A Guide to the Different Level 1 ASP Classes
Companies providing electrical services within the NSW energy distribution network must be recognised as Accredited Service Providers (ASPs). The levels within this accreditation determine the types of work that companies can perform. The first of these is Level 1 ASP, and within that, there are different classes that this article aims to explore further.
What are the ASP Level 1 Classes?
Level 1 ASP accreditation comprises 4 different classes. Level 1 ASPs are mostly concerned with the construction and also the installation of energy distribution infrastructure. This includes underground and overhead cabling, erecting electricity poles, low-voltage line work or working inside electricity substations. However, the specific roles allowed under each accreditation level are different, and these are known as ‘classes’. Let’s explore these in more detail.
Class 1A
Workers accredited with Class 1A can work on or near the overhead electricity network. Examples of the tasks performed within this class include:
- Street lighting works involving pole erection
- Tower construction
- Conductor stringing and also tensioning
- Substation construction
- Stringing of conductors and luminaire erection
- Electricity pole erection
Naturally, when working at heights on overhead electricity networks, there is a risk of accident and injury without the proper training. As such, safety is a key part of all Level 1 ASP courses.
Class 1B
The next class deals specifically with working on or near the underground electricity network, including paper lead and polymeric cables. This class includes cable laying and jointing, but it also allows several other duties including:
- Cable pit construction
- Substation construction
- Cable trench excavation
- Pillar installation
- Duct laying
- Cable laying and jointing
- Street lighting works comprising underground standard erection
- Cable laying and luminaire erection
Class 1C
Class 1C also involves working on the underground electricity network, however, there are restrictions not found in Class 1B. The major difference is that Class 1C only allows for work on polymeric cables. So, while most of the allowed duties are the same as Class 1B, those with Class 1C accreditation cant work on paper lead or CONSAC cables.
Class 1X
Unlike the other classes, Class 1X is for the non-electrically qualified. With Class 1X, non-qualified personnel can register with the ASP scheme. This may include plant operators, rescue assistants or safety observers who are required to work near electrical works, but don’t perform any electrical-related duties.
Class 1X also covers electrical trades apprentices, allowing them to work on or near the electricity network under direct and constant supervision by a person with appropriate accreditation.
Looking for Level 1 ASP courses?
If you want to perform contestable works while working for energy distribution companies such as Essential Energy, Ausgrid or Endeavour Energy in NSW, you’ll need Level 1 ASP accreditation at a minimum. IAC Safety Services offers training for both ASP Level 1 and 2. Open up new job opportunities for yourself today. Contact us on 1300 887 317 or check our upcoming events to find a course near you.
