Safe Isolation of a Cut Out
LCL Qualification Code: LCL-SIP
The SIP (Safe Isolation Provider) – Safe Isolation of a Cut Out qualification is certificated by LCL Awards to industry-led standards. This course is designed for qualified and experienced electrical operatives who need to safely undertake de-energisation and re-energisation works at a customer’s premises.
With the rapid growth in installations of Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers, Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS), heat pumps and photovoltaic systems, the need for safe local isolation has become critical. Safe Isolation Works (SIW) ensure that installations can be completed safely and in compliance with industry requirements.
Qualification Overview
- Sector: Electrical Qualifications | Smart Metering | Renewables
- Awarding Body: LCL Awards
- Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 30
- Certificate Validity: 36 months from date of issue
Completion of this training alone does not grant authority to perform cut-out isolation. Authority is conditional upon REC Qualification and compliance with the Code of Metering Practice (CoMCoP).
For further details on becoming an authorised Safe Isolation Provider, please refer to the REC SIP Qualification Guidance.
Background
Safe Isolation Works (SIW) involve the controlled de-energisation and re-energisation of an Entry/Exit Point. These activities may only be undertaken by a suitably authorised and competent business and individual.
SIW may include:
- De-energising the Entry/Exit Point
- Adjusting meter terminals and associated equipment where necessary
- Remaking disturbed connections safely
- Terminating or replacing customer meter tails (provided they have been supplied and tested by the SIP Party or the customer’s electrical engineer)
- Re-energising the Entry/Exit Point
The Safe Isolation Provider (SIP) role is an additional accreditation available to existing Meter Operator Agents (MOAs). It allows them to undertake a limited scope of activities at the request of premises owners without requiring involvement from Registered Suppliers’ MOAs.
The framework for these activities is governed by the Distribution Connection and Use of System Agreement (DCUSA), which standardises relationships across the electricity distribution industry.
What You Will Learn
This course covers both theoretical and practical elements required of a Safe Isolation Provider, including:
- Health and safety risks associated with SIP works
- Relevant regulations, regulatory bodies and industry documentation
- Demarcation boundaries and technical requirements
- Earthing systems and earthing requirements
- Fault-finding in electrical metering installations
- Safe Isolation Works (SIW) procedures
- Identification and reporting of Distribution Business asset condition issues
- Compliance and customer service requirements
Entry Requirements
This qualification is aimed at qualified and practising electrical operatives.
Applicants must hold:
- A Level 3 qualification in the Initial Verification and Certification of Electrical Installations
- BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations (current edition) qualification
An Initial Assessment will be carried out by the Approved Centre to confirm suitability for enrolment.
Assessment Method
Assessment consists of:
- A practical performance assessment undertaking safe isolation
- A multiple-choice question paper