After falls and struck by incidents, electrocutions are the third leading cause of death in the construction industry, accounting for around 9% of all construction worker fatalities. Linemen, electricians, and facility maintenance workers as well as engineers might be exposed to electrical hazards, as well as workers who use power tools or machinery that requires LO/TO procedures. Electrocution in construction may result from exposed wiring, contact with power lines, wet conditions, faulty equipment, not following correct LO/TO procedures, and not having proper GFCI protection. Make sure to familiarize yourself with and follow OSHA electrical standards; they are designed to protect employees not only from electrocution, but also from electric shock, fires, and explosions.
Electrocution Prevention
- Use adequate PPE, including insulated electrician/lineman work gloves, especially if you are working on or with older equipment or machines that present known electrical hazards.
- Use caution when dealing with downed power lines or wet surfaces near electricity.
- Make sure to de-energize lines or equipment before working on them.
- Use an ammeter, clamp meter, or multimeter to test electric current.
- Inspect power tools and cords before using them.
- Remove any equipment with frayed cords, missing ground prongs, or cracked tool casings.
- Inspect extension cords to make sure they are the 3-wire type and have not been modified.
- Always remove cords at the receptable instead of yanking them out of the wall.
Your Rights
As a worker, you have the right to a safe and healthful working conditions. You should also receive training on workplace hazards. If ever in doubt, express your questions and concerns with your employer or contact OHSA directly.
ALWAYS BE AWARE…IF ELECTRICITY IS THERE!
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