Electrical Hazards: Invisible but Deadly
Electrocution is one of OSHA's "Fatal Four" in construction, causing approximately 8% of construction worker deaths annually.
OSHA Electrical Standards for Construction
29 CFR 1926 Subpart K
The primary electrical standard covers:
- Installation safety requirements
- Safety-related work practices
- Maintenance and environmental considerations
- Safety requirements for special equipment
Required Electrical Safety Plan Elements
1. Hazard Assessment
Identify all electrical hazards:
- Overhead power lines: Location, voltage, clearance distances
- Underground utilities: Marked and protected
- Temporary wiring: GFCI protection, proper installation
- Tools and equipment: Condition, grounding, ratings
- Energized work: When and how it's performed
2. Approach Distances
Minimum safe distances from energized parts:
| Voltage Range | Limited Approach | Restricted Approach |
|---|---|---|
| 50-300V | 10 ft | 3 ft 6 in |
| 301-750V | 10 ft | 3 ft 6 in |
| 751-15kV | 10 ft | 2 ft 2 in |
| 15.1-36kV | 10 ft | 2 ft 7 in |
3. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures
For any work on electrical systems:
- Energy source identification
- Notification procedures
- Lockout device application
- Verification of de-energization
- Release procedures
4. Ground-Fault Protection
GFCI requirements for construction:
- All 120V, 15-20A outlets
- Temporary wiring
- Portable equipment
- Regular testing schedule
5. PPE Requirements
Electrical PPE as required:
- Voltage-rated gloves (with leather protectors)
- Safety glasses with side shields
- Flame-resistant clothing
- Insulated tools
- Face shields for arc flash exposure
Power Line Safety
Minimum Clearance Distances
| Voltage | Equipment Clearance | Personnel Clearance |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 50kV | 10 ft | 10 ft |
| 50-200kV | 15 ft | 10 ft |
| 200-350kV | 20 ft | 10 ft |
| 350-500kV | 25 ft | 10 ft |
Safety Measures Near Power Lines
- Use spotters for equipment operation
- Install insulated barriers
- Request utility de-energization
- Conduct pre-work briefings
Qualified Person Requirements
Electrical work restrictions:
- Only qualified persons may work on energized electrical equipment
- Qualification requires specific training
- Documentation must be maintained
Training Requirements
- Recognition of electrical hazards
- Procedures for safe work
- Use of PPE
- Emergency response
Emergency Procedures
Electrical Contact Response
- Do NOT touch the victim if still in contact
- De-energize the source if possible
- Call 911 immediately
- Begin CPR if trained and victim is unresponsive
- Treat for shock and burns
AED Availability
- Location documented in safety plan
- Regular inspection and maintenance
- Trained personnel identified
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