Analyze Electrical Hazards
Electricity has become essential to modern life. Perhaps because it is such a familiar part of our surroundings, it often is not treated with the respect it deserves.
Electrical Contact - WorkSafe BC
Safety and health programs must address electrical incidents and the variety of ways electricity becomes a hazard. In general, OSHA requires that employees not work near any part of an electrical power circuit unless protected. The following hazards are the most frequent cause of electrical injuries See 29 CFR 1926.416(a)(1):
- Contact with Power Lines - When using heavy equipment, stay at least 10 feet away from overhead powerlines
- Lack of Ground-fault Protection - Use GFCIs
- Path to Ground Missing or Discontinuous - Ground power supplies, circuits, and equipment
- Equipment Not Used in Manner Prescribed - Use according to manufacturer's instructions
- Improper Use of Extension and Flexible Cords - Use only factory-assembled, 3-wire extension cords
Deaths Due to Improper Use of Extension and Flexible Cords
A worker received a fatal shock when he was cutting drywall with a metal casing router. The router's 3-wire power cord was spliced to a 2-wire cord and plug set which was not rated for hard service. A fault occurred, and with no grounding and no GFCI protection, the worker was electrocuted.
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5-12. How far should workers keep themselves or equipment away from power lines?
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