Safe Work Procedure: Electrical Work in Commercial Settings

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

1. Scope

This procedure covers the safe work practices for electrical work in commercial settings, including installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems and equipment. It applies to all employees and contractors working with or around electrical systems in commercial buildings.

This procedure is applicable to environments such as office buildings, retail spaces, and other commercial facilities. It does not cover residential or industrial electrical work.

Related procedures include lockout/tagout procedures and emergency response plans.

2. Definitions

Electrical System
A network of electrical components used to supply, transfer, and use electric power.

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 repair work.

Qualified Person
An individual who has received training in and has demonstrated skills and knowledge in the construction and operation of electrical equipment and installations and the hazards involved.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are trained and competent in electrical safety.
Conduct regular safety audits and inspections.
Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and standards.

3.2 Workers

Follow all safety procedures and use PPE as required.
Report any unsafe conditions or incidents immediately.
Participate in safety training and meetings.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Monitor compliance with safety procedures.
Assist in the investigation of incidents and near misses.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Electrical shock	Injury or fatality	Use of insulated tools and PPE, proper grounding of equipment [1]
Arc flash	Burns, injury	Maintain safe distance, use of arc-rated PPE [1]
Fire	Property damage, injury	Regular inspection and maintenance of electrical systems [1]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential to protect workers from electrical hazards.

Insulated gloves - Protects against electrical shock.
Arc-rated clothing - Protects against arc flash.
Safety glasses - Protects eyes from flying debris.
Hard hat - Protects head from impact and electrical hazards.
Safety boots - Provides protection from electrical shock and physical hazards.

Inspect PPE before use and replace any damaged items immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safety.

Insulated tools - Prevents electrical shock.
Voltage testers - Used to verify de-energization.
Lockout/tagout devices - Ensures equipment remains de-energized.
Multimeter - Measures electrical properties safely.
Circuit tracers - Identifies circuit paths and faults.

Inspect tools regularly and maintain them according to manufacturer guidelines.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained in electrical safety, lockout/tagout procedures, and emergency response.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and safety measures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean, dry, and free of hazards. Verify that all necessary safety equipment is available and in good condition.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Preparation

Ensure all necessary permits are obtained and reviewed.

Verify training and competency of all personnel.
Conduct a risk assessment.
Gather and inspect all required tools and PPE.

Step 2: De-energization

Ensure all electrical systems are de-energized before work begins.

Follow lockout/tagout procedures.
Use voltage testers to confirm de-energization.
Apply lockout/tagout devices.

Step 3: Execution

Perform the electrical work as planned.

Use insulated tools and wear appropriate PPE.
Maintain a safe distance from live parts.
Follow all safety protocols and procedures.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Always assume circuits are live until verified otherwise.
Use lockout/tagout procedures to ensure de-energization.
Maintain a safe distance from live electrical parts.
Use appropriate PPE for the task.
Regularly inspect and maintain tools and equipment.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In case of an emergency, stop work immediately and follow emergency response procedures.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Electrical Shock - Call emergency services and provide first aid.
Arc Flash - Evacuate the area and call emergency services.
Fire - Use a fire extinguisher if safe to do so and call emergency services.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards immediately. Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause and prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

WAC 296-24-957 Electrical Safety Standards [1]
OR-OSHA Electrical Safety Regulations [2]
NFPA 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace

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