Despite the overall decrease in electrical workplace fatalities, construction workers remain the most at risk of death from electrical accidents. In 2016, 53% of all fatal electrical injuries were in the construction industry, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Employers can improve their bottom line by implementing prevention strategies to reduce chances of electrical injuries and create a safer, more efficient jobsite.
The three types of electrical injuries that occur the most often on construction jobsites are:
The high pressure to meet deadlines can compromise safety where workers may take hazardous shortcuts, such as not de-energizing electrical circuits to avoid downtime in other areas. Electrocution is the most prevalent and is among the construction focus four. It’s because of this that OSHA created the acronym BE SAFE to help workers better recognize, avoid and protect against common electrical hazards.
Note that each of these hazards are equally important:
B = Burns are the most common shock-related injury. There are three various types of burns from electricity: electrical, arc/flash or thermal contact.
E = Electrocution is the most fatal electrical hazard. Humans are exposed to a deadly amount of electrical energy.
S = Shock is a reflex response to the passage of electric current though the body. Shocks from defective grounding methods are common.
A = Arc flash/Blast is a sudden release of electrical energy in the air when there is a high-voltage gap and a breakdown between conductors. Temperatures have been recorded as high as 35,000 °F.
F = Fire. Problems with fixed wiring like faulty electrical outlets and old wiring cause most electrical distribution fires; problems with cords, plugs, receptacles and switches are also a large cause.
E = Explosions. Electricity ignites a mixture of explosive material in the air.
Electrical safety issues are consistently on OSHA’s top 10 most cited violations list, specifically wiring methods, lockout/tagout and general electrical requirements.
Having multiple contractors working on construction sites increases the risk of accidents and deaths. Apply these key electrical safety reminders to reduce risk on the jobsite:
Overall, safe work practices, insulation, grounding, guarding and protective devices can reduce or eliminate risk of electrical accidents. For more details on regulations and requirements, refer to OSHA electrical construction regulations.
There are certain areas on construction sites that have higher chances for electrical-related injuries to occur. Note the following high-risk areas and what to do to mitigate hazards:
Improve Recognition of Hazards with Signs and Visuals
Warning signs, markings and tags are essential to alert workers and electricians to the presence of electrical hazards. Identify all electrical energy sources and clearly mark them with warnings. Mark entrances to rooms and other guarded locations that contain exposed live parts with warning signs to prohibit unqualified workers from entering. Communicate lockout/tagout procedures and warnings on all low and high voltage fuse boxes and control panels.
Custom signs can address site-specific hazards and procedures. Utilize symbols and other visuals that will better resonate with workers and improve recognition of information.
Employers and workers must be diligent and have full buy-in with their company’s electrical safety program to successfully reduce electrical injuries on the jobsite.
Written by {{author.AuthorName}} - {{author.AuthorPosition}}, {{author.Company}} {{author.Company}} Contact Info: {{author.OfficePhone}} , {{author.EmailAddress}}
{{comment.Text}}