Poage on OOH electrical hazards

By Jim Poage, Safety Director, Formetco

May is National Electrical Safety month.  Each year around 300 people are killed in the workplace from electrical hazards, and over 800 are killed at home due to a combination of electrical hazards and fires started from faulty electrical devices.  Electrical hazards are the sixth leading cause for fatalities in the workplace.

At work, many people are not aware that overhead transmission lines are energized and are not insulated.  That is why only non-conductive ladders and tools should be used anytime there is an electrical hazard nearby.  Flash Arc is also a concern in the workplace.  If a worker is exposed to a potential for Flash Arc, the employer must have a program in place.  The guide for this exposure is the National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 70E standard.

At home, it is important to realize that the only electrical safety device that directly protects users is the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter or GFCI.  Fuses and breakers are designed to prevent an overload on the system and reduce fire hazards or damage to wiring.  If frequent breaker tripping occurs, or if fuses regularly blow out, it could be an indication of an electrical problem that needs to be evaluated by a professional electrician.  Never replace a breaker with one of higher amperage to prevent it from tripping and never replace a breaker with a penny or copper jumper to prevent it from blowing.  It could cause a fire.

GFCIs should be “exercised” occasionally by hitting the “test” button, which should stop the electricity flowing from the plug.  Once the “test” is confirmed to be disarming the plug, the “reset” can be pressed to put the plug back into normal use.  If for some reason the “test” does not turn off the electricity to the plug being “exercised” contact and electrician immediately to find out why the device is not working.

 

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