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ez Explanations

Electric wiring

RegSenseezExplanationSafety & HealthElectrical SafetyConstruction SafetyGeneral Industry SafetyElectrical SafetyBest ResultsOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), DOLNational Fire Protection Association (NFPA)EnglishFocus AreaUSA

Electricity is everywhere. It is so common and relied upon for so many tasks people tend to give it about as much thought as they do breathing. Clearly, electricity makes our lives and our work easier. But, if not used correctly and carefully, electricity can shock, burn, and even kill in an instant.

The serious risks of electrical shock and injury are present in every workplace: hundreds of workers are killed every year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports roughly three percent of work-related deaths are caused by employees being electrocuted.

In addition, thousands of employees suffer electrically-related injuries in the workplace each year. What makes it even more unfortunate is most of these accidents could have been avoided.

Often, the victim is not someone whose job it is to install or repair electrical equipment. It’s the employee who didn’t realize that a worn electrical cord needed replacement, or that special protective equipment was needed to work in the vicinity of exposed live parts or overhead lines.

Scope

All employees with potential exposure to electrical hazards.

Regulatory citations

In general, OSHA’s electrical standards are based on the National Fire Protection Association’s Standard (NFPA) 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety Requirements in the Workplace, and in turn, from the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Key definitions

  • Electrocution: Fatality caused by an electric shock.
  • Live parts: Energized conductive components.
  • Shock: A sudden discharge of electricity through the body.

Summary of requirements

OSHA requires employers to provide employees with a workplace that is free of hazards. The steps to do so can include:

  • Performing hazard assessments to identify electrical problem areas,
  • Taking corrective actions, and
  • Providing workers with appropriate training and personal protective equipment.
['Electrical Safety']
['Electrical Safety']
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