Electrocution safety – could there be too much vigilance? It happens so fast there’s no time to say oops or rethink.
One professional electrician, always thoughtful about his work, always safe, was splicing a wire to an outdoor light post. Of course he checked the line and there was no current. What he didn't check was whether or not the light was on a timer. Be overly cautious.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires Ground Fault Circuit Interruption (GFCI) protection on all jobsites unless a documented Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Program (AEGCP) is in place.
For those unfamiliar with an AEGCP, the requirements are as follows:
1. The plan must be in writing and available on site, on demand.
2. The plan must schedule all inspections and procedures for taking equipment or tools out of service or bringing them back in.
3. Make one person responsible who knows how to spot a defect and has the authority to correct said defect.
4. Check all equipment, cords and receptacles prior to use every day. Take any defective equipment out of service.
5. OSHA requires a continuity test and a terminal connection test before the first use of any tool or equipment, after any repair and prior to returning to service, after suspected damage, and quarterly.
Certainly, your site will be protected by GFCI. This safety feature is marginally very low cost.
Doesn't it make sense to implement a layer of redundancy, the AEGCP? First, it gives you a schedule to double check all your tools, cords and machines for safety. Second, it gives you a protocol for checking subcontractors and tools they bring to the site. Third, for the few minutes each day it takes to comply, you may save a colleague from electrocution.
Job site safety concerns avoiding situations which can cause injury. Grounding all electrical appliances is among the most important precautions you can take. The double check, the redundant system, the mindset to check to cut off power and check for those timers, create habits that can save lives.
Check your electric tools today to get started. Check the terminal connections and run the continuity test. Check your cords, any defects or missing prongs? Find the right person to establish and manage the AEGCP.