812 OSHA Focus Four Hazards

Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Program (AEGCP)

It is the employer's responsibility to provide either:

• GFCIs on construction sites for receptacle outlets in use and not part of the permanent wiring of the structure; or
• a scheduled and recorded Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Program (AEGCP) on construction sites.

GFCIs must protect receptacles on the ends of extension cords. Also, an employer may use GFCI circuit breakers. These protected circuit breakers are installed on the main circuit board. GFCI circuit breakers protect an entire circuit.

The AEGCP covers all cord sets, receptacles that are not a part of the permanent wiring of the building or structure, and equipment connected by cord and plug that are available for use or used by employees. OSHA requires a written description of the employer's AEGCP, including the specific procedures adopted, be kept at the job site. This program should outline the employer's specific procedures for the required equipment inspections, tests, and test schedule.

Electrical equipment noted in the AEGCP must be visually inspected for damage or defects before each day's use. The employee must not use any damaged or defective equipment until it is repaired.

OSHA requires two tests:

1. Continuity Test: The continuity test ensures that the equipment grounding conductor is electrically continuous. Perform this test on all cord sets, receptacles that are not part of a building or structure's permanent wiring, and cord- and plug-connected equipment required to be grounded. This test can be accomplished with various test equipment.
2. Terminal Connection Test: The terminal connection test ensures that the equipment grounding conductor is connected to its proper terminal at receptacles and cord plugs. Perform this test with the same equipment used in the first test, or for receptacles use receptacle testers.

The required tests must be recorded, and the record maintained until replaced by a more current record.

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