Maintain highway electrical systems, equipment and components
This element covers the systematic maintenance of highway electrical systems, specifically cameras, ensuring operational reliability and compliance with industry regulations. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to follow correct procedures, carry out effective repairs and replacements, and apply appropriate testing methods to verify functionality. The unit underpins safe working practices, accurate reporting, and the application of technical knowledge to maintain critical road infrastructure.
Assessment criteria
Topic Overview
The Lantra Awards Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry NVQ in Highway Electrical Systems (Diploma) with a focus on Electric Vehicle Charging is a competency-based qualification designed for experienced professionals working in the installation, maintenance, and repair of highway electrical systems, specifically those related to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. This NVQ covers the practical skills and knowledge required to install, commission, and maintain EV charging points on public highways, including connection to the grid, compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., BS 7671, IET Wiring Regulations), and integration with smart city infrastructure. It is a key qualification for those seeking to advance their career in the rapidly growing EV sector, ensuring that installations are safe, reliable, and future-proofed.
This qualification sits within the broader context of Construction & Building Services, specifically the highway electrical systems pathway. It builds on foundational knowledge of electrical principles and highway safety, and is often undertaken by electricians, highway electrical technicians, or installation engineers. The NVQ is assessed through on-site observation, professional discussion, and portfolio evidence, making it ideal for those already in employment. By completing this diploma, learners demonstrate competence in installing EV charging equipment in accordance with manufacturer specifications, relevant British Standards, and health and safety legislation, contributing to the UK's net-zero targets and the expansion of the EV charging network.
Mastery of this topic is crucial for ensuring that EV charging installations on highways are carried out to the highest standards, minimising risks such as electric shock, fire, or damage to vehicles. The qualification also covers fault-finding, testing, and documentation, preparing learners to handle the complexities of modern charging systems, including rapid chargers and load management. As the UK government mandates the installation of EV charge points in new developments and on major roads, this NVQ positions learners at the forefront of a critical industry, with strong career progression opportunities into supervisory or specialist roles.
Key Concepts
Core ideas you must understand for this topic
- →Installation of EV charging equipment: Understanding the specific requirements for installing charge points on highways, including foundation preparation, cable routing, and connection to the distribution network, while adhering to BS 7671 and the IET Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation.
- →Testing and commissioning: Performing insulation resistance tests, earth fault loop impedance tests, and functional checks to ensure the charging equipment operates safely and efficiently, including verification of RCD protection and communication protocols (e.g., OCPP).
- →Compliance with regulations: Knowledge of relevant legislation such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, Building Regulations Part P, and the Highway Electrical Systems Sector Scheme (HESSS), ensuring all work meets legal and contractual requirements.
- →Fault diagnosis and maintenance: Identifying common faults in EV charging units (e.g., communication errors, earth faults, or connector damage) and carrying out repairs or replacements in line with manufacturer guidelines and safety procedures.
- →Smart charging and load management: Understanding how EV charge points integrate with smart grids, including load balancing, demand-side response, and remote monitoring, to optimise energy use and prevent grid overload.
Learning Objectives
What you need to know and understand
- 1. Be able to implement correct procedures for maintenance work(s)2. Be able to carry out the maintenance of highway electrical equipment3. Be able to identify and carry out appropriate tests and reporting where maintenance is complete or has not been effective4. Understand the correct procedures for maintenance work(s)5. Understand the information required for the maintenance of highway electrical equipment6. Understand about repairing and replacing equipment
Assessment Criteria
Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio
- Award credit for demonstrating a systematic approach to fault diagnosis, including the use of manufacturer instructions and schematic diagrams.
- Provide evidence of implementing safe isolation procedures and verifying the absence of voltage before commencing any maintenance activity.
- Credit the accurate use of testing equipment, with results interpreted against specified tolerances and recorded correctly.
- Assess the ability to select and fit replacement components that meet original equipment specifications and are correctly installed using calibrated tools.
- Acknowledge thorough completion of maintenance records, including details of work carried out, test results, and any recommendations for further action.
Assessment Guidance
Guidance for achieving higher grades
- 💡Build a portfolio that explicitly maps each piece of evidence to the relevant performance and knowledge criteria in the unit.
- 💡Include photographs or witness testimony that clearly show you following health and safety procedures, such as setting up traffic management.
- 💡Prepare for professional discussion by being ready to explain why you chose specific test equipment and how you interpret results.
- 💡Demonstrate understanding of relevant legislation, including the Electricity at Work Regulations and BS 7671, in your written narratives.
- 💡For observations, ensure your assessor can see you double-checking that all covers are secured and that the equipment is left in a safe, serviceable condition.
- 💡Tip 1: When presenting evidence for your portfolio, ensure you include detailed risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) for each installation. Examiners look for clear evidence of planning and adherence to health and safety protocols, such as segregation of traffic and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- 💡Tip 2: During professional discussions, use technical terminology correctly and refer to specific regulations (e.g., 'BS 7671 Regulation 722.411.4.1 for earth fault protection'). This demonstrates depth of knowledge and confidence in applying standards.
- 💡Tip 3: For fault-finding scenarios, always follow a logical step-by-step approach: isolate the supply, carry out visual inspection, use appropriate test instruments (e.g., multimeter, insulation tester), and document findings. Examiners value methodical troubleshooting over guesswork.
Common Mistakes
Common errors to avoid in your coursework
- Failing to verify correct system operation after maintenance, leading to undetected faults or safety hazards.
- Using components not approved for the specific highway electrical system, risking non-compliance and premature failure.
- Inadequate documentation of test results, which compromises traceability and future maintenance planning.
- Overlooking environmental factors such as weatherproofing seals when reassembling camera housings, causing water ingress damage.
- Neglecting to update asset management systems with changes to equipment configuration or location.
- Misconception: EV charging installations are the same as standard electrical installations. Correction: EV charging points require specific considerations such as dedicated circuits, earth electrode arrangements (e.g., TT systems), and communication cabling, which differ from general power outlets. They also require compliance with additional standards like BS EN 61851.
- Misconception: Any electrician can install EV charge points without additional training. Correction: While basic electrical skills are essential, this NVQ covers specialised knowledge of highway environments, traffic management, and the unique safety risks of EV charging (e.g., DC fast charging, vehicle-to-grid systems). Without this, installations may be unsafe or non-compliant.
- Misconception: Once installed, EV charge points require no maintenance. Correction: Regular inspection and testing are mandatory to ensure ongoing safety and performance. Components like connectors, cables, and RCDs can degrade over time, and software updates may be needed for smart functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions students ask about this topic
Pass / Merit / Distinction Evidence Checklist
How your portfolio evidence is graded for LANTRA AWARDS Maintain highway electrical systems, equipment and components
Every vocational unit is marked against named criteria rather than an exam percentage. Your tutor's brief lists the exact codes for this unit — here is what each band is asking you to do.
Demonstrate baseline knowledge, accurate terminology, and core practical application.
Provide detailed analysis, structured explanations, and clear workplace reasoning.
Deliver thorough evaluation, original problem solving, and fully justified recommendations.
Before You Start
Prior knowledge that will help with this topic
- •A solid understanding of electrical principles, including AC/DC theory, Ohm's law, and power calculations, typically gained from a Level 2 or 3 electrical qualification (e.g., City & Guilds 2365 or equivalent).
- •Experience in highway electrical systems or general electrical installation, including knowledge of cable types, protective devices, and earthing arrangements.
- •Familiarity with health and safety legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, as well as practical experience of risk assessment.
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Key Terminology
Essential terms to know
- 1. Be able to implement correct procedures for maintenance work(s)2. Be able to carry out the maintenance of highway electrical equipment3. Be able to identify and carry out appropriate tests and reporting where maintenance is complete or has not been effective4. Understand the correct procedures for maintenance work(s)5. Understand the information required for the maintenance of highway electrical equipment6. Understand about repairing and replacing equipment
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