Gidday Joe,
Sorry that I can't actually give any Code references or the like.
But this system, called a Second Competent Person system was introduced over here in the late 90's, which pertains to ANY work on live switchboards and Distribution Panels.
This was an Electrical Industry initiative to make live work safer, it's not even written into law here, although it SHOULD be!.
The extra person, just keeping an eye on you and you keeping in constant communication with them, makes it a lot easier, should something go wrong, as can happen.
Is this sort of thing not covered in the OSHA legislation?.
I never do live work alone, neither should anyone else!!. [Linked Image]