Electrical Current Incident
Safety Tips for Working Around Electrical Equipment
Working with electricity can be dangerous if not handled properly. To ensure safety, it's essential to follow the guidelines set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in their 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.
1. Qualified Persons Only
Only qualified persons are permitted to work on electrical conductors or circuit parts. These individuals have the necessary training and knowledge to handle such tasks safely.
2. Electrical Work Permits
Before performing work on energized electrical equipment, a use of an energized electrical work permit is required, except for specific exceptions. This underscores the importance of formal risk management.
3. Shock and Arc Flash Risk Assessments
Before any electrical work, it's crucial to perform a shock risk assessment and an arc flash risk assessment to evaluate hazards and determine necessary safety measures.
4. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures
When working on electrical equipment, it's essential to apply lockout/tagout procedures to de-energize circuits or equipment. Devices used for lockout should be clearly identifiable and applied only under specified conditions.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Wearing appropriate PPE is vital to protect against arc flash and electrical shock hazards. The standard aligns closely with OSHA guidance on PPE requirements for electrical work and stresses employer and employee responsibilities in minimizing risk.
6. Regular Audits
Regularly audit electrical safety programs, at least every three years, to ensure compliance with NFPA 70E and maintain safe electrical work practices, equipment conditions, and adequate training.
7. Special Attention to Capacitors and Stored Energy Devices
Special attention should be given to capacitors and stored energy devices, including following procedures to safely discharge capacitors before work.
Additional Tips
- Use a fire extinguisher approved for electrical fires to fight the fire.
- Use only approved extension cords temporarily (for less than 90 days) and make sure they are appropriate for outdoor use and the electrical load does not exceed the rated capacity.
- Protect plugs and outlets from moisture in the environment.
- Stop the flow of electricity in the victim's body by disconnecting or de-energizing the circuit if the victim is unable to pull away from the current source.
- Use double-insulated power tools or equipment with three-prong plugs.
- Shut off the power in the case of an electrical fire.
- Avoid contact with overhead wires when working with long objects or operating tall equipment.
- Check for exposed electrical wires and damaged electrical boxes in the area.
- Inspect wires and plugs before each use.
- Call for help immediately if someone is a victim of an electrical shock.
- Do not use water to put out an electrical fire, as it can result in a fatal shock.
Avoiding Electrical Hazards
- Avoid using electrical equipment in damp or wet areas.
- Repair or replace damaged wires or plugs before using them.
- Contact the local electrical utility service to locate underground wires.
For more detailed information, refer to the NFPA 70E-Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. Always prioritize safety when working with electricity to protect yourself and others from potential hazards.
1. Workplace Wellness Extensions
Beyond ensuring safety with electrical equipment, employers can promote health and wellness in the workplace by incorporating fitness and exercise, mental health therapies and treatments, nutrition, and skin care into their wellness programs.
2. Fostering a Healthy Work Environment
By providing resources for stress management, regular fitness classes, and offering mental health support, employers can create a conducive workspace that enhances productivity and employee satisfaction.
3. CBD and Wellness Practices
In recent years, the use of CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, has gained popularity for its potential benefits on anxiety, pain, and overall well-being. Offering CBD products as an alternative treatment could further enhance a company’s wellness program.
4. Continuous Learning and Improvement
Organizations should regularly update their wellness strategies to keep up with emerging wellness trends and ensure that employees have access to the latest information on health-related topics, including the benefits of CBD and other natural treatments.
