When working with electrical equipment operating at 50 volts or more, several safety measures and equipment are required to protect employees from potential hazards. Here's a summary:
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Guarding Live Parts: Live parts of electric equipment operating at 50 volts or more must be guarded against accidental contact. This can be achieved through approved cabinets, enclosures, or by locating the equipment in rooms accessible only to qualified persons 7, 13.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Employers must provide appropriate electrical protective equipment for specific body parts and ensure its use. This includes nonconductive head protection where there's a danger of head injury from electric shock or burns, and eye/face protection where there's a danger of injury from electric arcs, flashes, or flying objects 6, 17.
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Insulated Tools and Equipment: When working near exposed energized conductors or circuit parts, insulated tools or handling equipment must be used if there's a chance of contact. This equipment should be protected if its insulating capability is subject to damage 6, 17.
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Fuse Handling: Use fuse handling equipment insulated for the circuit voltage when removing or installing fuses with energized terminals 3, 6, 17.
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Training: Employees must be trained and familiarized with safety-related work practices. Qualified persons (those working on or near exposed energized parts) need training in recognizing live parts, determining voltage, and understanding clearance distances [1].
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Work Practices: Safety-related work practices should prevent electric shock or injuries from direct or indirect electrical contacts. Live parts should be deenergized before work unless it introduces additional hazards or is infeasible [2].
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Insulating Equipment: Insulating equipment used for employee protection must withstand the voltages that may be imposed upon it [3]. This equipment should be maintained in a safe, reliable condition and inspected for damage before each day's use [3].
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Alerting Techniques: Use safety signs, symbols, or accident prevention tags to warn employees about electrical hazards [4].
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Minimum Approach Distances: Maintain appropriate minimum approach distances from exposed energized parts, as specified in relevant tables and regulations [5].
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Specific scenarios: When installing or removing fuses with terminals energized at more than 300 volts, or with exposed parts energized at more than 50 volts, employees must use tools or gloves rated for the voltage [6].
Important Safety Note:
Always verify safety information with your organization's specific guidelines and local regulations.
References
Page links are approximateSafety Standards for General Safety and Health Standards (Chaper 296-24 WAC)
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Safety Standards for General Safety and Health Standards (Chaper 296-24 WAC)
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Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon)
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Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon)
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Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon)
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