Construction Safety: Electrical Safety

Summary

Electrical hazards on construction sites pose significant risks, from contact with power lines to improper grounding and tool usage. Common injuries include burns, electrocution, and electrical shock. To prevent accidents, workers must follow strict safety protocols, including using GFCI protection, inspecting equipment regularly, and adhering to lockout/tagout procedures. Special attention should be paid to overhead and buried power lines, grounding practices, and proper use of tools. Awareness and safety measures are critical to avoiding life-altering injuries and fatalities.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always assume overhead power lines are energized and maintain at least 10 feet clearance to avoid fatal accidents.
• 😀 Contact with overhead or buried power lines is extremely dangerous and often fatal, especially when using equipment like cranes or aerial lifts.
• 😀 Inspect the worksite for both overhead and buried power lines before starting any work, and call 811 Miss Utility to locate underground utilities.
• 😀 Ground fault protection (GFCI) is essential on construction sites to prevent electrocution, burns, and other electrical injuries.
• 😀 Regularly inspect all electrical tools and equipment for wear and tear, and remove any that are damaged or unsafe from service.
• 😀 Never use tools with exposed wires, damaged insulation, or modified equipment that could lead to electrical hazards.
• 😀 Only work on energized electrical circuits if absolutely necessary, and follow lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental startups.
• 😀 Electrical injuries can result in burns, electrocution, falls, and electric shocks. Always prioritize safety to minimize these risks.
• 😀 Proper use of extension cords and equipment is critical—use only OSHA-approved tools and ensure they meet manufacturer specifications.
• 😀 In case of electrical work near live circuits, conduct an electrical hazard analysis and follow safety practices outlined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 70E).

Q & A

Why are electrical hazards particularly dangerous in construction?

Electrical hazards in construction are especially dangerous because electricity is an unseen hazard, and many workers are unaware of the risks involved. Additionally, most electrical incidents can lead to life-altering or fatal injuries.

What are the most common causes of electrical incidents and injuries on construction sites?

The most common causes include contact with overhead or buried powerlines, lack of or improper ground fault protection, missing or improper grounding paths, improper use of extension cords and equipment, and working on energized electrical circuits.

What are the main types of electrical injuries?

The main types of electrical injuries are burns, electrocution (which is always fatal), falls resulting from contact with electrical energy, and electric shock.

Why are overhead or buried powerlines particularly hazardous?

Overhead or buried powerlines are hazardous because they carry high voltage and are often uninsulated. Contact with these powerlines is typically fatal.

What should workers do to avoid contact with overhead or buried powerlines?

Workers should conduct a visual survey of the worksite, look for overhead powerlines or buried utilities, and call 8-1-1 to identify the exact location of underground utilities. They must always maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from overhead powerlines.

What safety measures should be in place for electrical outlets and breaker boxes?

Receptacle and switch covers must always be installed when there is live power. Missing switch plates or covers around outlets and breaker boxes can expose workers to live electrical parts and increase the risk of injury.

What is Ground Fault Circuit Interruption (GFCI) protection and why is it important?

GFCI protection is designed to prevent electrical shocks by interrupting the electrical current if there is a fault. It is essential on construction sites, especially for equipment using 120 volts, to prevent electrical burns, electrocution, or fires caused by faulty wiring or equipment.

What are some common misuse practices of electrical equipment on construction sites?

Misuse includes using electrical cords or tools with damaged insulation, using modified or unapproved equipment, using indoor equipment outdoors, and improperly using extension cords or tools designed for different service levels.

How should electrical tools and equipment be inspected before use?

Electrical tools and equipment should be inspected for damaged cords, missing ground pins, and damaged or cracked faces. Any tool with these defects should be removed from service to prevent accidents.

What steps should be taken before working on energized electrical circuits?

Before working on energized circuits, the power must be shut off, and a lockout/tagout system should be in place to prevent accidental startup of electrical equipment. If work must be performed on live equipment, an electrical hazard analysis should be conducted, and safety-related work practices outlined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) must be followed.