We often take electricity for granted. We don’t think about it when it is working fine and all our tools, equipment, and appliances are running smoothly. But when we lose electricity, many operations come to a standstill. Worse yet is when electricity becomes a hazard with potential for injury or death. An electrical safety program is important for both business continuity (fires, limited downtime) and worker protection (hazard prevention / identification / remediation).

Compliance with the numerous codes, regulations and standards regarding electricity can be a daunting task. Ask any fire marshal or OSHA inspector about electrical safety compliance and they most likely can identify the main issues they see regularly on inspections and typical violations. Three-foot clearance around electric panels and misuse of temporary wiring (extension cords) are two that come mind from my compliance career. But to put them in perspective, these violations may be cited as “other than serious” so it is the “serious” hazards and potential violations that deserve your attention as well. Recent emphasis on high voltage systems and “arc flash” has broadened the scope of electrical safety.

If your firm conducts both construction and “shop” activities, you may want two separate programs to address the unique electrical issues and concerns presented by the varied workplaces and specific tasks being conducted. The appropriate OSHA standard for construction (1926.403 – General Requirements) is quite frankly confusing and difficult to apply to many jobsite settings. The OSHA General Industry Standards (1910 – Subpart S) that apply to electrical safety in fabrication shops and non-construction facilities are different and more complex.

Suggested sections of an electrical safety program:

• Purpose and Assignment of Responsibility – These sections set the tone for the program by explaining why it is needed for your company and how each level of employee (managers, supervisors, workers) will interact and comply with the program.

• Portable Electric Tools and Equipment – As mentioned above, extension cords used for a variety of power needs (including with power tools) are often misused or damaged, and many hazards can result. Portable tools are important on many jobsites and need specific attention regarding electrical issues (although battery operated tools seem to be more available and preferred).

• Temporary Wiring – This section could address the use of other temporary wiring including lighting, grounding, ground fault circuit interruption (GFCI), etc. 

• Working Space Around Electrical Equipment – Also mentioned above, allowing space around and near electrical panels and wiring is important. The related requirements address fire hazards and worker protection, so they are addressed in a variety of codes and standards including OSHA and the National Fire Protection Association / National Electric Code (NFPA / NEC).

• Wet or Damp Locations – In work areas near standing water or damp locations, electric hazards are increased. Work in these areas should be kept to a minimum and a series of precautionary steps such as a job hazard analysis (JHA) outlined prior to any work being conducted.

• Working on Deenergized Equipment / Lockout-Tagout – Similar to the lockout / tagout programs many companies have for mechanical equipment such as press brakes, an electrical lockout/tagout program includes the steps needed to safely de-energize and re-energize electrical systems and components. 

• Working On or Near Energized Equipment / Arc Flash Protection – Certain tasks in the sheet metal / HVAC industry may involve working near or around high voltage systems as a source of potential arc flash (and arc blast). This level of electrical safety and related protection equipment is specialized and requires a significant program to address the potential hazards, work procedures, personal protective equipment (PPE), etc.    

• Training – As with most safety and health programs, training is a key part of a successful effort. Since workers engage electricity in a variety of tasks, the training for electrical safety needs to be developed and provided in a manner that addresses all the work procedures, safety precautions, PPE, and other topics to allow for safe interaction.

Having knowledgeable electricians on your staff or contracted out to work with safety managers and supervisors can be very helpful in preparing and implementing a successful electrical safety program. As mentioned at the start, electricity is often taken for granted and as evidenced by the complicated codes and standards, requires special attention to avoid the negative occupational safety and risk management results that could impact individual workers and your company.