General requirements for the operation of electrical substations and switchgears of various voltage levels are given. The issues of technical maintenance of equipment of substations and switchgears, features of the operation of certain types of equipment, the order and sequence of operational switching are considered. Recommendations are given for the prevention and elimination of equipment failures and emergencies in electrical networks, and for the actions of personnel during emergency shutdown of substation equipment. A list of necessary operational documentation is presented; outlines the principles of organizing work with personnel of energy enterprises. For administrative, technical, operational and operational-repair personnel of energy enterprises associated with the organization and execution of work on maintenance, repair, adjustment and testing of equipment of electrical substations and switchgears.