Working Around Electrical Circuits: General Safe Work Practices
Electrical accidents can be avoided in large part by following safe work practices. The following are some examples of these practices:
- Before inspecting or repairing electrical equipment, turn it off.
- Keeping electric tools in good working order,
- Exercising extreme caution when working near live power lines, and
- Using appropriate protective equipment.
Electrical safety-related work practice requirements for general industry are detailed in Sections 1910.331-.335, Subpart S of 29 CFR Part 1910. Electrical safety-related work practice requirements for construction applications are detailed in Subpart K of 29 CFR Part 1926.416 to 1926.417.
- Before each use, inspect portable cord-and-plug connected equipment, extension cords, power bars, and electrical fittings for damage or wear. Repair or replace damaged equipment as soon as possible.
- When necessary, tape extension cords to walls or floors. Nails and staples should not be used because they can damage extension cords and cause fires and shocks.
- Use extension cords or equipment rated for the amperage or wattage that you will be using.
- Always use the appropriate fuse size. Replacing a fuse with a larger size can result in excessive currents in the wiring, potentially causing a fire.
- Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets or cords could indicate unsafe wiring conditions. Unplug any cords or extension cords from these outlets and wait for a qualified electrician to inspect the wiring.
- When working with or near electricity or power lines, always use ladders with non-conductive side rails (e.g., fiberglass).
- Keep halogen lights away from flammable materials like cloths or curtains. Halogen lamps can become extremely hot and pose a fire risk.
- Electric shock is more likely in wet or damp environments. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs), which will interrupt the electrical circuit before a current large enough to kill or seriously injure you occurs.
- If you are unsure whether the receptacle into which you are plugging your extension cord is GFCI protected, use a portable in-line GFCI.
- Check that exposed receptacle boxes are constructed of non-conductive materials.
- In the event of an emergency, know where the panel and circuit breakers are located.
- All circuit breakers and fuse boxes should be clearly labelled. Each switch should be clearly labelled with the outlet or appliance for which it is intended.
- Do not use exposed wiring outlets or cords.
- If the guards are removed, do not use portable cord-and-plug power tools.
- Access to panels, circuit breakers, and fuse boxes should not be restricted.
- In the event of an electrical incident, do not touch anyone or anything electrical. Always turn off the power source first.
For any further query or assistance required, please feel free to contact or revert back. We'll be glad to assist you.
Ms. Divyasree - HSE Adviser | Aim Vision Safety Training & Consulting
For any further query or assistance required, please feel free to contact or revert back. We'll be glad to assist you.
Ms. Divyasree - HSE Adviser | Aim Vision Safety Training & Consulting
t: 044 42140492
m: 91 9445508458
e: Admin@aimvisionsafety.co.in
286, First Floor,GST Road,
Chromepet, Chennai 600 044 (Above Vodafone Showroom)
t: 044 42140492
m: 91 9445508458
e: Admin@aimvisionsafety.co.in
286, First Floor,GST Road,
Chromepet, Chennai 600 044 (Above Vodafone Showroom)
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