NECA and Electrical Training ALLIANCE Develop Energized Work Safety Talk for Use During Safe + Sound Week
OSHA Safe and Sound Week is August 12-18, 2019
Best Practice on Energized Work – Safety Talk
Some of the things that must be considered to determine if “performing energized work” is justified and in compliance with OSHA and/or NFPA 70E Standard:
- Only qualified persons can perform energized work.
- The “energized work” must be justified in accordance with OSHA and NFPA 70E rules.
- The worker must be a “qualified person” in accordance with OSHA and NFPA 70E.
- The 70E training to become a “qualified person” is documented by the contractor (employer) when proficiency is demonstrated.
- A shock and arc-flash risk assessment has been completed and is used by the qualified person when application of the Hierarchy of Risk Control Methods has determined that the additional protective measures includes the use of PPE.
- Personal Protective Equipment (such as rubber insulating gloves and leather protectors, arc-rated garments and arc-rated face shields) and other protective equipment (such as insulated tools) have been provided by the contractor (employer).
- The contractor (employer) has documented that the employee has demonstrated proficiency in selecting an appropriate test instrument, how to use it to verify the absence of voltage and understands all limitations of each test instrument.
- The test equipment used (such as a voltage tester), has an adequate rating (such as voltage and category rating).
- Performing energized work includes performing tasks such as testing, troubleshooting, and voltage measuring on electrical equipment operating at voltages equal to or greater than 50 volts.
- Conductors and parts of electrical equipment that have been deenergized but have not been locked out and tagged must be treated as energized parts.
It is essential that all involved always strive to eliminate the hazard and establish an electrically safe work condition as the first choice. Use of Personal Protective Equipment is the last in the hierarchy of risk control methods when justified energized work must be performed by a qualified (trained) person. Consult NFPA 70E in its entirety.'
Download the Safety Talk Download the PPT
Unnecessary Risks Jobsite Poster for Member Use in Advance of Safe + Sound Week
DON'T TAKE UNNECESSARY RISKS!
NECA has created “Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks” the first in a series of jobsite safety posters for NECA member-contractors to print and utilize in their offices and on the job.
These posters are being developed in an effort to remind members and their staff to stay safe in the workplace by not taking unnecessary risks. Never work on energized circuits, conductors or equipment and always follow NFPA 70E and OSHA regulations. Understand the risks and stay safe!
Click here to download the poster.