Small and Simple Temporary Electrical Systems
This safety guidance covers operational electrical equipment and systems, including the requirements for the distribution of electricity in a temporary environment, particularly on location or in studios. It also explains the application of BS 7909.
The intent of this category is to simplify management of electrical safety based on the principles that electrical equipment is safe already (i.e. undergone recent portable appliance testing) and simple user checks are conducted. The key aspect is that systems are simple in design, usually derive power from ordinary domestic style sockets installed in the building and a protective device called a Residual Current Device (RCD) is used for additional protection against electric shock. Examples could be interviews, press launches, small drama shoots or editing work.
Notes for Small and Simple Systems
- All equipment must come from a pre-vetted supplier and should be checked for electrical safety prior to being used (i.e. ‘PAT’ tested).
- The person looking after the small system should have undergone the BBC Academy online training.
- Systems need to be checked using a small plug-in style tester, and RCDs checked using the ‘T’ button.
- Although a certificate proving safety of the system is not required with this classification, some venues require some evidence that it has been erected safely. This certificate should be completed if required.
Click on the BS7909 Flowchart to see if your system can be classed as small and simple.
Useful documents
BS 7909 Flowchart BS 7909 Small/Simple Systems under 6kva sign off
Recommended links
- Certificate in Temporary Electrical SystemsElectrical safety training course designed to ensure those working with electricity in temporary distribution systems on productions can comply with BS 7909
BBC electrical safety topics
Electrical safety homepage
A selection of guidance documents and general advice in relation to Electrical Safety in BBC premises, on productions and events.
BBC policies for electrical safety
BBC policies detailing its overarching approach to the management of electrical safety.
BBC electrical safety guidance documents
Summary of BBC electrical guidance (links within document titles)
Electrical risk assessments and reporting of incidents
This section will help those who need to do a risk assessment where electricity is being used. It also gives guidance on reporting requirements for any electrically-related incident.
