Electrical Safety Requirements for Electrical Workers
Electrical safety requirements are vital for reducing the risk of arc flash incidents, electrical shock, and equipment damage in industrial, commercial, and utility settings. These requirements, outlined in standards like NFPA 70E and CSA Z462, establish protocols for safe work practices, personal protective equipment (PPE), hazard assessments, and energized work procedures. Adhering to these regulations not only protects workers but also ensures compliance with occupational health and safety laws in both the United States and Canada. Understanding and implementing these electrical safety standards is essential for creating a safer, more reliable workplace.
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Electrical Safety Requirements -- Approved Materials
Only materials approved by Factory Mutual Corporation (FM) or Underwriters Laboratories (UL) should be used. Materials such as apparatus, electrical wire, equipment, and electrical wire must be used and installed as directed in the certification, labeling or listing.
Electrical Safety Requirements -- Qualified Personnel
Only workers familiar with electrical safety standards, electrical code requirements and related experience are qualified to work on electrical equipment.
Pre-Work Electrical Safety Requirements
Employers are responsible for inquiring, determining and directly observing the location of any and all concealed and exposed live electrical circuits. If any electrical work requires a tool, a worker or a machine to cross set electrical safety boundaries, then the electrical circuits are to be grounded and de-energized.
Electrical Safety Requirements For Underground Lines
Unless it has been de-energized, no auguring, drilling or other related practices are to be done within a six-foot parameter of any underground line. With that being said, all underground lines should be protected with longitudinal tape or surface signs.
Electrical Safety Requirements -- Job Briefings
Engineers and supervisors must provide job briefings for workers. Subsequent job briefings must also be held during the work term. These briefings must include:
- A job hazard analysis (JHA): All electrical hazards must be identified, discussed and placed in writing.
- Non-electrical hazards. In addition to electrical hazards, all other hazards must also be identified, discussed, and written down.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE): Employers are legally required to provide all workers with the necessary hard hats, rubber gloves, safety boots and other ANSI-standard-approved clothing. Arc-flash protection clothing meeting NFPA-70E standards must also be provided.
