If you are electrocuted, you are dead. If you felt a jolt, but are still walking around, then you have just been shocked. Holding regular safety meetings can ensure all employees are protected against shocks (and electrocution) while on the job.
Electrical hazards can be found on every jobsite, in the shop, at the distribution center, in the manufacturing plant and at the warehouse. Examples include:
- overhead power lines
- damaged tools or extension cords
- improperly insulated equipment
- faulty wiring or missing ground pins
- unsafe work practices
- exposed energized wires in electrical panels or outlets
OSHA Standard 1926.1053(b)(12) says that ladders shall have nonconductive siderails if they are used where the employee or the ladder could contact exposed energized electrical equipment...
Workers must be protected from energized electrical parts!
Covers should be in place and locked, if necessary, to avoid accidental contact by persons not qualified to work on electrical equipment.
OSHA Standard 1926.416(a)(1) states that no employer shall permit an employee to work in such proximity to any part of an electric power circuit that the employee could contact the electric power circuit in the course of work, unless the employee is protected against electric shock by deenergizing the circuit and grounding it or by guarding it effectively by insulation or other means.
Openings in electrical panels should be covered, guarded, or protected to prevent accidental shocks or electrocution.
OSHA Standard 1926.300(a) Condition of tools. All hand and power tools and similar equipment, whether furnished by the employer or the employee, shall be maintained in a safe condition.
- Never use damaged or defective electrical tools! Remove them from service immediately and tag them "Do Not Use."
- Always inspect your electrical tools before use.
- Never attempt to repair electrical tools or equipment unless you are qualified for the work.
If you are interested in Electrical Safety and want to learn more, ElectricalSchool.org has put together an amazing glossary of electrical terms. This comprehensive list includes definitions, related links and videos for every term and acronym you can think of related to electrical work and safety.
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