EEHA DOCUMENTATION
What is a Hazardous Area Verification Dossier?
A Hazardous Area Verification Dossier can be as simple as a folder containing the manufacturer’s operating and maintenance instructions, some drawings or sketches, a copy of your current location compliance certificate, electrical compliance certificates (past and present), maintenance records, and a statement made by the owner or operator confirming the address, contact details and the purpose of the installation.
An extract from AS/NZS60079.14 states; "A Verification Dossier is a set of documents showing the compliance of electrical equipment and installations." Often referred to the Dossier or VVD or HAC, Section 4.2 in this Standard sets out the requirements.
Do I need one?
If you own and/or operate a high-risk hazardous area installation then the answer is YES, there is a regulatory compliance requirement for one.
What does a VVD look like?
The Regulations and Standards do not provide a ‘standard’ format or layout for the contents within a Dossier, but they do identify what needs to be in one.
Your VVD should identify all the risks associated with the installation and should detail the strategies in place to mitigate those risks. Furthermore, it should explain what actions will take place in the event of a near-miss, incident or if an accident cocurs at your installation. WorkSafe NZ provides guidelines on their website.
VVD's for larger sites can be in hard-copy or computer based. Having a VVD does not negate the need for Electrical compliance certification rather they provide a place where these and other related documents can be held.
VVD's are required to be available for audit. We have a standard 7-section format:
Section 1: Owners Statement
Section 2: Area Classification
Section 3: Equipment Details
Section 4: Drawings
Section 5: Installation documents
Section 6: Inspection documents
Section 7: Maintenance Records
Details are available upon request.
A Plant originally built in 1968 had undergone several updates, and changes in its manufacturing processes throughout the years. During a recent onsite assessment it was identified that their documentation was incomplete and should therefore be brought up to date. We were able to procure copies of most of the original documents including equipment datasheets and Certificates of Conformity too.
The result is a client with a current VVD and who is set up for future audits. Their engineering staff now have a reliable information base upon which to plan and execute future plant upgrades. And maintenance staff also have access to the same information making their work easier too.
How we can help!
Simply put, we can provide you a format so you can compile your own VVD or we can create one with and for you. We can also update, audit and certify existing Dossiers.