This apprenticeship is in development and is subject to change
An apprenticeship is only available for delivery when both the standard and assessment plan is approved and a funding band (core government contribution) has been assigned to the standard.
If you'd like to get involved and contribute to the development of this apprenticeship, please read about developing standards and assessment plans. You can email the trailblazer contact using the details on this page.
Proposal approved
Occupational standard approved
End-point assessment plan approved
This apprenticeship standard will be reviewed after three years
Cable jointers work in the power industry for power network owners, operators, or contractors.
They work on the electricity distribution network that supplies electricity to homes and businesses. They work on low voltage (LV) and high-voltage networks up to 11,000 volts, including LV live working.
The Office of gas and electricity markets (Ofgem) regulates the industry.
Cable jointers connect new supplies, divert and make alterations to existing supplies, and locate and repair faults. They receive safety documents and organise and supervise a working party (group of workers). They monitor working conditions and react to maintain safety. Completing work and safety records is also part of their role.
They work at sites across a company’s or client’s power network. They may have to drive vehicles requiring driving licenses. They work in all weather conditions. They may have to be on standby duty and work shifts outside normal working hours. The role requires a good level of physical ability and involves working at height and in confined spaces.
Cable jointers work with other jointers and support operatives, as part of small or large teams. They also have contact with other internal and external stakeholders. This may include the network management centre, customer call centre, project managers, commissioning engineers, safety teams, site managers, other trades, and subcontractors. They speak with domestic and commercial customers regarding work and sometimes the public to keep them updated on work progress. They typically report to an experienced operational engineer.
Cable jointers are responsible for helping to maintain the safe supply of electricity and the development of flexible networks that are vital to achieving environmentally sustainable networks. Work must comply with the electricity safety, quality, and continuity regulations (ESQCR). Safety is a top priority for the industry. They must comply with health, safety, environmental, and sustainability regulations and procedures. Failure to do so could have serious consequences for self, others, and the environment. They must complete tasks in line with the network's procedures and specifications, to the required timescales and unit costs. They must present a professional image of the company and themselves. They must be competent to hold an authorisation to fulfil their duties under their company’s safety rules. They may need to hold CSCS (construction skills certification scheme card) cards.
Craftsperson jointer
Craftsperson underground jointer
Electrical jointer
High voltage and low voltage cable jointer
High voltage jointer
Jointer
Low voltage cable jointer
Low voltage mains jointer
Typically, applicants do not need specific pre-requisite qualifications. They will need to demonstrate the ability to pick up new knowledge and skills, and to achieve goals whilst working both independently or as part of a team to fulfil the requirements of the role.
| Duty | KSBs |
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Duty 1 Prepare for power network cable jointer activities. |
K1 K2 K19 K23 K25 K39 K40 K46 K47 K48 |
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Duty 2 Organise and supervise a working party. |
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Duty 3 Maintain work site health, safety, and environmental compliance. |
K3 K4 K5 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K23 K24 K40 K42 K48 |
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Duty 4 Liaise with stakeholders to co-ordinate works, ensure tasks are delivered, advise of impact of works, and report progress and issues. |
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Duty 5 Complete work and safety records. |
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Duty 6 Accept delivery of plant and materials and check fitness for purpose prior to use. |
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Duty 7 Maintain supplies of consumables. |
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Duty 8 Complete insulation and continuity testing. |
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Duty 9 Install and connect new distribution underground electrical supplies – service and mains: LV and HV up to 11kV, including LV live working. |
K19 K20 K21 K22 K24 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K34 K35 K41 K43 |
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Duty 10 Locate and repair faults on distribution underground electrical supplies, which may include live working and may be in response to stand-by duties in all weather conditions. |
K19 K20 K21 K22 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31 K32 K34 K35 K36 K37 K38 K41 |
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Duty 11 Complete diversions and alterations to distribution underground electrical supplies. |
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Duty 12 Conduct, modify or check excavations including working on highways. |
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Duty 13 Contribute to improvement activities - supporting alternative ways of working to improve network safety, sustainability, reduce cost and drive efficiency. |
K1: Power network industry appreciation: generation of electricity, Transmission Network Operator, Distribution Network Operator (DNO), Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO), Independent Connections Provider (ICP), supplier, generators - role and boundary of operation.
Back to Duty
K2: The office of gas and electricity markets (Ofgem) - their role and powers.
Back to Duty
K3: Power industry regulations: Electricity at Work Regulations, and The Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations (ESQCR). Their purpose and basic requirements.
Back to Duty
K4: Cable jointer's role and responsibilities. Limitations of role and escalation procedures.
Back to Duty
K5: Model Distribution Safety Rules (MDSR) definition of persons: supervising a working party, competent, authorised and senior authorised. Authorisation roles and responsibilities in relation to working under safety documentation.
Back to Duty
K6: Business operation considerations: how activities may impact customers, financial constraints (budgets), penalties and rewards, ethical business practices.
Back to Duty
K7: The hazards associated with work on or near electrical power networks.
Back to Duty
K8: The dangers of electricity and how an electric shock can be received: direct contact, induced (impressed) voltage, and arcing. Electric shock emergency procedures.
Back to Duty
K9: Health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance - their purpose and basic requirements: asbestos awareness, Construction Design Management (CDM), Health and Safety at Work Act, confined spaces awareness, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER), lone working, Management of Health and Safety at Work, Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER), Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), and warning signs and symbols.
Back to Duty
K10: Working at height awareness and safe use of methods of access and egress. Working in confined spaces awareness.
Back to Duty
K11: Risk assessments and method statements. Emergency procedures. Personal protective equipment (PPE). Manual handling. Fire safety.
Back to Duty
K12: Emergency first aid.
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K13: Methods for locating and avoiding utilities. Avoiding danger from underground services and overhead exposed conductors. The health and safety executive guidance and requirements: HSG 47 (Avoiding danger from underground services) and GS6 (Avoiding danger from overhead power lines).
Back to Duty
K14: Asset security requirements.
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K15: Plant and vehicle check requirements.
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K16: The power industry's net zero strategy. Principles of sustainability.
Back to Duty
K17: The Environmental Protection Act – its purpose and basic requirements. Impact of sites of special scientific interest, flora and fauna on work.
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K18: Recycling and waste management requirements.
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K19: Mathematical theory in power engineering. Round numbers, scientific notation, percentages and ratios. Areas, perimeters, volumes and surface areas of simple shapes. Scales, tables, graphs and charts. Pythagoras’ Theorem and sin, cos, and tan in right-angled triangles. Substitution of numerical values into simple engineering formulae. The sequence of arithmetic operations.
Back to Duty
K20: Electrical theory in power engineering. Circuit technology. Magnetism and electromagnetism. Transformers.
Back to Duty
K21: Power engineering electrical networks: generation, transmission, distribution and transformation of system voltages.
Back to Duty
K22: Power engineering electrical plant and apparatus, the properties and purpose of transformers, switchgear, earthing devices, voltage control and automated equipment.
Back to Duty
K23: Insulated tools - selection and care considerations.
Back to Duty
K24: Spiking gun set up and maintenance requirements.
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K25: Positive methods for apparatus identification.
Back to Duty
K26: Different cable types, voltage up to 33kV, construction and identification techniques and methods: Cross linked polyethylene insulated aluminium conductor armoured cable (XLPE), and Consac or paper-insulated lead covered (PILC), Polymer Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR) and XLPE cables, and paper insulated cables.
Back to Duty
K27: Types of earthing systems, low voltage (LV) services and terminations.
Back to Duty
K28: Pre and post connection testing techniques: insulation and continuity, voltage, polarity, earth loop impedance, phase rotation.
Back to Duty
K29: High voltage (HV) jointing techniques up to 11kV on both modern and legacy cable types.
Back to Duty
K30: LV mains jointing techniques – mains and service; termination of services into cut outs.
Back to Duty
K31: Joint protection materials and the considerations in application techniques to prevent moisture ingress.
Back to Duty
K32: Phasing colours and diagrams.
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K33: LV network running arrangements, fusing and discrimination. Different LV switching equipment: air circuit breakers, links and fuses. LV operational switching and testing requirements and procedures. Methods of isolation. Considerations when paralleling networks.
Back to Duty
K34: HV electrical safe system of work control measures for working on underground cable networks: making the cable network safe (dead, isolated and earthed), screening from live equipment, identification (visual and identification devices), proven dead (visual connection to earthed equipment or cable spike), and released for work (with a safety document).
Back to Duty
K35: LV electrical safe system of work control measures, before and during work, for working on cables that have been made dead: isolation process, identification and proving dead, mitigation of risk from cables becoming live from alternative sources, and screening from live equipment.
Back to Duty
K36: The symptoms and causes of common faults on electrical power circuits, plant and apparatus.
Back to Duty
K37: Problem-solving and fault-finding techniques: non-invasive visual examinations, invasive physical examinations of plant, testing procedures, root cause analysis.
Back to Duty
K38: Fault diagnostic equipment purpose and operation: time domain reflectometer (TDR), low voltage faults sniffer. Fitting and setting up of auto-reclose equipment.
Back to Duty
K39: Access to private land, streets and wayleaves.
Back to Duty
K40: New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA). Signing, lighting, and guarding.
Back to Duty
K41: Mechanical equipment used in excavations and their limitations and exclusions.
Back to Duty
K42: Regulations and procedures for the safe excavation and maintenance of holes and trenches. Considerations for access and egress of excavations. Awareness of when excavation support systems are required.
Back to Duty
K43: Requirements for protecting cable from damage.
Back to Duty
K44: Documentation requirements: data recording, documentation control, auditable records.
Back to Duty
K45: Information and digital technology. Computers and mobile devices. Software: email, word processing, databases, productivity and collaboration software, and work and asset management systems. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security.
Back to Duty
K46: Planning, prioritising and time management techniques for self and working party. Live or dead working planning considerations.
Back to Duty
K47: Team working principles.
Back to Duty
K48: The principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.
Back to Duty
K49: Communication techniques - verbal and written. Industry terminology. Adapting style to audience.
Back to Duty
S1: Review drawings, instructions or information to understand the task for example, work instructions, complex wiring diagrams, design specifications, utility plans, on-line search documents.
Back to Duty
S2: Prioritise and plan work with consideration for safety, environmental impact, quality, and cost.
Back to Duty
S3: Identify and organise resources to complete tasks.
Back to Duty
S4: Receive and clear a safety document (permit to work). Brief a working party.
Back to Duty
S5: Report or escalate issues outside limits of responsibility.
Back to Duty
S6: Identify apparatus to be worked on.
Back to Duty
S7: Interpret network schematic diagrams and geographic records to identify running arrangements.
Back to Duty
S8: Identify hazards and risks and apply control measures.
Back to Duty
S9: Apply health and safety procedures in compliance with regulations, standards, and guidance.
Back to Duty
S10: Carry out visual inspection to identify evidence of overhead services and buried utilities. Use electronic locating equipment. Mark the position of services and sub-structures on the work site.
Back to Duty
S11: Apply measures to leave power work environments in a safe condition.
Back to Duty
S12: Respond in the event of an emergency first aid situation including situations where there is electrical risk.
Back to Duty
S13: Conduct plant or vehicle checks.
Back to Duty
S14: Segregate waste for reuse, recycling, and waste transfer.
Back to Duty
S15: Apply sustainability principles for example, minimising waste.
Back to Duty
S16: Apply security measures.
Back to Duty
S17: Select, check, prepare, use or operate, and store personal tools and equipment.
Back to Duty
S18: Set up spiking gun.
Back to Duty
S19: Install cables and apply protection.
Back to Duty
S20: Follow live working procedures.
Back to Duty
S21: Joint and terminate cables (modern XPLE insulated, PVC sheathed, and paper insulated lead sheath) for low voltage cable networks using cable connectors including fitting and terminating services into cut outs. Apply system earthing connections and joint protection.
Back to Duty
S22: Joint and terminate cables (modern XPLE and paper insulated) using joint kits on high voltage cables up to 11kv operating voltage. Apply joint protection.
Back to Duty
S23: Receive phasing colours for HV jointing tasks and interpret phasing diagrams.
Back to Duty
S24: Make and break live conductor connections on LV underground networks.
Back to Duty
S25: Perform testing procedures before and after making and breaking connections.
Back to Duty
S26: Identify fault. Test to find the fault condition.
Back to Duty
S27: Conduct fault diagnosis on underground cable networks to identify underlying cause.
Back to Duty
S28: Make recommendations for the repair or restoration of plant or apparatus based on the findings of diagnostic procedures.
Back to Duty
S29: Erect and maintain signing, lighting and guarding.
Back to Duty
S30: Monitor works using mechanical excavators (banksman).
Back to Duty
S31: Inspect excavation arrangements before work for safe access and egress.
Back to Duty
S32: Identify areas for improvement. For example, in relation to quality, cost, time, safety, and environmental impact.
Back to Duty
S33: Apply team working principles.
Back to Duty
S34: Communicate with others to give and receive information for example, colleagues, customers, and stakeholders.
Back to Duty
S35: Record information.
Back to Duty
S36: Produce or amend documents for example, handover notes, procedures, reports.
Back to Duty
S37: Use digital and information technology. Follow cyber security requirements. Comply with GDPR.
Back to Duty
S38: Carry out and record planned and unplanned learning and development activities.
Back to Duty
B1: Prioritise health and safety. For example, risk aware, minimise risks, and proactively work towards preventing accidents.
Back to Duty
B2: Consider the environment and sustainability when using resources and carrying out tasks.
Back to Duty
B3: Take ownership for work and responsibility for its impact on others. For example, self-motivated, disciplined in the approach to work tasks, identify and deal appropriately with distractions to enable tasks to be achieved, work carried out in line with standards.
Back to Duty
B4: Respond and adapt to work demands. For example, adapt working methods to reflect changes in working environment, take initiative -making on the spot decisions, re-prioritise workloads to react to emergency response and to fault scenarios.
Back to Duty
B5: Perform in a professional manner for example, polite, courteous, and respectful to customers and members of the public.
Back to Duty
B6: Team-focus to meet work goals and support inclusivity. For example, support others, show respect to people from different trades, disciplines, backgrounds, and expertise.
Back to Duty
B7: Committed to continued professional development to maintain and enhance competence.
Back to Duty
Level: 3
This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the power industry distribution cable jointer apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) and apprentices' employers must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Power industry distribution cable jointer apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time power industry distribution cable jointer apprentice typically spends 30 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO and the apprentice's employer must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship provider and assessment register (APAR).
The EPA incorporates a trade test practical assessment with questions and a trade test technical interview that are conducted by the apprentice's employer. These assessments are established practice in the power industry. They are used to support the regulatory requirements set by the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
This EPA has 4 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - multiple-choice test:
Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Assessment method 3 - trade test practical assessment with questions:
Assessment method 4 - trade test technical interview:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
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On-programme - typically 30 months
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The apprentice must:
The qualification required is: Emergency first aid 1 day course, Level 3
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End-point assessment gateway
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The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. The apprentice must:
For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
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End-point assessment - typically 6 months
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The grades available for each assessment method are below
Multiple-choice test:
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Trade test practical assessment with questions:
Trade test technical interview:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
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Professional recognition
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This apprenticeship aligns with:
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Re-sits and re-takes
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The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 6 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
Portfolio of evidence requirements
The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence. It will typically contain 10 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.
Evidence sources may include:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance for example, witness statements rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods must be delivered in the following order.
The multiple-choice test and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence must be completed and passed before the trade test practical assessment with questions and trade test technical interview.
The rationale for the order of the assessment methods is to help ensure that apprentices complete the EPA.
In the multiple-choice test, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
The multiple-choice test must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
The test can be computer or paper based.
The test will consist of 40 multiple-choice questions.
Multiple-choice questions must have four options, including one correct answer.
The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks’ notice of the date and time of the test.
The apprentice must have 60 minutes to complete the test.
The test is closed book which means that the apprentice cannot refer to reference books or materials whilst taking the test.
The test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the EPAO. The EPAO must have an invigilation policy setting out how the test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.
The EPAO must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example, with 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.
The EPAO is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The EPAO must ensure that their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test.
The test must be marked by an independent assessor or marker employed by the EPAO. They must follow a marking scheme produced by the EPAO. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.
A correct answer gets 1 mark.
Any incorrect or missing answers get zero marks.
The EPAO is responsible for overseeing the marking of the test.
The apprentice must take the test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The EPAO must check the venue is suitable.
The test can take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the test:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
This assessment method is being used because:
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose of the independent assessor's questions is to assess the apprentice's competence against the following themes:
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 60 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
The independent assessor must ask at least 8 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the trade test practical assessment with questions, an employer assessor observes the apprentice completing a task or series of tasks set by their employer and asks questions. The employer must use a simulated environment for the trade test practical with questions. The assessment environment must closely relate to the apprentice’s natural working environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The trade test practical assessment with questions must be quality assured by an EPAO.
This assessment method is being used because:
The trade test practical assessment with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An employer assessor must conduct and assess the trade test practical assessment with questions.
The employer assessor must observe apprentices in line with the employer's trade test assessment specification including the ratio of employer assessors to apprentices. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.
The employer must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the . trade test practical assessment with questions
The trade test practical assessment with questions must take 30 - 37.5 hours.
The trade test practical assessment with questions may take place in parts but must be completed over no more than 21 working days. A working day is typically considered to be 7.5 hours long. The reason for this split is the apprentice will need to complete several tasks, which may require work on different apparatus.
The employer must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations.
The employer assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the trade test practical assessment with questions tasks before they start. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The employer assessor must observe the apprentice conducting the following during the practical assessment:
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The employer assessor must ask questions. The purpose of the questioning is to assess the apprentice's level of competence against the grading descriptors.
Questioning can occur both during and after the practical assessment. The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The employer assessor must ask at least 10 questions. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the employer assessor should ask questions during natural stops between tasks and after completion of work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. The employer assessor must use the questions from their employer’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training.
The employer assessor can ask follow-up questions to clarify answers given by the apprentice. These questions are in addition to the above set number of questions for the trade test practical assessment with questions.
The employer assessor must make the provisional grading decision. The employer assessor must assess the practical assessment and responses to questions holistically when deciding the provisional grade.
The employer assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The trade test practical assessment with questions must take place in a simulated environment selected by the employer. The simulated environment must relate to the apprentice’s natural work environment. Equipment and resources needed for the trade test practical assessment with questions must be provided by the employer.
The employer must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. The employer must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The employer must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard.
The assessment specification must state that if an apprentice fails a task or tasks in the trade test practical with questions, the apprentice must re-sit or re-take the assessment method in full and not just re-sit or re-take a failed task or tasks. The employer must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of tasks and questions in the case of re-sits and retakes, to minimise predictability.
The employer must produce the following materials to support the trade test practical assessment with questions:
The employer must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation by the EPAO.
In the trade test technical interview, an employer assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The trade test technical interview must be quality assured by an EPAO.
This assessment method is being used because:
The trade test technical interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An employer assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose of the employer assessor's questions is to assess the apprentice's competence against the following themes:
The employer must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the trade test interview.
The trade test technical interview must last for at least 60 minutes.
The employer assessor must ask at least 6 questions. The employer assessor must use the questions from their employer's question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The employer assessor must make the provisional grading decision.
The employer assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The trade test technical interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the employer.
The trade test technical interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The employer must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The trade test technical interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The employer must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. The employer must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The employer must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard.
The employer must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The employer must produce the following materials to support the trade test technical interview:
The employer must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation by the EPAO.
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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Sustainability
K16 S15 B2 |
Describes how they consider and apply the principles of sustainability in their own work to support their employer’s and the power industry’s net zero strategy. (K16, S15, B2) |
Justifies the application of sustainability practices in the power industry. (K16, S15, B2) |
|
Plant or vehicle checks
K15 S13 |
Describes how they conduct plant or vehicle checks in line with company requirements. (K15, S13) |
None |
|
Location and avoidance of utilities
K13 S10 |
Describes how they carry out visual inspections, use electronic locating equipment to identify evidence of overhead services and buried utilities, and mark the position of services and sub-structures on the work site in line with the health and safety executive guidance and requirements: HSG 47 (Avoiding danger from underground services) and GS6 (Avoiding danger from overhead power lines). (K13, S10) |
None |
|
Excavations including working on highways
K40 K41 K42 S29 S30 S31 |
Describes how they erect and maintain signing, lighting and guarding in line with the New Roads and Street Works Act. (K40, S29) Describes how they monitor works using mechanical excavators in line with company procedures taking account of mechanical equipment limitations and exclusions. (K41, S30) Describes how they inspect excavation arrangements in line with company procedures with reference to regulations and procedures for the safe excavation and maintenance of holes and trenches, safe access and egress considerations, and when excavation support systems are required. (K42, S31) |
None |
|
Laying cables
K43 S19 |
Describes how they install cables and apply protection to protect the cables from damage in line with company procedures. (K43, S19) |
None |
|
Teamwork
K47 K48 S33 B6 |
Describes how they apply team working principles to meet work goals and support inclusivity in line with their company's policy on equality, diversity, and inclusion. (K47, K48, S33, B6) |
Justifies the application of teamworking principles to meeting work goals. (K47, K48, S33, B6) |
|
Communication
K49 S34 S36 B5 |
Describes how they communicate in a professional manner by using communication techniques and industry terminology suitable for the context. Describes how they apply written communication techniques to produce or amend documents in their work that are suitable for the context. (K49, S34, S36, B5) |
None |
|
Information and digital technology
K45 S37 |
Describes how they use information and digital technology – computers and mobile devices - in the workplace in compliance with GDPR and their organisation’s cyber security requirements. (K45, S37) |
None |
|
Contribute to improvement activities
S32 |
Describes how they have identified an area for improvement in the workplace. (S32) |
Justifies the potential impact of the improvement suggestion with consideration to benefits and any potential risks. (S32) |
|
Continued professional development
S38 B7 |
Outlines the planned and unplanned learning and development activities they have carried out recorded and shows a commitment to future continued professional development to maintain and enhance competence. (S38, B7) |
None |
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
|
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
|
|---|---|---|
|
Prepare for power network cable jointer activities
K46 S1 S2 S3 |
Reviews drawings, instructions or information to understand the task's requirements. (S1) Plans tasks and identifies and organises resources required to complete tasks for self and working party using planning, prioritising, and time management techniques with consideration for safety, environmental impact, quality and cost with a justification for live working. (K46, S2, S3) |
Justifies their planning in terms of efficiencies achieved and the balance of safety, environmental impact, quality and cost in planning decisions. (K46, S2, S3) |
|
Organise and supervise a working party
S4 B3 |
Receives and clears a safety document and briefs a working party in line with company requirements taking ownership for work and responsibility for the impact of the work on others. (S4, B3) |
None |
|
Maintain work site health, safety, and environment compliance
K7 K11 K18 S8 S9 S11 S14 B1 |
Identifies hazards and risks in the workplace and applies control measures including consideration of hazards associated with work on or near electrical power networks. Prioritises and applies health and safety, procedures in compliance with regulations and standards mitigating against risks including emergency procedures, personal protective equipment, manual handling and fire safety. (K7, K11, S8, S9, B1) Applies measures to leave power work environments in a safe condition in line with company procedures. (S11) Segregates resources for reuse, recycling, and waste handling in line with company procedures for recycling and waste transfer. (K18, S14) |
Justifies how the controls they applied eliminated or reduced risks to an acceptable level using a hierarchical approach to risk assessment. (K11, S8) |
|
Tools and equipment
K23 K24 S17 S18 |
Selects, checks, and prepares personal tools and equipment in line with insulated tools selection and care considerations. Uses or operates personal tools and equipment in line with safety and operational requirements. Stores personal tools and equipment in line with company requirements. (K23, S17) Sets up spiking gun in line and completes post use maintenance requirements in line with company procedures. (K24, S18) |
None |
|
Identify apparatus
K25 S6 |
Identifies apparatus to be worked on using positive identification methods suitable for the equipment and the situation. (K25, S6) |
None |
|
Install, connect and repair distribution underground electrical supplies on low voltage cable networks
K27 K30 K31 S20 S21 |
Follows approved live working procedures. (S20) Joints and terminates cables (modern XPLE insulated, PVC sheathed, and paper insulated lead sheath) using cable connectors including fitting and terminating services into cut outs and applies system earthing connections and joint protection for task requirements (including tolerances) in line with company procedures. Explains how application technique will prevent moisture ingress. (K27, K30, K31, S21) |
Completes procedures efficiently for example, performs activities methodically, performs activities logically to save time, avoids issues with no need to back-track. (K27, K30, K31, S21) |
|
Connect and repair apparatus on high voltage cable networks
K29 K32 S22 S23 |
Joints and terminates cables (modern XPLE and paper Insulated) using joint kits on high voltage cables up to 11kv operating voltage and applies joint protection for task requirements (including tolerances) in line with company procedures. (K29, S22) Receives phasing colours and interprets phasing diagrams to enable completion of HV jointing tasks to required specification. (K32, S23) |
Completes procedures efficiently for example, performs activities methodically, performs activities logically to save time, avoids issues with no need to back-track. (K29, S22) |
|
Make and break live conductor connections
K28 S24 S25 |
Makes and breaks live conductor connections on low voltage underground networks in line with company procedures. (S24) Performs testing procedures before and after making and breaking connections including insulation and continuity, voltage, polarity, earth loop impedance, and phase rotation in line with company procedures. (K28, S25) |
None |
|
Identify a fault
K36 S26 |
Identifies a common fault on an electrical power circuit, plant or apparatus and tests to find the fault condition. (K36, S26) |
None |
|
Complete work records
K44 S35 |
Records information for work tasks in line with company procedures for data recording, documentation control and auditable records. (K44, S35) |
None |
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
|
|---|---|
|
Role and responsibilities
K4 K5 S5 B4 |
Outlines their role as a cable jointer including their limits of responsibility and how they report or escalate issues. Describes how they respond and adapt to work demands in line with organisational requirements. (K4, S5, B4) Explains the responsibilities of persons as defined in the industry standard safety rules: supervising a working party, competent persons, and authorisation roles and responsibilities in relation to working under safety documentation. (K5) |
|
Electrical danger - control and first aid
K8 K12 K34 K35 S12 |
Explains the dangers of electricity and how an electric shock can be received including direct contact, induced (impressed) voltage, and arcing. Outlines electric shock emergency procedures in line with company procedures. Describes how they would respond in the event of a first aid emergency, with reference to their emergency first aid training and responsibilities and measures they would take to avoid electrical risk in line with company procedures. (K8, K12, S12) Explains HV safe systems for work control measures for working on underground cable networks including making the cable network safe (dead, isolated and earthed), screening from live equipment, identification (visual and identification devices), prove dead (visual connection to earthed equipment or cable spike), and released for work (with a safety document) in line with company procedures. (K34) Explains LV cable network electrical safe system of work control measures, before and during work, when working on cables that have been made dead including the isolation process, identification and proving dead, mitigation of risk from cables becoming live from alternative sources, and screening from live equipment in line with company procedures. (K35) |
|
Electrical plant and apparatus
K22 S7 |
Describes how they interpret network schematic diagrams and geographic records to identify running arrangements outlining power engineering electrical plant and apparatus, the properties and purpose of transformers, switchgear, earthing devices, voltage control and automated equipment. (K22, S7) |
|
Low voltage networks
K33 |
Explains LV network running arrangements and how fuses are graded to provide discrimination. Explains LV operational switching and testing operations in line with company procedures with reference to different LV switching equipment (air circuit breakers, links and fuses), methods of isolation and considerations when paralleling networks. (K33) |
|
Fault diagnosis
K37 K38 S27 S28 |
Describes how they would conduct fault diagnosis on underground cable networks for a given scenario to identify the underlying cause using problem-solving and fault-finding techniques: non-invasive visual examinations, invasive physical examinations of plant, testing procedures, root cause analysis and fault diagnostic equipment: time domain reflectometer (TDR), low voltage faults sniffer and auto-reclose equipment. (K37, K38, S27) Makes a recommendation for the repair or restoration of plant or apparatus based on the findings of a diagnostic procedure in line with company procedure. (S28) |
|
Asset security
K14 S16 |
Describes how they apply asset security measures in line with company procedures. (K14, S16) |
| Grade | Minimum marks required | Maximum marks required |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | 0 | 27 |
| Pass | 28 | 40 |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor or marker must individually grade the multiple-choice test in line with this EPA plan. Marking by computer is also allowed.
An independent assessor must provisionally grade the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.
An employer assessor must provisionally grade the trade test practical assessment with questions and trade test technical interview in line with this EPA plan. They must provide their grading decisions to the EPAO.
The EPAO must combine the four individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA distinction, the apprentice must achieve a distinction in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence and the trade test practical assessment with questions, and a pass in the multiple-choice test and trade test technical interview.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Multiple-choice test | Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence | Trade test practical assessment with questions | Trade test technical interview | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Any grade | Any grade | Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Any grade | Any grade | Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Any grade | Any grade | Fail |
| Fail | Any grade | Any grade | Any grade | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Pass | Distinction | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Distinction | Pass | Distinction |
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does. The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 4 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 6 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.
Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of if pass they need to re-sit or re-take one or more assessment methods, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
|
|
Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
|
|
EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
|
|
Training provider and employer provider personnel |
As a minimum, the training provider and employer provider personnel must:
|
|
Marker |
As a minimum, the marker must:
|
|
Invigilator |
As a minimum, the invigilator must:
|
|
EPAO responsibilities in relation to the multiple-choice test and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
In relation to the multiple-choice test and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, as a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
EPAO responsibilities in relation to the trade test practical with questions and trade test technical interview |
In relation to the trade test practical assessment with questions and the trade test technical interview, as a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
Employer responsibilities in relation to the trade test practical assessment and the trade test technical interview |
In relation to the trade test practical assessment and the trade test technical interview, as a minimum, the employer must:
|
|
Employer assessor responsibilities in relation to the trade test practical assessment and trade test technical interview |
In relation to the trade test practical assessment and trade test technical interview, as a minimum, the employer assessor must:
|
The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Special considerations
The EPAO must have special consideration arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Special considerations must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
They must also confirm employers appoint employer assessors who:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Power network industry appreciation: generation of electricity, Transmission Network Operator, Distribution Network Operator (DNO), Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO), Independent Connections Provider (ICP), supplier, generators - role and boundary of operation. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K2
The office of gas and electricity markets (Ofgem) - their role and powers. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K3
Power industry regulations: Electricity at Work Regulations, and The Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations (ESQCR). Their purpose and basic requirements. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K4
Cable jointer's role and responsibilities. Limitations of role and escalation procedures. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K5
Model Distribution Safety Rules (MDSR) definition of persons: supervising a working party, competent, authorised and senior authorised. Authorisation roles and responsibilities in relation to working under safety documentation. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K6
Business operation considerations: how activities may impact customers, financial constraints (budgets), penalties and rewards, ethical business practices. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K7
The hazards associated with work on or near electrical power networks. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K8
The dangers of electricity and how an electric shock can be received: direct contact, induced (impressed) voltage, and arcing. Electric shock emergency procedures. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K9
Health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance - their purpose and basic requirements: asbestos awareness, Construction Design Management (CDM), Health and Safety at Work Act, confined spaces awareness, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER), lone working, Management of Health and Safety at Work, Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER), Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), and warning signs and symbols. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K10
Working at height awareness and safe use of methods of access and egress. Working in confined spaces awareness. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K11
Risk assessments and method statements. Emergency procedures. Personal protective equipment (PPE). Manual handling. Fire safety. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K12
Emergency first aid. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K13
Methods for locating and avoiding utilities. Avoiding danger from underground services and overhead exposed conductors. The health and safety executive guidance and requirements: HSG 47 (Avoiding danger from underground services) and GS6 (Avoiding danger from overhead power lines). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K14
Asset security requirements. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K15
Plant and vehicle check requirements. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K16
The power industry's net zero strategy. Principles of sustainability. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K17
The Environmental Protection Act – its purpose and basic requirements. Impact of sites of special scientific interest, flora and fauna on work. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K18
Recycling and waste management requirements. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K19
Mathematical theory in power engineering. Round numbers, scientific notation, percentages and ratios. Areas, perimeters, volumes and surface areas of simple shapes. Scales, tables, graphs and charts. Pythagoras’ Theorem and sin, cos, and tan in right-angled triangles. Substitution of numerical values into simple engineering formulae. The sequence of arithmetic operations. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K20
Electrical theory in power engineering. Circuit technology. Magnetism and electromagnetism. Transformers. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K21
Power engineering electrical networks: generation, transmission, distribution and transformation of system voltages. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K22
Power engineering electrical plant and apparatus, the properties and purpose of transformers, switchgear, earthing devices, voltage control and automated equipment. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K23
Insulated tools - selection and care considerations. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K24
Spiking gun set up and maintenance requirements. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K25
Positive methods for apparatus identification. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K26
Different cable types, voltage up to 33kV, construction and identification techniques and methods: Cross linked polyethylene insulated aluminium conductor armoured cable (XLPE), and Consac or paper-insulated lead covered (PILC), Polymer Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR) and XLPE cables, and paper insulated cables. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K27
Types of earthing systems, low voltage (LV) services and terminations. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K28
Pre and post connection testing techniques: insulation and continuity, voltage, polarity, earth loop impedance, phase rotation. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K29
High voltage (HV) jointing techniques up to 11kV on both modern and legacy cable types. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K30
LV mains jointing techniques – mains and service; termination of services into cut outs. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K31
Joint protection materials and the considerations in application techniques to prevent moisture ingress. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K32
Phasing colours and diagrams. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K33
LV network running arrangements, fusing and discrimination. Different LV switching equipment: air circuit breakers, links and fuses. LV operational switching and testing requirements and procedures. Methods of isolation. Considerations when paralleling networks. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K34
HV electrical safe system of work control measures for working on underground cable networks: making the cable network safe (dead, isolated and earthed), screening from live equipment, identification (visual and identification devices), proven dead (visual connection to earthed equipment or cable spike), and released for work (with a safety document). Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K35
LV electrical safe system of work control measures, before and during work, for working on cables that have been made dead: isolation process, identification and proving dead, mitigation of risk from cables becoming live from alternative sources, and screening from live equipment. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K36
The symptoms and causes of common faults on electrical power circuits, plant and apparatus. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K37
Problem-solving and fault-finding techniques: non-invasive visual examinations, invasive physical examinations of plant, testing procedures, root cause analysis. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K38
Fault diagnostic equipment purpose and operation: time domain reflectometer (TDR), low voltage faults sniffer. Fitting and setting up of auto-reclose equipment. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
K39
Access to private land, streets and wayleaves. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K40
New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA). Signing, lighting, and guarding. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K41
Mechanical equipment used in excavations and their limitations and exclusions. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K42
Regulations and procedures for the safe excavation and maintenance of holes and trenches. Considerations for access and egress of excavations. Awareness of when excavation support systems are required. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K43
Requirements for protecting cable from damage. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K44
Documentation requirements: data recording, documentation control, auditable records. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K45
Information and digital technology. Computers and mobile devices. Software: email, word processing, databases, productivity and collaboration software, and work and asset management systems. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K46
Planning, prioritising and time management techniques for self and working party. Live or dead working planning considerations. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
K47
Team working principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K48
The principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K49
Communication techniques - verbal and written. Industry terminology. Adapting style to audience. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Review drawings, instructions or information to understand the task for example, work instructions, complex wiring diagrams, design specifications, utility plans, on-line search documents. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S2
Prioritise and plan work with consideration for safety, environmental impact, quality, and cost. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S3
Identify and organise resources to complete tasks. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S4
Receive and clear a safety document (permit to work). Brief a working party. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S5
Report or escalate issues outside limits of responsibility. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
S6
Identify apparatus to be worked on. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S7
Interpret network schematic diagrams and geographic records to identify running arrangements. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
S8
Identify hazards and risks and apply control measures. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S9
Apply health and safety procedures in compliance with regulations, standards, and guidance. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S10
Carry out visual inspection to identify evidence of overhead services and buried utilities. Use electronic locating equipment. Mark the position of services and sub-structures on the work site. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S11
Apply measures to leave power work environments in a safe condition. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S12
Respond in the event of an emergency first aid situation including situations where there is electrical risk. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
S13
Conduct plant or vehicle checks. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S14
Segregate waste for reuse, recycling, and waste transfer. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S15
Apply sustainability principles for example, minimising waste. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S16
Apply security measures. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
S17
Select, check, prepare, use or operate, and store personal tools and equipment. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S18
Set up spiking gun. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S19
Install cables and apply protection. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S20
Follow live working procedures. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S21
Joint and terminate cables (modern XPLE insulated, PVC sheathed, and paper insulated lead sheath) for low voltage cable networks using cable connectors including fitting and terminating services into cut outs. Apply system earthing connections and joint protection. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S22
Joint and terminate cables (modern XPLE and paper insulated) using joint kits on high voltage cables up to 11kv operating voltage. Apply joint protection. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S23
Receive phasing colours for HV jointing tasks and interpret phasing diagrams. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S24
Make and break live conductor connections on LV underground networks. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S25
Perform testing procedures before and after making and breaking connections. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S26
Identify fault. Test to find the fault condition. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S27
Conduct fault diagnosis on underground cable networks to identify underlying cause. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
S28
Make recommendations for the repair or restoration of plant or apparatus based on the findings of diagnostic procedures. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
S29
Erect and maintain signing, lighting and guarding. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S30
Monitor works using mechanical excavators (banksman). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S31
Inspect excavation arrangements before work for safe access and egress. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S32
Identify areas for improvement. For example, in relation to quality, cost, time, safety, and environmental impact. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S33
Apply team working principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S34
Communicate with others to give and receive information for example, colleagues, customers, and stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S35
Record information. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
S36
Produce or amend documents for example, handover notes, procedures, reports. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S37
Use digital and information technology. Follow cyber security requirements. Comply with GDPR. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S38
Carry out and record planned and unplanned learning and development activities. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Prioritise health and safety. For example, risk aware, minimise risks, and proactively work towards preventing accidents. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
B2
Consider the environment and sustainability when using resources and carrying out tasks. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B3
Take ownership for work and responsibility for its impact on others. For example, self-motivated, disciplined in the approach to work tasks, identify and deal appropriately with distractions to enable tasks to be achieved, work carried out in line with standards. Back to Grading |
Trade test practical assessment with questions |
|
B4
Respond and adapt to work demands. For example, adapt working methods to reflect changes in working environment, take initiative -making on the spot decisions, re-prioritise workloads to react to emergency response and to fault scenarios. Back to Grading |
Trade test technical interview |
|
B5
Perform in a professional manner for example, polite, courteous, and respectful to customers and members of the public. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B6
Team-focus to meet work goals and support inclusivity. For example, support others, show respect to people from different trades, disciplines, backgrounds, and expertise. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B7
Committed to continued professional development to maintain and enhance competence. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Sustainability
K16 S15 B2 |
The power industry's net zero strategy. Principles of sustainability. (K16) |
Apply sustainability principles for example, minimising waste. (S15) |
Consider the environment and sustainability when using resources and carrying out tasks. (B2) |
|
Plant or vehicle checks
K15 S13 |
Plant and vehicle check requirements. (K15) |
Conduct plant or vehicle checks. (S13) |
None |
|
Location and avoidance of utilities
K13 S10 |
Methods for locating and avoiding utilities. Avoiding danger from underground services and overhead exposed conductors. The health and safety executive guidance and requirements: HSG 47 (Avoiding danger from underground services) and GS6 (Avoiding danger from overhead power lines). (K13) |
Carry out visual inspection to identify evidence of overhead services and buried utilities. Use electronic locating equipment. Mark the position of services and sub-structures on the work site. (S10) |
None |
|
Excavations including working on highways
K40 K41 K42 S29 S30 S31 |
New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA). Signing, lighting, and guarding. (K40) Mechanical equipment used in excavations and their limitations and exclusions. (K41) Regulations and procedures for the safe excavation and maintenance of holes and trenches. Considerations for access and egress of excavations. Awareness of when excavation support systems are required. (K42) |
Erect and maintain signing, lighting and guarding. (S29) Monitor works using mechanical excavators (banksman). (S30) Inspect excavation arrangements before work for safe access and egress. (S31) |
None |
|
Laying cables
K43 S19 |
Requirements for protecting cable from damage. (K43) |
Install cables and apply protection. (S19) |
None |
|
Teamwork
K47 K48 S33 B6 |
Team working principles. (K47) The principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. (K48) |
Apply team working principles. (S33) |
Team-focus to meet work goals and support inclusivity. For example, support others, show respect to people from different trades, disciplines, backgrounds, and expertise. (B6) |
|
Communication
K49 S34 S36 B5 |
Communication techniques - verbal and written. Industry terminology. Adapting style to audience. (K49) |
Communicate with others to give and receive information for example, colleagues, customers, and stakeholders. (S34) Produce or amend documents for example, handover notes, procedures, reports. (S36) |
Perform in a professional manner for example, polite, courteous, and respectful to customers and members of the public. (B5) |
|
Information and digital technology
K45 S37 |
Information and digital technology. Computers and mobile devices. Software: email, word processing, databases, productivity and collaboration software, and work and asset management systems. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. (K45) |
Use digital and information technology. Follow cyber security requirements. Comply with GDPR. (S37) |
None |
|
Contribute to improvement activities
S32 |
None |
Identify areas for improvement. For example, in relation to quality, cost, time, safety, and environmental impact. (S32) |
None |
|
Continued professional development
S38 B7 |
None |
Carry out and record planned and unplanned learning and development activities. (S38) |
Committed to continued professional development to maintain and enhance competence. (B7) |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Prepare for power network cable jointer activities
K46 S1 S2 S3 |
Planning, prioritising and time management techniques for self and working party. Live or dead working planning considerations. (K46) |
Review drawings, instructions or information to understand the task for example, work instructions, complex wiring diagrams, design specifications, utility plans, on-line search documents. (S1) Prioritise and plan work with consideration for safety, environmental impact, quality, and cost. (S2) Identify and organise resources to complete tasks. (S3) |
None |
|
Organise and supervise a working party
S4 B3 |
None |
Receive and clear a safety document (permit to work). Brief a working party. (S4) |
Take ownership for work and responsibility for its impact on others. For example, self-motivated, disciplined in the approach to work tasks, identify and deal appropriately with distractions to enable tasks to be achieved, work carried out in line with standards. (B3) |
|
Maintain work site health, safety, and environment compliance
K7 K11 K18 S8 S9 S11 S14 B1 |
The hazards associated with work on or near electrical power networks. (K7) Risk assessments and method statements. Emergency procedures. Personal protective equipment (PPE). Manual handling. Fire safety. (K11) Recycling and waste management requirements. (K18) |
Identify hazards and risks and apply control measures. (S8) Apply health and safety procedures in compliance with regulations, standards, and guidance. (S9) Apply measures to leave power work environments in a safe condition. (S11) Segregate waste for reuse, recycling, and waste transfer. (S14) |
Prioritise health and safety. For example, risk aware, minimise risks, and proactively work towards preventing accidents. (B1) |
|
Tools and equipment
K23 K24 S17 S18 |
Insulated tools - selection and care considerations. (K23) Spiking gun set up and maintenance requirements. (K24) |
Select, check, prepare, use or operate, and store personal tools and equipment. (S17) Set up spiking gun. (S18) |
None |
|
Identify apparatus
K25 S6 |
Positive methods for apparatus identification. (K25) |
Identify apparatus to be worked on. (S6) |
None |
|
Install, connect and repair distribution underground electrical supplies on low voltage cable networks
K27 K30 K31 S20 S21 |
Types of earthing systems, low voltage (LV) services and terminations. (K27) LV mains jointing techniques – mains and service; termination of services into cut outs. (K30) Joint protection materials and the considerations in application techniques to prevent moisture ingress. (K31) |
Follow live working procedures. (S20) Joint and terminate cables (modern XPLE insulated, PVC sheathed, and paper insulated lead sheath) for low voltage cable networks using cable connectors including fitting and terminating services into cut outs. Apply system earthing connections and joint protection. (S21) |
None |
|
Connect and repair apparatus on high voltage cable networks
K29 K32 S22 S23 |
High voltage (HV) jointing techniques up to 11kV on both modern and legacy cable types. (K29) Phasing colours and diagrams. (K32) |
Joint and terminate cables (modern XPLE and paper insulated) using joint kits on high voltage cables up to 11kv operating voltage. Apply joint protection. (S22) Receive phasing colours for HV jointing tasks and interpret phasing diagrams. (S23) |
None |
|
Make and break live conductor connections
K28 S24 S25 |
Pre and post connection testing techniques: insulation and continuity, voltage, polarity, earth loop impedance, phase rotation. (K28) |
Make and break live conductor connections on LV underground networks. (S24) Perform testing procedures before and after making and breaking connections. (S25) |
None |
|
Identify a fault
K36 S26 |
The symptoms and causes of common faults on electrical power circuits, plant and apparatus. (K36) |
Identify fault. Test to find the fault condition. (S26) |
None |
|
Complete work records
K44 S35 |
Documentation requirements: data recording, documentation control, auditable records. (K44) |
Record information. (S35) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Role and responsibilities
K4 K5 S5 B4 |
Cable jointer's role and responsibilities. Limitations of role and escalation procedures. (K4) Model Distribution Safety Rules (MDSR) definition of persons: supervising a working party, competent, authorised and senior authorised. Authorisation roles and responsibilities in relation to working under safety documentation. (K5) |
Report or escalate issues outside limits of responsibility. (S5) |
Respond and adapt to work demands. For example, adapt working methods to reflect changes in working environment, take initiative -making on the spot decisions, re-prioritise workloads to react to emergency response and to fault scenarios. (B4) |
|
Electrical danger - control and first aid
K8 K12 K34 K35 S12 |
The dangers of electricity and how an electric shock can be received: direct contact, induced (impressed) voltage, and arcing. Electric shock emergency procedures. (K8) Emergency first aid. (K12) HV electrical safe system of work control measures for working on underground cable networks: making the cable network safe (dead, isolated and earthed), screening from live equipment, identification (visual and identification devices), proven dead (visual connection to earthed equipment or cable spike), and released for work (with a safety document). (K34) LV electrical safe system of work control measures, before and during work, for working on cables that have been made dead: isolation process, identification and proving dead, mitigation of risk from cables becoming live from alternative sources, and screening from live equipment. (K35) |
Respond in the event of an emergency first aid situation including situations where there is electrical risk. (S12) |
None |
|
Electrical plant and apparatus
K22 S7 |
Power engineering electrical plant and apparatus, the properties and purpose of transformers, switchgear, earthing devices, voltage control and automated equipment. (K22) |
Interpret network schematic diagrams and geographic records to identify running arrangements. (S7) |
None |
|
Low voltage networks
K33 |
LV network running arrangements, fusing and discrimination. Different LV switching equipment: air circuit breakers, links and fuses. LV operational switching and testing requirements and procedures. Methods of isolation. Considerations when paralleling networks. (K33) |
None |
None |
|
Fault diagnosis
K37 K38 S27 S28 |
Problem-solving and fault-finding techniques: non-invasive visual examinations, invasive physical examinations of plant, testing procedures, root cause analysis. (K37) Fault diagnostic equipment purpose and operation: time domain reflectometer (TDR), low voltage faults sniffer. Fitting and setting up of auto-reclose equipment. (K38) |
Conduct fault diagnosis on underground cable networks to identify underlying cause. (S27) Make recommendations for the repair or restoration of plant or apparatus based on the findings of diagnostic procedures. (S28) |
None |
|
Asset security
K14 S16 |
Asset security requirements. (K14) |
Apply security measures. (S16) |
None |
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|---|---|---|---|---|
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