Lighting & Electrical

The Electrical Services team manages the University’s lighting and electrical systems across the estate

Need help?

To request a repair to a lighting or electrical system, or to report a fault, please go to the Helpdesk.

 

We are responsible for the University’s electrical systems between the 11,000 volt transformer and the wall socket. We control all electrical work very closely to ensure compliance with the Electricity at Work Act. We also inspect all electrical systems every five to seven years.

We work according to the framework set out in the Estates Standing Orders and in accordance with Safety Office Policy Statement S4/10 – Working Safely with Electricity . This applies to all electrical systems including building fixed wiring installations as well as to stationary, moveable and portable electrical equipment.

All electrical systems work must be carried out in accordance with the Estates Services Code of Practice Electrical Safety of Low Voltage Systems and comply with the current edition of the M&E Design Philosophy. 

Departments must not carry out any work to electrical systems without formal permission from Estates Services. 

Only electrical contractors approved by Estates Services are authorised to carry out any work on the University’s fixed electrical systems.

SAFETY FIRST

Departments are responsible for the periodic inspection and maintenance of electrical equipment, as stated in the Estates Standing Orders - repairs and maintenance 3.3.1. For further information, please review the Estates Electrical Guidance notes

 

Find out more

Our key responsibilities are:

  • Reactive maintenance – repairing equipment when it breaks
  • Planned preventative maintenance – carried out at periodic intervals
  • Testing and inspection –statutory testing of electrical systems, including back-up power supplies for life safety systems
  • Replacement and upgrading of electrical systems.

We also support the delivery of building services by the Capital Projects team by providing specialist knowledge regarding design and installation during the construction phase of building projects.

Another important aspect is our work with the Environmental Sustainability team to find lighting solutions which cut harmful emissions and result in carbon savings. Find out more on the Environmental Sustainability website. 

We can provide you with advice and guidance on any aspect of electrical services and lighting including:

  • alterations and additions to fixed electrical systems, up to and including the socket outlet
  • queries relating to electrical preferred suppliers
  • advice on all aspects of lighting and lighting control for emergency, internal and external lighting, including maximization of energy efficiency and carbon reduction.

Need help?

To request a repair or report a fault please visit 

HELPDESK

 

Policy Statement

Working safely with electricity S4/10

VIEW HERE

Standing Orders

For general guidance on the split of responsibilities between departments and Estates Services refer to the Standing Orders.

 VIEW STANDING ORDERS

Contact us

Electrical team

electrical@admin.ox.ac.uk