Electrical safety

Scope

OSHA’s electrical requirements generally apply to all workers who are exposed to the particular hazard subject to the requirement. Though, depending on training, voltages, type of work and equipment, and other factors, the requirements vary.

Regulatory citations

• 29 CFR 1910.301 — Introduction [Electrical]
• 29 CFR 1910.302 - 1910.330 — Design safety standards for electrical systems
• 29 CFR 1910.331 - 1910.360 — Safety-related work practices
• 29 CFR 1910.361 - 1910.380 — Safety-related maintenance requirements [Reserved]
• 29 CFR 1910.381 - 1910.398 — Safety requirements for special equipment [Reserved]
• 29 CFR 1910.399 — Definitions applicable to this subpart
• 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S Appendix A — References for further information

Key definitions

• Labeled: Equipment is “labeled” if there is attached to it a label, symbol, or other identifying mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory: (1) That makes periodic inspections of the production of such equipment, and (2) Whose labeling indicates compliance with nationally recognized standards or tests to determine safe use in a specified manner.
• Listed: Equipment is “listed” if it is of a kind mentioned in a list that: (1) Is published by a nationally recognized laboratory that makes periodic inspection of the production of such equipment, and (2) States that such equipment meets nationally recognized standards or has been tested and found safe for use in a specified manner.
• Qualified person: One who has received training in and has demonstrated skills and knowledge in the construction and operation of electric equipment and installations and the hazards involved. Whether an employee is considered to be a “qualified person” will depend upon various circumstances in the workplace. For example, it is possible and, in fact, likely for an individual to be considered “qualified” with regard to certain equipment in the workplace, but “unqualified” as to other equipment. (See 1910.332(b)(3) for training requirements that specifically apply to qualified persons.) An employee who is undergoing on-the-job training and who, in the course of such training, has demonstrated an ability to perform duties safely at their level of training and who is under the direct supervision of a qualified person is considered to be a qualified person for the performance of those duties.
• Readily accessible: Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections, so that those needing ready access do not have to climb over or remove obstacles or to resort to portable ladders, chairs, etc.

Summary of requirements

In general, the standard requires covered employers to:

• Use electrical equipment that is free from recognized hazards and:
  • Is suitable for installation (listed and labeled, for example, with an Underwriter Laboratories (UL) certification).
  • Listed and labeled equipment must be installed and used according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Only use electrical equipment with the following durable markings: manufacturer’s name or trademark, voltage, current, wattage, and/or other necessary information.
• Provide and maintain sufficient access and working space around all electrical equipment. See Tables S-1, S-2, and S-3 in 1910.303.
• Provide ground-fault circuit interrupter protection (GFCI) for personal for all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles installed in bathrooms or rooftops.
• Provide GFCIs when performing construction-like activities (on buildings, structures, or equipment) involving temporary wiring on all outlets not part of the permanent wiring.
• Implement an assured equipment grounding conductor program (when GFCIs are not available for receptacles other than 125-volt, single-phase, 15-, 20-, and 30-ampere receptacles).
• Understand temporary electrical power and lighting installations (600 volts or less) can only be used for a limited number of activities.
• Know that flexible cords and cables can only be used in limited circumstances.
• Understand the difference between qualified and unqualified employees regarding electrical safety-related work practices.
• Follow the training requirements in 1910.332.
• Know the lockout and tagging requirements for deenergized circuits.
• Understand how to protect employees from electric shock and arc flash and blast.