ENDEAVOUR ENERGY
NETWORK
MANAGEMENT PLAN
December 2013 Review
Availability of the Network Management Plan
The Head Office is located on Huntingwood Dr Huntingwood.
In accordance with the Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2008
this Network Management Plan will be made available to all stakeholders who are likely to be
involved in its implementation.
This includes customers, agencies as defined in the State Emergency and Rescue Act 1989,
contractors, accredited service providers and staff.
This plan will be available on the Endeavour Energy web-site www.endeavourenergy.com.au.
Any questions relating to the corporate website can be directed to:
Corporate and Government Affairs
PO Box 811,
Seven Hills NSW 1730
Telephone 133 718 or (02) 9853 6666
Facsimile (02) 9853 6000
Document amendment history
Issue No
Date
Comments
1
July 2003
First Issue
2
October 2004
Second Issue
3
May 2007
Third Issue
4
February 2009
Fourth Issue
5
July 2009
Not revised - Bushfire Risk Management Table of
Contents corrected (28 July 2009)
6
May 2011
Fifth issue – review and inclusive of the company name
change to Endeavour Energy
7
December 2011
Minor updates to fifth issue
8
December 2013
Sixth Issue
Purpose of the Network Management Plan
Endeavour Energy has prepared its Network Management Plan to fulfil the requirements of the
Electricity Supply (Safety & Network Management) Regulation 2008.
This plan is divided into four chapters as required under the Regulation with performance against
plan reporting contained within each chapter.
Chapter 1 contains details related to reports required by “the schedule of reports” as outlined in the
Regulation which is in effect the annual production of the Electricity Network Performance Report.
Governance arrangements for this plan are detailed in Chapter 1, Section 9.
2 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
TABLE OF CONTENTS
COMPANY OVERVIEW ................................................................................................ 4
NETWORK SAFETY AND RELIABILITY ..................................................................... 8
CUSTOMER INSTALLATION SAFETY ...................................................................... 49
PUBLIC ELECTRICAL SAFETY AWARENESS ........................................................ 64
BUSHFIRE RISK MANAGEMENT .............................................................................. 73
Overview | 3
COMPANY OVERVIEW
COMPANY OVERVIEW
Endeavour Energy’s network serves more than 2.2 million people across 24,500 square
kilometres. In terms of customer connections, this involves the provision of electricity to
approximately 907,988 customers (as at July 2013).
Most of our supply of electricity is taken from the generation source via TransGrid’s
transmission network at 132,000 volts and 66,000 Once the energy is transferred into the
Endeavour Energy network, the voltage is reduced via 22 sub-transmission and 162 zone
substations and distributed to our customers via a 22,000/11,000/12,700 volt distribution
network. Distribution substations further reduce the voltage to suit customer requirements.
Endeavour Energy's network franchise area has three regions, responsible for the local
government areas set out in the following table:
Region
North
Central
South
Local Government Area
Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Lithgow, Parramatta,
Penrith and The Hills, plus parts of Hornsby, Mid-Western,
Bathurst, Ryde and parts of Oberon.
Camden, Campbelltown, Fairfield, Holroyd, Liverpool,
Wingecarribee and Wollondilly, parts of Bankstown, parts of
Upper Lachlan Shire, and parts of Goulburn Mulwaree.
Kiama, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven and Wollongong.
The key load centres within Endeavour Energy supply area are at Parramatta, Penrith, Wollongong,
Campbelltown, Blacktown and Liverpool.
Sixteen Endeavour Energy field support centres operate within our franchise area, with staff whose
key functions are to maintain the network, repair faults, respond to emergencies, and service
customers and developers in relation to customer connection and contestable projects.
The centres - which are situated within half an hour's travel of our major system assets - are located
in Bowenfels, Glendenning, Hoxton Park, Kandos, Katoomba, Kings Park, Moss Vale, Narellan,
Nowra, Parramatta, Penrith, Picton, Shellharbour, South Windsor, Springhill and Ulladulla (refer to
the map at the end of this section for their indicative locations).
In 2012, the New South Wales Government announced plans to reform the three NSW electricity
distribution businesses of Endeavour Energy, Ausgrid and Essential Energy, to generate $400
million in efficiencies over four years to fund its energy rebate scheme for low-income households
and families. Endeavour Energy continues to be one of three separate legal entities and operates
under a shared Group management model known as Networks NSW. It’s managed on a day-to-day
basis by a Chief Operating Officer (COO). The Endeavour Energy COO reports to the Chief
Executive Officer (CEO), who is common for all three distribution businesses.
The governance and organisational chart shown below (as at 1 Dec 2013) gives an overview of the
management structure for Endeavour Energy.
Overview | 5
In developing our December 2014 Network Management Plan, we have taken a range of regional,
climatic, asset, customer and licence requirement issues into account. Some of these are:
•
Our network contains some of Australia’s fastest-growing communities, as a result of strategies
like UrbanGrowth NSW that have been established to reduce barriers to private sector
investment in development projects.
•
While customers expect secure and reliable supply, they have become increasingly concerned
about the price of electricity. Network investment must be prudent and efficient to minimise
upward pressure on prices.
•
Peak temperatures across the network are typically higher and stay high for longer periods than
those of central Sydney and other coastal areas.
•
Air conditioning is used in 81% of households in Greater Western Sydney, compared with 59%
in the Illawarra and 40% in the Blue Mountains. This continues to result in a ‘peakier’ load
pattern in hot weather requiring more assets to service demand that only exists for a short time
each year.
•
Increasing penetration of rooftop photovoltaic systems, is contributing to reduced energy usage
and increase in network management issues.
6 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Endeavour Energy Service Area and Regions
Note: Huntingwood is Endeavour Energy’s main head office, with other offices based at
Coniston and Blacktown.
Overview | 7
CHAPTER 1
NETWORK SAFETY AND
RELIABILITY
8 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
CONTENTS
1
2
3
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 11
1.1
Purpose ........................................................................................................................... 11
1.2
Scope ............................................................................................................................... 11
1.3
Compliance with codes, guidelines and standards ................................................... 11
NETWORK INFORMATION ................................................................................. 12
2.1
Dial Before You Dig........................................................................................................ 12
2.2
Access to Network records........................................................................................... 13
STRATEGY........................................................................................................... 13
3.1
Work Health and Safety Policy ..................................................................................... 13
3.2
Health and Safety Management System ...................................................................... 14
3.3
Way forward – Health, Safety and Environment Implementation Plan .................... 15
3.4
Network Strategy............................................................................................................ 16
4
NETWORK ASSET MANAGEMENT POLICIES .................................................. 20
5
NETWORK STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES ................................................. 21
5.1
The Business Management System............................................................................. 21
5.2
Customer Service Standards ........................................................................................ 22
5.3
Safety Management Procedures .................................................................................. 22
5.4
Design procedures......................................................................................................... 29
5.5
Operating procedures.................................................................................................... 30
5.6
Environmental Incident Response Procedures .......................................................... 32
5.7
Technical compliance .................................................................................................... 33
5.8
Network planning framework and the SAMP .............................................................. 33
5.9
Inputs to the SAMP ........................................................................................................ 34
5.10 Endeavour Energy’s asset management model ......................................................... 38
6
TOTAL ASSET MANAGEMENT .......................................................................... 39
7
REPORTING ......................................................................................................... 41
8
7.1
Annual Performance Report ......................................................................................... 41
7.2
Licence Compliance reporting ..................................................................................... 41
7.3
Electricity Network Performance Report ..................................................................... 41
7.4
Significant Electrical Network Incident reporting ...................................................... 42
7.5
Safety reporting .............................................................................................................. 42
7.6
Network management performance reporting............................................................ 42
RISK MANAGEMENT AT ENDEAVOUR ENERGY ............................................. 42
8.1
Public Liability insurance .............................................................................................. 43
Network Safety and Reliability | 9
9
GOVERNANCE PROCEDURES...........................................................................43
9.1
Approval .......................................................................................................................... 43
9.2
Review and amendment ................................................................................................ 43
9.3
Auditing of the Network Management Plan ................................................................ 44
10 PERFORMANCE AGAINST THE NETWORK MANAGEMENT PLAN ................44
10.1 Safety Performance ....................................................................................................... 44
11 GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND DEFINITIONS ......................................................45
APPENDIX A – NETWORK ASSET MANAGEMENT POLICIES ...............................48
10 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
1
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Purpose
The purpose of this chapter is to provide a framework for the management of Endeavour Energy’s
sub-transmission and distribution systems to ensure that they provide a safe, adequate, and reliable
supply of electricity of appropriate quality.
Endeavour Energy is committed to the application of best practice asset management to ensure the
safe and reliable operation of our electrical network, and to giving safety the highest priority over all
other aspects of our network management.
1.2
Scope
In accordance with the Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2008, this
Plan covers the following major areas;
•
Endeavour Energy’s network and safety strategies;
•
•
A description of our safety policies and procedures;
A description of our network asset management policies, standards and procedures;
•
•
A description of our network planning methodologies and procedures; and
A description of our performance measurement and reporting processes.
1.3
Compliance with codes, guidelines and standards
When developing standards, policies and procedures for the design, construction, installation,
operation and maintenance of our electrical network, Endeavour Energy has taken into account the
Codes of Practice and guidelines listed in Table 1.1.
Table 1.1: Codes, Guidelines and Standards
Document
National Electricity Network Safety Code (ENA
DOC 001-2008) and supporting guidelines
Electricity Transmission and Distribution Asset
Management: Code of Practice (2009)
Crossing of NSW Navigable Waters: Electricity
Industry Code by NSW Maritime (2011)
ISSC 33 Guideline for Network Configuration
during High Bushfire Risk Days
Electricity Service Standards: Code of Practice
(Electricity Association of NSW – 2005)
ISSC 31 Guideline for the Management of
Private Lines
Contestable Works: Code of Practice (2007)
Installation Safety Management: Code of
Practice (1997)
Service and Installation Rules: Code of Practice
(2007)
Service and Installation Rules for NSW (August
2012)
NSW Public Lighting Code 2006
Relevant Endeavour Energy reference
Incorporated in our suite of Network Asset
Management Policies, Procedures and
Standards; Electrical safety Rules
Incorporated in our suite of Network Asset
Management Policies, Procedures and
Standards; Electrical safety Rules
Network Waterways Policy and supporting
procedures
Refer to Chapter 4 of this plan on Bushfire
Risk Management
Incorporated in Endeavour’s Customer
Service Standards;
Refer to Chapter 4 of this plan relating to
Bushfire Risk Management
Reflected in our Contestable Works Policy
Refer to Chapter 2 of this plan relating to
Customer Installation Safety
Refer to Chapter 2 of this plan, Customer
Installation Safety
Refer to Chapter 2 of this plan, Customer
Installation Safety
Public Lighting Policy
Network Safety and Reliability | 11
Customers’ installations connected to the network are required to conform to Endeavour Energy’s
Customer Installation Safety Plan (CISP), the AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules) and other relevant
Australian Standards, and the Service and Installation Rules New South Wales (August 2012). Its
safe operation must be established by tests that are detailed in the CISP. Endeavour Energy has an
audit regime in place to ensure compliance with all Standards, Codes of Practice, guidelines and our
own policies and standards.
In general, the policies, procedures and standards depicted in this plan are those that are currently
being applied within Endeavour Energy. The policies combine the position at the present time and
the direction in which the organisation is moving in order to meet our corporate objectives. Hence,
there may be a lag in the implementation of certain elements of policies. The resultant
inconsistencies are assessed and managed relative to the level of risk that is involved.
2
NETWORK INFORMATION
Endeavour Energy uses the following information systems to capture and store network information:
The Ellipse1 Equipment Register is an engineering equipment management system configured
specifically to meet the needs of an electricity distributor. It stores data on power assets and allows
tracking of the various transferable assets such as transformers.
The Ellipse Works Management System utilises work requests, work orders and standard job
estimates to track and manage all equipment construction, refurbishment and maintenance,
including defect identification and repairs.
The Geographical Information System (GIS) records, stores and enables the retrieval of other
information about Endeavour Energy’s electricity assets which are more appropriately represented in
a geo-spatial format. This includes the physical location and layout of the assets, types and lengths
of sub-transmission and distribution lines, etc. Additionally, information about geographic features
such as roads, rivers, local government boundaries etc are stored and displayed as required by the
user. The GIS is integrated with the Ellipse Equipment Register and Works Management Systems to
ensure the synchronisation of the data held in both the GIS and the Ellipse Equipment Register and
to allow the geographic retrieval of equipment and display of works information “geographically”.
The Field Inspection System (FIS) is a mobile computing system that is utilised in the routine
inspection of Endeavour Energy’s poles and power lines. The FIS provides inspectors with the
relevant information for them to be able to find poles, validate pole details, create new pole records,
record inspection measurements, close existing open work orders and raise new defect work orders.
This information is retrieved from (and loaded back into) the Ellipse and GIS systems.
The Outage Management System (OMS) is a system which provides information for the
management of system outages and emergency response to customers within the Endeavour
Energy franchise area and the provision of data for the reporting on network reliability. DigSAFE Pro
is the system used for Dial Before You Dig (DBYD) enquiries and responses. It automates the
packaged response to an enquiry from the GIS. The response is inspected first before it is emailed
to the customer
2.1
Dial Before You Dig
Prior to commencing work, people undertaking excavation must inquire about the location of
underground electricity assets using the Dial Before You Dig (DBYD) service. The requirement to
use this service and for Endeavour Energy to be a member of this service is now embodied in
legislation. This requirement applies to both members of the public and to infrastructure owners
themselves. The DBYD service directs inquiries to Endeavour Energy (and other utilities) if there is a
possibility of underground assets existing in the proposed area of excavation. Following the
customer’s initial inquiry to DBYD (either by phone on free call 1100 or via the internet), the request
1
Ellipse is the VENTYX ERP System.
12 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
is directed to all potentially affected utilities by email. Once this inquiry is received a search for
relevant information is carried out using a semi-automated system (DigSafe Pro). The customer is
then notified by return email whether the property is either affected or not affected by Endeavour
Energy underground assets.
In situations where the search area is affected by underground assets, the customer will be advised
and an electronic package of relevant plans will be prepared for the customer. These plans will be
valid for a period of 20 business days.
In the case of overhead asset information, plans are available to external customers on request from
the local Endeavour Energy office or, in some instances, through the normal postal system.
2.2
Access to Network records
Endeavour Energy has a comprehensive list of standards for the design, construction and
maintenance of our network assets. These standards are available to all Endeavour Energy
employees and Accredited Service Providers (ASP) through the ASP Website, by way of a unique
password. Standards are considered to be Endeavour Energy’s intellectual property and are
controlled through our Engineering Division and can be accessed through the Business
Management System.
A full set of all mains and substation design, construction, maintenance and environmental
standards is provided and accessible for reference by all employees at specific work locations (e.g.
Depots, Offices and Substations).
3
STRATEGY
Endeavour Energy’s corporate plan and strategy map define organisational outcomes, key
processes and the resources necessary to meet our purpose of:
“To be of service to our communities by
efficiently distributing electricity to our
customers in a way that is safe, reliable
and sustainable.”
Our strategy is supported by our Corporate Values, including Safety Excellence as a key value with
the associated behaviours:
•
•
•
•
•
3.1
Put safety as your number one priority
Do not participate in unsafe acts, and challenge unsafe behaviours
Think before you act
Lead by example
Take responsibility for the health and safety of yourself and others
Work Health and Safety Policy
Endeavour Energy’s Work Health and Safety policy commitment is to provide a healthy and safe
place of work for all workers and the public. All workers will make health and safety their number one
priority. Our goal is to keep our workers safe with zero incidents, injuries and illnesses.
Endeavour Energy strives for effective implementation of the Work Health and Safety Policy through
the resources and processes incorporated into our Health and Safety Management System.
Endeavour Energy continually integrates work health and safety into the company’s business and
management processes and continuously improves health and safety management to achieve its
health and safety goal.
Network Safety and Reliability | 13
Endeavour Energy fosters a proactive and consistent approach to hazard identification, risk
assessment and the effective management of risk through the implementation of preventative
controls and actions. Along with the requirement that workers undertake their work in a healthy and
safe manner.
Endeavour Energy continually strives to improve our work health and safety practices to meet
applicable legal and other requirements (including legislation, Codes of Practice, Standards and
other external requirements) associated with our company.
3.2
Health and Safety Management System
Our Health and Safety Management System is a systematic approach to organising Health and
Safety processes, accountabilities, documents and outcomes to allow easy integration with
mainstream business requirements. Our Health and Safety Management System is designed to:
•
provide a framework that stimulates a workplace where our staff and other persons can work
safely;
•
enable communities to be safe while near our assets, works and facilities; and,
•
comply with legal requirements.
The Health and Safety Management System comprises of 16 key elements:
•
Leadership & accountability
•
Planning, objectives & targets;
•
Legal compliance;
•
Risk management;
•
Management of change;
•
Health & fitness for work;
•
Training, competency & behaviour;
•
Consultation & communication;
•
Document control & records management;
•
Procurement & contractor management;
•
Design, construction & commissioning;
•
Facilities, plant & equipment;
•
Emergency preparedness & response;
•
Public safety;
•
Incident management; and
•
Measurement, verification & reporting.
Accountabilities and responsibilities are established and reinforced under the Health and Safety
Management System HSMS through the following governance, review and consultative
mechanisms:
•
Executive HSE Committee, Management HSE Committee, Electrical Safety Committee,
Electrical Safety Rules Committee, Live Work Steering Committee, Regional and Local HSE
Committees, Business Unit Branches and the Health, Safety & Environment Division;
•
individual KPIs, Performance Management, the Reward & Recognition Scheme, and
Consequence Management procedures;
•
regular audit and verification activities including:
14 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
•
3.3
-
high level review by the Audit and Risk Board Committee, Executive Audit and Risk
Committee and the Audit and Risk Group
-
internal and external audits, inspections, measurement and testing; and
a system of manager self verification audits aligning to each of the elements of the Health
and Safety Management System.
Way forward – Health, Safety and Environment Implementation Plan
The Health, Safety and Environment Implementation Plan supports the delivery of the Endeavour
Energy Corporate Plan. The Health, Safety and Environment Implementation Plan seeks to:
•
Eliminate risks wherever “reasonably practicable” to do so. Where risks cannot be eliminated
the necessary steps will be taken to minimise the risk;
•
Establish a Health, Safety and Environment Management System that is compliant with
legislation, regulation and relevant codes of practice and enables effective mitigation and
management of risks;
•
Provide capable and effective leadership of health, safety and environment functions by
specialists, line management, supervisors and all employees to ensure everyone in the
workplace has the work health and safety capabilities they require;
•
Establish a culture and behaviour where no employee knowingly participates in an unsafe
act or an environmental breach.
The Health, Safety and Environment Implementation Plan is underpinned by four areas of strategic
focus:
HSE Leadership: Improving safety leadership and behaviours
• To create a culture where all employees willingly take accountability and responsibility for
safe behaviours that align with Endeavour Energy’s values.
HSE Science: Safety and environnment training, development and awareness
• Through continued training and development of workers to assist them in making the safe
choice as they go about their day to day work.
•
To improve employee fitness for work by providing training and raising awareness in key
areas of employee health and wellbeing.
•
To improve the level of safety science expertise of frontline leaders.
•
To integrate Risk Management / ICAM Investigation and corrective actions that address
business risks and human factors
HSE Systems and Performance: Further integration of safety into our business processes
• To improve our health and safety management system by integrating safety into relevant
business policies and processes which are supported by clear accountabilities.
•
To provide a rigorous risk management, audit and compliance framework in which to operate.
Community safety - Improving community safety outcomes
• By assessing public safety risk exposure and developing targeted treatment actions to
mitigate these risks.
•
Through the provision of public safety education and awareness programs.
Network Safety and Reliability | 15
3.4
Network Strategy
3.4.1
Summary
Endeavour Energy’s network strategy shown in Figure 1.1 aims to deliver a safe, sustainable and
reliable network by focussing on core network outcomes in the following areas:
•
ensuring the safety of employees, contractors and the community;
•
meeting customers’ reliability needs;
•
servicing growth in demand;
•
managing the network efficiently and sustainably; and
•
meeting our regulatory obligations.
Figure 1.1: Endeavour Energy’s Network Strategy
Serving our Customers and Communities
Purpose
Objective
Focus areas
“To be of service to our communities by efficiently distributing
electricity to our customers in a way that is safe, reliable and
sustainable ”
Controlling our share of network charges to no more than
CPI
Meet customers’
reliability needs
Service growth in
demand
Manage the network
efficiently and
sustainably
Meet regulatory obligations
Customer engagement
Demand management
Enablers
Total asset management planning
Effective and prudent use of technology
Resource planning
Foundation
Obligation
Ensuring the Safety
of employees, contractors and the community
The strategy is effected through the plans and programs developed using Endeavour Energy’s
network planning and management framework.
16 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
End to end oversight of this process is provided as appropriate by the Endeavour Energy Investment
Governance Committee, the Networks NSW Network Steering Committee, Networks NSW
Investment Steering Committee and ultimately the Board. Together, these bodies ensure that the
content of the asset management plans are prudent and efficient, that it is developed using a sound
process and recognises the Company’s customer value objective and that the expenditure proposed
is subject to appropriate scrutiny in the planning and delivery process.
Endeavour Energy maintains a database of relevant information to support decisions. For example,
Endeavour Energy maintains detailed asset age, location and condition data across the Geographic
Information System, Field Inspection System, Asset Management System and Outage Management
System. Endeavour Energy also monitors the relationship between planned service performance
targets and service outcomes.
Endeavour Energy’s Network Planning process is highly consultative and transparent. Forward
network investment plans are reviewed annually and published in the Strategic Asset Management
Plan (SAMP). This includes growth, strategic asset renewal, network maintenance implementation,
capital and operating plans.
3.4.2
Key challenges addressed by the network strategy
The network strategy addresses the operating environment facing the network business and
addresses three key challenges, namely:
•
servicing the continuing strong growth in demand particularly in greenfield areas;
•
meeting customers’ reliability needs; and
•
managing the network efficiently and sustainably.
These challenges are discussed in more detail in the following sections.
3.4.3
Servicing growth in demand
Growth in peak demand is a primary driver of network capital investment.
The Endeavour Energy network supply area includes Sydney’s growth areas, with a significant
amount of greenfield development occurring in areas such as the North West and South West
growth sectors. In the context of the NSW government’s policy of increasing the supply of
affordable housing, there is significant reputational risk to Endeavour Energy associated with an
inability to provide infrastructure to meet this demand in a timely manner. The Company
prioritises resources over other asset management activities to manage this risk.
The network strategy addresses the demand growth over the medium term through a combination of
significant supply side programs and projects, alongside continuing initiatives in demand
management.
3.4.4
Strategy for meeting customers’ reliability needs
Endeavour Energy produces a Reliability Plan which complements the Company’s other asset
management plans to enable achievement of Endeavour Energy’s Corporate reliability objective
maintaining reliability at current levels. Specifically, this plan is intended to achieve the following:
•
•
•
•
•
Stable reliability performance;
Performance levels that prevent the Company incurring efficiently avoidable penalties
under the AER’s STPIS scheme;
Ensure that the performance experienced by those customers who currently experience
worse than average reliability on the Endeavour Energy network does not materially
deteriorate;
Maintenance of compliance with the Licence Condition reliability objectives;
Ensure that the reliability impact of equipment defects is managed to a level consistent
with or better than historic performance;
Network Safety and Reliability | 17
•
Raise the profile of reliability as a key indicator of corporate performance and in so doing
encourage a culture that observes, identifies and learns from issues on the network that
may impact asset life, reliability performance or safety issues; and
• Improve data analysis, reliability performance reporting and explanation through better
data gathering and statistical analysis tools.
The strategy involves undertaking specific reliability works, developing and implementing a strategic
asset renewal plan and developing a network maintenance implementation plan.
The detailed works and initiatives associated with the strategy are identified in the Reliability Works
Program (RWP), the Strategic Asset Renewal Plan (SARP) and the Network Maintenance
Implementation Plan (NMIP).
Figure 1.4 shows actual reliability performance due to unplanned outages on the Endeavour Energy
network.
Figure 1.4: Network reliability performance
In addition to the capital investment proposed by these programs, Endeavour Energy is investigating
various efficiency and effectiveness improvements in the delivery of its reliability strategy, aimed
particularly at the response to faults.
All capital investment in the network has an impact on the reliability of the network. This investment
includes not only the expenditure in the Reliability Works Program, targeted directly at ensuring
licence condition compliance, but also investment targeted at other network outcomes such as
capacity, renewal and maintenance.
Endeavour Energy is aiming to maintain current levels of average reliability performance over the
next regulatory period.
3.4.4.1
Trend in reliability performance
Network reliability performance is considered as the resultant of its component measures including
SAIDI, SAIFI and CAIDI as well as the various causes. The latest performance in these areas is
shown below:
18 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Figure 1.5: Contributors to Normalised SAIDI
Figure 1.6: Contributors to Normalised SAIFI
Network Safety and Reliability | 19
Figure 1.6: Relative unplanned CAIDI performance
The increase in SAIDI for 2012-13 has been correlated to an increase in the number of adverse
weather ‘High SAIDI’ days. The increased occurrence of adverse weather days typically was a
primary contributor to outages and a secondary contributor to an increase in outages caused by
defective equipment and tree contact.
It is important to note that changes in individual categories has the effect of proportionally increasing
or decreasing the % contribution to SAIDI of other categories, which can impact trends in these
areas.
3.4.5
Managing the network efficiently and sustainably
A sustainable network is one that enables consistent levels of safety and reliability to be maintained
over long asset lives while minimising volatility in the costs of service provision. This objective
directly supports the overall Company objective of ensuring financial sustainability through effective
investment in and efficient operation of the network asset.
The sustainable operation of the network is considered from a number of perspectives:
•
Asset renewal;
•
Network standards;
•
Optimising the utilisation of the network asset;
•
Future proofing the network;
•
Sustainable financial outcomes; and
•
A capable workforce.
4
NETWORK ASSET MANAGEMENT POLICIES
Endeavour Energy is committed to managing our network assets in a structured and systematic
manner to ensure that our customers’ reasonable expectations are met, business needs are fulfilled
and our obligations to shareholders, regulators and the community are satisfied.
Network asset management includes the planning, design, acquisition, construction, operation,
maintenance, management of security, refurbishment and disposal of the Company’s electrical
infrastructure and assets associated with the electrical network.
20 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Endeavour has a suite of Network Asset Management Policies that provide a framework for the
management of our network assets and the continual improvement of performance of those assets
to ensure:
•
a safe environment at and around our assets for our employees, contractors, others accessing
the network and the community;
•
a reliable energy supply of a quality which meets reasonable customer expectations;
•
a return on investment to the satisfaction of the Company’s shareholders;
•
satisfaction of the regulator’s requirements; and
•
the impact on the environment is minimised.
A list of the key Network Asset Management Policies is provided in Appendix A of this chapter.
5
NETWORK STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES
5.1
The Business Management System
As required under Board Policies 2.0 – Governance, 5.0 Quality and Company Policy 2.1 – Risk
Management, a single integrated Business Management System (BMS) is well established within
Endeavour Energy. Company Policy 5.1 – Business Management System sets the framework for the
BMS and the interrelation between our policies, procedures, standards and workplace instructions.
The BMS is based on the requirements of AS/NZS ISO 9001, but is also designed to satisfy the
requirements of all regulations, standards and guidelines applicable to Endeavour Energy. The BMS
covers all aspects of management in Endeavour Energy, including our design, operation,
construction and maintenance procedures.
The hierarchy of documentation that forms our Business Management System is described below:
Policies are high level direction-setting documents that articulate Endeavour’s strategies, objectives
and responsibilities. Policies are documents that stand-alone and do not rely on any other document
(other than government legislation and regulation) for their intent. Policies state what objectives are
to be achieved and the actions necessary to achieve implementation of the policy.
The terms Procedure and Process are used interchangeably in a range of professional disciplines.
In Endeavour Energy we have used the term of Procedure and have retained it as the format for
documenting processes as well. Our procedures are therefore comprehensive and address how
policy directions will be achieved, by whom, when, where and how it will be done; what materials,
equipment and documents will be used; and how it will be controlled and recorded. Procedures may
also be presented with flow charts where the pictorial presentation of activities, linkages and
responsibilities is desired. Procedures must relate back to one or more policies.
Standards specify, to an appropriate level of detail, the requirements for the design, construction
and maintenance of electrical network assets or systems. Standards support the directive given by
the policies to ensure consistency across the organisation of asset design, quality, maintenance and
operational characteristics, environmental impact, level of safety and compliance to legislation and
codes of practice. Our Environmental Standards ensure compliance to the Environmental Planning
and Assessment Act, 1979. Standards are applicable across the organisation. Those standards that
cover contestable works are available to all accredited service providers.
Workplace Instructions are created wherever it is necessary to document lower level, operational
tasks to ensure that such a task is performed in a consistent manner and that the end result is of the
required quality. Workplace Instructions are supplementary to, and may expand on, procedures.
Effective implementation of the BMS is assured through a system of ongoing review and audit.
Network Safety and Reliability | 21
5.2
Customer Service Standards
The Customer Service Standards for Connection Customers is a document incorporated into the
Deemed Standard Connection Contract (the contract). This document has been developed in
accordance with the Electricity Supply Act 1995 (NSW) (including the Regulations made under the
Act – particularly the Electricity Supply (General) Regulation 2001 - Schedule 1, Clause 5).
The quality and reliability standards set out in the contract do not apply to customers taking supply at
132,000 volts and above. Customer service standards applicable to those customers are determined
by individual negotiation with Endeavour Energy.
Part 1 of the Customer Service Standards for Connection Customers provides an overview and
Glossary of Terms for connection customers.
Part 2 sets out the Guaranteed Customer Service Standards that relate to the services we provide
under our standard form customer connection contract. These standards comply with the
requirements imposed under the Electricity Supply Act and Electricity Supply (General) Regulation
with respect to customer service.
Part 3 of the document:
•
sets out the minimum standards of services to be provided to our customers under our deemed
standard connection contract;
•
sets out the normal characteristics of the electricity supplied by Endeavour Energy; and
•
makes our customers aware of the electrical environment in which their equipment operates and
draws their attention to factors which can alter the characteristics of their electricity supply.
Endeavour Energy produces plans and capital works programs to ensure that the electricity supply
network will meet customers’ load requirements with acceptable levels of reliability and voltage
stability (steady state and transient). Our network is designed so that short circuit currents are within
the fault breaking capacities of all plant and switchgear in normal operating configurations. The
network is designed to be adequately protected to ensure satisfactory operation of equipment and
minimum interruption to customers in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
The Customer Service Standards for Connection Customers can be found on the Endeavour Energy
corporate web site (www.endeavourenergy.com.au), and specifies voltage regulation and power
quality standards for the Endeavour Energy network.
5.3
Safety Management Procedures
5.3.1
Safety auditing process
A range of safety and technical audits are carried across the organisation and include audits
conducted by the Health Safety & Environment Division, Electrical Safety & Authorisations Branch,
Contract Inspectors and Customer Safety Officers from the Network Connections Branch, Technical
Compliance Officers from the Network Data & Performance Branch. These audits are controlled by
a set of procedures and standard forms.
Field based worksite audits are carried out to confirm compliance with appropriate regulations,
safety rules and safe work practices for work on or near high and low voltage apparatus.
Personnel audited include Endeavour Energy staff, Accredited Service Providers, contractors and
contractor employees (sub-contractors) engaged to carry out such work. The audit also takes into
consideration the safety of the community while the work is carried out. A Work Site Safety Audit
Form is completed on site with the work site coordinator and a report is later forwarded to the
appropriate supervisor/ manager.
5.3.2
Requirements to work on or near the Endeavour Energy Network
All Endeavour Energy field staff, contractors to Endeavour Energy and Accredited Service Providers
(ASP’s) are required to comply with the Endeavour Energy Electrical Safety Rules, Endeavour
22 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Energy Training and Authorisation procedures and other procedures referred to in this plan.
Employees engaged in metering operations including Meter Data Provider Contractors are to comply
with this plan and the Endeavour Energy Customer Installation Safety Plan.
It is imperative that all employees, contractors and Accredited Service Providers notify
Endeavour Energy immediately when an incident or accident occurs whilst working on or
near the Network. All electric shocks must be reported immediately.
Non-compliance shall result in a review of staff authorisation, contractor status or service
provider authorisation (where applicable) and can result in removal or restriction of
authorisation, as well as referral to the accrediting agency.
Endeavour Energy’s Electrical Safety Rules,. requires that Endeavour Energy be notified of any
incident/accident occurring during the course of performing work on or near the network.
5.3.2.1
Work sites and team leaders/site coordinators
Whilst working on the network, Endeavour Energy’s processes identify a worksite coordinator for
each and every work site. Work sites shall be established such that the safety of all personnel, which
includes workers on site and members of the general public, is maintained at the highest level.
Whenever a job is planned involving multiple people or work crews, a dedicated site coordinator
shall be nominated for the job. This person will identify himself/herself to all workers on site as the
site coordinator and all persons shall follow their instructions.
The Team Leader/Work Site Coordinator will be primarily responsible for the work site and all safety
aspects associated with the work being performed. Project Managers and/or Supervisors shall
ensure that the Team Leader/Work Site Coordinator is fully briefed prior to the commencement of
works.
5.3.2.2
Relevant Acts, Regulations, Codes of Practice and Guidelines
The following Acts, Regulations, Guidelines, Rules and Codes of Practice (and their subsequent
amendments) are to be adhered to by all employees working on or near the electrical network:
•
the Endeavour Energy Network Management Plan (this plan);
•
Endeavour Energy Electrical Safety Rules (GSY 1031 – as amended);
•
Electricity Safety Act (as amended);
•
NSW Work Health and Safety Act (as amended);
•
NSW Work Health and Safety Regulation (as amended);
•
Code of Practice for Electricity Transmission and Distribution Asset Management;
•
ISSC Guidelines (unless an Endeavour Energy guideline or procedure exists);
•
ENA DOC 001-2008 – National Electricity Safety Code (and other supporting codes and
guidelines under that code); and
•
and any other applicable Acts, Regulations, Standards, Codes of Practice and guidelines
pertaining to the area of work being performed.
5.3.2.3
Electrical Safety Rules
Endeavour Energy produces GSY 1031 - Electrical Safety Rules and the supporting handbook
(hereafter called ‘The Rules’ or ‘Rules’) for employees, contractors, sub-contractors, authorised
persons working for ASP’s and visitors to our work sites, which give instruction in Network electrical
Network Safety and Reliability | 23
safety practices. The Rules are written by experts in specific fields and reflect the required
outcomes of the relevant industry Standards, Codes of Practice and guidance material.
All persons required to work on electrical apparatus (electricity works: as defined by the Code of
Practice for Electricity Transmission and Distribution Asset Management) as a normal course of their
employment are instructed and assessed in the Rules.
5.3.2.4
Training and authorisation
Endeavour Energy requires employees, contractors, contractors’ employees, authorised persons
working for ASP’s and any other persons requiring access to the electrical network, or to enter
electrical stations, to be suitably trained and authorised for that particular function. A list of prerequisite training and qualifications for access to the network is documented. Persons needing such
access shall be qualified as identified as necessary prior to undergoing any further Endeavour
Energy specific training in order to gain authorisation.
Clause 7.2.1 of the Code of Practice – Electricity Transmission and Distribution Asset Management
requires network workers to receive appropriate instruction in rescue and resuscitation on an annual
basis.
Endeavour Energy has implemented a Company procedure GAM 0018 – Renewal Timing for
Authorisations which outlines the authorisation process that allows a degree of operational flexibility
to provide a nominal 12 month refresher training, assessment and authorisation.
All authorisations will be issued in the form of a printed certificate and card and these will list the
authority level as well as any limitations placed on that authorisation. Authorisation limitations shall
not be exceeded, except in cases of extreme emergency, e.g. danger to life. Persons deemed
competent and therefore authorised to access Endeavour Energy’s electrical network shall at all
times, carry out their duties safely and in accordance with the Rules and approved procedures.
Authorised persons involved in contestable works and contractors shall comply with all training and
authorisation requirements and shall be issued with appropriate authorisation prior to commencing
work.
5.3.2.5
Network access documentation and materials
All documentation and equipment relating to safe access to the network such as Access Authorities,
Access Authority Folders, danger tagging and tapes, will be supplied and controlled by Endeavour
Energy. This is to ensure that there is a consistent procedure for access, which will be understood
by all persons working on or near the network. This documentation and equipment must be used in
accordance with the Endeavour Energy Electrical Safety Rules and associated procedures.
5.3.2.6
Network access co-ordination
Endeavour Energy has procedures in place for controlling and co-ordinating access to the High
Voltage (HV) network. They describe the requirements to gain access to Endeavour Energy’s HV
network for the purpose of carrying out necessary works in a safe and timely manner. Access to the
LV network is managed locally.
5.3.2.7
Contractor, Third Party Network Access Entities and Service Provider Safety
Management Plans
Contractors who provide services to Endeavour Energy, ASP’s intending to undertake Customer and
related works, third party network access users (typically Telecommunications Businesses) and
those who are bidding for work are required to submit a Safety Management Plan to Endeavour
Energy, to describe the HSMS they have in place. Accredited Service Provider safety management
plans must be submitted to the Manager Network Connections or nominee. Contractor safety
management plans must be submitted to the General Manager Network Development unless
otherwise stipulated and third party network access entities must submit their safety management
plans to the Chief Engineer or nominee.
24 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
All contractors and accredited service providers should include, as a minimum, in their Safety
Management Plans:
•
Company Overview: a brief overview of the company together with addresses and an
emergency contact list. An organisational structure would be advantageous;
•
Safety Policy: a policy that has been established, and to which all employees adhere. The
policy should align with the Workplace Health & Safety Act 2011 and subsequent amendments;
•
Safety Objectives: the plan should state annual safety objectives associated with the
implementation of their plan;
•
Description of HSMS: details of the HSMS that has been implemented within the organisation;
•
Authorisation: a statement that all employees/sub-contractors working on or near Endeavour
Energy’s network must have current authorisation to do so and be able to show proof of same,
along with photo identification, when required;
•
Incident/Accident Reporting Process: details of the establishment of a formal method for the
reporting to Endeavour Energy of ALL serious and high potential incidents and accidents
associated with work on or near the network, in accordance with the Endeavour Energy
Electrical Safety Rules. This does not replace the ASP or contractor’s or third parties obligation
to report incidents to WorkCover or Safe Work Australia ;
•
Hazard Assessments for Working on or Near the Network: an example of the Hazard and
Risk Assessment form used by the organisation and a statement that these will be used at all
sites;
•
Statement of Compliance: with this plan and the relevant codes of practice, guidelines, acts
and regulations pertaining to the work to be performed; and
•
Safety Performance Reports: a statement that these are submitted on a quarterly basis to the
Manager Network Connections Branch, General Manager Network Development or Chief
Engineer as appropriate.
All ASP’s and contractors who will be working on or near the network shall work to an appropriate
Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS), as required by the Work Health and Safety Regulation. This
shall include the completion of a hazard assessment prior to work. These SWMS shall be made
available to Endeavour Energy for auditing purposes. Endeavour Energy reserves the right to
enforce alterations to the content of a SWMS and hazard assessments, particularly for work on or
near the network.
5.3.2.8
Work on customer installations and private lines
All work undertaken on customer installations and private lines by Endeavour Energy employees will
comply with the safety and network management requirements that apply to equivalent work on the
Endeavour Energy network. The safety procedures will apply to all electrical work on privately owned
assets carried out by Endeavour Energy employees, and contractors or service providers working on
behalf of Endeavour Energy.
5.3.3
Requirements of High Voltage Customers
Endeavour Energy has a procedure3 to assist all High Voltage Customers (HVC) in Endeavour
Energy’s franchise area comply with relevant codes of practice and are aware of changes to
regulations. This procedure details the establishment of protocols to ensure HVCs meet their
obligations.
The process to ensure compliance is the formulation of an operating protocol for high voltage
switching operations. This document covers such issues as:
•
3
details of boundaries in terms of ownership of assets and operational responsibilities;
System Operations Branch Procedure - NCB0411
Network Safety and Reliability | 25
•
minimum maintenance standards for customer HV electricity work;
•
customer access requirements for operational activities;
•
qualification and training requirements of customer HV operating staff;
•
list of customer authorised and trained operating staff; and
•
contact information for both parties.
Endeavour Energy makes regular contact with HVCs to assist them to understand and meet their
obligations as outlined above.
This document is reviewed as required depending on regulatory changes and requirements, the
customer’s requirements and whenever there are changes to the customer’s authorised staff.
5.3.4
Analysis of hazardous events
Endeavour Energy has a commitment to using risk management as a fundamental component of
business management, which includes our commitment to undertaking risk assessments of hazards
and hazardous events.
5.3.4.1
Analysis Procedure
Event analysis is conducted on an on-going basis with regular reviews to identify trends and
corrective actions. This includes:
•
a risk analysis conducted regularly taking into account the recorded events and trends.
Corrective Action Reports to ensure design faults, work process problems and procedural errors
are corrected;
•
corporate procedures to ensure a consistent approach to accident incident investigation and
reporting. There is a requirement for remedial actions with individuals assigned to address
identified issues with time limits applied for completion. Formal reports are required on all high
potential incident (i.e. near misses)/accidents;
•
an analysis of previous events to identify possible exposures to loss. Planned inspections and
audits are used as a control method. Investigation of near miss (near hit) events is used to
identify and manage exposures to possible higher levels of loss;
•
review via presentations to the Management HSE Committee on Lost Time Incidents and High
Potential Incidents. This allows senior management to review recommendations and corrective
actions that can affect the organisation
•
an analysis of all high potential events. This is done as a ‘closing of the loop’ process to ensure
that all issues have been identified and addressed; and
•
Encouraging the reporting of near misses to enable emerging trends to be identified and where
appropriate addressed
Table 1.2 below presents typical events that might be expected to occur on the sub-transmission
and distribution system, the potential causes and possible consequences of those events, together
with preventative and protective safeguards intended to protect operating personnel, plant,
equipment the community and the environment.
Table 1.2 Analysis of hazardous events for the Sub-transmission and Distribution System
Note: Endeavour Energy will draw on a suitable emergency management plan to address any
emergency that may occur.
Event
Possible Cause(s)
Possible
Consequence(s)
Preventative
Safeguards
Fallen Conductors
Storms, trees,
impacts, vandalism
Exposed public,
emergency service
crews, shock, burns,
death, loss of supply
Mains Design and
Maintenance
Standards, PSEAP*
26 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Event
Possible Cause(s)
Possible
Consequence(s)
Preventative
Safeguards
Arcing Mains
Storms, trees,
impacts, vandalism
Fire, loss of supply
Mains Design and
Maintenance
Standards
Vehicle Impact
Traffic accident,
negligence, weather
conditions
Exposed public,
emergency service
crews shock, burns,
death, loss of supply
Mains Design and
Maintenance
Standards,
Vandalism and Civil
Disturbance
Unauthorised
entry,and
interference with the
network
Shock, burns, death,
property damage, loss
of supply
Substation Design
Standards, Asset
security, PESAP*
Cable Dig in
Excavating
machinery or hand
held tools
Shock, burns, death,
loss of supply
Mains Design
Standards, Dial Before
You Dig, PESAP*
Incorrect Connection
Contractor or
employee
incompetence,
insufficient or
inadequate training
Shock, burns, death,
damage to customer
assets
Mains Design
Standards, Audits,
Customer Installation
Safety Plan, ESR♯
Crane/Machinery into
mains
Incompetence of
machinery operator,
unlicenced operator,
unusual
circumstances
Shock, burns, death,
property damage, loss
of supply
Network Protection
Schemes, PESAP*,
ESR♯ asset
relocation/removal
Pole Failure
Storms, termite
activity, rotting.
Property damage,
injury, shock, burns,
death, loss of supply
Mains maintenance
procedures use of nontimber poles
Insulation Failure
UV deterioration of
PVC insulation
Shock, burns, death,
fire, loss of supply
Mains maintenance
procedures
Public fall in trench or
injured on worksite
Inappropriate site
management or
warning barriers or
signs
Physical injury to
member of public
possible serious injury
Risk and hazard
analysis before
construction/
excavation, audits and
safety observations
Aircraft in mains
Aircraft or pilot
failure, storm, poor
view of conductors
Injury, death, loss of
supply, fire
Mains Design
Standards, warning
beacons in appropriate
locations
Live Street Light
Assets
Poor work practices,
age related
deterioration,
external forces
(vehicles, etc)
Shocks, burns, death.
Ongoing maintenance
and renewal.
Emergency conditions
(fires, floods, storms,
major loss of supply,
explosions, etc)
Acts of God/Forces
of Nature, failure of
major substation
Shock, burns, death,
fire, loss of supply
Unable to prevent,
Emergency
Preparedness
minimises impact
(e.g. - reverse polarity)
(e.g. service mains)
Network Safety and Reliability | 27
Event
Possible Cause(s)
Possible
Consequence(s)
Preventative
Safeguards
Bushfire
Acts of God/Forces
of Nature, arsonists,
system failure
Property damage,
injury, shock, burns,
death, loss of supply,
loss of network asset,
litigation
Mains and Substation
Design and
Maintenance
Standards, Audits,
OLI/GLI program,
System Operations
procedures, asset
removal, relocation or
replacement with
alternate construction
* PESAP – Public Electrical Safety Awareness Program; ♯ESR – Electrical Safety Rules
Hazardous events occurring during construction
5.3.4.2
As part of all Project Management processes there is a hazard and risk assessment carried out at
the start of the project and all hazards and potential hazards are identified and a control plan
produced.
Contractors performing construction work for Endeavour Energy are required to adhere to section
7.3.2 of the Code of Practice for Electricity Transmission and Distribution Asset Management.
Project managers are assigned to each construction project to ensure that all sites are managed in
accordance with Endeavour Energy’s policies and procedures.
5.3.5
Emergencies
Endeavour Energy has established and tested a companywide Incident Management Plan
(Company Procedure GRM 0011 Incident Management Plan) which provides a framework for the
management of significant events which threaten Endeavour Energy’s business. It also establishes
responsibilities for appropriate people who are likely to be involved in the management of such
events. Improvements to the plan are developed following reviews of each test event.
Supporting the Incident Management Plan is the Network Emergency Response Plan (NERP) which
has the primary purpose of co-ordinating the management measures necessary to restore electricity
supply when an emergency occurs. Endeavour Energy provides a 24 hour emergency service,
seven days per week for 365 days each year. This service is coordinated from Control Rooms at
Huntingwood and Coniston and is supported by field staff from Regional Field Service Centres. The
key objectives of the Network Emergency Response Plan are as follows in accordance with
Company Procedure GAM 0022 – Network Emergency Response Plan (NERP):
•
detail responsibilities for the identification, development and implementation of prevention and
mitigation strategies;
•
define participating branch roles and responsibilities in preparation for, response to and recovery
from emergencies;
•
set out the control, co-ordination and liaison arrangements at all levels;
•
detail activation and alerting arrangements;
•
detail arrangements for the acquisition and co-ordination of resources including assistance from
other network operators;
•
detail public information and education responsibilities;
•
detail arrangements for the review, testing, evaluation and maintenance of the plan; and
•
detail reporting and information flow arrangements.
28 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
5.3.5.1
Emergency sub-plans/scenarios
Emergency events that have a high potential for occurrence in Endeavour Energy’s franchise area
are incidents of occurrence of storm and tempest, floods and bushfire emergencies. Detailed plans
and response strategies have been developed for these emergencies as well as evacuation plans
and facility support failure plans.
All other emergencies are dealt with through standard branch procedures for incident response, until
such times as detailed plans have been developed.
5.3.5.2
Proof and testing of emergency procedures
The Manager System Control is responsible for ensuring that the NERP is reviewed, tested,
evaluated and maintained in a current state. The NERP will be reviewed by the Emergency
Response Task Team in accordance with a standardised procedure.
a)
after each exercise to test the NERP;
b)
in the event that deficiencies are identified during the actual activation of the NERP, or if a
Category 3 (Severe) emergency occurs, the Manager System Control is responsible for
organising event post mortems on a needs basis, from which a review of the NERP may
follow; and
c)
at least every two years.
5.3.6
Waterway crossings
Endeavour Energy's Overhead Distribution: Design Standards Manual MDI 0031 includes the design
of electrical infrastructure over navigable waterway crossings. This Standard has been developed to
meet the requirements of the Road and Maritime Services (RMS) "Crossing of Navigable Waters:
Electricity Industry Code" and AS 6947-2009 Crossing of waterways by electricity infrastructure"
Endeavour Energy will continue to meet the requirements of the RMS "Protocol for incident reporting
and analysis for crossings of NSW navigable waterways" and the "Protocol for the Exchange of GIS
data on crossings of NSW navigable waters".
5.3.7
Other provisions
Other provisions necessary to ensure the safe operation of the sub-transmission and distribution
system including details in the following sections.
5.3.7.1
Communications
Endeavour Energy utilises the Government Radio Network (GRN) and the mobile phone network for
the provision of communications to staff and contractors working on or near the network. It is
necessary to ensure that there are good communication facilities available to contractors and service
providers, especially those providing switching operations, in order to communicate with the Control
Room while performing work duties.
5.3.7.2
Equipment safety standards
Endeavour Energy uses a standard procedure to cover equipment safety standards. It ensures that
all equipment purchased and used on the Endeavour Energy Network complies with all relevant
Acts, Rules and Regulations and other applicable Standards such as Guarding Standards for
machinery. More specific procedures cover different equipment types (e.g. Portable Earthing
Hardware, Elevated Work Platforms and Portable Testing Equipment).
5.4
Design procedures
There are a number of interrelated procedures, workplace instructions and standards that apply to
the network design processes. As a fundamental requirement, designs are produced to address
Network Safety and Reliability | 29
expansion, enhancement or modification of the electrical network. The design procedure is carried
out with due consideration to the Work Health and Safety and environmental implications in
accordance with Endeavour Energy’s, HSMS and Environmental Policy respectively whilst also
addressing operational objectives applicable as directed through Network Asset Management
Policies.
Key design activities are planned and documented via standard project forms and if necessary
recorded as activities or milestones on project Gantt charts. Relevant information including design
brief, survey results, photographs, calculations, and correspondence are kept in the project file.
There are a number of in-house software applications that support this.
All designs are subject to assessment in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment
Standard, where the level of assessment for each project is determined. These can range from a
simple review of environmental factors to a full scale Environmental Impact Statement.
Design output documents clearly show the construction and installation requirements. Specific
instructions are often included on the drawings to identify critical points or features. Local design
verification and sign off is undertaken to ensure that the design documentation is consistent with the
initial design brief and standards, and therefore fit-for-use. For larger projects, the design process is
often broken down into stages and design verification may be carried out on a stage by stage basis.
Periodic design review is a formal checking tool to ensure customer expectations and other
design process requirements are met. Design reviews can take place at any stage. Design
reviews are usually documented and include a Risk Management process, where risks are
identified and, if possible, engineered out of the project.
Level 3 Contestable Designs are subject to a formal certification process prior to issue for
construction. This process verifies that the “method of supply” and standards have been met, and
that funding arrangements have been satisfied.
As-installed drawings are prepared based on construction outcomes, and are submitted to allow
system information and asset registers to be updated.
Regional management and the Network Connections Branch are responsible for conducting and or
arranging for their respective design processes to be audited. The purpose of these audits is to
ensure that designs address all relevant standards and regulations, and achieve the required
outcome.
5.5
Operating procedures
Endeavour Energy is committed to operating the electrical network to deliver safety and reliability
outcomes whilst managing safe access to the network for critical maintenance and construction
activities. To facilitate these objectives, a number of procedures have been developed and
implemented. These procedures support a number of Network Asset Management policies, including
9.8.3 - Network Operations and 9.8.2 - Planned Electricity Supply Interruption.
These operating procedures can be classified into those relating to accessing the network, those
relating to operating the network both within the control room and in the field, those relating to
analysing network performance and those relating to providing SCADA support for these activities.
These are described below:
• Network access
Procedures have been developed which document how access to the network is managed to ensure
public and employee safety whilst minimising the impact of electricity supply interruption to various
customer groups including sporting venues and critical customers. These procedures also define
times of the day and year that access to various parts of the network will be restricted as supply
security will be significantly impacted during these periods.
30 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
• Control Room operations
There are three main groups of Control Room procedures. Firstly there are a number of Control
Room procedures that document how to operate the network as well as managing access on the
day it occurs. These procedures document how the network will be switched, how SCADA is to be
used, how various levels of alarms should be treated, and how events should be documented.
There are also a number of procedures which give guidance on how various incidents should be
managed including storms, floods, bushfires, hot days as well as evacuation of the Control Room.
The third group of procedures describe a number of staff management processes within the Control
Room including staff training and shift roster management.
• Field operations
A large number of procedures have been developed which provide guidance for staff that operate
the network outside the Control Room. These procedures fall within two main categories – those
which describe how to operate generally and those which describe how to operate specific pieces of
equipment. Of the more general field operating procedures guidance is provided to staff on how to
manage particular situations and general activities such as general public electric shocks, bushfires,
and customer switchboard fault finding. Guidance is also provided on how to undertake a number of
basic switching activities such as operation of low voltage fuses and links, 11,000 volt airbreak
switches, links and drop out fuses as well as the precaution to be undertaken to avoid the effects of
ferro-resonance or cross zone switching.
As for the equipment specific procedures, a procedure has been written for all types of equipment
within the network. As new equipment is installed a procedure for the equipment will be written and
used as the basis of training documentation on how to operate.
• Operational planning and statistical review
This category of procedures primarily relates to the analysis component of the operation of the
electricity network. It details the requirement to undertake analysis of the expected load and
required secure operating configuration of the network prior to summer and winter as well as reviews
of the load history of the network following each summer and winter period. On each occasion a
report is produced to identify operational difficulties experienced as a result of load problems. The
reports list and provide commentary on zone substation maximum demands, distribution feeder
operating configurations and loadings. The process to be followed when commissioning assets has
also been documented including the testing and certifying that assets are ready for service.
• SCADA
Endeavour Energy, like most distribution utilities, uses a mixture of SCADA (System Control and
Data Acquisition) and manual on-site switching to operate the network. Procedures for the
development and maintenance of the SCADA system have been documented. The aim of these
procedures is to ensure that wherever possible standard equipment and software routines are used
so that future compatibility issues are minimised.
•
Maintenance procedures (programs)
Endeavour Energy has a business process which prioritises and manages operational and capital
works programs within their areas, to ensure a sustainable and balanced mix of asset management
activities is undertaken.
Endeavour Energy has developed a suite of standards that define optimal maintenance periods and
methodologies. Endeavour Energy is aiming and working diligently to comply with these standards.
However, it is recognised that, at times, new or emerging needs, emergency situations or
unforeseen events compromise the organisation’s ability to comply with our asset maintenance
standards on all occasions.
Because of the volatility of the operational requirements of our diverse network, maintenance and
operational activities are prioritised to ensure that there is an optimum program of works that
balances the competing priorities of maximising our performance in customer service, reliability,
Network Safety and Reliability | 31
safety, quality of supply, balancing operating and capital expenditure requirements and providing a
mix of activities that can be implemented using the resources available.
Optimising a program of works is an iterative process that relies on the asset manager’s ability to
analyse the network needs, the skill mixes of the available workforce and also the available
knowledge of local assets, conditions and capabilities.
The development of an annual program utilises a risk management approach that ensures that the
highest risk activities are addressed in priority order and that management strategies are
implemented to address the risks that may arise from any postponed works or maintenance activities
that fall outside of our own standards.
The annual maintenance program for Endeavour Energy is designed to address the maintenance
needs of all of our network assets as detailed in our internal standards. Those standards are based
on all applicable industry standards and codes of practice and are updated whenever external
standards or codes of practice are changed or new equipment or work methods become available.
5.6
Environmental Incident Response Procedures
Endeavour Energy’s position on environmental performance is defined as follows:
As a responsible leader we will respect the environment and the communities in which we operate
and will uphold the needs of future generations.
Endeavour Energy has an Environmental Management System (EMS) incorporating policies,
procedures standards and safe work method statements aimed at achieving this position statement.
This includes a responsibility to prevent environmental incidents where possible and minimise their
impacts when they do occur. A number of targeted programs have been developed and
implemented to reduce the environmental risks associated with the operation of a large electricity
sub-transmission and distribution business, including:
•
Environmental Guidelines Handbook and Training Sessions
The Handbook was developed to translate key legislative and corporate requirements while
illustrating individual environmental management responsibilities with the aim of proactively
preventing incidents before they occur. The training program was developed to implement the
Handbook across the franchise and included a three hour interactive training session with
practical demonstrations, local case studies and a series of scenario-based activities to provide
guidance on responsible environmental management and incident response.
•
Vehicle Spill Kit Program
Three oil spill kits of varying size are available through the internal stores to provide spill
response capability to all Endeavour Energy vehicles.
•
Substation Environmental Risk Assessment
A risk assessment of all Zone and Transmission substations is conducted annually to identify
and mitigate environmental risks associated with operation of high voltage oil-filled equipment.
The output of the risk assessment model is used to guide targeted preventive action plans.
•
Drainage Plan Program
Drainage plans are a critical tool in ensuring spill response is rapid and appropriately directed.
Drainage plans have now been completed for all high-risk substations (as identified in Substation
Risk Assessments) and the program was extended to include Field Support Centres.
In the event that an environmental incident does occur, field-based staff have the training and tools
to be able to be able to provide front-line response in accordance with Company Procedure
GPE0060 Environmental Incident Response and Management. The staff are also supported by a
dedicated internal Environmental Incident Response Team, internal environmental specialists and
specialised contractors who have a higher level of training and resources, able to be deployed with a
phone call.
Environmental incidents are reported to the Manager Safety and Environmental Services via an
intranet-based report. The online form and database can be queried to present statistics to aid
32 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
in monitoring of environmental performance, follow-up on outstanding actions and update
training modules when required.
5.7
Technical compliance
Endeavour Energy has in place a Network Review process to ensure that its electricity network,
including the design and construction of the network, comply with legislation, relevant mandatory
industry codes of practice and guidelines, voluntary industry codes of practice and guidelines with
which the organisation chooses to comply, as well as our Network Asset Management policies,
procedures and standards.
The process:
•
aims to prevent, and where necessary, identify and respond to, breaches of legislation, codes of
practice and guidelines, policies, procedures or organisational standards occurring within
Endeavour Energy’s electricity network;
•
promotes Endeavour Energy’s policies and standards to ensure a culture of compliance is
developed and maintained within the organisation; and
•
assists Endeavour Energy in demonstrating and achieving its commitment to being a bestpractice network asset manager.
A key component of the compliance program is the undertaking of post commissioning reviews by
Network Compliance Officers. Each issue identified as a result of these reviews is managed
generally according to the level of risk it presents. Wherever possible existing asset management
processes are utilised to ensure these issues are dealt with in the most efficient and effective means
possible.
5.8
Network planning framework and the SAMP
Endeavour Energy’s network planning framework manifests itself in the ten year Strategic Asset
Management Plan (SAMP). The SAMP documents how the individual network capital and
maintenance plans and programs support the network strategy outcomes.
The SAMP is supported by detailed analysis and explicitly takes into account:
•
externally imposed obligations and requirements including service standards, design standards,
safety and environmental obligations, and specific asset performance targets;
•
information about the network system including loading, condition of assets, performance
variability, current capacity, age and the criticality of key assets; and
•
forecasts of demand growth and connections by location.
The SAMP is supported by the more detailed asset management plans and programs shown in
Figure 1.5 and draws these together into a single coordinated asset management plan. At the
highest level, the resultant SAMP sets out the operating and capital expenditure required over the
following ten year period to achieve the network strategy outcomes.
The relationship between the Network Strategy, inputs to the planning process, the Strategic Asset
Management Plan and the individual network development programs is shown in the strategic
network planning framework in Figure 1.7.
Network Safety and Reliability | 33
Figure 1.7: Endeavour Energy’s Strategic Network Planning Framework
The SAMP framework is enforced through a range of formal information collection, governance and
review processes. These processes are designed to:
•
capture and review information on the network performance and capacity and ensure that
planning has access to timely and accurate information on these external and internal factors;
•
test and scrutinise programs and projects; and
•
support stakeholder consultation.
Responsibility for oversight of these processes is explained in section 5.9.9.
The following sections provide an overview of the respective component plans.
5.9
Inputs to the SAMP
5.9.1
Table of forecast new connections
The intention of the table of forecast new connections is to fund the establishment of connection
assets which are not required to be funded by the load applicant.
The table is developed annually by considering forecast demand growth along with information from
councils, state land bodies and developers on their upcoming land development plans.
Endeavour Energy’s planning standards define, among other things, the technical requirements for
connecting different load types and sizes, to ensure appropriate levels of supply security and
reliability for new customers and that the new load does not adversely affect the security or reliability
of supply to existing customers.
Rules for the funding of connection assets are currently defined in AER Capital Contributions Policy.
The intention of the table of forecast new connections is to fund the establishment of connection
assets which are not required to be funded by the load applicant.
34 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
5.9.2
Transmission Network Planning Review (TNPR)
The TNPR study is conducted annually and investigates the capability of Endeavour Energy’s
132,000 volts, 66,000 volts and 33,000 volts sub-transmission network to supply the forecast
demands over a ten year period. The review identifies emerging capacity constraints.
Each identified network capacity constraint is the subject of a Network Investment Options (NIO)
study which considers a range of network and non-network options for alleviating the constraint.
These studies are carried out by cross functional teams to ensure that the best solution is
developed. Financial evaluations on proposed options ensure that preferred options represent
sound investment decisions before solutions are finalised for approval.
Major inputs into this review are the demand forecasts produced on a six monthly basis that forecast
the load on each zone substation under winter and summer peak demand conditions for ten years.
These forecasts take into account both trends in historic base load growth as well as known
individual developments.
The outcome from the TNPR is a list of constraints and potential solutions on the sub-transmission
network, including transmission substations, zone substations and sub-transmission lines from
33,000 volts to 132,000 volts. Prior to pursing major network investment options constraints are
confirmed with assessment of cyclic or emergency ratings. Options such as load transfers and
demand management are also considered in comparison to potential build options in the NIO
process.
5.9.3
Distribution Work Program (DWP)
The DWP is the annual program of works identified to overcome identified capacity constraints and
achieve adequate supply security. While focussing primarily on feeder loading the program also
addresses issues such as supply quality (for example, steady state voltage levels), operational
flexibility, electrical losses and safety (principally associated with rating issues).
The DWP is designed to address those feeders with constraints that will not be alleviated through
works associated with either major sub-transmission projects or the connection of new and
augmented customer loads and to systematically ensure compliance to Endeavour Energy network
planning and configuration policies.
Constraints are identified through the Distribution Network Status Review which is conducted on an
annual basis to review the load on every distribution feeder to ensure that equipment ratings are not
exceeded and to allow the flexibility to switch loads between feeders in the event of a fault. Over
time, through natural growth on the network, the actual loading on some feeders can exceed the
design rating, which in turn has implications for system performance and compliance.
Distribution system enhancements are identified and documented in the DWP and reviewed and
produced annually. This is a program level collection of many smaller items of work required to
rectify specific capacity and performance deficiencies in the distribution network.
Given the dynamic nature of the distribution network topology, the DWP is only developed with a one
year forward outlook, although strategic (long term) regional distribution network development plans
are regularly updated to provide a solid foundation for the shorter term DWP.
5.9.4
Demand management and non-network alternatives
Endeavour Energy proactively seeks and applies demand management initiatives. Network
planning processes investigate both supply side and demand side solutions. The Distribution
Annual Planning Report is used to engage the community on the network investment plans. The
engagement and consultation process actively seeks submissions from external parties on viable
non-network alternatives that may defer network capital investment.
This process also ensures that Endeavour Energy addresses the requirements under the National
Electricity Rules covering the Distribution Network Planning and Expansion Framework.
Network Safety and Reliability | 35
5.9.5
Reliability Works Program (RWP)
Faults on the 11,000/22,000 volts distribution system have a direct effect on the reliability of supply
experienced by customers. The reliability of this part of Endeavour Energy’s network is specifically
addressed by the Reliability Works Program.
The Reliability Works Program is designed to ensure compliance with the NSW DRP Licence
Conditions and to improve the reliability performance of the worst performing parts of the distribution
network. The program seeks to:
•
improve performance of the worst performing areas to comply with the NSW DRP Licence
Conditions feeder average targets;
•
improve the performance of feeders that do not comply with the individual feeder standards in
the NSW DRP Licence Conditions;
•
improve response times to faults; and
•
develop and introduce new cost effective methods of improving reliability performance in poor
performing areas;
The approach to achieving the targeted reliability outcomes includes:
•
reducing susceptibility to unplanned events and improving response times through greater
network segregation (use of reclosers);
•
improving response through use of improved communication and automation of the distribution
network;
•
improving response options through the development of greater network interconnectivity; and
•
improving response through use of innovative solutions such as embedded generation.
•
Improving response through changes to operational practices and behaviours.
The application of the reliability works which is needed to address specific non-performing parts of
the network is detailed in the RWP, which is reviewed and issued annually.
5.9.6
Strategic Asset Renewal Plan (SARP)
Endeavour Energy’s approach to asset renewal planning is becoming increasingly sophisticated as
more assets reach the stage where renewal planning is required.
Endeavour Energy’s asset renewal planning involves:
•
high level asset renewal expenditure modelling;
•
developing bottom-up short term expenditure projections for various asset classes based on
asset condition;
•
developing long term renewal programs based on prioritisation methodologies for major asset
classes where required;
•
developing specific renewal plans for major unique assets; and
•
developing individual renewal plans (projects) for transmission and zone substations.
Endeavour Energy has a number of approaches for identifying assets for renewal, ranging from
simple inspection and condition based maintenance regimes through to detailed technical analysis of
key asset indicators. In general, electrical network assets will be renewed before their failure, where
failure is defined as not fulfilling performance requirements. In rare instances, low criticality assets
and/or assets with redundancy may be run to the point of failure.
This approach ensures that:
•
destructive failures that may compromise safety standards, damage other assets and require
high repair and/or emergency repair costs are avoided;
36 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
•
unplanned interruptions to customer supplies are minimised;
•
interruptions to planned work programs are minimised; and
•
financial, material and human resources are effectively and efficiently managed.
The optimal time for replacement is estimated for each asset or asset class based on actual
experience, data and analysis of expected remaining life and likely failure modes. In determining the
replacement timing for and criticality of an asset, the following factors may be considered:
•
the likely or possible failure modes of the asset;
•
how critical the asset is to the network (the customer damage factor should it fail);
•
the renewal needs of other related and/or affected assets;
•
the performance of the asset against its performance criteria;
•
the operation and maintenance costs and trends of the assets; and
•
cost, functionality and performance of the replacement technology.
5.9.7
Network Maintenance Implementation Plan (NMIP)
Endeavour Energy’s Network Maintenance Policy states that “network assets shall be maintained
according to a maintenance plan”. Endeavour Energy’s Network Maintenance Implementation Plan
(NMIP) analyses maintenance needs against business objectives and details the maintenance
strategies the organisation has adopted for particular assets to meet the network strategy.
The NMIP provides the high level functional performance review of Endeavour Energy’s network
assets and establishes the framework by which the maintenance programs are established to fulfil
Endeavour Energy’s performance requirements. The NMIP is reviewed and updated annually to
identify the network maintenance activities that will be undertaken over the ensuing 12 month period.
The NMIP has the following four key objectives:
•
operate and maintain Endeavour Energy’s assets in a safe and secure manner that protects the
public and electricity workers;
•
comply with all applicable regulatory obligations for operations and maintenance;
•
maintain the quality, reliability and security of the assets and services provided; and
•
take account of the effect of forecast growth on operating maintenance programs.
The operating expenditure planning and management process includes:
•
planned preventative programs such as inspection and maintenance of assets;
•
reactive work such as condition based maintenance and fault and emergency; and
•
operating and control functions.
5.9.8
Metering program
Under the National Electricity Rules and NSW Licence Conditions, Endeavour Energy must ensure
its metering assets are tested in accordance with an asset management plan.
Under Endeavour Energy’s metering program meters are grouped according to the type and year of
manufacture and sampled in accordance with Australian Standard AS1284.13:2002 ‘In-service
compliance testing’. Where samples fail this testing the relevant population is scheduled for bulk
replacement over six years. Based on projected replacement rates this will ensure that the number
of meters in need of replacement remains relatively constant over time.
The plan also covers how meters will be tested, and how inspection plans and testing of instrument
transformers will be conducted.
Network Safety and Reliability | 37
5.9.9
Governance of the network planning framework and processes
Endeavour Energy carries out network planning at both a strategic and a project level and shares an
investment governance framework with the other NSW DNSPs which is facilitated by Networks
NSW. Endeavour Energy’s investment governance process provides continuous review and
ongoing assurance that the Company’s capital investment is both prudent and efficient as well as
being consistent with the longer term strategic planning objectives.
Endeavour Energy’s planning process is designed to identify the most efficient ways of ensuring the
network business meets its network performance obligations. The Company places great emphasis
on the planning and project identification stage, assessing our customer’s short term and longer term
supply needs and then identifying and selecting the optimal solution, to meet those needs. All
credible potential options, including non-network and non-capital alternatives, are considered in
determining how best to meet our network performance obligations and the objectives of the
National Electricity Law. There is a robust selection process that explicitly trades off alternative
expenditure options using quantified estimates of credible option costs and benefits to identify the
optimum solution to address network constraints.
End to end oversight of this process is provided as appropriate by the Endeavour Energy Investment
Governance Committee, the Networks NSW Network Steering Committee, Networks NSW
Investment Steering Committee and ultimately the Board. Together, these bodies ensure that the
content of the asset management plans are prudent and efficient and are developed using a sound
process. This process is designed to meet the Company’s customer value objective and that the
expenditure proposed is subject to appropriate scrutiny in the planning and delivery process.
5.10 Endeavour Energy’s asset management model
Endeavour Energy’s approach to asset management is illustrated in Figure 1.8.
Figure 1.8: Endeavour Energy’s network asset management model and processes
The investment planning process is integrated with the asset strategy. All expenditure on the
network (capital, operating and maintenance) is evaluated and ranked on a consistent basis to
ensure an optimum and efficient investment plan. The investment planning and risk management
processes are integrated within the SAMP to ensure that investments align with the approved
corporate risk profile.
The AER’s Regulatory Investment Test - Distribution is applied to all growth driven major projects
above $5 million and associated public consultation will be applicable from 1 January 2014.
38 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
6
TOTAL ASSET MANAGEMENT
Total Asset Management (TAM) Policy reflects the NSW Government’s objective of a strategic
approach to physical asset planning and management, to ensure an agency’s physical assets best
support its service delivery objectives. TAM Policy applies to all government departments, statutory
authorities, trusts and other government entities. State Owned Corporations, under the State Owned
Corporations ACT 1989, are exempt, although they are encouraged to adopt aspects of TAM that
are consistent with their corporate intent.
Endeavour Energy is committed to the principles of TAM and believes that our asset planning
procedures are consistent with the TAM guidelines. Figure 1.9 below shows how our planning
activities fit with the TAM Model.
Figure 1.9: Endeavour Energy’s Total Asset Management Model
Customer & Stakeholder
demands & expectations
Networks NSW Corporate Plan
Endeavour Energy Business Plan
Endeavour Energy’s service delivery strategy
Network Strategy
Demand Management
Strategy
Field Service Centre
Strategy
Support and non-asset
strategies
(Includes Finance,
Regulatory and IT)
Individual Business Unit Plans
Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP) includes:
•
•
•
•
Growth Capital
SARP
NMIP
Other Capital & Operating Plans
Endeavour’s Business Management System Suite of
Board and Company Policies which govern all
Procedures, Workplace Instructions and Standards (eg,
Asset Disposal Policies, Asset Procurement Policies).
Under the TAM Policy, there are five asset plans that need to be developed4. These are listed in
Table 1.3 below, along with a description of how Endeavour Energy satisfies these requirements
through our current planning practices.
4
And submitted to NSW Treasury by 31 August each year (Treasury funded agencies only).
Network Safety and Reliability | 39
Table 1.3: Asset Management Plans
Asset Plan
Description
Asset Strategy
There is no single document within Endeavour Energy that articulates an
Asset Strategy in the format suggested under TAM. Endeavour Energy views
this Network Management Plan as the key document in this regard for network
assets. Under TAM there are five fundamental service delivery characteristics
of an asset portfolio:
1. Asset/ Service Dependency – the nature of the business of delivering
electricity to customers demands a heavy dependence on infrastructure.
Our planning procedures ensure that Demand Management is a prime
factor in all asset creation considerations.
2. Asset Utilisation – Endeavour Energy’s planning procedures ensure the
maximum utilisation of our assets is achieved within our planning and
reliability standards.
3. Asset Location – Our distribution assets are located adjacent to the
customers that they are supplying. The location of our sub-transmission
assets are dependent on the location of Bulk Supply Points provided by
TransGrid. The Network Planning Policy stipulates topology requirements
for our major network assets. Company policy 9.6.7 – Asset Relocations
details procedures for relocating our assets to meet customer
requirements.
4. Asset Capacity – Our planning policies and network planning framework
ensure that our assets are of sufficient capacity to supply our current and
future customer requirements.
5. Asset Functionality – Endeavour Energy’s Asset Renewal Strategies and
policies and procedures ensure that our network provides a level of service
consistent with our customer service standards.
Office
Accommodation
Strategy
Capital Investment
Strategic Plan
Asset
Maintenance
Strategic Plan
Asset Disposal
Strategic Plan
Endeavour Energy has a Field Service Centre Strategy that has been
developed in line with the TAM framework. The intent of this strategy is to
ensure that regional capability is located where it can best service customer
needs.
Endeavour Energy produces an annual Strategic Asset Management Plan
which details our investment strategies over the upcoming 10 years and the
asset creation, maintenance and operational programs that will be undertaken
in the coming financial year. Our investment strategies are made publicly
available through publications such as the Distribution Annual Planning
Report.
Endeavour Energy has developed a Network Maintenance Implementation
Plan along TAM guidelines. The plan identifies and prioritises all maintenance
activities required for our electrical network assets and sets short and long
term strategies to ensure assets are maintained to meet corporate and
legislative requirements. Regional Maintenance Plans have been developed to
ensure implementation of the NMIP.
Endeavour Energy has Board and Company Policies on the Purchasing and
Disposal of assets (Board Policy 12.0), as well as a company procedure for
the disposal of surplus goods and assets (GSU0006). There are also
numerous specific procedures relating to the disposal of individual asset
types.
40 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
7
REPORTING
A key component of Endeavour Energy’s asset management philosophy is to actively record,
monitor, analyse and report information relating to the performance of the electrical network and
the activities associated with its planning, design, construction, maintenance and operation. In
doing this, areas that fall short of, or are deviating from, required performance standards, can
be readily identified and the appropriate actions can be developed and implemented to address
any deficiency.
To facilitate the assessment of the network’s performance, a consistent set of key performance
indicators have been established which cover specific areas such as reliability and quality of
supply, worker and public safety and customer complaints. On a routine basis, usually annually,
key performance data is provided to bodies such as NSW Trade & Investment, in the form of
the reports as listed below.
7.1
Annual Performance Report
In accordance with the State Owned Corporations Act 1989, Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) Act
1984 and the Public Finance and Audit Act 1983, Endeavour Energy annually prepares and submits
to the appropriate Minister a report of its operations for each financial year5.
This report contains, as a minimum, financial statements, particulars of the organisations charter,
aims and objectives, management and structure and a summary review of operations. The financial
statements must also be accompanied by an independent audit report expressing an opinion as to
the adequacy of those reports in complying with the relevant acts and accounting standards.
The preparation of the Annual report is outlined in Company Policy 14.4 - Annual Report. The
Annual Performance Report is available to the public through the Endeavour Energy internet site or
by contacting the Corporate Affairs Section6.
7.2
Licence Compliance reporting
Under the Electricity Supply Act 1995 (NSW) and Regulations, Endeavour Energy is required to
prepare and lodge a Licence Compliance Annual Report for the Electricity Distributor’s Licence that
it holds. Endeavour Energy’s obligation is to observe the requirements of the licence conditions
imposed under the legislation, and to report the extent of compliance as a matter of record.
Within the Licence Compliance Annual Report (LCAR), Endeavour Energy is required to report on
certain Network-related Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). We must also report on our
performance against the Network licence conditions and explain areas where we do not fully comply
and actions taken to achieve full compliance.
The reports arecertified by the Chief Executive Officer and are issued with the authority of the
Board. The LCAR is required to be submitted to IPART by 31 August each year. A consolidated
report is prepared by IPART and is publicly available on the IPART internet site.
7.3
Electricity Network Performance Report
On an annual basis, Endeavour Energy provides information to NSW Trade & Investment in a
format they stipulate in their Network Operator Report Outline. The Outline provides a template for
reporting of information and data and contains instructions and definitions to aid in achieving
consistency in reporting between network operators. The report is a combination of narrative and
tabulated data. Information must be submitted to NSW Trade & Investment by the end of August
each year
The information supplied covers areas such as network worker and public safety, demand
management, supply reliability, quality of supply, network and customer electrical installation safety
and customer complaints accredited service provider scheme activities.
5
July 1 to June 30.
6
See Page 2 of this Plan.
Network Safety and Reliability | 41
Endeavour Energy’s Annual Electricity Network Performance Report, as submitted to NSW Trade &
Investment, is publicly available on our internet site.
7.4
Significant Electricity Network Incident reporting
Endeavour Energy provides NSW Trade & Investment with timely and adequate initial
information, and a final detailed report where required, on all Significant Electricity Network
Incidents (SENI). These include:
•
reportable Safety Incidents (RSI’s);
•
reportable Asset Incidents (RAI’s);
•
serious electricity network accidents (which include serious electrical accidents as a subset);
•
actionable safety incidents; and
•
actionable asset incidents.
7.5
Safety reporting
As detailed in Endeavour Energy's Work Health and Safety Policy, Endeavour Energy complies with
all notification and reporting requirements of appropriate external bodies such as the NSW
WorkCover Authority and NSW Trade & Investment, and will provide appropriate assistance with
any investigations conducted by these bodies. In the case of NSW Trade & Investment, details of
safety related issues are reported under the SENI scheme.
Information relating to safety performance is also provided to NSW Trade & Investment as part of
the Licence Compliance Annual Reporting and Electricity Network Performance Reporting
mechanisms (described above). Information provided includes details of the quantum and trends of
safety incidents and accidents involving staff, contractors, accredited service providers and
members of the public as well as details as to the network elements involved, other equipment
involved such as cranes, augers, etc and the cause of the incidents.
Endeavour Energy has established an internal HSMS which incorporates an incident management
and notification component. This is a company wide system that provides a practical and consistent
approach for staff to follow in the event of a safety related incident.
The system details the actions to be followed for:
•
initial response to the incident;
•
notification of the incident (this may include NSW Trade & Investment and NSW WorkCover
Authority);
•
investigation of the incident;
•
corrective actions resulting from the investigation;
•
implementation of corrective actions;
•
monitor and review of corrective actions for effectiveness in addressing the causal factors.
7.6
Network management performance reporting
The Portfolio Management Office (PMO) within the Network Development division is responsible for
reporting on the progress of implementation of maintenance or capital works on a regular basis.
These reports are made available to the Chief Operating Officer and the Chief Executive Officer.
This report, in addition to providing the status of performance against target, also highlights the
various management issues that must be addressed in order to achieve the desired outcomes.
8
RISK MANAGEMENT AT ENDEAVOUR ENERGY
Endeavour Energy is committed to implementing a risk management framework that facilitates the
identification and management of hazardous events that could affect our people, the community, the
environment, our customers, our assets and our financial and legal status.
42 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
The management of hazardous events is a fundamental component of business management. All
planning and subsequent decisions must take account of the factors that may inhibit the
achievement of the objectives of Endeavour Energy.
Endeavour Energy is committed to developing an appropriate governance framework focusing on
developing:
•
a risk management program that identifies and manages hazardous events that is linked to the
corporate planning process;
•
•
•
a compliance management system;
•
an audit program that monitors progress and effectiveness of control environment in reducing
Endeavour Energy’s risk exposure.
a business management system that outlines policies and procedures;
a database that captures the hazardous events and reports on progress against risk treatment
plans; and
Our risk management framework is based on Business Risk Categories which are seen as key
areas for attention by the Company:
• safety,
• network,
• financial,
• compliance,
• reputation,
• environment, and
• strategy.
Where applicable, policies and procedures have been developed to outline how these areas are to
be managed.
8.1
Public Liability insurance
Endeavour Energy purchases public liability insurance to cover its legal liability to third parties for
injury or damage caused by an occurrence in connection with Endeavour Energy’s business or
products and includes, amongst other things, failure to supply or economic loss. Public Liability
insurance is purchased and managed via the NSW Electricity Distribution Industry Group Liability
Insurance Scheme. The scheme covers the NSW electricity distributors and includes the
administration of policies for Fire & General Liability, Professional Indemnity, Directors and Officers
Liability and Supplementary Legal Expenses.
9
GOVERNANCE PROCEDURES
9.1
Approval
The Network Management Plan will be approved by the Chief Operating Officer.
9.2
Review and amendment
The Network Management Plan is managed by the Network Data and Performance Branch of
Endeavour Energy. The Network Management Plan will be regularly reviewed and updated under
the direction of the Manager Network Data and Performance.
The Network Management Plan will be reviewed against:
•
changes to legislation, regulation and industry standards;
•
our Corporate Plan;
Network Safety and Reliability | 43
•
new or amended Endeavour Energy policies, procedures or standards that are relevant to this
Network Management Plan;
•
the performance of the organisation in relation to this Network Management Plan and relevant
benchmarks against other NSW Electricity Distributors; and
•
changes to our network, customers or operating environment.
The Network Management Plan will be version and date controlled. The control data and approval
signatures appear on the front page of the original. The latest version of the Network Management
Plan will be publicly available on Endeavour Energy’s internet site –
www.endeavourenergy.com.au following submission to NSW Trade & Investment.
9.3
Auditing of the Network Management Plan
If requested by NSW Trade & Investment, Endeavour Energy will arrange for the independent and
external auditing of this plan, as specified in Part 4 “Audit Requirements” of the Regulation. Results
of the audit will be made available to NSW Trade & Investment.
10
PERFORMANCE AGAINST THE NETWORK MANAGEMENT
PLAN
Endeavour Energy reports annually on our network performance in accordance with the Electricity
Network Performance outline issued by NSW Trade & Investment. Licence Conditions Reports are
also provided to NSW Trade & Investment on a quarterly basis in accordance with the DRP
component of the NSW Licence Conditions. Endeavour Energy considers that the public reports
currently being provided to our regulators satisfy our requirements under Part 5 “Compliance with
plan”, Clause 21 “Network Operators to measure and report on network performance” of the
Regulation.
Below is a sample of Endeavour Energy performance indicators.
Table 1.4: Lost Time Injuries 2012/2013
Measure
Employees
Number of Lost Time Injuries
Number of Days Lost
Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR)
14
295
2.6
Table 1.4: Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) Trend
04/05
6.3
05/06
5.0
06/07
4.8
07/08
3.6
08/09
3.7
09/10
3.0
10/11
3.8
11/12
3.5
12/13
2.6
10.1 Safety Performance
While the ultimate target for workplace incidents is zero, Endeavour Energy has been encouraged
by significant trend improvements in safety performance. Endeavour Energy recognises that there
has been substantial improvement in the LTIFR trend since 2004/05, however we have reached a
plateau in our LTIFR performance. As a result, the Company has initiated a renewed focus on
safety to deliver further improvements.
44 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
11
GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
Term
AER
ASP
Asset
CENELEC
CIGRE
Demand
Management
Distribution Network
Distribution
Substation
DRP
NSW Trade and
Investment
ESR
IPART
Maintenance
Definition
Australian Energy Regulator
Accredited Service Provider
Any item of equipment, or device, that contributes to the operation of the
electrical network in its capacity to convey electrical energy. Assets may
be directly involved in this function or provide ancillary and support
functions required for the safe and reliable operation of the network, or the
management thereof.
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardisation
International Council on Large Electric Systems
A strategy of reducing the peak load on the network by affecting customer
behaviour, equipment used or by introducing small-scale generation at a
local level in order to postpone or remove the need to augment the
network. Demand Management techniques also include direct control of
loads such as off-peak hot water heaters.
The collection of assets (distribution lines, cables, substations and
associated equipment) whose purpose is to distribute power from zone
substations to distribution substations that feed the low voltage network.
Distribution voltages in Endeavour Energy’s network are typically 11,000
volts, 22,000 volts and 12,700 volts SWER.
Note: Within the context of this plan, distribution denotes both Endeavour
Energy’s distribution and low-voltage networks.
A substation with a primary voltage of 11,000 volts, 22,000 volts and
12,700 volts and is part of Endeavour Energy’s distribution network.
Design, Reliability and Performance component of the NSW Licence
Conditions.
Department of Trade & Investment, Regional Infrastructure & Services
Electrical Safety Rules
Independent Pricing And Regulatory Tribunal
The act of ensuring that physical assets continue to fulfil their intended
functions. Maintenance on Endeavour Energy’s electrical network is
classified as one of the following:
Inspection
Routine periodic or cyclic inspections including ad hoc inspections of
equipment for defects, post fault investigations and other scheduled
programs or patrols such as inspections for bushfire management or audit
of environmental impact.
Preventative Maintenance
Maintenance activities carried out on a predetermined periodic or cyclic
basis to retain an asset in a satisfactory operational condition, by
providing examination, detection monitoring and scheduled correction,
adjustment, re-calibration or the scheduled discard and replacement of
components.
Condition Based Maintenance
Maintenance that is carried out due to performance or condition of the
asset where the restoration can be carried out in a scheduled manner.
Fault and Emergency
Network Safety and Reliability | 45
Term
Definition
Any emergent or urgent and unpredicted failure, incident or event
adversely impacting on safety or the environment or involving the actual
or potential loss of supply or reduction in quality of supply to customers or
imposing operational constraints on the network.
Non-urban
An area where the majority of available land is zoned for rural and/or rural
residential use. A rural type of area which may include some industrial,
commercial and residential land, but which does not have large
contiguous areas of town or city development. This includes rural
townships. Endeavour Energy will determine which areas will be
considered to be non-urban under this policy.
WHS
Work Health and Safety
RMS
Road and Maritime Services
SAIDI
System Average Interruption Duration Index. The total minutes, on
average, that a customer could expect to be disconnected from supply in
a year.
Calculated as the sum of all reported minutes off supply for all feeders in
the network divided by the sum of all customers.
Standard SAIDI excludes the effects of major natural events, such as
major storms and bushfires
System Average Interruption Frequency Index. The number of occasions
per year when each customer could, on average, expect to experience an
interruption
Calculated as the sum of reported interruptions for all feeders divided by
the sum of all customers.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. SCADA is used to monitor the
electrical network and provide remote operation of substations and reconfiguration of the network through control over switchgear and
transformers. It is also programmed with local control routines that
facilitate substation voltage control and feeder and transformer change
over. SCADA is the key tool for controlling the network and restoring
supply after faults and incidents.
SAIFI
SCADA
STPIS
Service Target Performance Incentive Scheme
Standard
In this plan, “standard” refers to Endeavour Energy’s technical standards.
These standards specify to an appropriate level of detail the requirements
for an asset or asset system’s design, construction, tests, maintenance
and disposal. Standards support the directives given by Policies to
ensure consistency across the organisation of asset design, quality,
maintenance and operational characteristics, environmental impact, level
of safety and compliance to legislation and Codes of Practice.
Standards are applicable across the organisation. Those standards that
cover works that are contestable are available to appropriately accredited
service providers.
Standard voltages are used throughout Endeavour Energy’s network.
These voltages are:
Transmission: 132,000 volts
Sub-transmission:132,000 volts, 66,000 volts, 33,000 volts
Distribution: 22,000 volts, 11,000 volts, 12,700 volts SWER, 400/230V
Standard Voltage
Levels
Sub-transmission
Network
SWER
SWMS
Transmission
The collection of assets (sub-transmission lines, cables, zone-substations
and associated equipment) whose purpose is to distribute power in bulk
from transmission substations to zone substations which feed the
distribution network or a particular customer.
Single Wire Earth Return supply system used to supply remote rural
areas.
Safe Work Method Statements
The collection of assets (transmission lines, cables, substations and
46 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Term
Network
Transmission
Substation
Urban
Zone Substation
Definition
associated equipment) whose purpose is to transmit power in bulk from a
TransGrid supply point to a transmission substation which feeds the subtransmission network.
The transmission voltage of Endeavour Energy’s network is typically but
not exclusively 132,000 volts.
Note 2 - The part of Endeavour Energy’s network considered to be
transmission within this policy may differ from that defined as transmission
under the National Electricity Code.
A substation with a primary voltage of 132,000 volts and secondary
voltage of 66,000 volts or 33,000 volts which is part of Endeavour
Energy’s transmission network and supplies the sub-transmission
network.
An area where the majority of available land is zoned for residential and/or
commercial and/or industrial use. A town or city type of area which is
contiguous with other similar town or city areas. Endeavour Energy will
determine which areas will be considered to be urban under this policy.
A substation with a primary voltage of 132,000 volts, 66,000 volts or
33,000 volts and a secondary voltage of 22,000 volts or 11,000 volts
which is part of Endeavour Energy’s sub-transmission network.
Network Safety and Reliability | 47
APPENDIX A – NETWORK ASSET MANAGEMENT POLICIES
Below is a list of Endeavour Energy’s network asset management policies as at 30 June 2013.
Doc No.
9.0
9.1.10
9.1.11
9.1.2
9.1.4
9.1.5
9.1.7
9.1.8
9.1.9
9.2.1
9.2.10
9.2.13
9.2.14
9.2.2
9.2.3
9.2.4
9.2.5
9.2.6
9.2.7
9.2.8
9.2.9
9.4.1
9.5.1
9.5.2
9.6.1
9.6.10
9.6.5
9.6.6
9.6.7
9.6.8
9.6.9
9.7.1
9.8.1
9.8.2
9.8.3
9.9.1
9.9.2
9.9.3
Document
Network Asset Management
Network Electrical Safety
High Voltage Customer Demand Dispute Framework
Reliability Principles
Network Power Quality
Network Waterway Crossings
Commissioning Network Electrical Assets
Network Configuration
Network Technical Compliance
Network Planning
Network Asset Ratings
Distribution Asset Leases
Network Property Acquisition
Network Protection
Property Tenure For Network Assets
Network Easement Release
Network Asset Design
Network Asset Renewal
Network Capital Expenditure Planning
Network Demand Management
Electrical Network Telecommunications
Use Of Helicopters And Other Aircraft
Network Asset Information
Standing Data ( Data Required For The Operation Of The National Electricity Market)
Network Connection
Funding And Financing Of Undergrounding Network Assets
Contestable Works
Metering Assets
Asset Relocations
Public Lighting
Facilities Access ( Shared Infrastructure )
Network Asset Construction
High Voltage Live Work
Planned Electricity Supply Interruption
Network Operations
Network Asset Maintenance
Essential Spares
Management Of Life Support Customers
48 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
CHAPTER 2
CUSTOMER
INSTALLATION SAFETY
49 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
CONTENTS
1
2
3
4
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................51
1.1
Purpose ........................................................................................................................... 51
1.2
Scope............................................................................................................................... 51
1.3
Compliance with Acts, Regulations, Codes and Standards ..................................... 51
1.4
Reporting procedures.................................................................................................... 52
QUALIFICATION, ACCREDITATION AND AUTHORISATIONS .........................52
2.1
Electrical contractors .................................................................................................... 52
2.2
Accredited service providers........................................................................................ 52
2.3
Authorised persons ....................................................................................................... 53
2.4
Installation Inspectors ................................................................................................... 53
CONDITIONS FOR THE CONNECTION OF CUSTOMER INSTALLATIONS .....53
3.1
Design of electrical installations .................................................................................. 54
3.2
Connection of completed installation work ................................................................ 54
3.3
Installations at or above 11,000 Volts .......................................................................... 55
MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY ............................................................................55
4.1
Responsibilities of customers ...................................................................................... 55
4.2
Management of asbestos in metering installations ................................................... 56
5
TESTING AND APPROVAL OF CUSTOMER INSTALLATIONS ........................57
6
NOTIFICATION OF WORK ...................................................................................58
7
INSPECTIONS AND AUDITING ...........................................................................59
8
7.1
Remedy of work containing safety breaches ............................................................. 59
7.2
Disciplinary action ......................................................................................................... 59
ELECTRICAL SHOCKS AND ACCIDENTS .........................................................60
APPENDIX A – GLOSSARY OF TERMS ...................................................................62
50 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
1
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Purpose
The purpose and objectives of this chapter is to ensure:
a) The safety of all customer electrical installations within the Endeavour Energy network area;
b) The safe connection of customers’ electrical installations to Endeavour Energy’s distribution or
sub-transmission network;
c) The compliance of customer electrical installations with all Acts, Regulations, Codes, Policies
and Standards as specified in this chapter of the Network Management Plan.
1.2
Scope
This chapter applies to all customer installations within Endeavour Energy’s network area, except for
electrical installations that take supply at or above 132,000 Volts. This chapter also applies to
contestable service work
Customer installations include all electrical wiring and systems from within a customer’s premises to
the Point of Supply/Connection Point.
The chapter applies to all customers and their electrical contractors, all Endeavour Energy
employees, Authorised Persons working for contractors or Accredited Service Providers (ASPs), and
Authorised Persons working for a Meter Provider, when working on a customer’s installation.
Contractors, within this chapter, does not mean companies engaged by Endeavour Energy to work
on the electrical network; the term contractors has been used to describe electrical contractors
engaged by customers to carry out works on their installation.
1.3
Compliance with Acts, Regulations, Codes and Standards
The following Acts, Regulations, Codes of Practice and standards are applicable to all customer
installations within the Endeavour Energy franchise area:
•
The Electricity Supply Act;
•
Electricity Supply (General) Regulation;
•
The Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation (The Regulation);
•
Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act;
•
Electricity (Consumer Safety) Regulation;
•
The Service and Installation Rules of New South Wales;
•
Home Building Act;
•
National Electricity Rules;
•
AS/ NZS 3000 – Wiring Rules;
•
AS/ NZS 3017 – Electrical Installations – Testing and inspection guidelines;
•
All other Australian Standards relating to Electrical Installations;
•
Customer Funded Contestable Service Work Information manual; and
•
National Energy Customer Framework (NECF).
In addition to the above Endeavour Energy will also comply with the following Endeavour Energy
documents:
•
Endeavour Energy Company Policy 9.6.1 – Network Connection;
Customer Installation Safety | 51
•
Endeavour Energy Deemed Standard Connection Contract (including the General Terms and
Conditions for Electricity Supply); and
•
This chapter of the Endeavour Energy Network Management Plan.
1.4
Reporting procedures
Reporting on the application and implementation of this chapter will be through the annual Electricity
Network Performance Report (ENPR). This report is submitted to NSW Trade and Investment each
year in October and a copy of the report is available on the Endeavour Energy website.
2
QUALIFICATION, ACCREDITATION AND AUTHORISATIONS
This section describes the qualifications, accreditation and authorisation that workers require when
undertaking work within a customer installation or connecting the installation to the electrical
network.
2.1
Electrical contractors
Electrical contractors are licensed under the Home Building Act. The licences are administered by
the Fair Trading NSW. The minimum qualifications7 for an electrical contractor are:
a) completion of the Electrical Trade Course through the NSW Technical and Further Education
(TAFE) Commission, or the Electro Technology training packages – System Electrician (or
equivalent); and
b) trade recognition through the Vocational Training Tribunal; and
c) evidence of practical experience which must include a minimum 12 months electrical wiring
installation work in residential, commercial and/or industrial situations (either during or after
apprenticeship).
Details of the Electrical Contractor’s Licensing Scheme can be found on the Fair Trading NSW
website – www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.
2.2
Accredited service providers
The Electricity Supply Act 1995 (Section 31) and the Electricity Supply (General) Regulation 2001
(Part 10) provides the framework for the areas of design and construction of electricity works. Under
Section 25 of the Act, customers may be required to fund works required to enable new or expanded
connections to the electricity network. These connection works are contestable and the customer
may appoint an Accredited Service Provider (ASP) to carry out the works. Endeavour Energy and
Accredited Service Providers must comply with the requirements of the National Energy Connection
Framework (NECF).
Service providers are accredited by NSW Trade and Investment. Before an ASP can work in
Endeavour Energy’s network area for the first time, they must submit their Safety Management Plan
to Endeavour Energy for approval (refer Chapter 1 Section 5.3.2.7 of this plan).
At all times, the ASP will need to be accredited and authorised to undertake the type of work
proposed. That accreditation, along with the systems of notification, testing and auditing of the works
discussed in this plan, seeks to ensure that all work is designed, constructed and installed to provide
for the efficient, reliable and safe operation of the completed works. Depending on the type of
contestable works undertaken pre-qualification may be required.
ASP’s who work on service mains and metering assets must be accredited at Level 2 and work
within the categories shown in the table below. More information on the service provider
7
Fair Trading NSW may accept other qualifications in issuing an Electrical Contractors License.
52 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
accreditation scheme can be found on the NSW Trade and Investment website
www.trade.nsw.gov.au; or by phoning (02) 9895 0008; or by email to
asp.scheme@industry.nsw.gov.au.
Table 2.1: Level 2 ASP Categories
Level 2
2.3
Type of Work
Construction and/
or installation of
service mains and
the point of
supply, including
metering services.
Category
1. Disconnection & Reconnection
2. U/G Service Mains
3. O/H Service Mains
4. Metering & energising new
installations
5. Installing Contestable Market
metering
Assessment
• Qualifications
and training
• Equipment
• Insurance
Authorised persons
Any person performing work under this chapter, on or near Endeavour Energy’s network, must be
authorised by Endeavour Energy to carry out such works, in accordance with Company Policy GAM
0089 – Authorisations Governance and Management.
Authorisations are based on a defined scope of works. This scope of work is detailed in the person’s
authorisation card issued by Endeavour Energy. Authorised Persons are not allowed to work outside
their scope of work as defined by their authorisation. Disciplinary action will be taken against any
Authorised Person found to be non-compliant (i.e. working outside their defined scope of works or
for breaches of OH&S requirements).
An Authorised Person (AUP) means a person who is an ASP (Accredited Service Provider) or is
employed by an ASP and who:
•
has been personally accredited by the NSW Government with endorsement to carry out relevant
types of contestable work on or near the Endeavour Energy electricity distribution network;
•
has undergone initial induction training provided by Endeavour Energy, including familiarisation
with Endeavour Energy Electrical Safety Rules (ESR);
•
has undergone annual refresher training provided by an endorsed registered training
organisation (RTO), in electrical safety rules, cardio pulmonary resuscitation, release from live
low-voltage and, if required to work aloft, pole top rescue;
•
has been issued with authorisation (renewed annually) by Endeavour Energy to carry out
defined and relevant types of work; and
•
carries photographic identification to verify the identity of the person named in the above
authorisations.
2.4
Installation Inspectors
Inspections of electrical installation work covered by this plan will be carried out by Endeavour
Energy’s Installation Inspectors. These staff are suitably qualified and experienced people who have
received the necessary training from Endeavour Energy.
Endeavour Energy provides ongoing training for its Installation Inspectors. The customer installation
process is supported by internal policies, procedures, work place instructions and forms which are
regularly reviewed.
3
CONDITIONS FOR THE CONNECTION OF CUSTOMER
INSTALLATIONS
All electrical installation work carried out within the Endeavour Energy network area must comply
with all Acts, Regulations, Codes and Standards as listed in Section 1.3 of this Plan.
Customer Installation Safety | 53
Endeavour Energy will not approve the connection of any installation work to its electrical
network, unless it is compliant with the AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules), other relevant Australian
Standards, and the Service and Installation Rules NSW, and its safe operation has been
established by tests that are detailed in this Plan. Endeavour Energy has an audit regime in
place to ensure compliance with all Standards, Codes of Practice, and our own policies and
standards.
3.1
Design of electrical installations
The design of all customer installations must comply with the Wiring Rules, the Service and
Installation Rules NSW, Customer Funded Contestable Service Work Information manual,
Endeavour Energy network standards relevant to the connection, Endeavour Energy’s National
Energy Customer Framework obligations and all other relevant AS/NZS standards.
If the service is to exceed 100 Amps at the main switchboard, the switchboard design must be
submitted to Endeavour Energy’s Customer Installations office for review prior to the installation
work starting.
3.2
Connection of completed installation work
Endeavour Energy’s application for load process for new and altered sites requires the issuing of a
Permission to Connect from the Network Connections branch prior to connection to the distribution
network:
The following installation work shall not be connected to the supply without prior permission from
Endeavour Energy:
a) consumer’s mains and main switchboard, (unless the work consists only of repairs to the
consumer’s mains, or main switchboard);
b) installations that form part of the customer’s high voltage installation;
c) installations in environments classified as hazardous areas by relevant Australian Standards;
d) all increase in load and new connections in non-urban areas, rural, villages, townships, and
where no supply is available to the site;
e) new connection or additional capacity of generating systems, and
f)
new connections/additional load in residential, industrial/commercial, utilities, local council
projects, including multiple occupancy for loads and temporary builder’s supply.
Subject to the above, prior permission is not required by Endeavour Energy to:
-
An Authorised Person, who is authorised by Endeavour Energy to perform Level 2
Contestable Service Work within Endeavour Energy’s network area.
-
An Electrical Contractor, to carry out and commission work associated with alterations or
additions to an existing installation, including sub-mains and final sub-circuits originating at a
switchboard.
All applications for the connection of load need to be made on the appropriate Endeavour Energy
form – Application for Connection of Load.
The testing, connection and notification of Customer Installation work and Level 2 Contestable
Service Work will be in accordance with the requirements of this chapter.
An electrical installation, or part of an electrical installation, must not be energised unless its safe
operation and compliance with the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules have been established by a
safety and compliance test.
54 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
No customer installations can be connected to the electrical network unless a meter has been
installed by an ASP, Endeavour Energy, or by an accredited Metering Provider, except for
unmetered supplies where approval is required prior to connection.
3.3
Installations at or above 11,000 Volts
Customers supplied by Endeavour Energy at or above 11,000 Volts should be aware of the
requirement to comply with the conditions outlined in Endeavour Energy’s procedure NCB 0411 Establishment of High Voltage Switching and Site Operating Protocol with High Voltage Customers.
The protocol covers such issues as:
•
ownership boundaries and responsibilities;
•
maximum agreed demands;
•
customer property access requirements for Endeavour Energy staff;
•
qualification and training requirements of customer HV operating staff; and
•
obligations with respect to pre-bushfire season inspection and defect rectification.
The customer will provide Endeavour Energy with:
a) A single line diagram of the HV installation;
b) A 24-hour list of contact personnel; and
c) A copy of their Site Operating Protocol, which shall refer to the management of the high voltage
installation.
The above items need to be regularly reviewed and updates provided to Endeavour Energy as and
when changes have been made.
The high voltage installation shall be inspected for safety, particularly in regard to isolation and
earthing facilities.
The customer shall provide to Endeavour Energy, notification of all fatal and non-fatal accidents and
incidents, which involve electric shock.
The customer is required to submit a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work (CCEW) for all
work performed on their electrical installation.
The operating protocol is reviewed on a regular basis, and additionally the customer is required to
advise Endeavour Energy whenever there are changes to the authorised operating staff.
Customers are responsible for the ownership, maintenance and testing of HV metering (current and
voltage) transformers. Endeavour Energy must approve the results of measurement tests, performed
on HV metering transformers, prior to their connection to the Endeavour Energy network.
National Electricity Rules (NER) Chapter 7 compliant metering must be provided at an agreed HV
metering point and is to be in accordance with the requirements of the relevant market operation
rule.
4
4.1
MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY
Responsibilities of customers
It is the responsibility of all customers to maintain their electrical installation so that they remain safe
and efficient. The Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act (Section 32) states:
1) A responsible person for an electrical installation in a place must, to the best of the person’s
ability and knowledge, ensure that such parts of the electrical installation as may be
Customer Installation Safety | 55
prescribed by the regulations are maintained in accordance with the regulations while the
electrical installation remains connected to the source of supply of electricity.
2)
In this section, responsible person, in relation to an electrical installation in a place, means:
(a) the occupier of the place, or
(b) if there is no occupier, any owner of the place.
The Electricity (Consumer Safety) Regulations states in section 36:
Maintenance of electrical installations: section 32 of Act.
For the purposes of section 32 (1) of the Act:
(a)
all parts of an electrical installation are prescribed, and
(b)
the following requirements apply to the maintenance of all parts of an electrical
installation, that is, they must be maintained so as to ensure that:
(i)
the safe and satisfactory operation of the installation is not impaired by interference,
damage, ageing or wear,
(ii) the live parts of the installation remain properly insulated, or protected, against
inadvertent contact with any person,
(iii) the earthing system for the installation operates effectively,
(iv) the installation is not used in a manner that exceeds the operating limits imposed by
its design or installation,
(v) the installation does not become a significant potential cause of fire for the
environment surrounding the installation.
4.2
Management of asbestos in metering installations
Older electrical cupboards and switchboards may include electrical mounting boards that contain
asbestos. The asbestos is typically chrysotile (white asbestos) and is bonded into the matrix of the
material. In some installations, the internal face of the cabinet may also be lined with asbestos
cement (AC) sheet or with asbestos millboard (a soft white cardboard type material that contains
asbestos).
Any dust encountered inside the cabinets of pre-1988 installations should be assumed to be
contaminated with asbestos (asbestos boards may have been removed).
For information on the assessment and management of metering and electrical installations that may
contain asbestos, see the publications available on the WorkCover website –
www.workcover.nsw,gov.au. and the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 which details the
requirements for asbestos management.
•
Figure 2.1 shows photographs of typical domestic metering installations that may contain
asbestos. This first photo shows an installation with an asbestos-based electrical backing board.
The second photograph shows a typical domestic meter box. Although the metering equipment
is mounted onto a timber board, the internal faces of the cabinet are lined with asbestos
millboard.
56 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Figure 2.1: Typical domestic metering installations that may contain asbestos
•
5
TESTING AND APPROVAL OF CUSTOMER INSTALLATIONS
All electrical installations and Level 2 contestable service work, before being permanently
connected to the supply, must be tested to ensure they comply to the requirements of this plan.
All work must receive the appropriate approvals, as stipulated in this plan, before connection to
Endeavour’s network is permitted.
The tests must be carried out using test equipment of an approved standard8, which are periodically
checked to ensure they remain operational and safe.
Tests on customer installation work must be carried out by persons who hold a licence or certificate
issued under the Home Building Act 1989 which entitles the licence holder to perform that class of
work without supervision.
An authorisation card for Level 2 Contestable Service Work, issued by Endeavour Energy, is the
minimum requirement for testing Service Work. All tests are to be conducted as stipulated in the
Endeavour Energy Customer Funded Contestable Service Work Information manual.
The mandatory tests for customer installation work will ensure:
a) continuity of the earthing system (earth resistance of the main earthing conductor, protective
earthing conductors and bonding conductors);
b) insulation resistance;
8
The AS/ NZS standard applicable to individual testing equipment.
Customer Installation Safety | 57
c) polarity;
d) Correct circuit connections;
e) verification of impedance required for automatic disconnection of supply;
f)
operation of RCDs.
For contestable service work the authorised person will conduct a final test in compliance with
Endeavour Energy’s Electrical Safety Rules Clause 7.2.5
6
NOTIFICATION OF WORK
Within 14 days of the completion of any electrical work, the qualified person will supply to the owner
of the installation on which the work was done a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work
(CCEW) form giving particulars of the work and indication of the tests completed. The form must
identify the certifying contractor and the person who tested the work.
A copy of the same CCEW form must be supplied to Endeavour Energy within 14 days of the
completion of the safety and compliance test, if the electrical installation is connected, or is intended
to be connected, to the distribution system within Endeavour Energy’s network and the electrical
installation work concerned involves:
a)
a new electrical installation; or
b)
any alterations or additions to an existing electrical installation that will require additional work
to be done by or on behalf of the provider in relation to the network connection or metering
arrangements for the installation; or
c)
work on a switchboard or associated electrical equipment including the addition of new
subcircuits or submains and any work that increases the rating of existing subcircuits or
submains (other than work to repair or replace equipment that does not alter the electrical
loading, method of electrical protection, system of earthing or physical location of the
switchboard or equipment being repaired or replaced)
Note: This will include installations within a hazardous environment or taking supply at high
voltage.
Within 2 days of the completion of any service work, the Accredited Service Provider will supply to
Endeavour Energy, a Notification of Service Work (NOSW) form giving particulars of the work and
an indication of the tests completed. The form shall identify and give details of the Authorised
Person who completed and tested the work, and the Accredited Service Provider who employed the
person to complete the work.
If the details of the works completed are not notified to Endeavour Energy in accordance with this
Plan, disciplinary action against the Electrical Contractor, the Authorised Person and/or the ASP can
be instigated, in accordance with this plan.
If Endeavour Energy detects that electrical work or service work has been carried out without the
proper notification of such work, contact will be made with the customer to determine the person(s)
who carried out the work. Disciplinary action will be taken against the offending person(s) and a full
audit of the work will be carried out.
Particulars of any electrical installation work and tests are required to be submitted to the customer
where the work consists only of the disconnection, reconnection or replacement of appliances,
switches, lighting points or socket outlets without an increase in their number or the electrical load
imposed by them.
A NOSW form must be submitted to Endeavour Energy for all metering and Level 2 Contestable
Service Work.
58 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Metering Providers who carry out any work within Endeavour Energy’s franchise area must
provide the appropriate notification as specified in this plan
Level 2 ASPs, including Metering Providers, must obtain a Meter Removal Number from Endeavour
Energy before removing any meter from service. This Meter Removal Number must be included in
notification forms forwarded to Endeavour Energy at the completion of the work.
Endeavour Energy will support any industry initiatives to promote to customers the obligation of
Electrical Contractors and the Level 2 Accredited Service Providers, to notify of electrical installation
work and Level 2 Contestable Service Work by providing the appropriate documentation as specified
in this plan.
7
INSPECTIONS AND AUDITING
Endeavour Energy will carry out inspections and audits of selected new installations, additions,
alterations to existing installations and Level 2 Contestable Service Work for compliance with this
Plan and the relevant Codes, Regulations and Standards.
The inspection will consist of a visual examination where access is available to check compliance
with the rules and workmanship, and may include sufficient testing to verify that the Electrical
Contractor and/or Accredited Service Provider has performed the appropriate tests.
The inspection process for a Customer’s Installation and Level 2 Contestable Service Work is
documented in accordance with Endeavour Energy’s internal policies and procedures. The major
document governing customer installation inspections is:
•
NBS 5008 – Auditing, Inspecting and Testing of Customer Electrical Installations.
Endeavour Energy will monitor and internally audit the Inspection Program and ensure regular audits
of Authorised Persons working on customers’ electrical installations.
The level of inspection/audit for Electrical Contractors of customers’ installations will be determined
from the Contractor’s work history with Endeavour Energy, the number of completed jobs, and the
number of and degree of safety breaches reported for that contractor. Notwithstanding the above
criteria, Endeavour Energy aspires to inspect all new Customer Installations.
7.1
Remedy of work containing safety breaches
Action will be taken if an inspection reveals that installation work does not comply with this Plan and
the relevant Codes, Regulations and Standards.
The Electrical Contractor or Accredited Service Provider rectifying the defects must submit, in the
case of electrical work, a CCEW form, or in the case of service work, a NOSW form, indicating that
the defects have been rectified. Endeavour Energy will re-inspect the installation based upon a risk
assessment.
If a person obstructs, or does not permit, an inspection of installation work as notified, supply may be
disconnected to part or all of the Customer’s Installation on which the work was done, until the
inspection is completed.
A person must not connect to Endeavour Energy’s electrical network, any part of an
electrical installation where Endeavour Energy has disconnected the part, or refused to give
permission to connect the part, until permission has been granted for that connection.
7.2
Disciplinary action
Disciplinary action will be initiated where Electrical Contractors or Authorised Persons are reported
for breaches of this Plan.
Customer Installation Safety | 59
Disciplinary action will be instigated for, but not limited to, the following breaches:
•
defective or unsafe installation work;
•
unsafe work practices in performing installation work;
•
failure to notify Endeavour Energy of work completed;
•
unauthorised connections to Endeavour Energy’s network;
•
failure to carry out the required tests;
•
failure to rectify breaches when notified;
•
work performed by unqualified persons; and
•
failure to reconcile outstanding fees and charges.
The level of disciplinary action will be influenced by:
•
type of non-conformance;
•
previous defect records;
•
previous disciplinary record, as maintained by Endeavour Energy; and
•
the potential of the incident to cause personal harm or property damage.
The types of disciplinary actions taken may include:
•
a verbal or written warning;
•
a lowering of the inspection/audit grade ,as assigned by Endeavour Energy, to an Electrical
Contractor or ASP for the purpose of audit inspections as described above;
•
a formal interview or counselling;
•
referral of an electrical contractor to Fair Trading NSW, and;
•
suspension or cancellation of the authorisation granted by Endeavour Energy and/or
recommendation for suspension or cancellation of accreditation by the NSW Trade and
Investment.
In the event that unlicensed persons are reported for undertaking electrical installation work, or
otherwise in breach of the Home Building Act 1989, the offending person will be referred directly to
Fair Trading NSW for action pursuant to the Act, as well as informing other NSW electricity
distributors
8
ELECTRICAL SHOCKS AND ACCIDENTS
Endeavour Energy will respond to every report of an electrical shock or accident as a priority call out.
An Endeavour Energy officer will attend the site of the shock or accident to assess the problem.
All persons who have received an electric shock should seek medical attention
If the problem is found to be in the Endeavour Energy network it will be referred to the relevant
specialist area and rectified as a matter of priority. Endeavour Energy will continue to treat the
problem as a priority until a solution can be found.
If the problem is found to be in the customer’s electrical system, the installation will be made safe
and the customer will be advised to engage an Accredited Service Provider or an Electrical
Contractor, as appropriate.
60 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Making the installation safe may require isolating the electricity supply to the affected property or
part of the property. Every effort will be made to maintain supply; however safety is the highest
priority.
Electrical accidents are reported to NSW Trade and Investment on forms they provide. Electrical
accidents associated with Endeavour Energy’s electrical network are also reported to NSW Trade
and Investment through the SENI system.
All electrical shocks and accidents are reported annually through the Electricity Network
Performance Report (ENPR). These reports are available on the Endeavour Energy website and
from NSW Trade and Investment.
Customer Installation Safety | 61
APPENDIX A – GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Term
Definition
ASP
An Accredited Service Provider. References to an ASP in this
plan relate to a Level 2 ASP unless otherwise stated.
An inspection of Level 2 Contestable Service Work to ensure
compliance with this Customer Installation Safety Plan.
An individual working for an Accredited Service Provider or
Meter Provider and authorised in writing by Endeavour Energy
to undertake works on or near Endeavour Energy’s electricity
network.
Certificate of Compliance Electrical Work.
Means a line between the point of supply and the main
switchboard.
Means a service which may legally be provided by persons
other than Endeavour Energy.
Customer installation includes electric wire cables, appliances,
installation fittings, insulators and apparatus on the load side of
the point of supply. Customer installation does not include a
distributor’s electricity supply main or service line, meter, or
apparatus, which is used to convey, measure or control
electricity supplied to any land or premises.
A person suitably trained and qualified to carry out inspections
of customers electrical installations and Level 2 Contestable
Service Work.
Posing a risk to persons, livestock and property.
An area in which an explosive atmosphere is present, or may
be expected to be present, in quantities such as to require
special precautions for the construction, installation and use of
electrical equipment.
An installation at which the electricity supply is supplied at a
voltage in excess of 1000 Volts.
The work of installing, repairing, altering, removing or adding to
a customer’s electrical installation, or the product of that work.
• Level 2 Contestable Service Work is work that is carried
out by an Authorised Person on or near Endeavour
Energy’s low voltage network, which includes:
• Disconnection/ reconnection;
• Underground service mains;
• Overhead service mains;
• Metering and energising new installations.
Audit Inspection
Authorised Person
CCEW
Consumer’s Mains
Contestable Service
Customer Installation
Installation Inspector
Dangerous
Hazardous area
High Voltage Installation
Installation Work
Level 2 Contestable
Service Work
Low Voltage
Metering Provider
AEMO
NECF
Low Voltage means nominal voltage exceeding 50V a.c./120V
d.c but not exceeding 1000V a.c/1500V d.c
A person who meets the requirements of the National
Electricity Rules and has been accredited by and is registered
with AEMO.
Australian Energy Market Operator – the company which
operates and administers the market in accordance with the
National Electricity Rules.
National Energy Customer Framework
62 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
NER
NOSW
Point of Supply
SENI
Service Mains
National Electricity Rules
Notification of Service Work form (FPJ 4503) published by
Endeavour Energy.
The junction of the electricity distributors’ conductors with the
consumer’s mains.
Significant Electricity Network Incident. A reporting system for
TI NSW, using a specific form to report on Electrical Accidents
and other network incidents.
Service Mains can be categorised into Overhead and
Underground Service Mains:
• Overhead service mains - overhead or aerial conductors,
operating at a voltage not exceeding 600/1000 Volts,
between the distribution system and the point of supply;
•
T&I NSW
Underground service mains - underground cables and their
enclosure, operating at a voltage not exceeding 600/1000
Volts, between the electricity distributor's distribution mains
and a customer's point of supply.
Trade & Investment NSW
Customer Installation Safety | 63
CHAPTER 3
PUBLIC ELECTRICAL
SAFETY AWARENESS
64 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
CONTENTS
1
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 66
1.1
Purpose ........................................................................................................................... 66
1.2
Scope ............................................................................................................................... 66
1.3
Compliance ..................................................................................................................... 68
2
SAFETY COMMITMENT ...................................................................................... 68
3
RISK IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS ............................................................ 68
4
3.1
Business Risk ................................................................................................................. 68
3.2
Incident Analysis ............................................................................................................ 68
STRATEGIC AWARENESS PROJECTS ............................................................. 70
Public Electrical Safety Awareness | 65
1
1.1
INTRODUCTION
Purpose
The purpose of this chapter is to outline Endeavour Energy’s Public Electrical Safety Awareness
Plan (PESAP).
The PESAP has been developed to raise public awareness of electrical hazards present in the
environment in which we live and to outline the initiatives currently being undertaken by Endeavour
Energy to address these so that our community can be as safe as reasonable practicable. Natural
events are unavoidable and expose all customers to electrical risk. Natural events include wind
storms, electrical storms, floods and bushfires and are the number one cause of public safety
incidents.
Whilst control over natural disasters is limited, electrical safety risk also stems from other causes
including “tingle” or neutral integrity faults, striking overhead and underground lines with construction
machinery and high load vehicles, inadvertent contact through recreational activities and
unauthorised contact with electricity facilities and sites.
1.2
Scope
This plan accounts for the key public safety issues, target groups and communication strategy to be
implemented in order to raise public awareness about the safety hazards associated with electricity.
The provisions of the PESAP will be implemented over a 12 month period commencing July 2013.
The PESAP is updated on an annual basis.
The PESAP has been developed in accordance with the requirements of the Electricity Supply
(Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2008 and Endeavour Energy’s HSE Implementation
Plan 2013-14. It extends beyond legislative compliance requirements to:
•
demonstrate Endeavour Energy’s commitment to public electrical safety;
•
position Endeavour Energy as experts in the safe use of electricity; and
•
where possible, instigate an industry-based approach within NSW to raising public awareness
about electrical safety to extract the best possible value and outcomes.
The Networks NSW Corporate Plan and associated Endeavour Energy Business Plan, sets out our
strategic business outcomes, business processes and business enablers that deliver financial and
customer outcomes. There is a clear focus across business outcomes, processes and enablers on
public safety. The strategy map set out in these Plans is shown in Figure 3.1.
66 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Figure 3.1: Endeavour Energy’s strategy map
The HSE Priority Plan 2013-14 (Figure 3.2) supports the Endeavour Energy Strategy Map and is
supported by four key strategic focus areas including the delivery of the PESAP.
Figure 3.2: HSE Priority Plan 2013-14
Public Electrical Safety Awareness | 67
1.3
Compliance
The PESAP fulfils the requirements of clause 11 Chapter 3 of the Electricity Supply (Safety and
Network Management) Regulation 2008 and should be read in conjunction with the three other plans
required to form the Network Management Plan:
•
Chapter 1 – Network safety and reliability,
•
Chapter 2 – Customer installation safety, and
•
Chapter 4 – Bushfire risk management.
2
SAFETY COMMITMENT
At Endeavour Energy safety excellence is one of our values. To achieve this we:
•
make safety our number one priority;
•
do not participate in unsafe acts, and challenge unsafe behaviours;
•
think before we act;
•
lead by example; and
•
take responsibility for the health and safety of ourselves and others.
This philosophy of safety excellence is central to the business and is instrumental in all internal and
external communications and actions.
Our objective is to continue to reduce the number of employee, contractor and public safety
incidents and injuries associated with our Network.
3
3.1
RISK IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS
Business Risk
Public safety risk addressed in this PESAP has been identified and recorded in the Endeavour
Energy Risk Management Plan as Business Risk (BR) 1.1 - Uncontrolled discharge or contact with
electricity. This is an incident where there is an uncontrolled release or discharge of electricity on or
near the network which has the potential to or does cause an electric shock or injury to a worker or
member of the public. The projects listed in this PESAP detail how this “uncontrolled discharge or
contact with electricity” typically occurs in relation to the targeted public groups.
3.2
Incident Analysis
This section analyses incidents of significant risk and includes customer shocks due to neutral
integrity issues, conductor strikes and unauthorised contact incidents.
3.2.1
Customer Shocks – Neutral Integrity
The broader community may be susceptible to electricity safety hazards through natural incidents or
electrical faults in and around the home.
The number of customer shocks caused by neutral integrity issues, usually experienced by feeling a
“tingle” from a fixed or portable appliance due to corroded connectors, has seen a decrease on the
previous 2011-12 figure, with 119 reported incidents in 2011-12 compared with 49 in 2012-13.
68 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Figure 3.3: Customer Shocks – Neutral Integrity for Financial Year 2009-2013
3.2.2
Conductor Strike
Conductor strike mechanisms include incidents of contact with underground, overhead and
submarine conductors by members of the public including general public workers, recreational
aviators and boat owners. Generally Endeavour Energy’s underground conductors are at risk of
being hit by excavation contractors. Overhead conductors are subject to contact by high load
vehicles, which includes any vehicle or plant item in transit. Other overhead mechanisms include
plant items such as cranes and excavators, garbage trucks, aircraft and the masts of yachts.
Submarine cables are at risk from boats dragging anchors. There were 51 conductor strikes in 201213, an increase of one from 50 in 2011-12. There was an increase in high load strikes from 6 in
2011-12 to 10 in 2012-13, an increase in underground strikes from 15 in 2011-12 to 25 in 2012-13
and a decrease in overhead strikes from 28 in 2011-12 to 14 in 2012-13. As with 2011-12 there was
one marine strike in 2012-13. The current moving monthly average for conductor strikes in 2012-13
was 4.2 which is identical to that experienced in 2011-12 and a reduction on the 7.6 rate
experienced five years ago in 2008-09.
Figure 3.4: Average conductor Strikes – General Public and General Public Workers
Five year rolling average applied
Public Electrical Safety Awareness | 69
3.2.3
Unauthorised contact with electricity assets
Endeavour Energy has an obligation to do all that is reasonable to prevent unauthorised contact with
electricity assets. Over the past three years a focus on security breaches in relation to electricity
substations has occurred. In addition a public awareness program about safety around substations
and reporting suspicious behaviour around street equipment that may lead to copper theft has been
implemented.
Figure 3.5: FY 2008 – 2013 Unauthorised Contact Incidents
Five year rolling average applied
There was a significant decrease in incidents due to the reduction in copper theft from 120 in 201112 to 12 in 2012-13. Vandalism decreased with 10 in 2012-13 compared with 23 vandalism incidents
in 2011-12. The current moving monthly average for all unauthorised contact incidents is 11.9
compared with 6.8 five years ago in 2008-09.
4
STRATEGIC AWARENESS PROJECTS
The Table 3.1 outlines the strategic projects planned for 2013-14 in response to the above analysis
of incident data, with consideration of ongoing and forecast risks. These projects target key public
audiences to help raise their awareness of the hazards they face through their interaction with the
Endeavour Energy network.
A variety of communication methods will be used to reach our target audiences. Media releases,
where appropriate, will be used. Press, radio, website and printed materials will be the key media
used to communicate our key messages, as well as consideration of social media.
Table 3.1: PESAP Strategic projects 2013-2014
1. Target
Audience
Construction industry
Hazardous Event
Uncontrolled discharge or contact with electricity
Hazard
description
BR1.1.1 Striking power lines or cables with plant
Project/s
1.
2.
3.
4.
Construction worker pack development
Awareness-raising at strategic forums
Australian Traffic Network (ATN) radio reads
Underground cable strike media campaign
70 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
Key message/s
Locate electricity cables before commencing work
Plan work away from electricity
Contact us
Dial before you dig
2.Target Audience
High load vehicle drivers
Hazardous Event
BR1.1.1 Uncontrolled discharge or contact with electricity
Hazard
description
Striking power lines or cables with vehicle
Project/s
High load vehicle driver pod cast
Key message/s
Plan work away from power lines
Locate power line before moving equipment/tipping loads
Know your clearances
Contact us
3.Target Audience
Vegetation workers
Hazardous Event
BR1.1.1 Uncontrolled discharge or contact with electricity
Hazard
description
Vegetation trimmer/tree lopper contacts power lines or vegetation in contact
with power lines or receives shock from arcing
Project/s
Vegetation worker podcast
Vegetation worker fact sheet
Key message/s
Know your clearances
Locate power lines before moving equipment
Arrange for an outage
Contact us
4.Target Audience
House holders with vegetation near power lines
Hazardous Event
BR1.1.1 Uncontrolled discharge or contact with electricity
Hazard
description
Bushfire caused by power lines
Project/s
Preparing for the bushfire season radio advertisement
Key message/s
Manage vegetation around power lines
Contact us
General community and would be copper thieves
BR1.1.1 Uncontrolled discharge or contact with electricity
Copper thief receives shock/injuries when stealing copper
5.Target Audience
Hazardous Event
Hazard
description
Project/s
Key message/s
6.Target Audience
Hazardous Event
Hazard
description
Project/s
Key message/s
Local newspaper advertisement
Australian Traffic Network (ATN) radio reads
Copper theft exposes us all
If you see something call Crime Stoppers
Report anonymously to Crime Stoppers
Local community
BR1.1.1 Uncontrolled discharge or contact with electricity
Person contacts network due to repair damage or clean up
Asset tampering local media campaign
Electricity can kill
Leave all network damage to the experts
Call 131 003
Public Electrical Safety Awareness | 71
7.Target Audience
Hazardous Event
Hazard
description
Project/s
Key message/s
8.Target Audience
Hazardous Event
Hazard
description
Project/s
Key message/s
9.Target Audience
Hazardous Event
Hazard
description
Project/s
Key message/s
DIY / Home handy people
BR1.1.1 Uncontrolled discharge or contact with electricity
Homemaker repairer contacts electricity when undertaking domestic task
Australian Traffic Network (ATN) DIY radio reads
Don’t do your own electrical work
Use a qualified electrician
Primary school students
BR1.1.1 Uncontrolled discharge or contact with electricity
Child contacts fallen power lines or other assets
1. Electricity Safety Week (ESW)
2. National curriculum review/alignment of ESW materials
Play safe around electricity
Tell an adult
Water and electricity don’t mix
Don’t play with power points
Householders
BR1.1.1 Uncontrolled discharge or contact with electricity
Householder contact with electricity via fixed or portable appliance
Australian Traffic Network (ATN) faulty neutral “tingles” radio reads calling to
action the reporting of tingles. (This will complement engineering controls such
as the use of Insulating Piercing Connectors (IPCs) and the service wire
replacement program.)
If you feel a tingle give us a call
Smaller targeted projects will also be built around further awareness raising with emergency services
through informing curriculum and socialising resources, engaging councils about strategically
embedding the conductor strike DVD as part of their risk management, website enhancement
(phase 2) and further socialising the Allowable Landing Areas brochure to recreational aviators.
Our Electricity Safety Week (ESW) program continues to achieve increased levels of participation,
both within our network area and across NSW. During 2012 Endeavour Energy’s participation rate
increased by 4% to 91% overall. The program enables students to learn key electricity safety
messages which are transferable into their adult lives. The realignment of resources with the
national curriculum is taking place during 2013-14 and is a jointly funded project shared between
Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy and Essential Energy.
72 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
CHAPTER 4
BUSHFIRE RISK
MANAGEMENT
73 | Network Management Plan: 2011-2013
CONTENTS
1
2
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................76
1.1
Purpose ........................................................................................................................... 76
1.2
Scope............................................................................................................................... 76
IDENTIFICATION AND RECORDING OF BUSHFIRE PRONE AREAS ..............76
2.1
3
4
5
6
7
8
MAINTENANCE OF ELECTRICAL ASSETS FOR BUSHFIRE MITIGATION .....78
3.1
Statement of policy ........................................................................................................ 78
3.2
Primary documentation ................................................................................................. 78
3.3
Procedures for routine above ground inspection ...................................................... 79
3.4
Special procedures for inspections in fire prone areas ............................................ 79
3.5
Reporting and commitment of management .............................................................. 80
REVIEW OF NEW EQUIPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS .............80
4.1
Statement of policy ........................................................................................................ 80
4.2
Primary documentation ................................................................................................. 80
4.3
Network Bushfire Resilience Programs ...................................................................... 81
OVERHEAD MAINS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY ..................................................82
5.1
Primary documentation ................................................................................................. 82
5.2
Existing arrangements .................................................................................................. 82
5.3
Customer notification and follow-up ........................................................................... 83
CUSTOMER INFORMATION, COMPLAINT RECORDING AND INVESTIGATION
83
6.1
Primary documentation ................................................................................................. 83
6.2
Bushfire related inquiries and complaints .................................................................. 83
6.3
Reporting of network incidents where fire is involved .............................................. 83
6.4
Reporting of significant electricity network incidents............................................... 84
BUSHFIRE LIAISON AND CONSULTATION ......................................................84
7.1
Organisational liaison.................................................................................................... 84
7.2
Roles and responsibilities of Endeavour Energy liaison officers ............................ 84
PROVISION OF INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC ..............................................85
8.1
9
Asset management information facilities.................................................................... 77
Bushfire hazard information in the Public Electrical Safety Awareness Plan ........ 85
OPERATING PROCEDURES DURING HIGH FIRE DANGER CONDITIONS .....85
9.1
Management of Endeavour Energy response during a bushfire.............................. 85
9.2
Primary documentation ................................................................................................. 85
9.3
System Control Branch response ................................................................................ 86
9.4
Work practices during bushfire danger periods and total fire bans ........................ 86
9.5
General network protection settings ........................................................................... 86
74 | Network Management Plan: December 2013 Review
9.6
Re-closer settings during total fire ban ....................................................................... 87
9.7
Restoring equipment after fault or removal from service ......................................... 87
9.8
List of critical installations............................................................................................ 87
10 REPORTING ......................................................................................................... 87
Bushfire Risk Management | 75
1
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Purpose
Endeavour Energy is committed to the application of best practice asset management strategies to
ensure the safe and reliable operation of our network. A key component of this strategy is to manage
our assets in a manner that minimises the risk of bushfires, and to minimise the associated risk to
our assets and customer supply reliability during times of bushfire.
Following the report of the Royal Commission into the 2009 Victorian Bushfires, Endeavour Energy
conducted a gap analysis between the Commission’s recommendations and Endeavour Energy’s
bushfire mitigation practices. This analysis identified a number of actions for implementation and
company practises that require further in-depth analysis to determine an effective risk response.
Where applicable, practices that have been changed as a result of this analysis have been detailed
in this plan.
1.2
Scope
In accordance with the Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2008, this
plan covers the following major areas:
•
Identification and rectification of asset defects, particularly in bushfire prone areas;
•
Asset maintenance procedures;
•
Vegetation management strategies and procedures;
•
Equipment and construction standards as related to bushfire mitigation;
•
Information to be provided to customers related to bushfires and public safety;
•
Management of complaints in relation to bushfire management;
•
Liaison with other organisations regarding bushfire related issues; and
•
Operating procedures during times of high fire danger.
2
IDENTIFICATION AND RECORDING OF BUSHFIRE PRONE
AREAS
In order to ensure there is an appropriate emphasis on bushfire mitigation strategies, Endeavour
Energy classifies assets on an area basis as to the level of bushfire risk.
To identify bushfire prone areas, Endeavour Energy utilises information supplied by the Rural Fire
Service, who in consultation with local councils prepare bushfire prone land mapping data. Input may
also be received from specialist areas within Endeavour Energy including Vegetation Management
staff, Distribution and Transmission line inspection staff, as well as local construction and
maintenance staff who are called upon to switch and repair the network in times of bushfire
emergency.
Once the areas are identified as bushfire prone, Endeavour Energy’s Geographical Information
System (GIS) is used to produce network maps covering these areas and identify network assets in
the bushfire prone areas.
The Rural Fire Service information grades bushfire areas into two risk categories (From Higher to
Lower Fuel Load density) as either Category 1 or Category 2 with provision for a 100m and 30m
buffer respectively. Both categories are used to identify bushfire prone areas.
The current bushfire prone area risk is under reviewed to identify the feasibility and need for
classification of different fire prone and non-fire prone areas. For example the need to increase the
risk category resolution, and/or to assist in prioritising and classifying defects.
76 | Bushfire Risk Management
Assets within these areas that are considered to represent a high bushfire risk may also be further
identified through a variety of means:
•
The comprehensive routine inspection regime for overhead lines and associated hardware.
•
The reporting and recording of system fault situations and subsequent investigations in cases of
unacceptable risk.
•
A formalised process for investigating and reporting on fires suspected of being caused by
network assets and business activities.
2.1
Asset management information facilities
In order to maintain an up-to-date record of its asset information and their characteristics, Endeavour
Energy has in place an equipment register, defect and maintenance management that are part of the
Ellipse9 system.
2.1.1
Network equipment register
The Network Equipment Register in Ellipse is an engineering equipment management system
configured to meet the needs of an electricity distributor. It stores engineering nameplate data on
power assets and allows tracking of the various transferable assets such as transformers. The major
features of the system are:
•
Equipment information: The system caters for the storage of equipment information on a wide
variety of assets. Provision is made for general equipment data, such as equipment type,
location, commissioning date etc. and also for equipment specific engineering nameplate
information.
•
Equipment tracking: The Ellipse Equipment Register provides a method of tracking “movable”
equipment that may be relocated from time to time.
2.1.2
Defect and maintenance management
The Endeavour Energy Ellipse System has a work order management system configured to meet
the needs of an electricity distributor. The major features of the system are as follows:
•
Defect management: All equipment defects are stored as work orders against the “defected”
equipment. This defect is assigned to the appropriate work group for completion based on the
assigned work priority.
•
Maintenance management: The Ellipse Maintenance Scheduling System manages the
maintenance of planned maintenance in accordance with the organisation’s maintenance policy
requirements for assets.
2.1.3
Geographical information system
Complementing the capabilities afforded by the Ellipse System, Endeavour Energy also employs a
Geographical Information System (GIS) which records, stores and enables the retrieval of other
information about its network assets which are more appropriately represented in a geo-spatial
format. This includes the physical location and layout of the assets, types and lengths of subtransmission and distribution lines, etc. Additionally, information about geographic features such as
roads, rivers, local government boundaries are stored in the GIS. The GIS Network asset information
forms part of the bushfire prone area maps, to identify those assets in bushfire prone areas.
2.1.4
Field inspection system
The Field Inspection System (FIS) is a mobile computing system that is utilised in the routine
inspection of Endeavour Energy’s poles and lines. The FIS provides inspectors with a download of
9
ELLIPSE is the MINCOM ERP System
Bushfire Risk Management | 77
the relevant information for them to be able to find poles, validate pole details, create new pole
records, record inspection measurements, close existing open work orders and raise new defect
work orders. This information is retrieved and captured into the Ellipse and GIS systems.
2.1.5
Image Collection
The pre-summer 2013-14 inspection was conducted using helicopter-mounted high definition
cameras. Benefits of this approach are that the inspections can be conducted at altitudes greater
than 500 feet, reducing the safety risk to staff and crew. It also provides, and records, images of
equipment and vegetation defects. The use of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging equipment) has
also been used in selected areas. LiDAR can more accurately identify vegetation encroachment
using 3D imagery. This accuracy has meant more defects are identified that would previously be
unnoticed by conventional methods. The use of these technologies will continue to be used over the
next two years.
3
3.1
MAINTENANCE OF ELECTRICAL ASSETS FOR BUSHFIRE
MITIGATION
Statement of policy
Endeavour Energy will ensure that the electricity network is maintained at an appropriate standard to
mitigate the levels of risk with respect to safety, reliability and quality of supply and impact on the
environment commensurate with community, regulator and shareholder expectations and in
accordance with appropriate acts, regulations and codes. Equipment will be maintained at a level
that will ensure a serviceable life consistent with industry standards and defined business objectives.
3.2
Primary documentation
The following documentation (and supporting information) has been developed to achieve the
objectives of the policy at an operational level, with particular reference to the minimisation of
bushfire risk:
•
Company Policy 9.9.1 – Network Asset Management, Network Asset Maintenance
This policy provides a clear framework and principles for the planning and execution of
maintenance works on Endeavour Energy’s electrical network.
•
Mains Maintenance Instruction MMI 0001 - Routine Above and Below Ground Pole and Line
Inspection & Treatment Procedures
This instruction details the requirements for routine above ground, ground line and below ground
line inspection of Endeavour Energy and privately owned pole lines including bushfire prone
areas.
•
Mains Maintenance Instruction MMI 0012 – Overhead Transmission and Sub-Transmission
Lines Routine Inspection
This instruction details the requirements for routine above ground inspection of Endeavour
Energy transmission and sub-transmission pole lines including those in bushfire prone areas. It
also defines the schedules for the routine inspection and maintenance of overhead transmission
lines and overhead pilot cables including those in bushfire prone areas.
•
Mains Maintenance Instruction MMI 0013 – Clearances to be Maintained Between Power Lines
and Trees
This instruction details both the trimming clearances and groundline vegetation management
including hazard reduction programs, to be achieved relating to all network assets such as poles,
structures, streetlight lanterns, aerial pilot cables and other electrical apparatus, that form part of
Endeavour Energy's network. This instruction also covers all privately owned low voltage
overhead lines.
78 | Bushfire Risk Management
This standard has been developed based on the principles outlined in ISSC3 - Electricity
Association of NSW, Guide to Vegetation Management near Power Lines.
•
Substation Maintenance Instruction SMI 101 - Minimum Requirements for Maintenance of
Distribution Equipment
This instruction covers the broad maintenance requirements for all equipment relating to the
distribution network, in particular pole substations, reclosers and sectionalisers
•
Environmental Management Standard EMS 0004 – Vegetation Management
This document outlines Endeavour Energy’s Vegetation Management Strategy, and applies to all
vegetation management work required to maintain the safe and reliable operation of the
electrical network.
The benefits from effective vegetation management will ensure the following outcomes are
maximised:
•
public and worker safety;
reduction in fire risk caused by contact between trees and overhead powerlines.
reliability of the electricity supply; and
protection of the electrical assets from damage, which includes bushfires.
Work Place Instruction WNV 1012 – Pre Summer Bushfire Map Patrols, Inspections and Defect
Reporting
This instruction provides a uniform approach for the “Pre Summer Bushfire” Inspections of
Endeavour Energy network and private poles and lines, reporting of defects and the managed
rectification of these defects.
3.3
Procedures for routine above ground inspection
In general, full overhead line and ground line inspections are to be carried out at intervals of 4.5
years. Reporting and recording of all inspection details are entered into Endeavour Energy’s Ellipse
asset management system. Within this system, any defects found are categorised and priorities
assigned for rectification periods in accordance with Endeavour Energy standards. Particular
attention is given to the following components and/or aspects of the overhead assets:
•
pole condition;
•
crossarms;
•
insulators;
•
conductor clearances (from ground, structures, other services, other circuits and trees);
•
pole top equipment (especially earths, air-break switches, isolating links, fuses, surge diverters,
transformers, reclosers, sectionalisers, cable ends and street lighting equipment);
•
stay poles and ground stays;
•
conductors;
•
low voltage spreaders; and
•
low voltage aerial services (including connection points, points of attachment, consumers mains
and overhead insulated service cable).
3.4
Special procedures for inspections in fire prone areas
For all areas designated as fire prone, Endeavour Energy procedures require a pre-summer patrol
and defect rectification of overhead mains on an annual basis prior to the onset of the bushfire
season. Where it is appropriate, the pre-summer patrol may be carried out via helicopter.
Bushfire Risk Management | 79
The general purpose of the pre-summer patrol is to identify any factors associated with overhead
mains that could lead to the initiation of a bushfire, including inadequate tree clearances, impact
damage, lightning damage etc.
The minimum requirements of this pre-summer patrol are therefore to ensure that:
•
tree clearances are such that re-growth would not occur into the bushfire minimum safety
clearances (as defined by Endeavour Energy standards and maintenance instructions) within the
bushfire season;
•
a visual inspection of poles is carried out to ensure that the general condition of each pole and
its associated hardware are satisfactory;
•
the conductors are inspected giving particular attention to the need for fitting additional low
voltage spreaders in problem areas;
•
the electrical assets are not at risk of damage from bushfire through the effective reduction and
ongoing management of combustible fuel loads in proximity to electrical assets; and
•
Endeavour Energy’s Vegetation Control Contract requires that the contractor carries out patrols
of overhead line assets in all designated areas and correct any identified vegetation defects,
prior to the commencement of the bushfire season each year.
3.5
Reporting and commitment of management
Managers responsible for implementation of Endeavour Energy policies and standards with respect
to network assets (particularly those located in bushfire prone areas) are required to provide regular
reports (monthly and prior to the bushfire season) on inspection and maintenance activities,
including the status of defects. These reports are presented to Executive Management for review.
In addition, those managers with overall responsibility for a regional area are required to provide
sign-off on the readiness of assets in their area prior to the bushfire season.
4
4.1
REVIEW OF NEW EQUIPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION
STANDARDS
Statement of policy
Endeavour Energy designs its electrical network to maximize reliability, safety, performance and
shareholder value over the long term (commensurate with the life expectancy of network assets)
whilst meeting community expectations for environmental impact and regulatory expectations.
4.2
•
Primary documentation
Company Policy 9.2.5 – Network Asset Management, Network Asset Design
This policy enunciates the design philosophies for Endeavour Energy’s network which are to be
applied in the design stage of network development and renewal projects. It specifically states:
“Particular attention shall also be given to the design of assets in areas which are susceptible to
bushfire to minimise the risk of both normal and foreseeable abnormal operation or failure of the
assets initiating a bushfire.”. Mains Design Instruction MDI 0031 – Overhead Distribution: Design
standards manual – includes bushfire management as an issue to be included in the design phase.
Mains Design Instruction MDI 0012 – Overhead and underground transmission mains – includes
consideration of bushfire prone areas in the design of conductor separation.
•
Company Procedure GAM 0001 - Production/Review of Design / Construction / Maintenance /
Environmental / Property and Metering Standards
This procedure details the process for producing or reviewing network standards. The review
process incorporates a checklist that assesses all possible impacts of proposals.
80 | Bushfire Risk Management
•
Company Policy 9.7.1 – Network Asset Construction
This policy provides the basic principles to ensure that the electrical network infrastructure is
constructed in accordance with current standards and with due regard for environmental
considerations. It notes the Company’s technical standards for design, construction and
commissioning shall be compliant with legislation, relevant industry codes and standards. Mains
Construction Instruction MCI 0005 – Overhead Distribution Construction Manual – outlines basic
requirements for duty of care to the public, other service providers, and staff during the course of
works.
•
Company Policy 9.1.7 – Commissioning Network Electrical Assets
This policy defines the pre-commissioning and commissioning process, including nominated safety
and performance requirements. It includes equipment being placed into service for the first time and
assets being returned to service after major repair or relocation. Divisional Procedure GNV 1044 –
Commissioning Network Electrical Assets, further defines this process
•
Company Procedure GSU 0005 - Risk Assessments For Purchasing (OHS and Environmental
Risks)
Risk assessments must be conducted in accordance with this procedure in order to assess
operational risks associated with implementation and use of each product or service. It defines the
requirements for identification, assessment and controlling of hazards & risks, prior to purchasing
goods & services. This includes risks to the environment.
The risk assessment form associated with this procedure (FSU0016) specifically identifies fire as
one of the risks to be assessed.
•
Branch Procedure PAE 1004 - Product Approval Process
This procedure details the process to be followed to ensure that any new product that may be used
on the system meets the appropriate equipment specification. A full risk assessment similar to that
specified in GSU 0005 is also required before any product is approved.
•
Branch Procedure GNV 1038 - Incident Investigation of Distribution Equipment or System
This procedure requires that any major failure of distribution equipment to operate in accordance
with its specification is investigated and that a report is produced recommending appropriate
remedial action.
4.3
Network Bushfire Resilience Programs
As a result of the gap analysis from within the report of the Royal Commission into the Victorian
Bushfires, Endeavour Energy is undertaking actions to address these gaps. In particular, focus is
being given to the following areas:
•
Ensuring all distribution feeders are fitted with sensitive earth fault protection to reduce the risk of
fire ignition due to wire breakage or tree contact. A five year plan has been put in place to install
or upgrade as necessary SEF protection across the network. Work for all the locations planned
for the first two years of the program has been completed and is continuing in other locations;
•
Determining a framework for replacing bare, overhead conductors with an alternative
construction at the end of their engineering life;
•
The key risk area has been identified as corroded steel mains. A program to replace these
conductors is currently in place; and
•
Ensuring that all line spans greater than 300m in length are fitted with vibration dampers. A plan
to carry out this work was submitted to the November 2011 Board meeting and implementation
has recently completed.
Bushfire Risk Management | 81
5
5.1
•
OVERHEAD MAINS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY
Primary documentation
Mains Maintenance Instruction MMI 0021 – Guide to Rights and Obligations for Electricity Mains
Located on Private Property
This instruction defines Endeavour Energy’s obligations and statutory rights in relation to
overhead and underground mains located on private property. The delineation between mains
and equipment which are the responsibility of Endeavour Energy and those which are the
responsibility of the customer is also defined. Where Endeavour Energy is responsible for
inspection and/or maintenance these activities are carried out in accordance with MMI 0001 Routine Above and Below Ground Pole & Line Inspection & Treatment Procedures.
•
Branch Workplace Instruction WAE 2039 – Overhead and Ground Line Inspection of Poles and
Lines on Private Property and Associated Customer Defect Reporting and Defect Management
This instruction provides a uniform approach for above ground and ground line inspection of
poles on private property, reporting of defects on the customer’s assets and the managed
rectification of these defects.
•
Deemed Standard Connection Contract
This Contract sets out obligations for both Customers and Endeavour Energy with respect to
connections to the Endeavour Energy Network, inclusive in the Contract is the obligation to
comply with Endeavour Energy’s Service and Installation Rules. The NSW Service and
Installation Rules are Endeavour Energy’s Service and Installation Rules
•
NSW Service and Installation Rules
These Rules establish minimum requirements for connection to the Endeavour Energy Network
as well as Customer obligations with respect to maintenance of electrical assets servicing their
property and the safe clearance space to be maintained around and from these assets by the
Customer.
5.2
Existing arrangements
Endeavour Energy is responsible for maintenance of all electrical network assets that are owned by
it as required by the Electricity Supply Act 1995. Further, Endeavour Energy has determined that its
responsibility for maintenance of privately owned electrical assets within its supply area shall extend
to the following:
•
inspection (in accordance with Endeavour Energy’s Overhead Line and Ground Line Inspection
regimes) of all low voltage poles and overhead lines on private property;
•
advising the owners of privately owned low voltage poles and lines of any defects identified
through the inspection process (including vegetation defects);
•
monitoring the rectification of defects to ensure that they are addressed in an appropriate and
timely manner in accordance with Endeavour Energy’s maintenance standards;
•
taking appropriate action to ensure that the risk to personnel and property safety of defected
assets which are not repaired in a timely manner is appropriately managed; and
•
in areas designated as Bushfire Prone a pre-summer patrol of all lines (including those privately
owned) shall be carried out (and defects identified rectified) prior to the commencement of the
bushfire season.
The maintenance of electrical assets owned by High Voltage Customers is the responsibility of the
owner. These requirements are detailed in Endeavour Energy’s High Voltage Operating Protocol,
however in addition, Endeavour Energy writes to High Voltage Customers, annually, further advising
82 | Bushfire Risk Management
them of the need to undertake inspections of their equipment and their responsibility for rectifying
any defects capable of initiating a fire prior to the start of the bushfire danger period.
The High Voltage Customers are requested to formally advise Endeavour Energy that the inspection
and rectification of defects have been completed.
5.3
Customer notification and follow-up
As stated previously, Endeavour Energy has a process in place for notifying customers of defects
found during inspections carried out on privately owned overhead mains. This process involves
notification of the defects to the customer, appropriate follow up correspondence and re-inspection
on an audit basis, should the customer advise that the defect has been remedied. Should the defect
not be remedied in accordance with the defect notice, management procedures are in place which
ultimately could lead to the disconnection of the installation.
6
6.1
•
CUSTOMER INFORMATION, COMPLAINT RECORDING AND
INVESTIGATION
Primary documentation
Company Procedure – GCR 0002 Handling Customer Complaints and Privacy Act Requests for
Access to Personal Information
This procedure aims to ensure that:
•
•
there is a co-ordinated system to monitor and report upon customer complaints;
•
Endeavour Energy’s response is prompt, accurate, concise and informative;
•
systemic problems are identified for corrective action; and
•
there is a central point managing the response to each stakeholder group.
Company Procedure – GCR 0004 Customer Comments/Feedback and Compliments
This procedure aims to ensure that Endeavour Energy has a co-ordinated centralised system to
monitor and report to Executive Management on customer comments/feedback and compliments
and to ensure systemic problems are identified for corrective action.
6.2
Bushfire related inquiries and complaints
Endeavour Energy gives a high priority to any calls from emergency response organisations and/or
the general public where bushfire is involved. The caller could be reporting that Endeavour Energy’s
assets are under threat from a bushfire, or to report arcing or sparks from or in the vicinity of our
assets which could initiate a fire.
These calls are taken by our call centre, and details recorded in Endeavour’s Outage Management
System. The call is flagged within the system as fire related, and given a high priority to be
dispatched to the appropriate emergency response staff within the area. If the call is taken after
hours either on duty or standby-staff are dispatched to investigate.
Once staff are on site, they (in conjunction with the on duty System Operator) will determine the
appropriate action to be taken. This action will range from monitoring a fire that is being managed by
the Rural Fire Service through to de-energising an asset to remove danger from the general public
and/or emergency service organisations. Note: in many cases, staff are not able to go into fire
affected areas until given clearance by the Rural Fire Service, or escorted by them.
6.3
Reporting of network incidents where fire is involved
•
Division Procedure (Network) GNV 1076 – Fire Incident Investigation
Bushfire Risk Management | 83
Endeavour Energy undertakes investigations into incidents involving the electricity network and
associated activities that result in an actual fire or potential fire.
The purpose of such investigations is to identify the contributing factors associated with the incident
and where appropriate make recommendations to prevent recurrence of similar incidents.
Information regarding each fire investigation is centrally recorded to enable analysis, identification of
trends and system issues and management reporting.
6.4
Reporting of significant electricity network incidents
In addition to Endeavour Energy’s routine internal reporting, NSW Trade & Investment requires all
significant incidents which involve the electricity network to be reported in a timely manner.
•
Company Procedure – GAM 0009 Network Asset Management - Significant Electricity Network
Incident Reporting.
The procedure details the actions to be taken to ensure Endeavour Energy complies with the
requirements as set out by NSW Trade & Investment. It details the categories/types of events that
are to be reported and the timeframe and level of detail that is required for the respective reports.
Significant bushfire related network issues and investigations are covered under this procedure.
7
7.1
BUSHFIRE LIAISON AND CONSULTATION
Organisational liaison
In order to ensure proper consultation in relation to bushfire prevention, preparedness, response and
recovery, Endeavour Energy will provide representation on the following committees, if requested by
that Committee:
•
State Emergency Management Committee;
•
Regional Emergency Management Committees;
•
Local Emergency Management Committees; and
•
Bushfire Management Committees.
When a bushfire occurs, an emergency may be declared by the NSW Rural Fire Service. When this
occurs, a control centre will be established at the headquarters of the Rural Fire Service. Endeavour
Energy may nominate a representative to act as Endeavour Energy’s Liaison Officer to report on
emergency response issues.
Similarly, at local levels Endeavour Energy will, when requested, provide Liaison Officers in fire
control centres. The Operations Manager – Rapid Response is responsible for maintenance of
current lists of Liaison Officers (and back up staff) and contact details, as well as ensuring that their
equipment and training is maintained at a suitable level.
7.2
Roles and responsibilities of Endeavour Energy liaison officers
Liaison Officers are responsible for:
•
maintaining effective communication between fire control centres (or other agency control
centres) and Endeavour Energy in order to provide an effective response;
•
analysing, interpreting and collating information gained from the agency and supplying such to
the Endeavour Energy Control Room and/or depot based incident management centres;
•
providing information to the agency in relation to network faults, outages, isolations; and
•
liaising with the Control Room in relation to hazardous situations requiring front line response.
84 | Bushfire Risk Management
8
8.1
PROVISION OF INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC
Bushfire hazard information in the Public Electrical Safety Awareness Plan
The Public Electrical Safety Awareness Plan (refer Chapter 3 - Section 3.2) includes the
communication of messages warning the public of hazards associated with electricity including:
•
impact of natural events on public safety. This includes preventive measures to mitigate the
effect of natural events such as bushfires;
•
lack of awareness and care when working near overhead powerlines and underground cables;
•
vandalism / unauthorised access of electrical infrastructure; and
•
general electrical safety around the home.
These messages will provide advice to the public on the following bushfire related issues:
•
preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of overhead electrical infrastructure initiating a
bushfire, ie vegetation management, private line maintenance responsibilities;
•
measures to mitigate the effects of bushfires on the network;
•
what to do when damaged infrastructure is identified; and
•
raising awareness of the dangers the electricity network may pose to emergency services
personnel.
The audience for these messages are the general public living or working in the Greater Western
Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Illawarra and the Southern Highlands.
9
9.1
OPERATING PROCEDURES DURING HIGH FIRE DANGER
CONDITIONS
Management of Endeavour Energy response during a bushfire
There are a number of documents that describe the way that Endeavour Energy will respond to
various classes of incidents, including bushfires that affect its operations.
9.2
•
Primary documentation
Company Policy 2.4 - Incident Management
This Policy is to ensure the Company provides a framework for ensuring that the Company is
prepared to effectively manage incidents, through the development of procedures and educating key
employees on the appropriate response.
•
Company Procedure GRM 0011 – Incident Management Plan
A Company wide incident management plan to effectively manage incidents through the provision of
guidance on how to manage an incident, levels of escalation and communication during an incident.
•
Incident Management Main Plan
This plan describes how Endeavour Energy’s incident management and communication program
provides staff and whatever other resources are needed to respond quickly and effectively to an
emergency that cannot be handled solely by employees at that location.
Its purpose is to enhance existing plans by providing a consistent incident management and
communication framework that will support Endeavour Energy’s operational response to any incident
that may occur. It does this by clarifying incident management processes and by providing timely,
accurate information to staff, customers and other key stakeholders who are concerned about what
has happened.
Bushfire Risk Management | 85
•
Company Procedure GAM 0022 – Network Emergency Response Plan
This procedure applies to any incident that may or does impact on the Company’s electrical network
and details the escalation and response process for the various categories of incident. It describes
the response and the roles of various employees involved in incidents that impact on the electrical
network of the Company’s franchise area.
•
Business Procedure GNV 1020 – Storm Centre Operations Manual
This manual has been developed to provide guidance at an operational level of roles and
responsibilities during major events affecting the electrical network.
9.3
•
System Control Branch response
Branch Procedure NCB 0630 - Bushfire Response
The System Control Branch is charged with the operational management of the electricity network
on a day-to-day basis, and accordingly, is the key area in coordinating and controlling Endeavour
Energy’s response during Total Fire Bans or times of heightened bushfire danger.
When notification of a Total Fire Ban is received from the Rural Fire Service, the Senior System
Operator notifies staff via SMS of the Total Fire Ban, with the declaration times of commencement
and conclusion. Depot Managers are then required to notify staff of the Total Fire Ban and erect
“Total Fire Ban” signs at appropriate points within the depot.
In the event that bushfires are active within the Endeavour Energy area and the fire has the potential
to threaten Endeavour Energy assets, the Senior System Operator, shall determine, in conjunction
with the Local Fire Control Centre, the need to deploy a Liaison Officer. The Liaison Officer shall
gather and forward all relevant intelligence regarding the fire to the System Operator appointed to
manage Endeavour Energy’s response.
9.4
•
Work practices during bushfire danger periods and total fire bans
Company Procedure GAM 0011 – Work Performed During Bushfire Danger Period
This procedure sets out the guidelines that shall be adopted by staff and contractors to Endeavour
Energy during the gazetted bushfire danger periods and declared Total Fire Ban days.
The procedure details those activities that may be subjected to restrictions under the Rural Fires Act
1997 and the Rural Fires Regulation 2013 and also outlines precautions that must be taken whilst
performing certain work activities.
In addition, activities which have been granted general or specific exemptions by the Commissioner
of the Rural Fire Service have been included along with the special precautions that must be
observed.
9.5
•
General network protection settings
Company Policy 9.2.2 – Network Protection
Endeavour Energy has installed protection systems to ensure that the effects of faults on the
electrical network are minimised. This protection system is designed to isolate electricity supply
when the network is damaged and considered unsafe and can also assist in reducing the risk of
bushfires.
“Sensitive earth fault protection” is employed on parts of our HV network in order to clear low level
earth faults and can also assist in reducing the risk of bushfire ignition in circumstances where
vegetation is in contact with a conductor or lines are in contact with the ground. It is important to
note, however, that while this may reduce the risk of bushfire ignition it cannot be prevented in all
circumstances, for example where levels of energy required for vegetation ignition are lower than
that which is detected/cleared under SEF, where the fault is a phase to phase fault, or for faults on
the LV network.
86 | Bushfire Risk Management
9.6
•
Re-closer settings during total fire ban
Company Policy 9.8.3 – Network Operations
Endeavour Energy has chosen to install reclosing devices at most of its zone substations and many
field locations. These devices are designed to isolate supply in the event of a fault, and then attempt
to restore supply a brief period later. If the fault is persistent, supply is isolated until a repair is
undertaken, and at this point the recloser is re-set. This type of protection is considered appropriate
during most conditions as many faults are only of a temporary nature, such as tree branches in
mains etc.
In line with the Industry Safety Steering Committee guideline ISSC 33 - Guideline for Network
Configuration During High Bushfire Risk Days Endeavour Energy adopts a risk-based approach to
determining which feeders should have auto-reclosing disabled on total fire ban days
Generally, auto reclose would not be disabled on feeders or field reclosers during total fire bans,
however, where extenuating circumstances or unusual conditions exist on a feeder, the auto reclose
function will be disabled until the unusual condition is removed.
9.7
•
Restoring equipment after fault or removal from service
Branch Procedure NCB 0630 - Bushfire Response
During a bushfire event, Endeavour Energy may be requested to isolate sections of the network in
the immediate area of the fire. These requests are received from appropriately authorised Officers
of the NSW Rural Fire Service.
During bushfire events or on days where a Total Fire Ban has been declared, Endeavour Energy
will, where practical and within the best interests of the community, conduct a patrol of any isolated
overhead mains before re-energising this equipment. This practice is to ensure that lines have not
sustained damage from the bushfires, and that all faults have been repaired.
On completion of the patrol clearance will be given by the System Operator to allow the line to be put
back into service.
9.8
List of critical installations
There are a number of locations throughout the network where ensuring that electricity supply is
maintained is considered critical to the health and wellbeing of the general community. These
installations include hospitals, life support systems, water supply pumping stations, sewerage
pumping stations and in some cases communication towers.
Listings of these installations are kept with the Endeavour Energy Control Room, and are updated
from time to time as information is made available. Restoration of supply to these locations is given
highest priority.
10 REPORTING
Endeavour Energy shall prepare and lodge any reports as requested by the Director General of
NSW Trade & Investment in accordance with a schedule as specified.
In addition, reports are regularly prepared for Endeavour Energy’s Executive Leadership Team and
Network Management on the status of the following bushfire related areas;
•
pre-summer bushfire inspections;
•
monitoring and rectification of defects on Endeavour Energy owned equipment identified as part
of the pre-summer bushfire inspections;
•
monitoring and rectification of defects on privately owned assets identified as part of the presummer bushfire inspections. This includes details of any resultant customer disconnection; and
•
Investigations into suspected asset related fires.
Bushfire Risk Management | 87
Details of the maintenance, reliability and safety aspects of Endeavour Energy’s electricity network
are also reported in the annual Electricity Network Performance Report.
88 | Bushfire Risk Management
APPENDIX A – GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Term
Definition
Bushfire Danger Period
The period commencing on 1 October and ending on 31 March in
the following year, unless varied by The Commissioner of the RFS
Bushfire Prone Area
An area of land that can support a bushfire or is likely to be
subject to bushfire attack. Bushfire prone areas are identified on a
bushfire prone lands map which have been prepared for most
councils across NSW. The map identifies bushfire hazards and
associated buffer zones within a local government area.
High Voltage Customer
Any customer supplied at voltages greater than low voltage.
High Voltage Operating
Protocol
A document which outlines the requirements necessary to be met
by High Voltage Customers, to satisfy the Company’s System
Operations Branch requirements for commissioning of electrical
apparatus and continued operational safety of the installation.
LiDAR (Light Detection and
Ranging)
A technology that uses laser pulses to generate large amounts of
data about the physical layout of terrain and landscape features.
Maintenance
The act of ensuring that physical assets continue to fulfil their
intended functions. Maintenance on the Company’s electricity
network is classified as one of the following:
Inspection
Routine periodic or cyclic inspections including ad hoc inspections of
equipment for defects, post fault investigations and other scheduled
programs or patrols such as inspections for bushfire management or
audit of environmental impact.
Preventative Maintenance
Maintenance activities carried out on a predetermined periodic or
cyclic basis to retain an asset in a satisfactory operational condition,
by providing examination, detection monitoring and scheduled
correction, adjustment, re-calibration or the scheduled discard and
replacement of components.
Condition Based Maintenance
Maintenance that is carried out due to performance or condition of
the asset where the restoration can be carried out in a scheduled
manner.
Fault and Emergency
Any emergent or urgent and unpredicted failure, incident or event
adversely impacting on safety or the environment or involving the
actual or potential loss of supply or reduction in quality of supply to
customers or imposing operational constraints on the network.
Bushfire Risk Management | 89
Term
Definition
NSW Rural Fire Service
The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS) is a volunteerbased firefighting agency and statutory body of the New South
Wales Government. The NSW RFS is responsible for the general
administration of rural fire management affairs including
administration of the Rural Fire Fighting Fund, co-ordination with
local government of the State's Rural Fire Brigades, design and
provision of fire-fighting equipment to rural fire brigades through
local government, the training of volunteer Rural Fire Brigade
members, community education in relation to fire affairs,
emergency planning and generally taking measures for the
prevention of loss and life and property from fires.
Protection System
An arrangement of equipment designed to detect abnormal situations
on the electricity network and remove the faulted element from
service
An in line circuit breaker, sometimes pole mounted, which has a builtin protection relay capable of detecting and tripping faults. For
permanent faults, the auto-recloser will go into the state of lockout
after a programmed number of reclose attempts, allowing partial
isolation of supply so that only the affected section of the feeder is
lost.
A period where no fire may be lit in the open and all Fire permits are
suspended.
Reclosing Devices
TOBAN (Total Fire Ban)
Zone Substation
90 | Bushfire Risk Management
A substation with a primary voltage of 132kV, 66kV or 33kV and a
secondary voltage of 22kV or 11kV which is part of the Company's
sub-transmission network.