Electrical Safety (2018)

Summary

This video script educates workers on the importance of electrical safety. It covers the basics of electricity, OSHA requirements, and the dangers of static and electric shocks. It emphasizes the necessity of understanding electrical terms, proper grounding, using GFCIs, and following safety rules to prevent accidents. The script also discusses the risks of working with electricity at heights and near energized objects, and the correct use of PPE and lockout/tagout procedures.

Takeaways

• ⚡️ Electricity is essential for modern life but can be dangerous if not respected and handled properly.
• 🏗️ OSHA has specific requirements for electrical safety in the workplace, including grounding and the use of GFCIs.
• 💧 Conductors like water can easily carry electrical current, while insulators like plastic resist it.
• 🔌 Grounding is crucial for creating a low-resistance path for electrical current to the earth, preventing accidents.
• 🏭 Transformers play a key role in increasing or decreasing voltage for electrical current.
• 🔄 Electricity always seeks the shortest path to the ground, following the path of least resistance.
• ⚠️ Static electricity can cause shocks and even explosions in the presence of flammable materials.
• 🚨 Electrical shocks can range from mild to fatal, with wet conditions significantly increasing the risk.
• 🔥 Burns are a common injury from electrical shocks, requiring immediate medical attention.
• 🛠️ Always turn off power or use non-conductive material to separate someone from an electrical circuit in case of shock.
• 🔌 Use proper PPE and follow lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental startup of electrical equipment.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video script?

The main purpose of the video script is to provide workers with a brief understanding about electricity and how to work safely with it and around it.

Why is electricity considered both important and dangerous?

Electricity is considered important because it is essential for everyday life and makes the world possible. However, it can be dangerous if misused, leading to injuries or death.

What are the key topics discussed in the video?

The video discusses topics such as the introduction to electricity, how electricity works, OSHA requirements, static electricity, dangers of working around electricity, safety rules, generators, and lockout/tagout procedures.

What is a conductor in the context of electricity?

A conductor is an object or material that has very little resistance to the flow of electrical current, such as electrical power lines, extension cords, power cords, and water.

What is an insulator and give some examples?

An insulator is an object or material that resists electrical current and is not a good conductor of electricity. Examples include plastic, glass, porcelain, and dry wood.

Why is grounding important in electrical safety?

Grounding is important because it creates a low resistance path to the earth for electrical current, preventing the buildup of voltages that could cause an electrical accident.

What are the two types of grounding required by OSHA in the construction industry?

The two types of grounding required by OSHA are system or service grounds, which protect machines and tools, and equipment grounds, which protect workers from electrical shock.

What is a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and why is it important?

A GFCI is a fast-acting circuit breaker designed to shut off electric power in the event of a ground fault, preventing electrocution. It is important because it provides an additional layer of protection against electrical shock.

What are some safety measures to take when working with electricity in wet conditions?

Wet conditions increase the chances of shock, so it's important to use extreme caution. This includes using equipment with proper insulation and avoiding contact with electrical sources when wet.

How can static electricity lead to serious consequences?

Static electricity can build up on surfaces and discharge, potentially causing shocks or, in the presence of flammable substances, even explosions. Proper grounding and other measures can prevent static electric buildup.

What should you do if you or a co-worker receives an electrical shock?

Seek emergency medical attention immediately, even if the injury is not apparent. Electrical shocks can cause internal injuries that may not be immediately visible but can be deadly.

What are some precautions to take when using portable generators?

Always follow the manufacturer's safety rules and guidelines, inspect generators before each use, and never use them indoors or in wet conditions. Use GFCIs and ensure proper grounding.

Outlines

00:00

🔌 Understanding Electricity Safety

This paragraph introduces the concept of electricity as a vital yet potentially dangerous aspect of daily life. It emphasizes the importance of understanding electricity for safety, especially in a work environment. The video aims to educate workers on the basics of electricity, its operation, and safe practices. Topics such as OSHA requirements, static electricity, and safety rules are mentioned. The historical significance of electricity since ancient Greece and its current applications are briefly discussed. The paragraph concludes with an analogy comparing electricity to water flow, explaining the roles of source, conductor, and pressure in electricity.

05:01

⚙️ OSHA Grounding and GFCI Requirements

Paragraph 2 delves into the specific grounding requirements set by OSHA to reduce the risk of electrical accidents. It explains the difference between system or service grounds and equipment grounds, highlighting their roles in protecting machinery and workers. The paragraph also discusses the necessity of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), which are designed to prevent electrocution by shutting off power quickly in case of a ground fault. Employer responsibilities, such as providing GFCIs and maintaining an assured equipment grounding conductor program, are outlined. The importance of regular testing and maintenance of electrical equipment is stressed, along with the requirement for a competent person to oversee these safety measures.

10:03

⚠️ Electrical Shocks and Burns

This section focuses on the dangers of electrical shocks and burns, which can occur when the body becomes part of an electrical circuit. It explains how shocks can happen and the severity of their consequences, ranging from minor tingling to life-threatening cardiac arrest. The increased risk of shock in wet conditions is highlighted, along with the different types of burns that can result from electrical accidents. The paragraph advises on immediate medical attention and safe practices, such as not touching someone who is in contact with an electrical circuit and using non-conductive materials to separate them from the source. It also addresses the risk of falls and other hazards associated with electrical work.

15:03

🚨 Precautions and Safety Guidelines

Paragraph 4 provides a comprehensive list of safety precautions and guidelines for working with electricity, especially at elevated heights or near energized objects. It advises on the use of fall protection, respecting distance from power lines, and the importance of using ground fault circuit interrupters. The paragraph also covers the proper use and inspection of tools and equipment, including cords, plugs, and extension cords. It stresses the importance of using the correct protective equipment and following lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental startup of electrical equipment. The section concludes with a reminder to always follow safety rules and to seek guidance when unsure.

20:04

🛠️ Safe Work Practices with Electricity

The final paragraph reinforces the message of respecting electricity and the importance of safe work practices. It encourages workers to ask for help when unsure and to avoid shortcuts that could compromise safety. The paragraph serves as a reminder to be cautious and knowledgeable when working with electricity, ensuring a safe work environment.

Keywords

💡Electricity

Electricity is the flow of electrons through a conductor, such as a metal wire, which is essential for powering various devices and systems. In the video, electricity is portrayed as both a vital resource and a potential hazard, emphasizing the need for understanding and safe handling. The script mentions that electricity is 'all around us' and is integral to our daily lives, but it also warns of its dangers if not respected and handled properly.

💡Conductor

A conductor is a material that allows the flow of electrical current with minimal resistance. Examples given in the script include electrical power lines, extension cords, power cords, and water. Conductors are crucial for transmitting electricity from its source to where it's needed, but they also pose a risk if not properly managed, as they can facilitate the flow of electricity that could lead to shocks or fires.

💡Insulator

An insulator is a material that resists the flow of electrical current, thus preventing the passage of electricity. The script lists plastic, glass, porcelain, and dry wood as examples of insulators. Insulators play a critical role in electrical safety by preventing unwanted electrical flow and reducing the risk of electrical shock or short circuits.

💡Grounding

Grounding refers to creating a low-resistance path to the earth for electrical current. It is a safety measure to prevent the buildup of voltages that could lead to electrical accidents. The video script explains that grounding is a protective measure, ensuring that in case of a fault, the electrical current is safely diverted to the ground rather than passing through a person or equipment.

💡Amperes

Amperes, or amps, is the unit used to measure the flow of electrical current. The script uses this term to describe how electrical current is quantified, which is important for understanding the capacity and potential risk associated with electrical systems. Knowing the amperage can help in determining the appropriate safety measures and equipment needed.

💡Voltage

Voltage is the pressure that drives electrical current and is measured in volts. It is likened to the pressure in a water system that pushes water through pipes. In the context of the video, understanding voltage is essential for recognizing the potential energy in an electrical system and the associated risks of working with or around it.

💡Transformer

A transformer is a device that increases or decreases voltage in an electrical current. As mentioned in the script, transformers play a role in adjusting the voltage to levels suitable for different applications, from high-voltage transmission lines to low-voltage household use. Transformers are a key component in managing the flow and safety of electrical power.

💡OSHA

OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which sets safety standards for the workplace, including those related to electricity. The script discusses OSHA requirements for grounding and the use of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs), emphasizing the regulatory framework that aims to protect workers from electrical hazards.

💡GFCI

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a safety device that quickly shuts off electricity in the event of a ground fault, helping to prevent electrocution. The script explains that GFCIs are required by OSHA to protect workers on construction sites, highlighting the importance of these devices in electrical safety protocols.

💡Static Electricity

Static electricity refers to the buildup of electric charge on the surface of an object, which can lead to a sudden discharge. The video script warns about the potential dangers of static electricity, such as causing shocks or even explosions in the presence of flammable substances. This keyword underscores the need for precautions even in seemingly benign situations like dry winter air.

💡Electrical Shock

Electrical shock occurs when an electrical current passes through the body, which can result in injury or death. The script discusses various scenarios where shocks can happen and the severity of the outcomes, from minor tingling to severe burns or cardiac arrest. Understanding electrical shock is crucial for recognizing the dangers of working with electricity and the importance of safety measures.

Highlights

Electricity is essential for modern life but can be dangerous if misused.

The video aims to educate workers on safe practices around electricity.

Electricity is compared to water flow, with a source, transport, and pressure.

Conductors and insulators are key concepts in electrical safety.

Grounding is a safety measure to prevent electrical accidents.

Amperes measure electrical current, while voltage is the driving force.

Transformers adjust voltage levels in electrical currents.

Electricity seeks the shortest path to the ground.

OSHA mandates grounding and GFCI requirements for construction safety.

GFCIs prevent electrocution by interrupting current in case of a fault.

The assured equipment grounding conductor program is an alternative to GFCIs.

Electrical equipment must undergo regular testing for safety.

Static electricity can cause shocks and even explosions.

Electrical shocks occur when the body completes an electrical circuit.

Wet conditions increase the risk of electrical shock.

Burns are a common injury from electrical shocks and require immediate medical attention.

Involuntary muscle contraction can lead to prolonged exposure to electricity.

Working at heights near electrical sources increases the risk of falls.

Contacting buried utilities can lead to serious electrical accidents.

Portable generators pose risks if not used correctly.

Proper use of PPE and lockout/tagout procedures are crucial for electrical safety.

Always follow safety protocols and ask for help if unsure about electrical work.

Transcripts

the electricity it's all around us and

our lives depend on it

imagine what the world would be like

without electricity electricity is

important but it can be dangerous

respected and it is our friend misuse it

and it can be deadly the purpose of this

video is to provide workers with a brief

understanding about electricity and how

to work safely with it and around it

this video will discuss the following

introduction to electricity electricity

and how it works

OSHA requirements static electricity the

dangers of working around electricity

safety rules generators and locking and

tagging

[Music]

ever since the first discoveries of

electricity were made in ancient Greece

people have looked for ways to utilize

its power today electricity is an

essential part of our everyday life from

heating and cooling to computers to

tools and more electricity makes our

world possible the electricity is so

much an integral part of everyday life

that many times we tend to overlook its

dangers the purpose of this training

video is to explain how electricity

works it will help you understand the

hazards and dangers associated with

electricity and how you can protect

yourself from injury and even death

this video should not be considered a

substitute for OSes regulations your

employer should provide additional

training as necessary to ensure your

safety

[Music]

to understand electrical safety it is

important that you understand common

terms that are associated with

electricity a conductor is an object or

material that has very little resistance

to the flow of electrical current

electrical power lines extension cords

power cords and water are good

conductors an insulator is an object or

material that resists electrical current

and is not considered a good conductor

of electricity plastic glass porcelain

and dry wood are insulators grounding is

when one creates a low resistance path

to the earth for electrical current

grounding prevents buildup of voltages

that could cause an electrical accident

and is considered a secondary protective

measure amperes is how an electrical

current is measured voltage is the

pressure that drives or pushes

electrical current a transformer is a

device that increases or decreases

voltage in an electrical current now

let's look at how electricity works a

simple analogy will help explain using

electricity is like turning on a water

faucet there is a source of water a way

to transport it and pressure to make it

flow the faucets water source is a water

reservoir or pump station a pump

provides pressure for the water to

travel through the pipes

likewise with electricity there is a

source a way to transport it and

pressure to make it flow the source is a

power generating plant a transformer

provides the pressure or voltage for the

electrical current to travel through the

conductor's or electrical wires the

conductors are insulated to keep the

current contained and moving to its

destination and to help prevent shock

burns and fires electricity travels in

closed circuits normally through a

conductor most electrical conductors are

made of metal wires and cables that are

then wrapped with an insulator

the electricity always attempts to

travel to the ground and looks for the

shortest path electricity will take the

path of least resistance to reach the

ground

[Music]

OSHA has mandated certain requirements

for use in the construction industry two

types of grounding are required by OSHA

grounding does not guarantee that you

will not get a shot or be injured by

electricity but it does reduce the risk

especially when used in combination with

other safety measures the first ground

is called the system or service grounds

a system or service ground is designed

to protect machines tools and insulation

against damage a neutral conductor wire

usually a white or grey wire in low

voltage circuits is grounded at the

transformer and at the service entrance

to the building the second ground is an

equipment ground this grounding helps

protect a worker should a malfunction

cause the tools metal frame to become

energized by providing a second path for

the current to pass through from the

tool or machine to the ground OSHA also

requires employers to provide either

ground fault circuit interrupters

referred to as GFCIs or a scheduled and

recorded assured equipment grounding

conductor program a ground fault circuit

interrupter is a fast-acting circuit

breaker designed to shut off electric

power in the event of a ground fault

within as little as a 40th of a second

to prevent electrocution a ground fault

is a break in the low resistance

grounding path from a tool or electrical

system where the electrical current may

take an alternate path to the ground

through the user a GFCI works by

comparing the amount of current going to

and returning from equipment along the

circuit conductors when the amount

differs by approximately 5 milli amperes

the GFCI interrupts the current shutting

down the equipment the employer is

required to provide approved GFCIs for

all 120 volt single-phase 15 and 20

ampere receptacle outlets on

construction sites that are not a part

of the permanent wiring

of the building or structure and that

are in use by workers if a receptacle or

receptacles are installed as part of the

permanent wiring of the building or

structure and they are used for

temporary electrical power GFCI

protection shall be provided receptacles

on the ends of extension cords are not

part of the permanent wiring and

therefore the cords receptacle must be

of the GFCI type whether or not the

extension cord is plugged in to

permanent wiring GFCIs monitor the

current to the load for leakage to

ground the GFCI must be tested on a

regular basis permanently wired devices

should be tested monthly and portable

type GFCIs before each use ground fault

protection such as GFCIs is required by

OSHA in addition to not as a substitute

for industry standard general grounding

requirements the assured equipment

grounding conductor program is a written

program covering all cord sets

receptacles that are not part of the

permanent wiring of the building or

structure and any piece of equipment

connected by cord and plug that is

available for use or used by workers a

written description of the program must

be kept at the job site outlining

specific procedures for the equipment

inspections tests and tests scheduled

and made available to OSHA and to all

affected persons on demand a competent

person must be designated to implement

the program and be responsible for its

use a competent person is one who is

qualified to identify hazards and

authorized to take prompt corrective

measures cord sets attachment caps plugs

and receptacles and any equipment

connected by cord and plug must be

visually inspected before use each day

damaged equipment must be removed from

use until repaired

OSHA requires two tests to be performed

on electrical equipment a continuity

test and a terminal connection test

tests are required before first use

after any repairs and before placing the

equipment back into service OSHA also

requires the tests to be performed after

any suspected damage and before

returning to use additionally all

equipment must be tested every three

months whether being used or not to

perform a continuity test ensure that

the equipment grounding conductor is

electrically continuous this test can be

performed with a simple continuity

tester such as an ohm meter or a

receptacle tester the terminal

connection test ensures that the

equipment grounding conductor is

connected to its proper terminal this

test can also be performed with a

continuity tester ploy ease must

maintain a written record of the

required tests the written record should

include and identify all equipment that

passed the tests and the last date it

was tested this record should be made

available to all affected persons and

OSHA inspectors upon demand

[Music]

Datak electricity can cause a shock but

is generally not as dangerous as an

electrical shock static electricity can

build up on the surface of an object and

can discharge to a person causing a

shock this occurs more frequently in the

winter when the air is dryer and you

touch a doorknob or other metal object

and receive a shock static electricity

can have more serious consequences

friction can cause a high buildup of

static electricity at a specific spot on

an object if discharged when sufficient

amounts of flammable or combustible

substances are present an explosion can

occur grounding or other measures should

be taken to prevent static electric

buildup never refuel a portable gas can

in the bed of a pickup always place the

can on the ground before refueling

[Music]

electric shock is one of the most common

dangers of working around electricity

shocks occur when the body becomes part

of the electrical current the current

enters the body at one point and leaves

at another seeking the path of least

resistance to the ground shock can occur

when a person contacts both wires of an

energized electric circuit one wire of

an energized circuit and the ground any

metal part that becomes energized while

the person is also in contact with the

ground

[Music]

metallic parts of electrical tools and

machines can become energized when a

break in the insulation of their wiring

occurs a properly installed equipment

grounding conductor provides protection

from shock for a person touching and

energized tool or machine the electrical

shock can result in a slight tingling to

severe burns to immediate cardiac arrest

wet conditions increase the chances of

shock and contribute greatly to

low-voltage electrocutions

[Music]

small amounts of impurities such as salt

solvents and acid in water make it

highly conductive objects that normally

are poor conductors of electricity

become good conductors when wet your

skin and wood are good examples use

extreme caution when working with

electricity in wet or damp environments

should you or a co-worker receive a

shock or other injury seek emergency

medical attention immediately

even if an injury is not apparent burns

are another hazard of working around

electricity burns are the most common

injury received from an electrical shock

there are different types of burns that

electrical shock can cause more than one

type of burn can occur when a worker is

shocked electrical burns cause tissue

damage and require immediate medical

attention arc or flash burns are caused

by an electrical arc or explosion near a

worker thermal contact burns occur when

someone touches the hot surfaces of

overheated electrical conductors

conduits or other energized equipment or

when clothing catches fire from an

electrical arc when a person receives an

electrical shock sometimes the muscles

contract and freeze this is referred to

as involuntary muscle contraction the

muscle contraction causes the person to

be unable to pull away from the circuit

causing prolonged exposure to the

electricity long exposures at low

voltages can be just as dangerous as

short exposures at higher voltages

never touch someone if they are in

contact or frozen to an electrical

circuit turn off the power immediately

or use a stick pole or board made of dry

wood or other non conductive material to

push the person free from the current

excessive electricity flowing through

the body can cause serious damage to

internal organs internal injuries from

electricity may not be immediately

apparent and can be deadly

when working at elevations workers risk

a fall working with or near electrical

lines equipment and other energized

objects at elevations creates an

additional risk factor for a fall

sometimes when a person receives a shock

the muscles will have involuntary

reactions that cause an employee to be

thrown away from the electrical current

this often results in a fall that can

cause a variety of injuries including

bruises fractures and even death always

use extreme caution when working with

energized equipment at elevations and

use appropriate fall protection when

required other dangerous situations can

occur as the result of electrical

accidents these include fires or

explosions in atmospheres containing

flammable gases vapors or combustible

dusts equipment and machinery can also

explode sending fragmented metal in all

directions

[Music]

prior to working and especially digging

contact all utilities for buried line

locations watch for overhead lines and

buried power line indicators observe all

posted warning signs unqualified

employees and mechanical equipment

should remain at least 10 feet away from

overhead lines and always assume lines

are energized use ground fault circuit

interrupters or have an assured

equipment grounding conductor program as

required by OSHA test GFCIs according to

manufacturer's guidelines use double

insulated tools and equipment visually

inspect all cords equipment and tools

before use ground all power supply

systems electrical circuits and

electrical equipment frequently inspect

electrical systems to ensure ground is

continuous never remove ground prongs

from plugs plug connected equipment or

extension cords ground all exposed metal

parts of equipment always use tools

equipment and materials correctly never

use multi receptacle boxes designed to

be mounted by fitting them with a power

cord and placing them on the floor do

not fabricate extension cords out of

romex wire never use equipment outdoors

that is labeled for indoor use only do

not use two prong adapter plugs on three

prong cords and tools always use circuit

breakers or fuses correctly never use a

larger breaker or fuse than required

before use inspect cords or tools for

worn insulation or exposed wires never

remove ground prongs face plates or

insulation from wires normal wear and

tear on extension and flexible cords at

the worksite can loosen or expose wires

creating hazardous conditions

only use factory assembled cord sets

properly rated that are three wire type

and made for hard or extra hard usage

use only cords connection devices and

fittings that are equipped with strain

relief when unplugging cords pull on the

plug not on the cords continually audit

and inspect cords on site remove unsafe

cords immediately

[Music]

portable generators can also be very

dangerous if used incorrectly always

follow manufacturer's safety rules and

guidelines read the instruction manual

prior to use inspect generators before

each use

do not use generators if they are wet or

it is raining or snowing use only

undamaged heavy-duty cords that are

grounded as required use GFCIs according

to manufacturer's guidelines shut down

and let it cool down before refueling

never use a generator indoors

[Music]

your employer must provide you with

appropriate PPE always wear the required

PPE for the job maintain and inspect it

never use damaged PPE that could

compromise your safety PPE that is

required around electricity may include

lineman's gloves worn over leather

gloves hoods arc flash suits matting

blankets line hose and industrial

protective helmets designed to reduce

electric shock

[Music]

the proper use of lockout/tagout

procedures protects you from the

accidental or unexpected startup of

electrical equipment or machines lockout

tagout procedures are very specific and

are beyond the scope of this training

video your company will instruct you on

the need for and correct procedures of

lockout tagout

[Music]

electricity is a mainstay of the

construction industry respect it and you

can rely on it don't take shortcuts

around electricity if you don't

understand don't continue to do the work

stop and ask your supervisor be safe and

smart it's the only way to work