Certificate in Temporary Electrical Systems

An electrical safety training course designed to ensure those working with electricity in temporary distribution systems on productions can comply with BS 7909 and the relevant parts of BS 7671

Updated: 12 December 2023

What is the course about?

 

The training is a classroom based three day course (with assessments and practical exercises) and allows plenty of opportunity for discussion. The industry group who developed this course includes representatives of the main broadcasters, BECTU, Unite, Skillset, several large electrical suppliers/rental companies, freelance electricians, PACT (Indie Sector) and one of the authors of BS7909.

Productions have to engage someone who has completed the course and passed the assessment as the person responsible for the electrical installation or, as part of that person’s crew.

Where can I find out more?

This course highlights the legal responsibilities of those working with power and uses ordinary scenarios and situations to explain common hazards and how the associated Standards can be used to mitigate the risks. Passing this course provides evidence that you understand the principles behind providing an electrically safe working environment and what needs to be done to achieve one.

You can find out more about the content and requirements for the course from Bectu - course details here.

It is worth noting that 100% of the Gaffers and Best Boys who’ve attended so far would recommend it to their colleagues. 

How can I apply?

Please be aware that you do need to have an understanding of electrical principles in order to be successful. Therefore, anyone considering participating will be expected to understand the technical content in this course. You will need to be comfortable with basic electrical theory such as using Ohms Law and working out power loading. It does NOT teach basic electrical theory.

It is aimed at existing practitioners or those newly electrically qualified by allied routes (such as 17th or 18th edition qualifications or electrical NVQs), and will enable candidates to demonstrate an understanding of what is required to practice safely with temporary electrical systems.

 

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.
  • Electrical safety in BBC Premises

    General guidance on use of electricity and electrical equipment when working in BBC Premises.
  • Electrical safety in Studios

    A straightforward guide to electrical safety management in studios and similar locations.
  • Safety of electrical equipment and appliances

    Requirements for electrical safety of electrical equipment and appliances (β€˜PAT testing’).
  • Electrical competency and Part P requirements

    Guidance on what to look for when employing contractors or freelancers to do electrical work.
  • Electrical safety requirements for Production Managers

    Find out what you should know and what measures should be put in place for your production.
  • Bringing your own equipment to work and contributor’s equipment

    Basic guidance on the safe and appropriate use of personal electrical equipment whilst at work and requirements.
  • Temporary electrical systems and BS 7909

    Requirements for electrical safety management in accordance with BS 7909 for all temporary electrical systems.
  • Small and Simple Temporary Electrical Systems

    Guidance to help understand the requirements for simple temporary electrical systems such as interviews or photo shoots for example.
  • Generators

    Guidance on the use of temporary generators including the application of earth electrodes.
  • Batteries

    Guidance on the safe use and storage of batteries.
  • Certificate in Temporary Electrical Systems

    An electrical safety training course designed to ensure those working with electricity in temporary distribution systems on productions can comply with BS 7909 and the relevant parts of BS 7671.
  • Electrical Workshop

    Electrical Principles Workshop to harmonise the approach to health and safety management on electricity across all areas.[BBC internal access only]
  • External information and guidance on electrical safety

    Links providing further information on all aspects of electrical safety, from external bodies (IET, HSE, Etc.) that BBC staff may find useful. Some guidance is required to be purchased.
  • Health & safety Alerts and News

    All the Health & Safety Alerts and News from the H&S Teams
  • More from SSR

  • BBC Safety Guidelines

    An A-Z of BBC's Safety Guidelines
  • Contact your Safety Team

    Safety Advice Line: 0370 411 0464 Email: safety@bbc.co.uk
  • Info: About this site

    This site describes what the BBC does in relation to managing its health, safety and security risks and is intended for those who work directly for the BBC.

    It is not intended to provide instruction or guidance on how third parties should manage their risks. The BBC cannot be held liable for how this information is interpreted or used by third parties, nor provide any assurance that adopting it would provide any measure of legal compliance. More information

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