JHA for Electrical Switchboard Startup and Commissioning

Assessment Date: [DATE]

Assessor: [ASSESSOR NAME]

Department/Area: [DEPARTMENT/AREA]

Review Date: [REVIEW DATE]

1. Assessment Scope

This Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) covers the initial startup and commissioning of new electrical switchboards by qualified electrical contractors. It includes all tasks from initial inspection to energization and testing. The scope excludes routine maintenance or repair work on existing energized switchboards after the initial commissioning phase.

2. Risk Assessment Methodology

This risk assessment follows a qualitative approach using a 5x5 risk matrix to determine risk ratings. The methodology includes: 1) Hazard Identification, 2) Risk Assessment (Likelihood x Severity), 3) Control Measure Implementation (following the hierarchy of controls), and 4) Residual Risk Assessment.

3. Risk Matrix Reference

The following matrix is used to evaluate risk levels based on likelihood and severity:

		Likelihood
Rare	Unlikely	Possible	Likely	Almost Certain
Severity	Catastrophic	Low	Low	Medium	Medium	High
Major	Low	Medium	Medium	High	Extreme
Moderate	Medium	Medium	High	Extreme	Extreme
Minor	Medium	High	High	Extreme	Extreme
Negligible	High	High	Extreme	Extreme	Extreme

4. Hazard Identification and Risk Evaluation

1. Electrical Shock

Potential Consequences: Cardiac arrest, burns, muscle contractions, and death.

Affected Persons: Electricians, technicians, and any personnel in the vicinity.

Initial Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Possible	Catastrophic	High

Control Measures

• De-energize and lockout/tagout the switchboard before starting work.
• Use insulated tools and PPE (gloves, safety glasses, and arc flash suit).
• Verify the absence of voltage using a calibrated meter before touching any parts.
• Maintain appropriate clearance from energized parts.

Residual Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Rare	Major	Low

2. Arc Flash

Potential Consequences: Severe burns, blindness, hearing damage, and potentially fatal injuries.

Affected Persons: Electricians and technicians.

Initial Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Unlikely	Catastrophic	High

Control Measures

• Conduct an arc flash risk assessment to determine appropriate PPE requirements.
• Wear appropriate arc-rated clothing and PPE.
• Use remote switching devices where possible.
• Ensure proper grounding of equipment.

Residual Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Rare	Major	Low

3. Explosion

Potential Consequences: Serious burns, shrapnel injuries, structural damage.

Affected Persons: Electricians, technicians, and nearby personnel.

Initial Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Rare	Catastrophic	Medium

Control Measures

• Ensure proper ventilation in the switchboard room.
• Inspect switchboard for any signs of damage or deterioration before energization.
• Follow manufacturer's recommendations for startup procedures.

Residual Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Rare	Major	Low

4. Falls from Height

Potential Consequences: Fractures, head injuries, sprains, and strains.

Affected Persons: Electricians and technicians accessing elevated switchboard components.

Initial Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Possible	Major	Medium

Control Measures

• Use ladders or scaffolding that meet safety standards.
• Ensure ladders are properly secured and placed on a stable surface.
• Wear fall protection equipment (harness and lanyard) when working at heights above 6 feet.
• Maintain three points of contact when climbing ladders.

Residual Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Unlikely	Moderate	Low

5. Exposure to Hazardous Materials

Potential Consequences: Skin irritation, respiratory problems, chemical burns.

Affected Persons: Electricians and technicians.

Initial Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Unlikely	Moderate	Low

Control Measures

• Review Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals used.
• Use appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection) when handling chemicals.
• Ensure adequate ventilation when working with chemicals.
• Properly store and dispose of hazardous materials.

Residual Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Rare	Minor	Low

6. Confined Space Entry

Potential Consequences: Asphyxiation, exposure to toxic gases, electrocution.

Affected Persons: Electricians and technicians entering switchboard enclosures or rooms.

Initial Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Rare	Major	Medium

Control Measures

• Evaluate if the space meets the definition of a confined space.
• Follow confined space entry procedures, including atmospheric testing, ventilation, and standby personnel.
• Use appropriate PPE, including respiratory protection.
• Ensure proper training for confined space entry.

Residual Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Rare	Moderate	Low

7. Ergonomic Hazards (Strain from Lifting, Awkward Postures)

Potential Consequences: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), back injuries, sprains, and strains.

Affected Persons: Electricians and technicians.

Initial Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Possible	Moderate	Medium

Control Measures

• Use proper lifting techniques (bend knees, keep back straight).
• Use mechanical aids (dollies, forklifts) to move heavy equipment.
• Take frequent breaks and rotate tasks to reduce repetitive motions.
• Ensure adequate lighting and workspace.

Residual Risk Assessment

Likelihood	Severity	Risk Rating
Unlikely	Minor	Low

5. General Control Measures

• All electrical work must be performed by qualified and competent electricians.
• Use properly insulated tools and equipment that are regularly inspected.
• Ensure proper grounding and bonding of all electrical equipment.

Refer to local electrical codes for grounding requirements.

• Maintain a safe working distance from energized parts.
• Implement a lockout/tagout procedure before commencing any work on electrical equipment.

Follow OSHA standard 1910.147 for lockout/tagout procedures.

6. Emergency Preparedness

• In case of electrical shock, immediately disconnect the power source if safe to do so. Call emergency services (911) and provide first aid/CPR as needed.
• For arc flash incidents, evacuate the area and ensure medical attention for affected personnel.
• In the event of a fire, use a Class C fire extinguisher and evacuate the area. [1]

7. Training Requirements

• Electrical Safety Training: All electricians and technicians must complete a comprehensive electrical safety training program that covers topics such as: NFPA 70E, arc flash awareness, lockout/tagout procedures, and safe work practices.
• First Aid/CPR Training: Personnel should be trained in first aid and CPR, including how to respond to electrical shock.
• Hazardous Materials Handling: Training on the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials, including proper PPE and emergency procedures.
• Fall Protection Training: Workers who may be exposed to fall hazards must receive training on the proper use of fall protection equipment, including harness inspection, lifeline attachment, and rescue procedures.
• Confined Space Entry Training: Workers who may enter confined spaces must be trained on confined space entry procedures, including atmospheric testing, ventilation, and rescue procedures.

8. Monitoring and Review

Review Frequency: Annually, or after any incident or significant change in equipment or procedures.

Monitoring Type	Frequency	Responsible Party	Description
Regular Inspection	Weekly	Site Supervisor	Inspect all electrical tools and equipment for damage. Ensure all safety devices are in place and functioning correctly.
Performance Indicator	Monthly	Safety Manager	Track the number of near misses and incidents related to electrical work.
Audit	Annually	Safety Department	Conduct a comprehensive audit of electrical safety procedures and practices.
Review of JHA	Annually or after any incident	Safety Manager and Site Supervisor	Review the JHA to ensure it remains relevant and effective.

9. Special Circumstances

• Work during inclement weather (rain, snow) increases the risk of electrical shock. Postpone work if weather conditions are unsafe.
• Night work reduces visibility and increases the risk of trips and falls. Ensure adequate lighting is provided.
• Lone work increases the response time in case of an emergency. Implement a buddy system or regular check-in procedures.
• Ensure proper ventilation in confined spaces to prevent accumulation of hazardous gases. [1]

Approval and Sign-off

This risk assessment has been reviewed and approved by:

Assessor: _________________________ Date: __________

Manager/Supervisor: _________________________ Date: __________

Safety Representative: _________________________ Date: __________

This risk assessment must be reviewed annually, or after any incident or significant change in equipment or procedures. or when significant changes occur.

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