Creating safe and efficient electrical working conditions
The following principles, when implemented, can help ensure safer work places and create greater uptime.
Identify and minimize the hazards in electrical systems For new systems, designers should address minimizing hazards in the electrical system design stage. For existing systems, implement upgrades or retrofits that reduce the hazards.
Plan every job Most incidents occur when something unexpected happens. Take time to prepare a plan that considers all possible eventualities. Before you start the job, think about each step and try to visualize the potential for a hazard or failure. If needed, conduct a flash hazard and shock hazard analysis. NFPA 70E 110.8(B)(1)(a) & (b) have requirements for these analyses.
If possible, put the circuit or
equipment in an electrically safe work condition An electrically safe work condition is an important principle. If the industry only worked on equipment or circuits that are in an electrically safe work condition, there would be far fewer injuries and deaths of electrical origin and much greater periods of uptime.
Anticipate unexpected results When thinking about a job, break each task into small steps. Understand that plans can change, so be ready to modify the plan if necessary. Make sure that everyone involved in the job is working according to the same plan. Whenever work is required near an electrical hazard, a written plan is needed to outline the scope of a job.
Identify and minimize the hazards for each job After your work plan is complete, review each step. Consider that the equipment might be perfectly safe under normal conditions and very unsafe when systems are not working properly. Also, consider potential hazards that might be unrelated to electrical energy. If it is impossible to establish an electrically safe work condition, be sure to shut down every possible energy source. Understand that sometimes a de-energized circuit can become re-energized and do something to lessen the risk.
Assess people's abilities Make sure that any person assigned to tasks associated with electrical energy is qualified and trained for the job at hand. He or she must be able to identify electrical hazards, avoid exposure to those hazards and understand the potential results of all action taken. Don't forget to include yourself in this analysis. And, don't forget to establish and maintain training records.
Use the right tools for the job Use the appropriate tools for the job at hand, keeping them accessible and in good working condition. Using a screwdriver for a job that requires a fuse puller is an invitation to an incident. Unless the component is listed for the purpose, fuses must never be installed or removed when the circuit is energized.
Isolate the equipment
The best way to avoid an incident is to reduce exposure to hazards. Keep doors closed. Keep barricades in place. Install temporary, voltage-rated blankets covering exposed live parts.
Protect the person Use appropriate PPE for the job. This equipment might include safety glasses or a face shield, head protection, voltage-rated gloves, safety belts and harness, or flame-resistant clothing.
Inspect/evaluate the electrical equipment Be sure the equipment is suitable for its use, where it is applied, and in good working condition.
Maintain the electrical equipment's
insulation and enclosure integrity As an example, if repairs or changes must be made, use components meeting the original specifications.
Audit these principles A principle is something you believe in enough to be willing to do. Are you willing to take the steps necessary to avoid injury and increase uptime? Review these principles often. Add to them when necessary.
Cooper Bussman, a division of Cooper Industries, manufactures and markets circuit protection products for the electrical, electronic and automotive industries, domestically and internationally. Headquartered in St. Louis, Bussman has manufacturing facilities in three domestic and six international locations and approximately 3,000 team members worldwide. Visit www.bussmann.com.
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