RECOGNIZING HAZARDS IN ELECTRICAL WORKS BASIC INFORMATION AND TUTORIALS

The first step is to recognize and identify the existing and potential hazards associated with the work you need to perform. A task and hazard analysis and pre-job briefing are two of the tools you can utilize to ascertain the risks involved in your work for the day.

It’s a good idea to include everyone who will be involved in the task or associated work to discuss and plan for the hazards. Sometimes a coworker will think of hazards that you have overlooked, and it will ensure that everyone involved will be on the same page.

Careful planning of safety procedures reduces the risk of injury. Determine whether everyone has been trained for the job they need to do that day. Do you need to present a safety training focused on specific risks that are present today?

Decisions to lockout and tagout circuits and equipment and any other action plans should be made part of recognizing hazards. Here are some other topics to address:

n Is the existing wiring inadequate?
n Is there any potential for overloading circuits?
n Are there any exposed electrical parts?
n Will you be working around overhead power lines?
n Does any of the wiring have damaged insulation that will produce a shock?
n Are there any electrical systems or tools on the site that are not grounded or double insulated?
n Have you checked the condition of any power tools that will be used to confirm that they are not damaged and that all guards are in place?
n What PPE is required for the tasks to be performed?
n Have you reviewed the MSDS for any chemicals present on the site or that will be used that could be harmful?
n Will any work need to be performed from ladders or scaffolding and are these in good condition and set-up properly? Is there any chance of ladders coming in contact with energized circuits?
n Are the working conditions or equipment likely to be damp or wet or affected by humidity?