Working on Energized 240 Volt Electrical Equipment

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This safe work procedure outlines the minimum requirements for qualified electrical workers performing work on energized 240 volt electrical equipment, in accordance with CSA Z462 workplace electrical safety standards. It covers hazard assessment, PPE selection, and safe work practices to mitigate arc flash hazards.

2. Definitions

Arc Flash A dangerous condition associated with the release of energy caused by an electric arc. Qualified Electrical Worker An individual who has the skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of the electrical equipment and installations and has received safety training to recognize and avoid the hazards involved. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Clothing and equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards, including arc flash and electric shock. Incident Energy The estimated amount of thermal energy impressed on a surface, usually expressed in calories per square centimeter (cal/cm²). PPE Category A method of categorizing PPE based on its ability to withstand the thermal effects of an arc flash. Categories range from 1 to 4, with higher numbers indicating greater protection.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are properly trained and competent to perform the task.
Conduct pre-job briefings to discuss potential hazards and safety measures.
Provide appropriate PPE and ensure it is used correctly.
Monitor work activities to ensure compliance with safety procedures.
Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions.

3.2 Workers

Inspect PPE before use to ensure it is in good condition.
Use equipment and tools only for their intended purpose.
Report any hazards or safety concerns to the supervisor immediately.
Follow all established safety procedures and guidelines.
Participate in pre-job briefings and training sessions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Arc Flash	Burns, eye damage, hearing loss, and potential fatality.	De-energize the equipment and follow lockout/tagout procedures whenever possible. If de-energizing is not feasible, use insulated tools and maintain a safe working distance.
Electric Shock	Electrocution or serious injury.	Use properly rated rubber insulating gloves and insulated tools. Inspect gloves for damage before each use.
Ground Fault	Electric shock and equipment damage.	Ensure proper grounding of equipment and use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) where required.
Slips, Trips, and Falls	Injuries ranging from minor sprains to serious fractures.	Keep the work area clean and free of obstructions. Use barriers and signage to restrict access.
Equipment Malfunction	Electric shock, arc flash, and physical injuries.	Use tools and equipment that are properly maintained and inspected. Follow manufacturer's instructions for use.
Exposure to Hazardous Substances	Respiratory irritation, chemical burns, and other health problems.	Provide adequate ventilation and use respiratory protection if necessary.
Inadequate Lighting	Eye strain, slips, trips, and difficulty performing tasks safely.	Ensure proper lighting in the work area. Use task lighting to improve visibility.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Arc-Rated Clothing: Arc-rated clothing with a minimum arc rating determined by the incident energy analysis or PPE category method as per CSA Z462. Ensure the clothing covers the entire body, with exceptions for hands and face when appropriate.
Hard Hat: A hard hat meeting ANSI Z89.1 standards is required to protect against head injuries.
Arc-Rated Face Shield or Hood: An arc-rated face shield or hood with a minimum arc rating of 8 cal/cm² is required to protect the face and head from arc flash hazards.
Rubber Insulating Gloves with Leather Protectors: Rubber insulating gloves with leather protectors, rated for the voltage of the equipment being worked on, are required to protect against electric shock.
Safety Glasses or Goggles: Safety glasses or goggles meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards are required to protect the eyes from debris and arc flash.
Hearing Protection: Hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs) is required to protect against noise hazards.

6. Equipment and Tools

All tools and equipment must be inspected before use to ensure they are in good working condition. Any defective tools must be removed from service.

Insulated Tools: Insulated tools rated for the voltage of the equipment being worked on. These tools include screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, and wire strippers.
Voltage Tester: A properly rated voltage tester is required to verify the absence of voltage before starting work.
Barriers and Signage: Use barriers and signage to restrict access to the work area and alert others to the potential hazards.
Fire Extinguisher: Use a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires in case of an arc flash.

Inspect insulated tools for damage before each use. Replace tools with damaged insulation. Ensure that all tools are properly rated for the voltage being worked on.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: Workers must be qualified electrical workers with specific training in arc flash hazard awareness, PPE selection, and safe work practices for energized equipment. Training records must be up-to-date and readily available.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before any work begins on energized equipment. The briefing should cover potential hazards, required PPE, step-by-step procedures, and emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Ensure the work area is clear of obstructions and potential hazards. Use barriers and signage to restrict access to the area. Ensure adequate lighting is available.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Conduct a Risk Assessment: Before commencing any work, conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards and determine the appropriate level of PPE required. This assessment should consider the specific task, equipment, and environmental conditions.
Select Appropriate PPE: Based on the risk assessment, select the appropriate arc-rated clothing and PPE. Ensure that the PPE is in good condition and fits properly. Refer to CSA Z462 for guidance on PPE selection.
Inspect Tools and Equipment: Inspect all tools and equipment to ensure they are in good working order and properly rated for the voltage being worked on. Remove any defective tools from service.
Establish Arc Flash Boundary: Establish an arc flash boundary around the work area to protect other workers and bystanders. Use barriers and signage to clearly mark the boundary.
Perform Work Safely: Use insulated tools and equipment to perform the work. Maintain a safe working distance from energized parts.
Monitor Work Area: Continuously monitor the work area for potential hazards and adjust safety measures as needed.
Inspect and Clean Up: Upon completion of the work, inspect the equipment and work area to ensure everything is in a safe condition. Remove all tools and equipment from the work area.
Document the Work: Document the work performed, including the risk assessment, PPE used, and any safety issues encountered.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Always assume that electrical equipment is energized unless it has been properly de-energized and locked out/tagged out. - Verify the absence of voltage using a properly rated voltage tester before starting work.
Never work alone on energized equipment. Ensure that a qualified observer is present to provide assistance in case of an emergency. - The observer should be trained in CPR and first aid.
Avoid wearing metallic jewelry or clothing with metallic components when working on energized equipment. - Metallic items can conduct electricity and increase the risk of electric shock or arc flash.
Use only approved and properly maintained tools and equipment. Do not use tools that are damaged or have exposed wiring. - Regularly inspect tools and equipment for damage and replace them as needed.
Keep a safe distance from energized parts and maintain situational awareness at all times. - Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately de-energize the equipment if it is safe to do so. Call for emergency medical assistance and provide first aid as needed. Evacuate the area if there is a fire or explosion hazard.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Electric Shock: Immediately call for emergency medical assistance. Do not attempt to remove the victim's clothing if it is stuck to the skin. Keep the victim warm and monitor their breathing.
Arc Flash Fire: Extinguish the fire if it is safe to do so. Use a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires. Evacuate the area and call for emergency fire services.
Serious Injury: Evacuate the area and call for emergency medical assistance. Provide first aid as needed.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. A written report must be submitted within 24 hours of the incident.

A thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. The investigation will involve interviews with witnesses, review of procedures, and inspection of equipment.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]