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900 Oil and Gas Safety Management
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Analyze Electrical Hazards

Many oil and gas workers are unaware of the potential electrical hazards present in their work environment, which makes them more vulnerable to the danger of electrocution.

Single worker checking wiring against wiring blueprint
Always watch for electrical hazards on site.

Experts in electrical safety have traditionally looked toward the widely used National Electrical Code (NEC) for help in the practical safeguarding of persons from these hazards.

Electrical safety in oil and gas involves two primary issues:

  • exposure to power sources (powerlines)
  • temporary and permanent electrical wiring and equipment

One of the most common electrical-related fatalities on an oil and gas wellsite is direct contact with a power source or power line. Nationally, almost three in five injuries (56 percent) were caused by direct exposure to electricity; this is defined as injuries caused by direct contact with the power source, such as direct contact with a live electrical wire or when the victim is struck by an electrical arc. (NFPA)

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-12. According to the NFPA, what is one of the most common causes of electrically-related fatalities?