Working on or Near Energized Electrical Equipment

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure outlines the safety requirements for working on or near energized electrical equipment to prevent electrical shock and arc flash in compliance with OSHA regulations.

2. Definitions

Qualified Person A person who has training in avoiding the electrical hazards of working on or near exposed energized parts. They are familiar with appropriate techniques, policies, and procedures, work permits, PPE, insulating and shielding materials, insulated tools, test equipment, etc. Unqualified Person Those with little or no training in avoiding electrical hazards. Arc Flash An occurrence of an unintentional electric arc that releases hazardous energy.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Establish and implement written measures and procedures for complying with this section to ensure that workers are adequately protected from electrical shock and burn.
• Make a copy of the written measures and procedures available to every worker on the project.

3.2 Workers

• Use all tools, devices, and equipment, including personal protective equipment, as designed, tested, maintained, and used to provide adequate protection.
• Workers shall follow the written measures and procedures.
• Workers must know how to select, use, and care for the necessary PPE, and understand the limitations of the PPE.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Electrical Shock	Contact with energized parts can cause severe shock, burns, or death.	De-energize and lockout/tagout the circuit before work. Use insulated tools and PPE. Maintain safe distances.
Arc Flash	High-energy discharge can cause severe burns, blindness, and hearing loss.	Wear appropriate arc-rated PPE, including face shield, gloves, and clothing. Ensure equipment is properly grounded.
Equipment Failure	Malfunctioning equipment can cause electrical shock or arc flash.	Inspect tools and equipment before use. Use GFCI protection for portable tools.
Surge or Overload	Can cause equipment damage, fire, or electrical shock.	Ensure proper grounding and bonding of equipment. Use surge protection devices.
Poor Work Conditions	Increases the risk of slips, trips, and electrical hazards.	Provide adequate lighting. Keep work areas clean and dry.
Ergonomic Hazards	Can lead to muscle strains and other injuries.	Use proper lifting techniques and equipment. Ensure adequate workspace.
Lack of Training	Increases the risk of errors and accidents.	Provide training on electrical safety and specific job tasks. Ensure workers are qualified for the work they perform.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All PPE must meet relevant safety standards and be in good condition.

• Arc-Rated Clothing: Rated for the potential arc flash energy. Must be inspected before each use.
• Insulated Gloves: Insulated gloves rated for the voltage being worked on. Leather protectors should be worn over rubber insulating gloves.
• Face Shield and Safety Glasses: Protect eyes and face from arc flash and flying debris.
• Hard Hat: Non-conductive head protection.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage. Replace damaged or worn PPE immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

All tools and equipment used must be suitable for the voltage and task.

• Insulated Tools: Must be rated for the voltage being worked on and inspected before each use.
• Voltage Meter: Calibrated and tested before use to ensure accuracy.
• Grounding Equipment: Used to establish a temporary ground for equipment.
• Barricades and Signage: Used to protect the work area and prevent unauthorized access.

Regular inspection for wear and tear of insulation, corrosion, poor connections, overheated electrical conductors, excessive pitting of contacts, or excessive moisture, water, or ice on the equipment.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: Only qualified persons are allowed to work on energized equipment. Ensure all workers have received adequate training in electrical safety.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: Discuss the scope of work, identify hazards, and review safety procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Clear the work area of obstructions and ensure adequate lighting. Use barriers and signage to prevent unauthorized access.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

1. Perform a thorough risk assessment.: Identify all potential hazards and risks associated with the task.
2. Ensure proper grounding.: Verify that the equipment is properly grounded.
3. Wear required PPE.: Use appropriate PPE, including arc-rated clothing, gloves, and face shield.
4. Use insulated tools.: Use insulated tools and equipment rated for the voltage.
5. Maintain safe distance.: Maintain a safe working distance from energized parts.
6. Use barriers and signage.: Use barriers and signage to prevent unauthorized access to the work area.
7. Monitor work area.: Continuously monitor the work area for any changes in conditions or hazards.
8. Communicate effectively.: Communicate clearly with all personnel involved in the task.
9. Interlocks: If the task requires defeating an electrical safety interlock, ensure it is done temporarily and by a qualified person. Restore the interlock immediately after the work is completed.
10. Final Inspection: After completing the work, inspect the equipment and work area to ensure everything is safe and in order.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Always assume electrical equipment is energized unless verified otherwise. - Use a calibrated meter to test the equipment before touching it.
• Maintain a safe distance from energized parts. - Use appropriate approach boundaries and barriers.
• Use insulated tools and equipment. - Inspect tools for damage before each use.
• Never work alone on energized equipment. - Ensure a second qualified person is present to provide assistance and perform emergency rescue if needed.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an electrical incident, immediately de-energize the circuit if safe to do so and contact emergency services.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Fire: Evacuate the area immediately and call emergency services.
• Electrical Shock: Do not approach the victim. De-energize the source if possible and call emergency services.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

In the event of an electrical emergency, immediately contact emergency services.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, no matter how small, to the supervisor immediately.

All incidents will be investigated to determine the root cause and prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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