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.
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.
Causes
Some of the causes of electrocution in construction include exposed wiring, contact with power lines, wet conditions, faulty equipment, not following correct LO/TO procedures, and not having proper GFCI protection.
Visual Inspections
Use adequate PPE and 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.
Prevention
To prevent electrocution, remember these tips:
- Add insulated electrician/lineman work gloves to your PPE, especially if you are working on or with older equipment or machines that present known electrical hazards.
- Use extreme 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.
Generators
It is highly recommended to get a generator if you live in an area with frequent power outages. When using a generator, make sure that it located outdoors in a well-ventilated place, away from any air intake vents. Generators burn fuel and produce carbon monoxide—a deadly colorless and odorless gas.
Downed Power Lines
Power may be lost due to fallen trees during ice/snowstorms, due to flooding from a hurricane, or even due to high winds knocking over power lines. Be careful of both overhead and buried power lines-both carry a very high voltage. You should assume power lines are energized and maintain a distance of at least 10 feet. Always use a non-conductive ladder when working near power lines.
Electrical Incidents
Electrical incidents occur when electricity passes through a worker’s body due to a broken electrical path, or lack of a grounding plug or CFGI, among other reasons. It is imperative to check for the ground prong on electrical tools and equipment and use double insulated tools. Also, avoid standing in wet areas while using power tools or if there are downed power lines nearby.
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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