Safe Work Procedure: Installing a New Electrical Breaker

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: [DATE] Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the steps and safety precautions for installing a new electrical breaker in [Specify the type of electrical panel or system]. It applies to all workers involved in the installation process. This procedure covers de-energizing the circuit, removing the old breaker, installing the new breaker, and re-energizing the circuit. This SWP does not cover troubleshooting complex electrical issues or working on high-voltage systems. Consult the electrical code and manufacturer's instructions for specific requirements.

2. Definitions

Breaker: A switch that automatically stops the flow of electric current in a circuit as a safety measure [1].

Electrical Panel: A metal box that houses circuit breakers, which protect electrical circuits in a building.

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): A safety procedure used to ensure that dangerous machines are properly shut off and not able to be started up again prior to the completion of maintenance or servicing work.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all workers are trained and competent to perform the task.
Provide the necessary tools and equipment in good working condition.
Conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss the SWP and potential hazards.
Monitor the work to ensure compliance with safety procedures.

3.2 Workers

Follow the steps outlined in this SWP.
Use the correct PPE and tools for the job.
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor.
Participate in the pre-job briefing.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of the SWP.
Provide guidance on safety regulations and best practices.
Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Electrical shock	Electrocution, burns	De-energize the circuit, use lockout/tagout procedures, wear appropriate PPE (insulated gloves, safety glasses), use insulated tools. [2]
Arc flash	Burns, eye injury	Wear appropriate PPE (arc-rated clothing, face shield), maintain safe distance from live parts.
Falls	Injury	Use ladders safely, maintain three points of contact, ensure stable footing.
Cuts and abrasions	Injury	Wear gloves, use caution when handling tools and equipment.
Fire	Burns, property damage	Ensure proper wiring and connections, use properly rated breakers.
Working in water	Rust on breaker and damage to sealed portions 2, 3, 4, 10	Do not operate the breaker in water 2, 3, 4, 10

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use proper PPE.

Insulated Gloves - Protects hands from electrical shock. Must be inspected before each use for damage (holes, tears). Replace if damaged.
Safety Glasses - Protects eyes from debris and arc flash.
Arc-Rated Clothing - Protects body from burns in case of arc flash. Select appropriate rating for the task.
Hard Hat - Protects head from falling objects.
Safety Boots - Protects feet from electrical hazards and falling objects.

Inspect all PPE before use for damage. Replace damaged PPE immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

Always use proper equipment and tools.

Insulated Screwdrivers - Used for safely tightening and loosening screws on electrical components.
Insulated Pliers - Used for cutting and bending wires.
Voltage Tester - Used to verify that the circuit is de-energized.
Lockout/Tagout Devices - Used to secure the circuit breaker in the OFF position.
Ladder - Used to access electrical panels at height.

Inspect all tools and equipment before use for damage. Use the right tool for the job.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained and qualified to work on electrical systems.
Training must include lockout/tagout procedures, electrical safety, and the use of PPE.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a pre-job briefing with all workers involved.
Discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and control measures.
Review the SWP and answer any questions.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean, dry, and well-lit.
Identify and mark any potential hazards in the area.
Barricade the work area to prevent unauthorized access.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: De-energize the Circuit

Identify the circuit breaker that needs to be replaced.
Turn off the circuit breaker and verify that the equipment is de-energized using a voltage tester.
Ensure the voltage tester is functioning correctly before use.
Double-check that the correct circuit is de-energized.

Step 2: Lockout/Tagout

Apply a lockout device to the circuit breaker to prevent it from being accidentally turned on.
Attach a tag to the lockout device indicating that the circuit is being worked on and should not be energized.
Only authorized personnel should apply and remove lockout/tagout devices.
Follow the company's lockout/tagout procedures.

Step 3: Remove the Old Breaker

Loosen the screws or clips holding the old breaker in place.
Carefully remove the breaker from the electrical panel.
Use insulated tools to avoid electrical shock.
Inspect the wiring for any damage.

Step 4: Install the New Breaker

Ensure the new breaker is the correct type and rating for the circuit.
Carefully install the new breaker into the electrical panel.
Tighten the screws or clips to secure the breaker in place.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation.
Ensure the breaker is properly seated in the panel.

Step 5: Re-energize the Circuit

Remove the lockout/tagout devices.
Turn on the circuit breaker.
Verify that the equipment is functioning properly.
Ensure all workers are clear of the area before re-energizing the circuit.
Monitor the equipment for any signs of malfunction.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Always de-energize the circuit before working on it. - This prevents electrical shock.
Use lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental re-energization. - This ensures the circuit remains de-energized while work is being performed.
Wear appropriate PPE, including insulated gloves and safety glasses. - This protects against electrical shock, arc flash, and other hazards.
Use insulated tools. - This reduces the risk of electrical shock.
Inspect all tools and equipment before use. - This ensures they are in good working condition.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In case of an emergency, immediately stop work and assess the situation.
Evacuate the area if necessary.
Call for emergency assistance (911) if required.
Provide first aid to any injured workers.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Electrical Shock: Turn off the power source, if safe to do so. Use a non-conductive object to separate the person from the electrical source. Call for medical assistance.
Fire: Activate the fire alarm and evacuate the area. Use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire, if safe to do so.
Injury: Provide first aid and call for medical assistance.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Services: 911
[Company Safety Officer]: [PHONE NUMBER]
[Project Manager]: [PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report any incidents, near-misses, or hazards to the supervisor immediately. All incidents will be investigated to determine the root cause and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304) [2]
[Company Electrical Safety Program]
[Manufacturer's Instructions for Breaker Installation]

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]