Electrical Shock: Fatal Fact #49

1. Train employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions which apply to the work environment [28 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)].
2. Avoid operating equipment within ten feet of electrical distribution or transmission lines rated 50 kV or less unless the line has been de-energized and visually grounded, or unless insulating barriers -- not part of or attached to the equipment -- are provided [29 CFR 1926.600(a)(6)].

Inspection Results

OSHA cited the employer for not instructing each employee to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions which apply to the work and work areas. Employer was also cited for operating equipment within ten feet of an energized electrical, ungrounded transmission lines rated 50 kV or less and not erecting insulating barriers.

Sources of Help

• OSHA General Industry Standards [CFR parts 1900-1910] and OSHA Construction Standards [CFR Part 1926] which together include all OSHA job safety and health rules and regulations covering construction.
• OSHA-funded free consultation services listed in telephone directories under U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where states administer their own OSHA programs.
• OSHA Safety and Health Training Guidelines for Construction (Available from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161; 703/487-4650; Order No. PB-239-312/AS): a set of 15 guidelines to help construction employers establish a training program in the safe use of equipment, tools, and machinery on the job.
• Courses in construction safety are offered by the OSHA Training Institute, 1555 Times Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018, 312/297-4810.
• Electrical Standards for Construction (OSHA 3097) which highlights electrical safety rules for construction.
• Ground-Fault Protection on Construction Sites (OSHA 3007) which explains ways to guard against electrical shock on the construction site through use of ground-fault circuit interrupters.