Electricity is among the most serious workplace hazards, exposing workers to the risk of electric shock, electrocution, burns, fires, and explosions. Of all the occupational fatalities that occurred from 2003-2010, more than 1,700 of those were due to contact with electric current, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International. The construction industry had the highest number of electrical fatalities (849), and just five occupations in the construction trades — electricians, construction laborers, roofers, painters, and carpenters — experienced more than 32 percent of all electrical fatalities.
OSHA is revising the construction standard for electric power line work and implementing new or revised safety requirements to better protect workers. The final rule became effective July 10, 2014. Here are some examples from OSHA of the types of injuries and fatalities the standard will prevent:
- As an electric utility worker was installing replacement batteries in a substation, an electrical fault occurred when a battery cable fell on the terminals of one of the installed batteries. The ensuing electric arc severely burned and melted his rubber insulating gloves. He sustained second- and third-degree burns, requiring several surgeries, as well as multi-day hospitalization.
- A power line worker descending a utility pole fell about 10 meters to the ground when his pole climbers cut out. He sustained fractured ribs, fractured pelvis, fractured legs, and internal injuries and was hospitalized for 14 days.
- While a power line worker was moving his aerial lift platform away from a utility pole after completing repairs, a tractor-trailer struck the aerial lift truck, ejecting the worker from the platform. He died of injuries sustained in the fall.
Most fatalities from electrical accidents at work could be easily avoided with the right safety training. Qualified workers must be trained to recognize and avoid or control electrical hazards on a work site. For instance:
- Training to teach workers — such as tree-trimmers who are clearing electrical lines — to identify exposed live parts and to determine the voltage on those parts
- Training in minimum approach distances and how to maintain them
- Training on fall protection systems and how to use them properly
Of course, different situations and jobs require particular precautions which may include electrical protective equipment, de-energizing and reenergizing lines and equipment, and protective grounding, to name a few.
For more information on electrical safety and compliance deadlines for OSHA’s final rule, contact Diversified Safety Services today.
