Electrical Hazards

Electrical Hazards (top) The major hazards associated with electricity are electrical shock and fire. Electrical shock occurs when the body becomes part of the electric circuit, either when an individual comes in contact with both wires of an electrical circuit, one wire of an energized circuit and the ground, or a metallic part that has become energized by contact with an electrical conductor. The severity and effects of an electrical shock depend on a number of factors, such as the pathway through the body, the amount of current, the length of time of the exposure, and whether the skin is wet or dry. Water is a great conductor of electricity, allowing current to flow more easily in wet conditions and through wet skin. The effect of the shock may range from a slight tingle to severe burns to cardiac arrest. The chart below shows the general relationship between the degree of injury and amount of current for a 60-cycle hand-to-foot path of one second's duration of shock. While reading this chart, keep in mind that most electrical circuits can provide, under normal conditions, up to 20,000 milliamperes of current flow

Current

Reaction

1 Milliampere

Perception level

5 Milliamperes

Slight shock felt; not painful but disturbing

6-30 Milliamperes

Painful shock; "let-go" range

50-150 Milliamperes

Extreme pain, respiratory arrest, severe muscular contraction

1000-4,300 Milliamperes

Ventricular fibrillation

10,000+ Milliamperes

Cardiac arrest, severe burns and probable death

In addition to the electrical shock hazards, sparks from electrical equipment can serve as an ignition source for flammable or explosive vapors or combustible materials. See Anecdotes. Power Loss Loss of electrical power can create hazardous situations. Flammable or toxic vapors may be released as a chemical warms when a refrigerator or freezer fails. Fume hoods may cease to operate, allowing vapors to be released into the laboratory. If magnetic or mechanical stirrers fail to operate, safe mixing of reagents may be compromised.

Preventing Electrical Hazards (top) There are various ways of protecting people from the hazards caused by electricity, including insulation, guarding, grounding, and electrical protective devices. Laboratory workers can significantly reduce electrical hazards by following some basic precautions: • • • • • • •

Inspect wiring of equipment before each use. Replace damaged or frayed electrical cords immediately. Use safe work practices every time electrical equipment is used. Know the location and how to operate shut-off switches and/or circuit breaker panels. Use these devices to shut off equipment in the event of a fire or electrocution. Limit the use of extension cords. Use only for temporary operations and then only for short periods of time. In all other cases, request installation of a new electrical outlet. Multi-plug adapters must have circuit breakers or fuses. Place exposed electrical conductors (such as those sometimes used with electrophoresis devices) behind shields. Minimize the potential for water or chemical spills on or near electrical equipment.

Insulation All electrical cords should have sufficient insulation to prevent direct contact with wires. In a laboratory, it is particularly important to check all cords before each use, since corrosive chemicals or solvents may erode the insulation. Damaged cords should be repaired or taken out of service immediately, especially in wet environments such as cold rooms and near water baths. Guarding Live parts of electric equipment operating at 50 volts or more (i.e., electrophoresis devices) must be guarded against accidental contact. Plexiglas shields may be used to protect against exposed live parts. Grounding Only equipment with three-prong plugs should be used in the laboratory. The third prong provides a path to ground for internal electrical short circuits, thereby protecting the user from a potential electrical shock. Circuit Protection Devices

Circuit protection devices are designed to automatically limit or shut off the flow of electricity in the event of a ground-fault, overload or short circuit in the wiring system. Ground-fault circuit interrupters, circuit breakers and fuses are three well-known examples of such devices. Fuses and circuit breakers prevent over-heating of wires and components that might otherwise create fire hazards. They disconnect the circuit when it becomes overloaded. This overload protection is very useful for equipment that is left on for extended periods of time, such as stirrers, vacuum pumps, drying ovens, Variacs and other electrical equipment. The ground-fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, is designed to shutoff electric power if a ground fault is detected, protecting the user from a potential electrical shock. The GFCI is particularly useful near sinks and wet locations. Since GFCIs can cause equipment to shutdown unexpectedly, they may not be appropriate for certain apparatus. Portable GFCI adapters (available in most safety supply catalogs) may be used with a nonGFCI outlet. Motors In laboratories where volatile flammable materials are used, motor-driven electrical equipment should be equipped with non-sparking induction motors or air motors. These motors must meet National Electric Safety Code (US DOC, 1993) Class 1, Division 2, Group C-D explosion resistance specifications. Many stirrers, Variacs, outlet strips, ovens, heat tape, hot plates and heat guns do not conform to these code requirements. Avoid series-wound motors, such as those generally found in some vacuum pumps, rotary evaporators and stirrers. Series-wound motors are also usually found in household appliances such as blenders, mixers, vacuum cleaners and power drills. These appliances should not be used unless flammable vapors are adequately controlled. Although some newer equipment have spark-free induction motors, the on-off switches and speed controls may be able to produce a spark when they are adjusted because they have exposed contacts. One solution is to remove any switches located on the device and insert a switch on the cord near the plug end.

Safe Work Practices (top) The following practices may reduce risk of injury or fire when working with electrical equipment: •

Avoid contact with energized electrical circuits.

• • • •

• • •

Use guarding around exposed circuits and sources of live electricity. Disconnect the power source before servicing or repairing electrical equipment. When it is necessary to handle equipment that is plugged in, be sure hands are dry and, when possible, wear nonconductive gloves and shoes with insulated soles. If it is safe to do so, work with only one hand, keeping the other hand at your side or in your pocket, away from all conductive material. This precaution reduces the likelihood of accidents that result in current passing through the chest cavity. Minimize the use of electrical equipment in cold rooms or other areas where condensation is likely. If equipment must be used in such areas, mount the equipment on a wall or vertical panel. If water or a chemical is spilled onto equipment, shut off power at the main switch or circuit breaker and unplug the equipment. If an individual comes in contact with a live electrical conductor, do not touch the equipment, cord or person. Disconnect the power source from the circuit breaker or pull out the plug using a leather belt.

High Voltage or Current (top) Repairs of high voltage or high current equipment should be performed only by trained electricians. Laboratory workers who are experienced in such tasks and would like to perform such work on their own laboratory equipment must first receive specialized electrical safety related work practices training by EHS staff. Contact the University Safety Engineer at 258-5294 for more information.

Altering Building Wiring and Utilities (top) Any modifications to existing electrical service in a laboratory or building must be completed or approved by either the building facility manager, an engineer from the Facilities department or the building's Special Facilities staff. All modifications must meet both safety standards and Facilities Engineering design requirements. Any unapproved laboratory facilities modifications discovered during laboratory surveys or other activities are reviewed by EHS and facility staff to determine whether they meet design specifications.

The most common electrical hazard on today's construction sites is from ground fault electrical shock. In order to reduce shock-related injuries, the OSHA electrical standard requires employers to provide either ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) for receptacle outlets or an assured equipment grounding conductor program. Here are some guidelines to prevent electrical injuries.

Always use appropriate personal protective equipment, including but not limited to rubber insulating gloves, hoods, sleeves, matting, and blankets. Only use hand tools, electrical tools, and extension cords that are in good repair. De-energize electric power circuits before working near, inspecting, or making repairs. Provide grounding. Service or system ground where the neutral conductor is grounded. Equipment grounding provides a path for current from a tool or machine to the ground. Any live parts of electrical equipment operating 50 volts or more must be guarded to avoid accidental contact. When employees using jackhammers or hand tools do not know the exact location of underground electrical lines, they must wear insulated gloves. De-energize and ground overhead lines before beginning work. Unqualified employees and mechanical equipment must stay at least 10 feet away from these lines. These guidelines are an excerpt from the Tailgate/Toolbox Safety Meetings created by Safety Services in Corona, Calif., a company that provides customized safety training and support for small cons Click here to read full article from Remodeling Electrical hazards are invisible but deadly, causing fires and electrical shock. These hazards are easily preventable if you use an NICEIC-registered contractor to install, inspect and maintain electrical installations. Always use an NICEIC-registered contractor to ensure that your electrics are installed and maintained safely and correctly. Government figures estimate that there are around 10 fatal and 2,000 non-fatal electric shock accidents in the home each year, and around 19 fatal and 880 non-fatal shock accidents a year in the workplace. However, there are about 12,500 electrical fires in homes across the UK each year. Although many incidents are caused by faulty appliances rather than the electrical installation itself, a properly installed and wellmaintained installation could save lives. Cables, switches, socket-outlets and other equipment deteriorate with prolonged use, so they all need to be checked and necessary replacements or repairs made in good time. Whilst it is relatively easy to make an electrical circuit work – it is far more challenging to make the circuit work safely. To avoid the dangers that electricity can create to you and others it is essential that electrical work is carried out only by those with the correct knowledge, skill and experience in the type of electrical work to be undertaken. In March 2006 the Electrical Safety Council published the results of their National Consumer Survey and found that:

o o

32% of consumers surveyed who do DIY stated they had experienced one or more electric shocks while carrying out DIY

o o

42% of consumers surveyed stated they had never had their electrics checked

59% of people do not use qualified electricians when carrying out electrical work

35% of consumers surveyed said their electrics are over 15 years old and a further 21% stated they had no idea how old they were

o Why is it so important to work safely with or near electricity? The electrical current in regular businesses and homes has enough power to cause death by electrocution. Even changing a light bulb without unplugging the lamp can be hazardous because coming in contact with the "hot" or live part of the socket could kill a person.

What kinds of injuries result from electrical currents? There are four main types of injuries: electrocution (fatal), electric shock, burns, and falls. These injuries can happen in various ways: • • •

•

direct contact with the electrical energy. when the electricity arcs (jumps) through a gas (such as air) to a person who is grounded (that would provide an alternative route to the ground for the electricity). thermal burns including flash burns from heat generated by an electric arc, and flame burns from materials that catch on fire from heating or ignition by electrical currents. High voltage contact burns can burn internal tissues while leaving only very small injuries on the outside of the skin. muscle contractions, or a startle reaction, can cause a person to fall from a ladder, scaffold or aerial bucket. The fall can cause serious injuries.

What are some general safety tips for working with or near electricity? • • • • • • • • • • •

Inspect tools, power cords, and electrical fittings for damage or wear prior to each use. Repair or replace damaged equipment immediately. Always tape cords to walls or floors when necessary. Nails and staples can damage cords causing fire and shock hazards. Use cords or equipment that is rated for the level of amperage or wattage that you are using. Always use the correct size fuse. Replacing a fuse with one of a larger size can cause excessive currents in the wiring and possibly start a fire. Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets may be a sign that unsafe wiring conditions exists. Unplug any cords to these outlets and do not use until a qualified electrician has checked the wiring. Always use ladders made of wood or other non-conductive materials when working with or near electricity or power lines. Place halogen lights away from combustible materials such as cloths or curtains. Halogen lamps can become very hot and may be a fire hazard. Risk of electric shock is greater in areas that are wet or damp. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) as they will interrupt the electrical circuit before a current sufficient to cause death or serious injury occurs. Make sure that exposed receptacle boxes are made of non-conductive materials. Know where the breakers and boxes are located in case of an emergency. Label all circuit breakers and fuse boxes clearly. Each switch should be positively identified as to which outlet or appliance it is for.

• • • •

Do not use outlets or cords that have exposed wiring. Do not use power tools with the guards removed. Do not block access to circuit breakers or fuse boxes. Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical accident. Always disconnect the current first.

What are some tips for working with power tools? • • • • • • • •

Switch tools OFF before connecting them to a power supply. Disconnect power supply before making adjustments. Ensure tools are properly grounded or double-insulated. The grounded tool must have an approved 3-wire cord with a 3-prong plug. This plug should be plugged in a properly grounded 3-pole outlet. Test all tools for effective grounding with a continuity tester or a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) before use. Do not bypass the switch and operate the tools by connecting and disconnecting the power cord. Do not use electrical tools in wet conditions or damp locations unless tool is connected to a GFCI. Do not clean tools with flammable or toxic solvents. Do not operate tools in an area containing explosive vapours or gases.

What are some tips for working with power cords? • • • • • •

Keep power cords clear of tools during use. Suspend power cords over aisles or work areas to eliminate stumbling or tripping hazards. Replace open front plugs with dead front plugs. Dead front plugs are sealed and present less danger of shock or short circuit. Do not use light duty power cords. Do not carry electrical tools by the power cord. Do not tie power cords in tight knots. Knots can cause short circuits and shocks. Loop the cords or use a twist lock plug.

What is a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)? A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) works by detecting any loss of electrical current in a circuit. When a loss is detected, the GFCI turns the electricity off before severe injuries or electrocution can occur. A painful shock may occur during the time that it takes for the GFCI to cut off the electricity so it is important to use the GFCI as an extra protective measure rather than a replacement for safe work practices. GFCI wall outlets can be installed in place of standard outlets to protect against electrocution for just that outlet, or a series of outlets in the same branch. A GFCI Circuit Breaker can be installed on some circuit breaker electrical panels to protect an entire branch circuit. Plug-in GFCIs can be plugged into wall outlets where appliances will be used.

When and how do I test the Ground Fault Circuit Interupter (GFCI)? Test the GFCI monthly. First plug a "night light" or lamp into the GFCI-protected wall outlet (the light should be turned on), then press the "TEST" button on the GFCI. If the GFCI is working properly, the light should go out. If not, have the GFCI repaired or replaced. Reset the GFCI to restore power. If the "RESET" button pops out but the light does not go out, the GFCI has been improperly wired and does not offer shock protection at that wall outlet. Contact a qualified electrician to correct any wiring errors.

What is a sample checklist for basic electrical safety? Inspect Cords and Plugs •

Check power cords and plugs daily. Discard if worn or damaged. Have any cord that feels more than comfortably warm checked by an electrician. Eliminate Octopus Connections

• • •

Do not plug several power cords into one outlet. Pull the plug, not the cord. Do not disconnect power supply by pulling or jerking the cord from the outlet. Pulling the cord causes wear and may cause a shock. Never Break OFF the Third Prong on a Plug

•

Replace broken 3-prong plugs and make sure the third prong is properly grounded. Never Use Extension Cords as Permanent Wiring

• • •

Use extension cords only to temporarily supply power to an area that does not have a power outlet. Keep power cords away from heat, water and oil. They can damage the insulation and cause a shock. Do not allow vehicles to pass over unprotected power cords. Cords should be put in conduit or protected by placing planks alongside them. Why is it so important to work safely with or near electricity? The electrical current in regular businesses and homes has enough power to cause death by electrocution. Even changing a light bulb without unplugging the lamp can be hazardous because coming in contact with the "hot" or live part of the socket could kill a person.

What kinds of injuries result from electrical currents?

There are four main types of injuries: electrocution (fatal), electric shock, burns, and falls. These injuries can happen in various ways: • • •

•

direct contact with the electrical energy. when the electricity arcs (jumps) through a gas (such as air) to a person who is grounded (that would provide an alternative route to the ground for the electricity). thermal burns including flash burns from heat generated by an electric arc, and flame burns from materials that catch on fire from heating or ignition by electrical currents. High voltage contact burns can burn internal tissues while leaving only very small injuries on the outside of the skin. muscle contractions, or a startle reaction, can cause a person to fall from a ladder, scaffold or aerial bucket. The fall can cause serious injuries.

What are some general safety tips for working with or near electricity? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Inspect tools, power cords, and electrical fittings for damage or wear prior to each use. Repair or replace damaged equipment immediately. Always tape cords to walls or floors when necessary. Nails and staples can damage cords causing fire and shock hazards. Use cords or equipment that is rated for the level of amperage or wattage that you are using. Always use the correct size fuse. Replacing a fuse with one of a larger size can cause excessive currents in the wiring and possibly start a fire. Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets may be a sign that unsafe wiring conditions exists. Unplug any cords to these outlets and do not use until a qualified electrician has checked the wiring. Always use ladders made of wood or other non-conductive materials when working with or near electricity or power lines. Place halogen lights away from combustible materials such as cloths or curtains. Halogen lamps can become very hot and may be a fire hazard. Risk of electric shock is greater in areas that are wet or damp. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) as they will interrupt the electrical circuit before a current sufficient to cause death or serious injury occurs. Make sure that exposed receptacle boxes are made of non-conductive materials. Know where the breakers and boxes are located in case of an emergency. Label all circuit breakers and fuse boxes clearly. Each switch should be positively identified as to which outlet or appliance it is for. Do not use outlets or cords that have exposed wiring. Do not use power tools with the guards removed. Do not block access to circuit breakers or fuse boxes. Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical accident. Always disconnect the current first.

What are some tips for working with power tools? • •

Switch tools OFF before connecting them to a power supply. Disconnect power supply before making adjustments.

• • • • • •

Ensure tools are properly grounded or double-insulated. The grounded tool must have an approved 3-wire cord with a 3-prong plug. This plug should be plugged in a properly grounded 3-pole outlet. Test all tools for effective grounding with a continuity tester or a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) before use. Do not bypass the switch and operate the tools by connecting and disconnecting the power cord. Do not use electrical tools in wet conditions or damp locations unless tool is connected to a GFCI. Do not clean tools with flammable or toxic solvents. Do not operate tools in an area containing explosive vapours or gases.

What are some tips for working with power cords? • • • • • •

Keep power cords clear of tools during use. Suspend power cords over aisles or work areas to eliminate stumbling or tripping hazards. Replace open front plugs with dead front plugs. Dead front plugs are sealed and present less danger of shock or short circuit. Do not use light duty power cords. Do not carry electrical tools by the power cord. Do not tie power cords in tight knots. Knots can cause short circuits and shocks. Loop the cords or use a twist lock plug.

What is a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)? A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) works by detecting any loss of electrical current in a circuit. When a loss is detected, the GFCI turns the electricity off before severe injuries or electrocution can occur. A painful shock may occur during the time that it takes for the GFCI to cut off the electricity so it is important to use the GFCI as an extra protective measure rather than a replacement for safe work practices. GFCI wall outlets can be installed in place of standard outlets to protect against electrocution for just that outlet, or a series of outlets in the same branch. A GFCI Circuit Breaker can be installed on some circuit breaker electrical panels to protect an entire branch circuit. Plug-in GFCIs can be plugged into wall outlets where appliances will be used.

When and how do I test the Ground Fault Circuit Interupter (GFCI)? Test the GFCI monthly. First plug a "night light" or lamp into the GFCI-protected wall outlet (the light should be turned on), then press the "TEST" button on the GFCI. If the GFCI is working properly, the light should go out. If not, have the GFCI repaired or replaced. Reset the GFCI to restore power. If the "RESET" button pops out but the light does not go out, the GFCI has been improperly wired and does not offer shock protection at that wall outlet. Contact a qualified electrician to correct any wiring errors.

What is a sample checklist for basic electrical safety? Inspect Cords and Plugs •

Check power cords and plugs daily. Discard if worn or damaged. Have any cord that feels more than comfortably warm checked by an electrician. Eliminate Octopus Connections

• • •

Do not plug several power cords into one outlet. Pull the plug, not the cord. Do not disconnect power supply by pulling or jerking the cord from the outlet. Pulling the cord causes wear and may cause a shock. Never Break OFF the Third Prong on a Plug

•

Replace broken 3-prong plugs and make sure the third prong is properly grounded. Never Use Extension Cords as Permanent Wiring

• • •

Use extension cords only to temporarily supply power to an area that does not have a power outlet. Keep power cords away from heat, water and oil. They can damage the insulation and cause a shock. Do not allow vehicles to pass over unprotected power cords. Cords should be put in conduit or protected by placing planks alongside them.

Why is prevention of slips, trips and falls important? In Canada some sixty thousand workers get injured annually due to fall accidents. This number represents about fifteen percent of the "time-loss injuries" that were accepted by workers' compensation boards or commissions across Canada. Not mentioning a great economical loss, it amounts for a lot of pain and suffering and sometimes (much too often) even death. All these, in most of cases, do not have to happen. What is needed is: • • •

understanding how fall accidents happen, identifying the trouble areas, and eliminating or minimizing hazards of falling.

How do falls happen? Statistics show that the majority (60 percent) of falls happen on the same level resulting from slips and trips. The remaining 40 percent are falls from a height. This document will summarize information on "falls on the same level" (slips and trips). Falls from an elevation, such as falls from ladders, roofs, down stairs or from jumping to a lower level, etc., will discussed in another document since each type of fall requires different features in a fall prevention program. Slips

Slips happen where there is too little friction or traction between the footwear and the walking surface. Common causes of slips are: • • • • •

wet or oily surfaces, occasional spills, weather hazards, loose, unanchored rugs or mats, and flooring or other walking surfaces that do not have same degree of traction in all areas. Trips

Trips happen when your foot collides (strikes, hits) an object causing you to lose the balance and, eventually fall. Common causes of tripping are: • • • • • • •

obstructed view, poor lighting, clutter in your way, wrinkled carpeting, uncovered cables, bottom drawers not being closed, and uneven (steps, thresholds) walking surfaces.

Introduction The Electrical Safety Subject Area has been developed to promote an electrically safe workplace free from unauthorized exposure to electrical hazards and to provide directions for the implementation of electrical safety requirements in compliance with 10 CFR 851 DOE Worker Safety and Health Program. This subject area describes the procedures to be used by employees of Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) and BNL contractors; employees of a subcontractor; individuals who visit to perform work for or in conjunction with BNL, and use BNL facilities. The hierarchy of controls of the Electrical Safety Program are: • • • •

Engineering controls; Lockout/tagout or unplug the equipment to eliminate the hazard; Install barriers to isolate the hazard; Energized Work Permits to control the hazard.

It is Brookhaven National Laboratory policy that no one works on or near energized components above 50 volts, unless authorized and with an electrical work permit. This permit ensures that the energized work is necessary, the procedures and PPE are in place to protect the worker, and the training is current to perform the work. Otherwise, it is required to work de-energized using the Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Subject Area. Live parts that operate at less than 50 volts to ground need not be deenergized if there will be no increased exposure to electrical burns or to explosion due to electric arcs.

Contents Section

Overview of Content (see section for full process)

1. Implementing Electrical Safety

• • •

• •

•

Line Management conducts periodic walkthroughs or field checks. Follow electrical safety practices. Design equipment and facilities incorporating safety for operation and maintenance. Perform periodic inspections of electrical work. The AHJ approves all non-NRTL electrical equipment and installations above 50 volts. Operation of vehicles or mechanical equipment near overhead lines.

2. Operating Electrical Equipment

3. Working On or Near Live Parts

•

Ensure personnel operating the equipment are trained.

•

Personnel must wear required PPE as specified for Hazard/ Risk Category rating.

•

Plan all electrical work using the energized electrical work permit. Issue Energized Electrical Work Permit and list all authorized personnel. Evaluate the proper energized electrical work permit.

• •

• 4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Electrical Work

•

Provide feedback following all electrical work. Protect all personnel from electrical hazards by applying one of the following subprocesses: o Determination of PPE by Shock Hazard Analysis; Determination of PPE by Arc-flash Hazard Analysis. Include energy isolating devices; Ensure electrical equipment and installations conform to applicable codes and standards. Document all electrical additions and changes on system or facility drawings. Ensure that the arc-flash calculations are performed by knowledgeable personnel. Ensure sufficient access and working space is provided. o

5. Design and Installation of Electrical Equipment

• •

• • •

• 6. Interlock Safety for Protection of Personnel

• • • • •

When required, ensure that ground detection is installed . Determine need for a new interlock system. Determine interlock system design requirements. Conduct independent review of interlock system's design. Ensure interlock systems conform to approved design documents. Ensure interlock system testing follows six

criteria and proper PPE is worn.

7. Implementing the Electrical Equipment Inspection (EEI) Program

•

Ensure personnel are trained and operating procedures for safety are in place.

•

Create an inventory of all owned equipment. Arrange for a BNL-certified EEI to review the equipment in the inventory. Inspect the equipment and record the result of the inspection. Apply a bar coded reference number to the equipment and a colored sticker indicating its approval status.

• • •

•

Provide the user with the inspection results.

Definitions

Exhibits Approved Equivalent Electrical Training Certification of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) For Operating Electrical Equipment Certification of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Working On or Near Energized Equipment Design Guide Electrical Equipment Labels Electrical Safe Work Practices Engineered Voltage Monitoring Solutions for Lockout/Tagout Interlock Safety for Protection of Personnel Reputable Manufacturer Requirements Review and Approval of Electrical Equipment and Installations Selection and Use of Rubber Gloves and Insulating Blankets Topics to be Covered During Departmental Job-Specific Training Work Distance Table (Control Zones)

Forms BNL Checklist for Review and Approval of Electrical Equipment Electrical Work Permits with Instructions

Training Requirements and Reporting Obligations This subject area contains the following training requirements: •

•

•

Electrical training and on-the-job training must be conducted at least annually by each Department/Division for all personnel that the organization wishes to define as Authorized Workers. Current, documented safety training is required for all electrical work on or near energized conductors and consists of the following: Electrical Safety 1 (TQELECSAF1); Lockout/Tagout Authorized Worker (HP-OSH-151B-W); CPR (TQADULTCPR); and job-specific training (see the BNL Training and Qualifications Web Site). Departments/Divisions must maintain a list of these authorized workers. (Note: Lockout/Tagout Training is not required for the Testing, Troubleshooting and Voltage Measuring (TTVM) Electrical Work Permit for 120 volts or less.) Job-specific training includes o Personal protective equipment and tools appropriate for voltage and current range; o Review of the Energized Electrical Work Permit; o Emergency actions which may be required.

This subject area does not contain reporting obligations.

External/Internal Requirements Requirement Number

Requirement Title

10 CFR 830, Subpart A

Energy, Nuclear Safety Management, Quality Assurance Requirements

29 CFR 1910

Labor/Occupational Safety and Health Standards

29 CFR 1926

Labor/Safety and Health Regulations for Construction

DOE-STD-106699

Fire Protection Design Criteria

NFPA 497

Classification of Flammable Liquids, Gases, or Vapors and of Hazardous (Classified) Locations for Electrical Installations in Chemical Process Areas

NFPA 70B

Electrical Equipment Maintenance

NFPA 70E

Electrical Safety Requirements for Employee Workplaces

O 414.1C

Quality Assurance

P 450.7

Environment, Safety and Health (ESH) Goals

References BNL Training and Qualifications Web Site DOE Electrical Safety Handbook, DOE-HDBK-1092-2004 Engineering Design

Subject Area

Environment, Safety, Health and Quality (Tier I) Inspections Subject Area Fire Safety

Subject Area

Hazard Analysis

Subject Area

Integrated Safety Management Program Description Laser Safety Subject Area List of LESC Approved Inspectors, Laboratory Electrical Safety Committee Web Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Subject Area Magnetic Fields, Static

Subject Area

NFPA 70 National Electrical Code NFPA 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace Noise and Hearing Conservation Subject Area Occurrence Reporting and Processing System (ORPS)

Subject Area

Organizations Currently Recognized by OSHA as NRTLs Web RF and Microwave Safety

page

Subject Area

Radiological Control Manual Radiation-Generating Devices

Subject Area

Safety and Health Services Division Web

site

Work Planning and Control for Experiments and Operations Subject Area

Site

Standards of Performance Managers shall manage work to control risks and hazards, detect wrongdoing, ensure customer satisfaction, and provide a benefit to BNL. Managers shall perform "field walkthroughs" as a standard practice for assessing performance and identifying areas for improvement. All staff and guests shall share information based on experience (e.g., lessons learned) to promote continuous improvement in business and work practices. All staff and users shall ensure that they are trained and qualified to carry out their assigned responsibilities, and shall inform their supervisor if they are assigned to perform work for which they are not properly trained or qualified. All staff and users shall identify, evaluate, and control hazards in order to ensure that work is conducted safely and in a manner that protects the environment and the public. All staff and guests shall promptly report accidents, injuries, ES&H deficiencies, emergencies, and off-normal events in accordance with procedures.