Quick Course Info
Prerequisites
You need to have:
- communication skills to convey complex information and be able to read and write to Level 3 standard
- a valid first aid certificate
- a current Category 3 medical certificate
- relevant HV– prerequisites.
Duration
Training and assessment is completed in 40 hours, though additional time may be required for workplace practical assessment.
RPL
Recognition of Prior Learning is available, but under strict conditions/evidence requirements, including demonstration of skills and knowledge.
Assessment
Assessment is by:
- written assignment
- written theory test (with a 90% pass mark)
- practical demonstration of skills (minimum of 5 occasions).
Award
Upon successful demonstration of competence candidates are awarded the unit of competency UEPOPS349 Operate Local HV Switchgear. This course satisfies Victorian rail network asset management HV requirements.
Cost
Because learners must already be employed in a rail signalling role, it’s expected that your employer will meet all course costs.
Subsidised training is not available.
High Voltage Signals Operator
The HRD HV Signals Operator (HVSO) training course provides participants with knowledge of the Victorian rail signalling high voltage systems and procedures to prepare, carry out and complete HV switching procedures to a given schedule.
The course satisfies V/Line network asset management requirements. On demonstration of competence participants are awarded UEPOPS349 Operate Local HV Switchgear.
HVSO training falls into two categories: the full course and reaccreditation. Both programs follow the same training structure; duration and assessment requirements may vary.
Course outcomes
Upon completion of HRD’s HVSO training, participants will be able to:
- interpret high voltage plans
- plan the protection to work on or near high voltage apparatus and equipment
- provide an alternate electric power supply for the continuity of rail signal infrastructure operation
- safely switch high voltage field apparatus and test isolated high voltage apparatus to confirm supply isolation
- provide protection devices as stated on a permit, including lock and caution signs to indicate isolated high voltage equipment
- provide a permit to a HVSR Signals Recipient; and cancel a relinquished permit
- safely remove all locks, caution and protection devices to restore isolated equipment to service
- confirm all high voltage supplies are restored to normal service
- complete documentation and forward to HV coordinator.
Prerequisites
Participants in HVSO training must:
- be Level 3 reading, writing and numeracy skills (refer to UEP Training Package)
- provide verified or demonstrated recent HVSR experience and/or hold a current HVSR certification
- have a valid first aid certificate (currently HLTAID011 Provide First Aid) plus Perform Rescue from a Live LV Panel and a current Category 3 medical certificate.
Accreditation as a HVSO carries significant responsibility for the integrity of the rail HV network and for the safety of yourself and others involved in HV switching.
It’s important, therefore, that you are able to comply with Victorian Traction Industry Electrical Safety Rules and that you have the ability to communicate clearly with the Electrol operator.
Assessment
Participants in HVSO training complete:
- a written assignment
- written knowledge tests covering V/Line Electrical Safety Guidelines and HV Coordinator requirements; a 90% pass mark applies to written assessments
- a minimum of 5 x workplace practical assessments consisting of preparing, carrying out and completing a switching activity, and issuing an Electrical Access Permit/Permit to Work.
Duration
It’s expected that participants will successfully complete training in this course in 40 hours, allowing an additional 24 hours for WPA.