Protecting Workers
Your employer must also ensure equipment is guarded appropriately, electrical parts are isolated appropriately, and that employees are properly trained about electrocution hazards at their worksite.
Isolate Electrical Parts
Electrical parts, conductors entering boxes, cabinets, or fittings must be protected from abrasion. Openings, whether used or not, through which conductors enter must be effectively closed.
All pull boxes, junction boxes, and fittings must have covers. Metal covers need to be grounded. In energized installations, each outlet box needs to have a cover, faceplate, or fixture canopy. Covers of outlet boxes having holes through which flexible cord pendants pass shall be provided with bushings designed for the purpose or shall have smooth, well-rounded surfaces on which the cords may rest.
Ensure Proper Guarding
Guarding involves locating or enclosing electrical equipment to ensure workers do not accidentally come into contact with its live parts. Effective guarding requires equipment with exposed parts operating at 50 volts or more to be placed where they are accessible only to authorized people qualified to work with/on the equipment. Recommended locations are a:
- room, vault, or similar enclosure;
- balcony, gallery, or elevated platform; or
- site elevated 8 feet or more above the floor.
Sturdy, permanent screens can also serve as effective guards.
Train Employees
Workers need be trained in and familiar with the safety-related work practices that pertain to their respective job assignments. Employers should train their employees to:
- de-energize electric equipment before inspecting or repairing;
- use cords, cables, and electric tools that are in good repair;
- know and understand lockout/tagout recognition and procedures; and
- use appropriate protective equipment.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
8-10. Effective guarding requires equipment with exposed parts operating at _____ to be placed where they are accessible only to authorized people qualified to work with/on the equipment.
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