Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Post-Tensioning Cable Inspection, Testing, and Handling

This document outlines the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required to ensure the safety of personnel involved in the inspection, testing, and handling of post-tensioning cables. It addresses measures for preventing injuries resulting from cable failure or the sudden release of tension. This guidance is based on industry best practices and relevant safety standards.

General PPE Requirements

Head Protection: Hard hats meeting ANSI Z89.2-1971, "Safety Requirements for Industrial Protective Helmets for Electrical Workers, Class B" should be worn to protect against head injuries from falling objects or accidental contact with overhead structures.
Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles meeting the requirements of §1910.133 (a)(2) thru (a)(6) shall be used to protect against dust, debris, or other foreign objects that may enter the eyes during inspection, cutting, or handling operations.
Hand Protection: Gloves appropriate for the task, such as leather gloves for general handling and cut-resistant gloves when working with cable ends, should be worn to protect against cuts, abrasions, and punctures.
Foot Protection: Safety shoes or boots with steel toes meeting ANSI standards should be worn to protect against foot injuries from heavy objects or potential crushing hazards.
High-Visibility Apparel: Wear high-visibility vests or clothing to ensure visibility, especially in construction zones or areas with moving equipment.

Specific PPE Requirements for Post-Tensioning Cable Work

The following PPE is specifically required during post-tensioning cable inspection, testing, and handling to mitigate the unique hazards associated with these operations:

Face Shields: When stressing or de-tensioning cables, face shields must be worn in addition to safety glasses to protect against potential projectiles in case of cable failure or anchorage failure.
Hearing Protection: During stressing operations, especially in confined spaces, hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs) should be used to mitigate noise exposure from the stressing equipment.
Body Protection: Depending on the environment and potential hazards, appropriate work clothing should be worn. Flame-resistant clothing (FRC) may be required if there is a risk of fire or arc flash.
Fall Protection: When working at heights above 4 feet, a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) or positioning system is required. This includes a safety harness, lanyard, and a secure anchorage point. Ensure that the PFAS meets the requirements of subpart I. Inspect all climbing equipment before each day's use to ensure it is in safe working condition.

Electrical Safety PPE

When working with or near electrical components or conducting cable fault locating and testing, the following PPE is mandatory:

Insulating Gloves: When attaching or removing temporary bonds, insulating gloves shall be worn.
Voltage-Rated Gloves: If there is a potential for contact with energized electrical components, voltage-rated gloves and sleeves must be worn. These must be tested per the requirements of 1910.137 (c)(2)(xii).
Insulated Tools: Use tools with insulated handles that are rated for the voltage levels present.

Additional Safety Measures and Considerations

Competent Person Inspections: Before each day's use, a competent person must inspect all PPE, protective devices, and special tools to ensure they are in good condition.
Training: Employers shall provide training in the precautions and safe practices and ensure that employees do not engage in activities until they have received proper training. Such training shall include:
Recognition and avoidance of dangers relating to encounters with harmful substances and animal, insect, or plant life;
Procedures to be followed in emergency situations; and,
First aid training, including instruction in artificial respiration.
Grounding: When handling cable suspension strand which is being installed on poles carrying exposed energized power conductors, employees shall wear insulating gloves and shall avoid body contact with the strand until after it has been tensioned, dead-ended and permanently grounded.

Emergency Procedures

In the event of a cable failure or sudden release of tension, the following procedures should be followed:

Immediately evacuate the area.
Assess injuries and provide first aid.
Contact emergency services if necessary.
Investigate the cause of the failure and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

All PPE should be regularly inspected for damage or wear. Damaged or worn PPE should be immediately replaced. Maintain records of inspections and maintenance.