How to Commission Safely When DNO Approval Hasn't Arrived
G99 approvals don't always align with construction schedules. The solution: complete wiring, lock off export, capture proof, notify later.
100%
Compliance Maintained
Zero
Compliance Breaches
Clean
Audit Trail
The Challenge
When G99 approvals lag behind construction schedules, electricians face a dilemma: wait (delaying project completion) or commission anyway (risking non-compliance). Commissioning before DNO approval risks compliance breaches and rework. Waiting for approval delays handovers and frustrates clients.
Business Impact
Risk of commissioning before approval creating non-compliance and potential rework. Project delays while waiting for DNO approval affecting client relationships. Unclear process for safe partial commissioning. Audit trail gaps when approvals and commissioning don't align.
Who This Affected
Key Pain Points
Construction schedules don't wait for DNO approval turnaround
Electricians need to commission when job is ready, but approval often hasn't arrived yet
Commissioning before approval risks non-compliance
Export without DNO approval violates G99 requirements and creates audit issues
No systematic process for safe partial commissioning
Teams lacked clear guidance on how to complete wiring while waiting for approval
The Solution
Implemented DNO constraints in dispatch system, 'Padlock Required' warnings in commissioning forms, mandatory padlock photo requirement, and automated G100 notification generation when approval arrives. The system enables safe commissioning progression while maintaining compliance.
Features Implemented
- ✓DNO constraints in dispatch showing approval status
- ✓'Padlock Required' warning in commissioning form when G99 pending
- ✓Mandatory padlock photo requirement (export isolator locked off)
- ✓G100 commissioning notification auto-generated when approval received
- ✓Audit trail linking approval timing to commissioning state
- ✓Conditional form logic preventing export without approval
Implementation Approach
DNO tracker integrated with commissioning forms. When G99 approval pending, system displays 'Padlock Required' constraint. Electrician must photograph locked export isolator to complete commissioning. When DNO approval received, G100 notification auto-generated and padlock can be removed on follow-up visit.
The Results
Fewer Compliance Breaches
Clear guidance prevented commissioning export before DNO approval
Safer Commissioning
Teams could complete wiring safely while maintaining compliance with approval timing
Clean Audit Trail
Photo proof and approval status tracking created defensible documentation
"When G99 approvals lag, electricians can complete wiring but must lock off export. The app warns 'Padlock Required,' captures proof, and keeps compliance intact for later G100 notification."
— Compliance Manager
Why This Story Matters
Compliance Manager
Why It Matters
DNO approval timing is outside your control-but you can control safe commissioning processes that maintain compliance regardless.
Key Focus
Implement padlock guardrails that prevent export before approval while allowing project progress.
Installation Manager
Why It Matters
Your teams need clear guidance on how to proceed when approvals lag-not vague instructions that create liability.
Key Focus
Give teams systematic workflow: complete wiring, lock export, photograph proof, proceed with project.
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