High Voltage Switching and Operations Course
H&MV ENGINEERING
City & Guilds Accredited High Voltage
Switching and Operations Course
Course Description and Summary
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High Voltage Switching and Operations Course
1. Why the Need for High Voltage Switching & Operations Training
High Voltage Systems comprise of a significant and critical element of the overall
electrical system worldwide. These high voltage systems are usually the interface be-
tween the HV Grid Supply and the Step-down or Step-up voltage systems between
the demand or generator power systems and the grid owner. As a result this is an area
of electrical engineering which requires specific knowledge, expertise and competen-
cy in which to operate in a safe and competent manner. Many people are required to
deal with this high voltage element of their electrical systems, sometimes not often
due to the fact that switching, operations and configuration changes of these systems
may be infrequent. In many instances those responsible for these installations are
unaware of the risk and implications particularly in the areas of Safety, Maintenance
and Continuity of Supply of having such equipment located on their sites. H&MV En-
gineering have recognised that a significant gap exists in this specialist area of High
Voltage Switching & Operations and the risk associated with it. We have put signifi-
cant resources, experience and development into this course to address that shortfall.
This course is designed to provide an awareness of the risks associated with these
systems and the methods used to control and minimise them. This course is City &
Guilds Accredited and is the first of its type for Ireland.
2. Training Philosophy and Course Content
The course itself is broadly divided into classroom and practical sessions on an equal
basis. The intention is to introduce the various concepts in the classroom environ-
ment and then implement them through practical activities. The classroom sessions
will also accommodate discussion on the topics being introduced as well as interac-
tion with the trainees. The following subject areas are covered in detail in the class-
room sessions:
1. Principles of Electrical Safety
2. Lock-Out & Tag-Out (LOTO) & Testing of Isolations
3. Electrical Drawings and Switching Plans
4. Electrical Safety Legislation and Standards
5. Principles of Arc-Flash and Arc-Blast
6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and High Voltage Test Equipment
7. High Voltage Switchgear and Transformers
8. General Electrical Theory and Concepts
9. Electrical Circuits and Protection
10. Principles of Risk Assessment
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High Voltage Switching and Operations Course
The Module ‘General Electrical Theory and Concepts’ serves to give all participants
an electrical basis for the concepts being presented.
3. Course Delivery
The course presentation format is both theoretical and practical. Continuous assess-
ment will be applied throughout the duration of the course and a theory and practical
exam will be required to be passed on the final day. The theoretical elements will be
delivered by means of a series of modules. These modules will, in general, be present-
ed in the form of slides and case studies. Each module will contain an Examination
Questionnaire which must be completed at the end of the presentation session. The
marks obtained in these assessments will be taken into account in the overall marking
of the course. The practical activities will take place in a specially designed High Volt-
age training center and students will be involved in carrying out particular operations
on actual equipment.
Contact Niamh at [email protected] if you would like a schedule of course dates
or a quotation.
4. Participant Profile
This course is designed to be suitable for varied groups including:
• Facilities and Maintenance Managers
• Facility Engineers and Technicians
• High Voltage System Operators
• Plant Electricians
• Maintenance Technicians
It is recommended that candidates have 4 years of electrical experience.
5. Course Duration
The course is run over five (5) days. In general, the theoretical elements will be pre-
sented during the morning sessions and the practical elements will take place each
afternoon.
In order to cater for improvements in technology and changes in legislation, a two
(2) day Refresher Course is offered. It is recommended that this refresher training
should be carried out within three (3) years of completing the course.
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High Voltage Switching and Operations Course
6. Award Achieved
Successful candidates will receive a City & Guilds Accredited Certificate in High Volt-
age Switching & Operations.
7. Summary
The purpose of this course is to equip personnel working, or associated with, High
Voltage Systems, with the knowledge they require to carry out their functions in a
safe and competent manner. The course is applicable to both those carrying out High
Voltage Operations, be that Switching, Installation or Maintenance Works, and per-
sons who deal with these systems from a Managerial or Supervisory perspective.
The course offers a structured approach to High Voltage training, in that all relevant
aspects of the subject area are addressed in detail and followed by Practical Exercises.
It will provide participants with a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical
aspects of the operation of High Voltage Systems and Equipment.
Module 1 – Principles of Electrical Safety
OBJECTIVE
The Objective of this module is to introduce the ‘Electrical Hazard’ to the students.
The mechanism of electric shock is described, as are the effects on the human body.
Accident statistics are introduced and data is presented, with an emphasis on High
Voltage incidents. Safe Work Practices and Protection Methods are described in de-
tail.
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this module, students will be aware of how a person can receive an
Electric Shock and what type of injuries can occur. In addition, they will understand
the relevance of Accident Statistics. Students will also be made aware of the various
Safe Work Practices and Protection Methods that are employed to minimise the risk
involved with HV operations.
Module 2 – Lock-Out / Tag-Out (LOTO) & Testing of Isolations
OBJECTIVE
The Objective of this module is to introduce the topic of proper, definitive and safe
Isolation Techniques to the students. The basis of LOTO systems are outlined, includ-
ing the requirement to test isolations in a correct manner.
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High Voltage Switching and Operations Course
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this Module, students will have a knowledge of the importance of
correct and comprehensive Isolation Systems, testing of isolations and making HV
Systems safe for work.
Module 3 – Electrical Drawings and Switching Plans
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this module is to introduce students to the subject of Electrical Draw-
ings, with particular emphasis being placed on Single Line (one Line) Diagrams. Vari-
ous types of drawings, including Block Wiring Diagrams and Schematic Drawings are
introduced and explained. The symbology associated with Electrical Drawings is also
presented. The concept of switching plans, which are closely related to Single Line
Drawings, are also introduced.
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this module, students will be in a position to interpret Single Line
Diagrams and compile Switching Plans for High Voltage Switching Operations.
Module 4 – Electrical Safety Legislation & Standards
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this Module is to provide the students with an overall appreciation
for the legislation relevant to Electrical Work, with the emphasis being placed on High
Voltage Work. The module also introduces the concept of competency and the ‘Au-
thorised Person’. Both the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act and the associated
General Application Regulations will be presented.
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this Module, Students will have a firm understanding of the
Safety and Health Legislation pertinent to High Voltage Electrical Work. The
Participants will also have an appreciation for the Guidelines associated with the
Legislation.
Module 5 – Principles of Arc-Flash and Arc-Blast
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this module is to introduce the concepts of Electrical Arc-Flash
and Arc- Blast. This is a phenomenon which has potentially extreme effects on both
people
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High Voltage Switching and Operations Course
and equipment, particularly in the case of High Voltage Systems. This module will out-
line the mechanisms and hazards related to Arc-Flash and explain the data generated
during a study. The data contained on Arc-Flash Warning labels will also be addressed.
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this module, students will have a greater understanding of the con-
cept of Arc-Flash and it’s potential effects on both Equipment and Personnel. They
will achieve a better understanding of the Risks involved and the mechanisms avail-
able to deal with these Risks.
Module 6 – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Test Equipment
OBJECTIVE
The Objective of this module is to describe to the class the requirements of Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE), taking account of ‘Cal’ Ratings in relation to Arc-Flash
and Arc- Blast. The importance of care and testing of PPE is also presented. Examples
of test equipment, in particular test equipment used on High Voltage Equipment, are
presented.
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this module, students will have an appreciation for the type of PPE
required when working on High Voltage Equipment. Maintenance and Testing of PPE
is also covered as part of this module. High Voltage Test Equipment, and it’s correct
use, is also introduced. Students will have a working knowledge of all of these topics
on completion of the module.
Module 7 – High Voltage Switchgear and Transformers
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this module is to introduce the building blocks of High Voltage Sys-
tems, i.e. Switchgear, Transformers, Ring Main Units, etc. The various Distribution
Systems are outlined and examples are presented. The principle of operation of a
transformer is explained and both Oil-Filled and Cast Resin Transformers are covered
in detail. Nameplate data is explained and the issue of Transformer Inrush Current is
addressed.
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this module, students will have a good understanding of the oper-
ation and configurations of High Voltage System components. They will also under-
stand the meaning of the parameters given on Transformer Nameplates. They will
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High Voltage Switching and Operations Course
have an appreciation for Transformer Maintenance as well as the phenomenon of
‘Inrush’.
Module 8 – General Electrical Theory & Concepts
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this module is to provide revision of the main concepts of Electrical
Engineering for the students. The module covers all aspects of Electrical Theory which
affect Power Systems and Equipment, with an emphasis on High Voltage Systems.
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this module, students will have a knowledge of the main elements of Elec-
trical Engineering, particularly those applicable to High Voltage Equipment and Installations.
Module 9 – Electrical Circuits and Protection
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this module is to outline the various Fault Mechanisms in Electrical Sys-
tems and the methods and equipment used to detect them. The module introduces the
protection of both Personnel and Equipment from Electrical Faults. Particular emphasis
is placed on Protection of Personnel from Electrical Faults, in particular Earth Faults.
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this module, students will have a knowledge of High Voltage Protec-
tion Devices as well as the concept of Protective Earthing Systems.
Module 10 – Principles of Risk Assessment
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this module is to illustrate the concept of Risk Assessment and how
it is employed in High Voltage Operations. The module outlines the hazards and risks
associated with HV work and presents templates of documentation used in the pro-
cess of generating Risk Assessments. Also presented is a practical quantitative meth-
odology which allows a risk matrix to be developed by numerical means. The matrix
can then be used to determine the necessary control measures.
RESULT / OUTCOME
On completion of this module, students will have the requisite knowledge to enable
them to evaluate the risks and hazards associated with High Voltage Tasks and to car-
ry out a risk assessment based on their observations. They will also be able to deter-
mine the control measure.
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