If you work as a trade technician (plumber, refrigeration mechanic, etc.) you may encounter the need to carry out electrical work as part of a project or overall trade activity. In Queensland, the restricted electrical work licence is required to perform the various types of electrical work incidental to a trade.
Technicians who hold a recognised trade or calling, such as plumbers, gas fitters, instrumentation technicians, and mechanical fitters will typically require a restricted electrical licence. This guide will cover the requirements and application process for getting such electrical licence.
Eligibility criteria
Any type of electrical work poses serious safety risks. As such, the Electrical Safety Office (ESO) has strict eligibility requirements for those looking to apply for a restricted electrical licence.
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
- Hold a current Certificate III (or higher) qualification in a recognised trade
- Have 3 or more years of experience in a job that requires restricted electrical work
- Hold an overseas qualification that is recognised by the ESO
In addition, the application process for a restricted electrical licence will also require applicants to demonstrate that they:
- Are able to read, write and understand English
- Have the requisite training in CPR and electrical safety
- Have a genuine need to carry out electrical tasks in the course of their work
Training requirements
Before being able to apply for a restricted electrical licence, applicants will need to complete a training course in Restricted Electrical work under a registered training organisation (RTO) such as Electro Training. This course is designed to equip applicants with the necessary knowledge and skills for the restricted electrical work specific to their trade, as well as fulfil the qualification requirements for the application of the licence.
Before being able to undergo this course however, individuals must already hold a restricted electrical work training permit from the ESO. This permit allows applicants to perform the incidental electrical work that is part of the study and practical aspects of the course. A restricted electrical permit can be obtained from the ESO, and outlines the scope of study and work that will need to be completed before applying for a restricted electrical licence.
Application process
Here is a step-by-step guide to the entire application process for getting a restricted electrical licence QLD:
- Step 1: Apply for and obtain a restricted electrical permit from the ESO using Form 21
- Step 2: Enrol and complete the required units (as stated on the restricted electrical permit) at Electro Training
- Step 3: Apply for a restricted electrical licence through the ESO with the certificate of completion of the course and other requisite documents.
- Step 4: Obtain a restricted electrical work licence from the ESO and begin carrying out electrical work allowed with the licence.
As of 1 July 2023, the application fee for a restricted electrical licence is $90.90.
Licence conditions
A restricted electrical licence will only allow you to carry out the specified types of electrical work relating to your trade. For example, if you have applied for the licence as a plumber, the type of restricted electrical work you can perform will be limited the scope of your usual work, such as the disconnection and reconnection of hot water units. Other condition of the licence include:
- Permitted work at voltages up to 250 volts or 1000 volts AC
- No work relating to installation or alteration of any part of the fixed electrical wiring system
- Continued holding of the qualifications as stated in the eligibility requirements
- Adherence to the type of work indicated on the licence
Any deviation or failure to comply with the conditions of the assigned restricted electrical licence may result in disciplinary action such as the removal of the licence.
Get your restricted electrical licence in QLD with Electro Training
As a registered training organisation under the ESO, our restricted electrical course at Electro Training will equip you with the know-how and prepare you to take on restricted electrical work incidental to your trade. Enrol in the 1 to 4 days long course today to fast-track your application toward getting a restricted electrical licence in QLD!