Electrical Awareness and Safety on Job Sites

Introduction

Electricity is essential in daily life, especially on job sites.
Identifying and mitigating electrical hazards is crucial for safety.
All hazards require respect and should be addressed during hazard assessments.
Proper training and experience are necessary for working with electrical equipment.

Electric Shock:
- Occurs when contacting exposed energized electrical equipment.
- Effects range from tingling to severe injuries or death.
- Can cause muscle contractions, respiratory paralysis, burns, and falls.
Arc Flash:
- Results from electrical arcing faults.
- Can cause explosions with molten metal, shrapnel, and toxic gases.
Immediate medical attention is necessary for any electrical accident.

Conduct field level hazard assessments.
Identify potential hazards through inspection (look, listen, smell).
Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs):
- Necessary in wet or exterior locations.
- Test GFCIs before use to ensure functionality.
- Remove defective GFCIs from service.
Ensure adequate lighting in work areas.
De-energizing Equipment:
- Preferred method for reducing electrical shock risk.
- Implement a lockout/tagout system, never remove another's lock.
Inspect electrical cords and tools for damage.

Know fire extinguisher locations, ensure they are ABC type (safe for electrical fires).
Comply with site-specific policies and permits for hot work.
Be aware of overhead hazards like power lines.
Ensure proper safety distances from high voltage sources.
Look for abnormal conditions (e.g. exposed wiring, sparks).

Common PPE includes:
- Fire-resistant clothing
- Static dissipative footwear
- Class C and G headwear
- Safety glasses and work gloves
For work around energized equipment:
- CSA standard Z462 training
- Specialized PPE like arc flash clothing, face shields, insulated gloves