This Switchboard Installation & Termination SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how licensed electricians install and terminate switchboards and distribution boards as de-energised work. It covers identifying every supply, isolation with personal locks and danger tags, testing for dead, mounting the enclosure, terminating sub-mains and final subcircuits, fitting breakers, RCDs and RCBOs, labelling circuits and verification testing before handover. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Electrical contractors
Commercial and industrial electricians
Residential electricians
Switchboard builders and installers
Electrical apprentices under supervision
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Electric shock from conductors believed to be isolated
Arc flash or arc blast from fault current or incorrect isolation
Electrical fire from loose terminations or wrong device ratings
Falls when installing boards above floor level
Lifting and positioning enclosures and equipment
Cuts from sharp enclosures, cable trays and gland entries
Strain from repetitive termination work in awkward positions
Concealed gas, water or data services when drilling
Asbestos-containing material near older switchboards
Restricted access in switchboard cupboards, risers or roof spaces
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from licences and Wiring Rules compliance to all sources of supply, voltage testers and asbestos
A 15-step operating procedure covering test-for-dead, mounting, cabling, terminations, RCD protection, polarity, labelling and verification testing
Isolation and energy control for all supplies, including generators, solar inverters and UPS, with personal locks and danger tags
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for electric shock, arc flash, smoke, burning smells and fire at the switchboard
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Electrical, HVAC & Solar SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Is this a live work procedure?
No. It's a de-energised task. Fault-finding and testing on energised switchboards are covered by the Energised Electrical Work and Live Testing procedure.
Who can carry out this work?
Only a licensed electrician, working in line with the Wiring Rules. The DO NOT banner and checks confirm the right electrical licence is held.
Does it cover backup supplies?
Yes. Every source of supply is identified and isolated, including backup or alternative supplies such as a generator, solar inverter or UPS.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
