SIP (Safe Isolation Provider) Safe Isolation of a Cut Out

With the number of Electric Vehicle chargers, Electrical Energy Storage Systems, Heat Pumps and Photovoltaic systems being installed within dwellings and other premises the requirement to install a local isolator is vital so the work can be safely completed. This normally requires Safe Isolation Works (SIW) to be undertaken so that other works can be carried out at a customer’s property safely. The de-energisation and re-energisation work (i.e., removal and replacement of the service cut-out fuse(s)) can only be undertaken by a suitably authorised and competent business and person.

Safe Isolation Provider (SIP) is an additional role available to existing accredited Meter Operator Agents (MOAs) to allow them to accept instructions to undertake a limited set of activities at the request of the premise owners without the need to use the Registered Suppliers’ MOAs

The Distribution Connection and Use of System Agreement (DCUSA) is concerned with the use of the electricity distribution systems to transport electricity to or from connections to them. The DCUSA replaced numerous bi-lateral contracts, giving a common and consistent approach to the relationships between these parties in the electricity industry.

The requirements for safely isolating a cut-out. 

‘Safe Isolation Works (SIW)’ means, in respect of an Entry/Exit Point, works by a SIP Party to:

• De-energise that Entry/Exit Point;
• (If reasonably necessary) adjust the terminals of the meter and associated equipment and re-make the connection to them to make safe and remedy any disturbance of the connection that may have occurred;
• If required, terminate/replace the customer tails on the Electricity Supplier's meter (provided that such tails must have been provided and tested by the SIP Party or the customer's electrical engineer); and
• Re-energise that Entry/Exit Point.

This course is aimed at qualified and/or experienced and practising electrical operatives. On application for the course, the AC will carry out an Initial Assessment of the learner’s capability to complete the course.

Learners holding the following will confirm their suitability to enrol on the qualification:

• Level 3 qualification in the Initial Verification and certification of electrical installations
• BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations (current edition) qualification

• The assessment is via a performance assessment undertaking safe isolation, along with a multiple choice question paper.

• LCL Awards Level 2 Diploma in Smart Metering (Dual Fuel/Gas)
• LCL Awards Level 3 Award in the Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems
• LCL Awards Level 3 Award in the Installation and Commissioning of Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment in Domestic, Commercial and Industrial locations
• LCL Awards Level 3 Award in the Installation and Maintenance of Heat Pump Systems (non-refrigerant circuits)
• LCL Awards Level 3 Award In the Installation and Maintenance of Small Scale Solar Photovoltaic Systems