Avoiding Electrocution on Construction Sites

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) list four main construction site accidents as : 
Falls
Struck by object
Caught in or between collapsing structures
Electrocutions

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Of these four, electrocutions are among the most common to occur on construction sites. This might be due to working with poor electrical equipment, working and using electrical equipment under bad/wet weather that are prevalent.Despite this, construction worksite injuries due to electrocutions can be easily avoided.

Injuries from electrocution have been categorized by the acronym “be safe”
B – Burns
E – Electrocution
S – Shock
A – Arc Flash/Arc Blast
F – Fire
E – Explosions


Electrical accidents that usually occur on the sites are often termed as electrical shocks by the victims.
What causes electrical shock? Shock happens when a body completes an electrical circuit. For example, a worker who allows an aluminum ladder to brush against power lines will cause electricity to enter the body and exit through a ground path.  In incidents reporting,we classify all shocks as electrocution. This is because no magnitude of electrical power is underestimated.Any magnitude of electrical shock can cause death.It is a matter of several factors such as duration and magnitude.Death from electrocution is often caused by the stoppage of the heart. The amount of voltage that causes death varies from case to case. Most electrical circuits used in workplace labor carry between 15 to 20 amperes of current, which is 300 times the amount needed to cause death.


The aim of the employer should be the protection of workers on the construction site.
There are  three common sources of electrical injuries. Often It’s either improper use of cords (extension or flexible), contact with overhead power lines, or contact with other energized sources.
It is advisable that tools, equipment, and wiring  being  maintained properly . Some workers who use  electrical equipment do not have the right required training.
It is imperative for site bosses and company owners to make sure all workers and contractors are properly trained in the use of electrical equipment and are aware of all safety measures. Equipment should be kept in proper working order and repair. It’s less expensive in the long run to purchase new equipment than to pay out increased worker’s compensation premiums. Make sure everything is properly powered and grounded, whether it’s permanent or temporary equipment.
 

Most accidents in the workplace can be prevented by being careful, being aware, and not cutting corners. Construction work of all types is among the most dangerous in the country.It is imperative that every one undertaking electrical maintenance job is responsible for ensuring that the power source is cut out and he/she is the only commander of the power source.
Tags should also be applied to any restricted electrical source or equipment. The tag must clearly explain expected procedures and who has the authority to remove the tag to access the energy source of equipment.

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All electrical equipment should be properly grounded.All tools and equipment should be inspected for use, as well as power or extension cords. Wear-and-tear happens, but remove them from service when they’re damaged. If a plug is missing a ground pin, for example, do not wait to replace it.


Do not work with electrical equipment around wet areas or if that equipment is wet.
When using live electrical circuits or parts, keep metal objects away from contact. Outside metal can short out the equipment or even cause an explosion. If possible, use non-conductive tools.


Be aware of all power lines and maintain a safe distance from them. Do not store tools or equipment near power lines or sources.


Any electrical equipment that isn’t in use or being serviced should be unplugged.
Use and store equipment properly. Don’t yank on cords, switch off tools before unplugging them, store in dry places, report damaged equipment immediately, etc. Deplete built-up energy by grounding or bleeding.
 

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