The dangers associated with electricity and electrical power are more common and serious than we often realize. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), about five workers are electrocuted on a weekly basis. Very little electricity is needed to cause a great deal of harm, so it is vital to take the necessary precautions to prevent injuries.
Employers should develop and implement a comprehensive safety program to thoroughly address and educate workers about electrical safety. In addition to the safety program, a basic electrical safety checklist should always be considered.
OSHA suggests utilizing this checklist:
- Close all openings (junction boxes, pull boxes and fittings) with approved covers
- Maintain a minimum of ten-foot clearance of all equipment from 50kV or less— add four inches for every kV over 50kV
- Use electrical protective devices
- Look for evidence of underground utilities
- Use 3-prong plugs
- Avoid wet conditions
- Only use extension cords temporarily and when necessary
- Use double insulated tools
- Check that no obvious electrical hazards are present (i.e. frayed wires, warm equipment)
- Develop and adhere to a lockout and tagout procedure
- Use personal protective equipment (proper foot protection, rubber insulated clothing, etc.)
- Electrical parts should be isolated through guards, barriers or replacement covers
- All power tools should have a 3-wire cord with ground and should either be plugged into a grounded receptacle, double insulated or powered by a low-voltage insulation transformer
Ensuring the presence of all of these controls will cut down on exposure to electrical hazards, protecting your employees and your projects.
For more information on how to protect your employees from electrical hazards, contact your dedicated Amerisure Risk Management Consultant at 800-257-1900 or [email protected].
