812 OSHA Focus Four Hazards

Electrocution Hazards

An electrical hazard can be defined as a serious workplace hazard that exposes workers to the following:

Therefore, BE SAFE by recognizing, avoiding, and protecting against all of these electrical hazards. These BE SAFE terms are defined as:

B = Burns: A burn is the most common shock-related injury. Burns from electricity are caused by electrical, arc flash, or thermal contact.

S = Shock: Shock results when the body becomes part of the electrical circuit; current enters the body at one point and leaves at another. Electrical shock is defined as a reflex response to the passage of electrical current through the body.

A = Arc Flash: An arc flash is the sudden release of electrical energy through the air when a high-voltage gap exists, and there is a breakdown between conductors. An arc flash gives off thermal radiation (heat) and bright, intense light that can cause burns. Temperatures have been recorded as high as 35,000 °F. High-voltage arcs can also produce considerable pressure waves by rapidly heating the air and creating a blast.

An arc flash can be spontaneous or result from inadvertently bridging electrical contacts with a conducting object. Other causes may include dropped tools or the buildup of conductive dust or corrosion. For more information on arc flash/blast, including best practices in electrical safety, refer to NFPA 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace®.

F = Fire: Most electrical distribution fires result from problems with "fixed wiring" such as faulty electrical outlets and old wiring. Problems with cords (such as extension and appliance cords), plugs, receptacles, and switches also cause electrical fires.

E = Explosion: An explosion can occur when electricity ignites an explosive mixture of material in the air.

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