Working with electricity is inherently hazardous. To prevent electrical accidents in the workplace and ensure workers' safety, employers must provide specialized electrical safety training to their employees.
However, since electrical work involves various voltage levels, the associated risks and job requirements vary depending on the power levels. Therefore, workers must receive training specific to their job duties.
This article contains a translation of a document explaining "High Voltage Electrical Safety Training" in Japan.
What is High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training?
In Japan, High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training is mandatory safety education for workers handling high-voltage equipment. It aims to prevent workplace electrical accidents and ensure workers' safety.
Legal Requirements Under the Industrial Safety and Health Act
High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training is mandated by Article 59 of the Industrial Safety and Health Act. Employers must provide this specialized training before employees are allowed to work with high-voltage or extra-high-voltage electrical systems.
Who Must Be Trained
The following personnel require High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training, along with the applicable voltage ranges:
| Target Personnel | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Workers | All personnel working with high-voltage and extra-high-voltage energized equipment |
| Licensed Personnel | Required even for those holding national electrical licenses or certifications |
| Prospective Workers | Personnel scheduled to begin high-voltage electrical work |
| Category | Voltage Range |
|---|---|
| High Voltage | DC: Above 750V, AC: Above 600V to 7000V |
| Extra-High Voltage | Above 7000V |
*High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training, as outlined in this paragraph, refers specifically to Japan's standards
High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training is mandatory under the Industrial Safety and Health Act. All workers handling electricity within the specified voltage ranges must complete this training before starting work, regardless of their existing qualifications.
Employers are also required to follow the training curriculum established by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.
Comparing Different Types of Electrical Safety Training
In addition to High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training, there are two other types of safety training programs for electrical equipment handling: Low-Voltage Electrical Safety Training and Extra-High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training.
These three training programs differ in the following aspects:
- 1. Voltage Classifications
- 2. Job Duties and Responsibilities
Let's examine each of these differences.
Voltage Classifications
Voltage is a measure of electrical potential difference that drives current flow. The type of electrical safety training required varies based on the voltage level you'll be working with.
To ensure you receive the appropriate training, you must first identify the voltage classification of your work environment.
The voltage classifications are shown in the table below.
| Low Voltage | High Voltage | Extra-High Voltage | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contract Type | Electric Light | Electricity | Small Consumer | Large Consumer | ||
| Power Capacity | < 50kW | 50-500kW | 500-2000kW | 2000-10000kW | ≥50000kW | |
| Supply Voltage | AC: ≤600V DC: ≤750V |
AC: ≤600V DC: ≤750V |
≥20000V | |||
| Typical Users | Small retail shops, restaurants | Small/medium office buildings and factories | Large factories, department stores, large office complexes | |||
Low Voltage
Low-voltage electricity is generated at the power plant by the local utility company, then transformed at substations and distributed to homes, shops, and small businesses through pole-mounted transformers. Common applications include household appliances and small commercial equipment.
Low-voltage service is typically available in two main categories:
-
Residential Service:
Designed for households, this plan charges based on actual power consumption. It's ideal for devices that use relatively little electricity, such as home refrigerators and computers. -
Commercial Power Service:
This plan is intended for equipment that draws more power, such as commercial air conditioning units, industrial refrigerators, and motors. It features higher base rates but lower usage charges.
Low-voltage power is widely used across many applications because it requires no special infrastructure and is safer to handle due to its lower voltage levels.
High Voltage
High-voltage power is supplied directly from utility company power plants and transformed to usable voltages (typically 100V or 200V) through on-site electrical substations (cubicles).
Since customers manage their own power transformation and distribution, this system offers a reduced risk of voltage drops and power outages, ensuring a more reliable power supply.
The lower unit cost, compared to low voltage, makes it cost-effective for facilities with high power consumption or critical operations (such as hospitals and data centers).
Extra-High Voltage
Extra-high voltage power begins at the generation plant (up to 500kV) and is stepped down at primary substations (to 154kV) before being delivered directly to customer-owned receiving equipment. This service requires dedicated substation infrastructure.
It provides exceptional reliability with minimal risk of voltage fluctuations or outages, making it ideal for facilities with massive power requirements (such as large manufacturing plants, commercial complexes, and office towers).
However, it demands a substantial initial investment for the installation and maintenance of the receiving equipment. Importantly, facilities must employ a certified Chief Electrical Engineer due to the specialized knowledge required for system management.
Differences in Job Duties
While all three types of electrical safety training-Low-Voltage, High-Voltage, and Extra-High-Voltage-are required for electrical work, each has distinct differences in scope, voltage ranges, and specific work activities.
The following table details the key differences in training requirements and job duties for each certification level.
| Low-Voltage Safety Training | High-Voltage Safety Training | Extra-High-Voltage Safety Training | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope | Personnel involved in installation, repair, and operation of low-voltage (DC: ≤750V, AC: ≤600V) circuits and equipment | Personnel working with high-voltage (DC: >750V, AC: 600V-7000V) circuits and support structures, including installation, inspection, repair, and operation | Personnel working with extra-high-voltage (>7000V) circuits and support structures |
| Work Activities |
|
|
|
Each certification level covers different voltage ranges, with higher voltages requiring more specialized knowledge and technical skills. Working with energized equipment and live circuits is particularly hazardous and strictly requires the completion of appropriate safety training before any work can begin.
Additionally, in October 2019, Article 36, Section 4 of the Industrial Safety and Health Act was amended to establish a separate Electric Vehicle (EV) Maintenance Safety Training program, distinct from Low-Voltage Electrical Safety Training. This new training requirement was introduced in response to the growing prevalence of electric and hybrid vehicles.
While Low-Voltage Electrical Safety Training covers fundamental knowledge of low-voltage systems and general safety protocols, EV Maintenance Safety Training focuses specifically on the specialized knowledge required for servicing electric vehicles.
High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training Curriculum
Working with high-voltage electricity is inherently hazardous and requires specialized knowledge and technical expertise. To ensure worker safety, the completion of High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training is legally mandated.
We will explain the High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training in the following order:
- Approved Training Providers
- Theoretical Coursework
- Practical Training
- Frequently Asked Questions about High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training
1. Approved Training Providers
High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training is offered by the following authorized organizations, each providing an official completion certificate upon course completion:
-
Labor Standards Associations: Regional centers across Japan, including:
- Tokyo Federation of Labor Standards Associations
- Nagoya South Labor Standards Association
-
Regional Electrical Safety Associations:
- Kanto Electrical Safety Association
- Chubu Electrical Safety Association
-
Safety and Health Management Associations: Non-profit organizations providing safety training in major cities, including Tokyo, Aichi, Osaka, and Fukuoka
-
Online Learning Platforms: Several institutions offer web-based theoretical coursework, allowing flexible learning.
- SAT Corporation: Specializing in technical and field certifications
- Construction and Real Estate Education Center (CECC): Industry-specific training provider
For online courses, practical training must be conducted on-site under the supervision of a qualified instructor who possesses substantial knowledge and experience in the field. The instructor must guide hands-on exercises following the online video instruction materials.
2. Theoretical Coursework
According to Safety and Health Training regulations, workers who handle high-voltage electricity must complete mandatory subjects for specified durations.
The required theoretical coursework for High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training includes the following subjects:
| Subject | Content | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Fundamentals of High and Extra-High Voltage Systems | Basic characteristics and handling of high and extra-high voltage electricity | Understand electrical hazards and develop foundational knowledge for preventing electrical accidents | 1.5 hours |
| 2. Electrical Equipment and Infrastructure | Structure and function of high and extra-high voltage equipment | Master safe operation procedures and proper maintenance protocols for electrical systems | 2 hours |
| 3. Safety Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment | Types, selection, and proper use of safety equipment | Ensure proper selection and use of safety equipment for workplace protection | 1.5 hours |
| 4. Live-Line Work and Proximity Operations | Practical methods for working on or near energized equipment | Develop specific techniques for safe operation around energized systems | 5 hours |
| 5.Regulatory Requirements | Applicable laws and safety regulations | Understand legal requirements and importance of regulatory compliance | 1 hour |
The primary objective of High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training is to provide workers with essential knowledge and skills to prevent electrical shocks and accidents. Each component of the training is legally mandated and crucial for ensuring safe work practices.
3. Practical Training
In accordance with Article 39 of the Industrial Safety and Health Act, workers must acquire and demonstrate proficiency in safety and health practices required to prevent workplace accidents.
The practical training component includes the following elements:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Required Training Hours |
|
| Practical Training Components |
|
Practical training is typically conducted on-site at each facility under qualified instructor supervision in actual work environments. The required training duration varies based on job responsibilities, ranging from a minimum of 1 hour to 15 hours or more.
4. Frequently Asked Questions about High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training
The following addresses common questions about High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training.
Note: This is a translation of a Japanese FAQ. The answers may differ depending on each country.
Where can I complete High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training?
Training is available through regional occupational safety and health organizations and authorized educational institutions, such as the Kanto Electrical Safety Association, Safety and Health Management Association, and Chubu Electric Association.
Is High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training required when working with high-voltage power sources?
The training is mandatory for anyone performing live electrical work or working near energized high-voltage equipment where safety precautions are necessary.
Does the training differentiate between DC and AC systems?
While the training certification itself doesn't distinguish between DC and AC systems, the curriculum covers specific aspects of both. This includes AC-specific concepts such as frequency and reactance, as well as DC-specific hazards such as arc flash characteristics. The training ensures comprehensive coverage of safety protocols for both power types.
What are energized circuits and their support structures?
An energized circuit refers to any electrical circuit that is powered and conducting electricity. These circuits consist of conductors (wires and cables) that transmit power from the source to loads such as electrical equipment and facilities. The term "energized" indicates the presence of electrical voltage.
Support structures for energized circuits include the physical infrastructure that holds and maintains these circuits, such as utility poles, transmission towers, and overhead line systems.
These structures are essential for safe installation and operation, maintaining proper clearances, and protecting circuits from environmental factors.
If I complete high-voltage or extra-high-voltage safety training, do I still need low-voltage training?
Training requirements for different voltage levels are distinct. High-voltage, extra-high-voltage, and low-voltage safety training programs each focus on the specific knowledge and skills needed for their respective voltage ranges.
The Industrial Safety and Health Act mandates that employers provide appropriate safety training for each type of hazardous work, and these requirements cannot be waived or substituted. Therefore, even if you have completed high-voltage or extra-high-voltage training, you are still required to complete separate low-voltage safety training to work with low-voltage systems.
International High-Voltage Safety Standards
Countries other than Japan also have established their own laws, regulations, and safety training requirements for high-voltage work.
The following are major international standards:
- 1. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) Standards: United States
- 2. NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace): United States
- 3. Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: United Kingdom
- 4. CSA (Canadian Standards Association) Standards: Canada
Here's a comparison of these regulatory frameworks:
| OSHA | NFPA 70E | Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 | CSA Standards | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country | United States | United States | United Kingdom | Canada |
| Legal Status | Legally binding regulations under the Occupational Safety and Health Act | Electrical safety standards that complement OSHA | Legally binding regulations under the Health and Safety Act | Legally enforceable in certain fields |
| Purpose |
Protection of workers' safety and health in the workplace (prevention of accidents and occupational illnesses) |
Ensuring safety in electrical work (prevention of electric shocks, arc flashes, etc.) |
Safe use of electrical equipment (prevention of electrical hazards such as electric shocks and fires) |
Safety, performance, and sustainability of products and systems (focused on electrical and mechanical equipment) |
| Scope | Almost all employers and workers in the United States (with some exceptions) | Engineers and managers involved in installation, maintenance, and operation of electrical equipment | Employers, workers, and managers of electrical equipment in the UK | Businesses and individuals handling products and equipment in Canada |
| Key Features |
|
|
|
|
Let's examine each regulatory framework in detail.
United States
The United States has two primary standards governing high-voltage electrical work: the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) Standards and NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace).
OSHA Standards
OSHA is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Labor. It was established to implement the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. OSHA's mission is to protect worker safety and health, with particular emphasis on hazardous industries such as construction and manufacturing.
To prevent workplace accidents and occupational illnesses, OSHA establishes and enforces specific regulations, including:
- Safety Equipment Requirements
- Hazardous Material Handling Procedures
- Workplace Environment Assessment Protocols
Employers must comply with these standards and submit regular safety and health compliance reports.
NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace)
NFPA 70E is a consensus standard developed by the National Fire Protection Association in the United States. Created at OSHA's request, it provides comprehensive workplace electrical safety requirements.
The standard primarily targets engineers and managers involved in electrical equipment installation, maintenance, and operations.
Key components include:
- Electrical Hazard Assessment and Control
- Arc Flash Protection Boundaries
- PPE Requirements
- Lockout/Tagout Procedures
The standard also details training requirements and implementation procedures for high-voltage work safety. While voluntary, NFPA 70E is widely adopted by employers as an industry best practice.
United Kingdom
The primary electrical safety regulation in the UK is the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
This legislation, enacted in 1989, establishes comprehensive electrical safety standards for workplaces throughout the United Kingdom. The regulations aim to ensure worker safety through rigorous requirements.
Key features:
- The standards cover all workers performing electrical work in the UK and organizations responsible for managing electrical installations.
- They establish safety standards for the design and installation of electrical systems.
- They mandate worker training and the use of appropriate PPE.
The regulations provide detailed safety standards for electrical system installation, operation, and maintenance. They ensure workplace safety through mandatory periodic inspections and maintenance protocols.
Canada
Canada's electrical safety standards are established by the CSA.
CSA Standards
The CSA develops and maintains comprehensive safety standards, including CSA Z462, which specifically addresses workplace electrical safety. This standard aims to protect workers from electrical hazards, including arc flash and shock.
Key elements:
- The standards apply to all individuals involved in electrical work in Canada, including electrical engineers, maintenance personnel, and supervisors.
- They establish protocols for identifying electrical hazards and conducting risk assessments in the workplace.
- They provide guidelines for selecting appropriate PPE and developing safe work procedures.
The standard requires the implementation of education and training for workers and risk assessment prior to work. By following this standard, companies and organizations are expected to ensure worker safety and improve the working environment.
Electrical Safety Standards in Asia
Other Asian nations have established comprehensive regulatory frameworks for high-voltage electrical safety.
China maintains two primary regulations governing electrical safety: the Work Safety Law and the Electric Power Safety Code. These regulations establish mandatory requirements for power facility safety management, worker safety training programs, and specialized certification for electrical workers. The framework ensures consistent safety standards across all electrical operations while emphasizing worker protection through comprehensive training requirements.
South Korea governs electrical safety through the Industrial Safety and Health Act. This legislation mandates rigorous safety training for high-voltage electrical workers and establishes standards for accident prevention. The law focuses on implementing comprehensive worker protection measures, with particular emphasis on specialized training requirements for personnel working with high-voltage systems.
Ensuring Workplace Safety Through High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training
High-Voltage Electrical Safety Training is required by the Industrial Safety and Health Act for all workers handling high-voltage systems (7000V or higher).
To ensure worker safety and the proper operation of electrical equipment, workers must complete initial certification and undergo regular refresher training.