What is Low Voltage Rescue and who needs it?
A Low Voltage Rescue (LVR) course is a training program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to safely rescue a person who has been exposed to an electrical shock or has become trapped in a low voltage electrical environment. In Australia, the LVR course is delivered by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and is a requirement for anyone who works in the electrical industry or in an occupation where they may be exposed to low voltage electrical environments.
What topics does the course cover?
The LVR course covers a range of topics, including identifying electrical hazards, performing risk assessments, using protective equipment, isolating the power supply, and performing a safe rescue. Participants learn how to assess the risks associated with an electrical hazard, determine the appropriate course of action, and perform a rescue in a safe and efficient manner.
You can view the full coverage on training.gov.au
Who needs it?
Anyone who works in the electrical industry or in an occupation where they may be exposed to low voltage electrical environments must complete an LVR course. This includes:
- Electricians
- Electrical contractors
- Power line workers
- Telecommunications technicians
- Anyone else who works with electrical equipment or in close proximity to electrical hazards
Employers have a legal obligation to ensure that their workers are properly trained and equipped to safely work in electrical environments. By completing the LVR course, workers can demonstrate that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform a safe rescue in the event of an electrical incident.
In addition to meeting legal requirements, completing the LVR course can also provide a range of benefits. Workers who have completed the course are better equipped to identify and manage electrical hazards, which can help to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace. They are also better prepared to respond to emergencies and can provide a valuable contribution to workplace safety.
What else do I need?
Most people that need an LVR certificate also need cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certificate. We include CPR training as part of our Low Voltage Rescue course, as it is a requirement for most jobs.
Does the course expire?
In Australia, the requirement for refreshing a LVR course can vary depending on the state or territory in which you are working. In Queensland, the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 requires that electrical workers complete a refresher course every 12 months to maintain their LVR competency.
Coincidentally, CPR certificates also need to be refreshed every 12 months, making it very convenient to complete the two qualification at the same time.