that a line or piece of generating equipment, that trips, or has
shut down will not be re-Energized until all Hold Offs have been released. A Hold Off does not
protect the worker from the hazardous energy that may be present at the worksite.
Hold Off is obtained and released by the Worker in Charge for themselves and/or a Work Unit
for which they are responsible. After the Hold Off is established a Worker Protection Permit
must be issued by the Control Authority for de-energized work or a Live Line Permit issued for
live line work.
5.2.1 Application of Hold Off
Hold Off must be used;
1. When performing live line work.
2. When installing or removing poles in Energized lines.
3. When performing work which may encroach on Minimum Approach Distances to
Energized equipment, as per OPR 106.07- Minimum Approach Distances to Energized
Equipment.
4. When required as part of a Newfoundland Power Approved Work Procedure.
5. When cutting danger trees or performing tree trimming work within Minimum Approach
Distances to energized lines or equipment, as per OPR 106.07- Minimum Approach
Distances to Energized Equipment .
6. When required to reduce the risk of public or worker exposure to hazards associated with
the risk of power line failure or faults as required by OPR106.46 – Power Line
Disconnection and Hold Off Protection.
7. When there is a possibility that the work being performed could result in an accidental
contact with an adjacent line(s).
8. When the location or condition of adjacent line(s) presents a particular hazard to worker(s).
(Adjacent line(s) are those that cross over or under the line being worked on or are
supported on common structures).
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 14 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
9. When working on Energized substation equipment or a substation bus. (In this case the
breaker or recloser on all sources connected to the worksite must be placed in Hold Off.)
10. When there is a possibility that work being performed could result in contact with
Generating systems and equipment, that possesses sufficient dynamic energy to potentially
cause injury to workers or damage to equipment.
For example, work being carried out in generating facilities while the generators are
running that may include but not limited to the following:
a. painting or general construction or repairs to the building,
b. work on building louvers or exhaust fans,
c. work on control systems,
d. work on adjacent generators that may impact the operation of nearby equipment.
5.2.2 Hold Off Requirements
1. For feeders protected by multiple reclosers or other automatic reclosing devices, a Hold
Off must be obtained on all such devices on the source side of the worksite.
2. It is the responsibility of the Worker in Charge to ensure that a Hold Off is obtained and
released whenever necessary and the Control Authority notified. If an electrical line or
piece of generation equipment with a Hold Off trips or shuts down, the device must not be
re-Energized until permission to do so is received from the Worker in Charge. If this
occurs, the Control Authority must be notified immediately. A Danger Tag marked Hold
Off does not prevent the device from being tripped (opened or disconnected).
3. The Worker in Charge is responsible for confirming that the Hold Off is requested for the
correct line or piece of equipment. Field verification is required as per OPR 106.46 Power
Line Disconnection and Hold-Off Protection.
4. When work is being performed on a substation, transmission line or distribution line
directly connected to a NP generating plant, a Hold Off must be established on the
generator(s).
5. Generator Hold Off Requirements
a. If a generator is in remote mode, Water Management must be turned off and a
Hold Off tag placed on the SCADA start/stop button.
b. If a generator is in local auto mode, Water Management must be turned off and
a Hold Off tag placed on the generator control panel.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
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Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
c. If the generator is in Manual mode, a Hold Off tag must be placed on the
generator control panel.
6. Equipment requiring Hold Off to be placed manually will require a NL Power worker to
perform this task.
5.3 Self-Protection
Self-Protection allows a Worker in Charge to take direct responsibility at a worksite for ensuring
that a section of distribution line or feeder equipment or generation equipment is De-Energized
and will remain in that state while Self-Protection is in effect.
Self-Protection is invoked and released by the Worker in Charge for themselves and/or their
Work Unit. After the Self-Protection has been established a Self-Protection Permit must be
issued by the Control Authority before work can commence, except for an Emergency condition
as outlined in Section 6.0.
5.3.1 Application of Self-Protection
1. Self-Protection is used for straightforward switching on one distribution feeder (may
include distribution breaker, recloser, and associated DL’s, DB’s and the by pass switches).
2. Self-protection is used on straight forward switching on Generating equipment operating at
less than 250 psi and not more than 750 volts. It is not intended for major work on prime
mover equipment whereby the equipment is to be dismantled. Some examples include but
are not limited to the following: adjusting shaft gland followers, changing brush elements,
work on filter systems and low pressure governor systems.
3. Self-Protection is not permitted to be used on a feeder that requires it to be paralleled with
another feeder(s) as part of the switching to isolate the work area.
4. Self-Protection is not permitted for work on transmission lines or work on substation
equipment.
5. If three or more devices have to be operated (opened or closed) to establish Self-Protection,
a written Switching Order is required.
6. If a written Switching Order is required the Worker In Charge is responsible to have it
prepared.
7. The Worker In Charge is responsible for the approval and dispatch of the Switching Order
prepared for Self-Protection. If a second crew member is not available, the Worker In
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 16 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
Charge shall prepare the Switching Order and must have a SCC Power System Operator
review and approve it.
5.4 Protection Guarantee
A Protection Guarantee provides formal assurance from the Control Authority to a Worker In
Charge, that high voltage electrical lines and equipment or generation systems and equipment is
De-Energized and will remain in that state while the Protection Guarantee is in effect. Protection
Guarantees are required for all work on De-Energized High Voltage lines and equipment except
where Self-Protection is permitted.
After the switching to establish a Protection Guarantee is completed, a Protection Guarantee
Permit must be issued by the Control Authority before work can commence.
5.4.1 Application of Protection Guarantee
1. A Switching Order approved and dispatched by the Control Authority is required to ensure
the work area is isolated and grounds are applied if necessary.
2. A Protection Guarantee applies only to the lines or equipment described in the “Equipment
or Area Covered by Protection Guarantee” section of the Switching Order.
6.0 Worker Protection Permit A Worker Protection Permit is a Control Authority administered permission given to a Worker in
Charge before any work can start on High Voltage electrical lines and equipment or generation
systems and equipment, except for an Emergency condition as outlined below. There are three
types of Worker Protection Permits:
1. Hold Off Permit (Live Line Permit with Hold off)
2. Self-Protection Permit
3. Protection Guarantee Permit
They are identified by a unique number issued by the Control Authority.
For an Emergency condition the Worker In Charge may invoke Self-Protection to remove the
immediate danger without communicating with the Control Authority to obtain a Self-Protection
Permit. After the immediate threat has been removed, a Worker Protection Permit will be
required to make repairs.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 17 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
6.1 Worker Protection Permit Procedures and Responsibilities
1. A Worker In Charge must request a Worker Protection Permit from the Control Authority
and once issued, record this Permit number on all related tags and forms such as a
Tailboard Conference Plan Form 84, Form 543A Worker Protection Permit for Outside
Party, etc.
2. A Worker In Charge may be issued multiple Worker Protection Permits provided the
Permit conditions do not require the Worker in Charge to be present at more than one
worksite at the same time.
3. Only a Newfoundland Power Worker In Charge can obtain a Worker Protection Permit on
behalf of an outside party working near Newfoundland Power High Voltage lines,
generation systems and equipment.
4. A Protection Guarantee Permit can be transferred to another Worker In Charge as per
clause 6.3.4.
5. When work is complete the Worker In Charge must Release the Worker Protection Permit
to the Control Authority before the system can be restored to normal.
6. A Worker Protection Permit is not required to perform switching to isolate faulted sections
of lines or failed equipment or switching to restore power following an outage. The
Control Authority, with the help of Operations and Engineering personnel, will work out a
plan to isolate the fault and restore service to as many customers as possible before making
repairs. Once the fault has been isolated, a Worker Protection Permit will be required to
make repairs.
6.2 Worker Protection Permit Required Information and Checks
Information required by the Control Authority to create a Worker Protection Permit includes:
Name of Worker In Charge
Location of work
Purpose of work
Electrical and/or generation protection required
Confined Space Entry Permit – Form 707 (if required)
Form of protection to be used
Before issuing a Worker Protection Permit, the Control Authority will confirm that the following
have been considered and complied with if applicable:
Has a Hold Off been established?
Have temporary system conditions been checked?
Are there any other Worker Protections in effect that could impact the work?
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Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
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Created By: WPC Committee
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Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
Has the Tailboard and Job Steps Plan been completed and reviewed with all crew
members?
The Control Authority may refuse to issue a Worker Protection Permit if any of the above
conditions are unsatisfactory. If a Worker Protection Permit is refused by the Control Authority,
notification shall be given via email to the Manager responsible for System Control stating the
reason(s) for the refusal.
6.3 Application of Worker Protection Permit
6.3.1 Multiple Work Units
A Work Unit must not work under a Worker Protection Permit that has been established for
another Work Unit. If more than one Work Unit requires a Worker Protection Permit on the
same line or equipment, each Work Unit must establish its own Worker Protection Permit. A
crew can be added to an existing Work Unit provided they are working on the same project and a
tailboard conference is held with the Worker In Charge.
6.3.2 Release of a Worker Protection Permit
The Release of a Worker Protection Permit is a formal statement to the Control Authority that the
Worker in Charge is relinquishing all protection afforded by the Worker Protection Permit.
In the event that the Worker In Charge is unable to Release a Worker Protection Permit, only the
Manager of the Worker In Charge or, if unavailable, the responsible Director can authorize the
Release. The person authorizing the Release of the Worker Protection Permit must assume
complete responsibility. Whenever a Worker Protection Permit is released under this
circumstance, the details must be reported in writing to the Control Authority and Manager
responsible for System Control.
6.3.3 Worker Protection Permit for Outside Party Workers
When any electrical line or piece of generation equipment is De-Energized to allow any Outside
Party to work on or in close proximity to it, a Worker Protection Permit for Outside Party - Form
543A must be completed to provide assurance that the line or piece of equipment has been De-
Energized and will remain in that state until the Worker Protection Permit is released by the
Outside Party.
If isolation points are required for any diving activity, a Form 543A shall be issued to the diving
contractor Worker In Charge.
The Worker Protection Permit for Outside Party - Form 543A must be:
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Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 19 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
1. Used in conjunction with a Self-Protection Permit or Protection Guarantee Permit.
2. Completed, signed and dated by the NP Worker In Charge and the Outside Party Onsite
Supervisor.
3. Maintained by the NP Worker In Charge and a copy provided to the Outside Party Onsite
Supervisor.
4. Signed and dated by the Outside Party Onsite Supervisor and the NP Worker In Charge
releasing the Form 543A -Worker Protection Permit for Outside Party.
Multiple Worker Protection Permit for Outside Party - Form 543A may be issued under the same
Worker Protection Permit. When all Worker Protection Permits for Outside Parties are released,
the associated Protection Guarantee or Self-Protection Permit may be released, and the line,
equipment or piece of generation equipment may be Energized.
6.3.4 Transfer of Protection Guarantee Permit
If a Worker In Charge who has been issued a Protection Guarantee Permit is unable to continue
to exercise their responsibilities due to illness, injury, vacations, or other cause, the work must
stop until a new Worker In Charge is established with formal notification to the Control
Authority stating the reason for substitution. The new Worker In Charge takes on full
responsibility associated with the Protection Guarantee Permit and the original Worker In Charge
relinquishes all responsibility.
Provided all original Protection Guarantee Permit conditions remain unchanged, the Protection
Guarantee Permit may be transferred. Transfer of Worker Protection Permit - Form 76D must be
completed by the Worker In Charge and sent to the SCC for approval and filing. The SCC Power
System Operator must attach the completed form to the SCC’s copy of the Switching Order. In
the event that the Worker In Charge is unable to complete the form, Transfer of Worker
Protection Permit - Form 76D , it may be completed by the SCC Power System Operator when
clear communications are available from the SCC to both the existing and proposed Workers In
Charge.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 20 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
7.0 Danger Tag
The Danger Tag is used to indicate that:
1. A Protection Guarantee or Self-Protection has been established and equipment or devices
must not be operated.
2. A Hold Off has been established and the re-energizing of electrical or generation
equipment is prohibited.
The knowledge that any device or generation equipment bearing a Danger Tag marked Protection
Guarantee or Self-Protection is not to be operated and any device or equipment bearing a Danger
Tag marked Hold Off is not to be closed is the basis upon which the WPC guarantees protection
to workers.
7.1 Application
Danger Tags must be placed electronically and/or physically on, but not limited to, the following
situations:
1. All Isolation Points or Visible Air Gaps used to isolate the work areas. This includes
switches that are opened as part of the procedure, normally open points such as bypass
switches, isolating switches for customer owned generation that could act as a source of
supply to that portion of the system being worked on. If open jumpers are used to provide
a Visible Air Gap(s), they must also be Danger Tagged. Normally Open Cutouts
permanently identified with yellow signs must be confirmed open by either field
verification or SCC verification where applicable and Danger Tagged electronically by the
Control Authority. Note: Field verification of normally open cut outs may be done in
advance of the switching procedure and status confirmed with the SCC.
2. Grounding switches that are closed as part of the switching procedure must be Danger
Tagged in the closed position.
3. Switches or breakers that form part of the conductive grounding path shall be Danger
Tagged in the closed position. (Breakers must have DC turned off and Danger Tagged).
4. All grounds required to obtain a Protection Guarantee or Self-Protection must be Danger
Tagged.
5. Breakers, reclosers and other devices used to provide a Hold Off must be Danger Tagged.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
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Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
7.2 Preparation
The tag must be clearly marked to indicate the type of protection in effect. On the reverse side,
the following terms must be completed:
1. The Switching Order number (if applicable).
2. The device designation (e.g. RBK-G1-MI-01).
3. The date the tag is placed using year-month-day format.
4. The notes area is intended for any special instructions or details.
7.3 Installation/Removal
Danger Tags must be installed as follows:
1. Where switches are group operated by a ground level control handle, the Danger Tag must
be tied onto the lock used to secure the switch in either the opened or closed position. A
switch that is capable of being padlocked must not be Danger Tagged unless it is locked.
2. Motor operated switches and valves shall be tagged on the control panel control switch. In
addition, the DC power supply shall be turned off and Danger Tagged. Motorized switches
that can be remotely controlled from a building and/or panel within the substation will have
a permanent label placed on their respective motor cabinets. This label will be yellow with
black lettering and will say: "Local operation will only be permitted in Emergencies or if
special permission is obtained from the Control Authority".
3. Hook stick operated (HSO) disconnects shall be Danger Tagged by securing the Danger
Tag to the blade of the center phase. This is done using a special tag holder that is to be
applied with a standard switch stick.
4. When cut-outs have the blades or fuse holders removed, the Danger Tag must be fastened
to the blade or fuse holder that is in turn fastened to the pole or tied to the steel structure.
5. Device control switches must have the Danger Tag fastened directly to the switch handle
where possible. If the physical layout of the control switch or control panels makes this
impossible, the Danger Tag must be fastened to the control panel as near as practical to the
appropriate switch. At the SCC, the remote control switches must be Danger Tagged
electronically which will display on the SCADA system diagram.
6. When Danger Tagging open jumpers, the Danger Tag must be fastened to the pole so as to
be easily visible to anyone who would attempt to close the jumpers.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 22 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
7. If the position of a single isolating device is being guaranteed for more than one Work Unit
or Worker Protection Permit, each Worker In Charge must have his/her own Danger Tag in
place (in the field and electronically where applicable).
8. When a breaker, recloser or other device remotely controlled is placed in Hold Off, it must
have an electronic Hold Off Danger Tag placed on it in the Worker In Charge’s name at
the SCC. When the device placed in Hold Off is not remotely controlled, a paper Hold Off
Danger Tag must be placed on the device, or in the case of a breaker, on its control switch.
When the device to be placed in Hold Off is equipped with an automatic reclosing or
automatic transfer feature (e.g. recloser, breaker with reclosing relay, etc) the
reclosing/transfer feature must be blocked either locally at the device or remotely from the
SCC. If placed locally, only the breaker/recloser control switch/handle is to be Danger
Tagged. Before any devices are switched to non-reclose, the Control Authority must be
contacted for authorization and will require confirmation from the field that the field
device has actually been placed in the non-reclose position and tagged in the field, before
the status of the equipment and tags will be changed on the SCADA system. This will
confirm that field devices are actually in non-reclose and Danger Tagged before the SCC
issues a Hold Off protection to anyone requesting a Hold Off in their name.
Breakers/reclosers that can be controlled from a building and/or panel within the substation
will have a permanent label placed in their respective cabinets. This label will be yellow
with black lettering and will say: “Local operation will only be permitted in emergencies
or if special permission is specifically obtained from the Control Authority”.
9. When breakers are racked down or out to provide a visible air gap, a Danger Tag stating
the device designation must be attached to the door of the switchgear cubicle.
10. A Danger Tag marked Hold Off that was placed locally for SCC can only be removed
when all Hold Offs have been released and instruction to do so has been given by the
Control Authority. The device can then be placed in normal operation with automatic
reclosing.
11. The Worker In Charge is responsible for ensuring the appropriate tags are removed from
the field and returned to his or her supervisor along with the field copy(s) of the switching
order(s) for review when switching has been completed.
7.4 Limitations
Equipment tagged with a Danger Tag must not be operated or have its position changed until
either:
1. The Protection Guarantee Permit is released by the Worker In Charge and permission to
remove the Danger Tag is obtained from the Control Authority.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
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Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
2. The Self-Protection Permit is released by the Worker In Charge and permission to remove
the Danger Tag is obtained from the Worker In Charge.
3. In the case of a Hold Off, assurance is received from the Worker In Charge that all workers
are clear and that the Live Line Permit has been released. A Danger Tag marked Hold Off
does not prevent the electrical line or pieces of equipment from being tripped (opened or
disconnected).
7.5 Exceptions for Danger Tag Removal
Grounds may be removed and reinstalled for testing or commissioning purposes as per the
Grounding and Bonding Code. This must be stated in the Switching Order under the
Remarks/Hazards section. The Worker In Charge is responsible for notifying all workers in the
Work Unit prior to the grounds being removed for testing or commissioning purposes and all
other work associated with the Protection Guarantee Permit must cease until grounds and Danger
Tags have been reinstalled.
7.6 Danger Tag Relocation - Form No. 76E
The relocation of an Isolation Point with Danger Tag or grounding path with Danger Tag is
permitted when the device used to provide isolation or grounding must be changed to facilitate
the continuation of work.
A Danger Tag Relocation - Form 76E must be completed by the Worker In Charge and approved
by the SCC prior to relocating the Isolation Point, or relocating grounds and Danger Tag.
Grounding must be established as per the Grounding and Bonding Code.
8.0 Caution Tag
A Caution Tag warns of an abnormal status or a hazardous condition(s).
Caution tagging is used to identify equipment that is in an abnormal status, out of service, out of
order (broken or defective), in the process of being commissioned or presents a hazard to workers
for other reasons.
A physical Caution Tag should be installed on all such identified equipment. If the equipment is
represented on SCADA the SCC should place an electronic Caution Tag on the equipment
control panel on SCADA.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 24 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
A Caution Tag should be installed, during switching, on equipment that has been placed in its
abnormal position and left unattended during or after the switching process.
Some examples of when to use a Caution Tag include, but are not limited to, the following:
Breakers or reclosers opened to permit down-line switching if left unattended.
Normally opened switches and cutouts closed as part of the switching procedure and
not part of the grounding path.
Switches operated to transfer load or change modes of operation.
Equipment found to be defective or inoperable.
Equipment that has its settings temporarily changed.
Devices placed in an abnormal state and will be left unattended.
Protection and control devices in the process of being commissioned or removed from
service.
8.1 Procedures/Responsibilities
Any worker placing a Caution Tag affecting system operations shall notify the Control Authority
as soon as possible that it has been placed. The Control Authority shall log the information and
bring it to the attention of the appropriate personnel for follow-up if necessary. The Control
Authority is to be notified that the Caution Tag has been removed as soon as possible after doing
so and the Caution Tag returned to the appropriate location for filing.
A Caution Tag may only be removed by a Newfoundland Power worker who understands why
the Caution Tag was placed and takes necessary corrective action to remedy the original
situation.
The Control Authority is to be notified that the Caution Tag has been removed as soon as
possible after doing so.
Worker Protection Code
Date Issued: 2008 07 16
Date Revised: 2020 03 20
Date Reviewed: 2020 03 20
Page 25 of 25
Created By: WPC Committee
Revised By: R. Murdoch
Reviewed By: R. Murdoch/ N. Collins
Approved By: Sean LaCour
9.0 Defective Tool & Test Equipment Tag
A Defective Tool & Test Equipment Tag is to be used to tag defective tools and or test equipment
out of service. The tag shall identify the nature of the defect in the remarks section of the tag and
the tag shall not be removed from the tool or test equipment until such time as a repair has been
made by a person qualified to make the repair.
Defective Tool & Test Equipment Tags are not to be used as a system (Electrical or Generation)
tags. Caution and or Danger Tags are for use on equipment impacting Electric and Generation
systems.
9.1 Procedures/Responsibilities
Any worker placing a Defective Tool & Test Equipment Tag shall immediately remove the
tagged item from service and make arrangements to return the item to the appropriate person or
location for repair as soon as is most convenient.
The Defective Tool & Test Equipment Tag may only be removed once the device has been
repaired by a qualified person and the device has been deemed ready to return to service.