Working with high-voltage lines in the workplace is something that many construction and electrical engineering professionals must deal with every single day. When we think of “putting your life on the line” most Americans believe policemen, firefighters, and military personnel do this when they strap up every morning. However, those workers dealing with highly electrical environments are just as prone to risk and loss as many of the most dangerous professions.
OSHA provides many mandates, rules, and regulations to the construction and energy industries, particularly areas where fall protection and electrocution meet. In short, if you are a worker fixing power lines, developing new energy technologies, or working in environments with high-voltage elements, then you are entitled to some much-needed safety tips.
Here are a few of the most relevant tips for handling high-voltage lines in the modern workforce.
Top 5 Safety Tips
De-energizing the Work Area – This is probably one of the best ways to avoid potential catastrophe when working with electrical wiring. Wherever possible, if you have to work near electrical wiring or equipment, ask for the supply to be turned off. De-energizing the power supply to the work area will provide a safety net against shortages or exposed lines. Most energy companies will comply with this request if the opportunity is available.
Look for Cable Colors – Although some areas throughout the world are not as compliant with others, cable colors are, usually, present to show their purpose and the voltage they carry. If no color is provided, stop working and ask a competent person in electrical wiring to test the area for electrical activity.
Non-conductive Materials – PPE is a requirement by OSHA for workers providing services within a highly-conductive area. Wearing the proper personal protective equipment is essential to avoiding electrocution and handling electrical lines, even if the power is turned off. Many electrical lines are buried or otherwise not visible to the naked eye. Precautions are always necessary when performing duties. Non-conductive protective wear includes rubber boots, gloves, and insulation padding on the body. Staying away from metal conductors while working, if possible, is a great way to avoid potential accidents.
If Accidents Do Happen – Whenever you are working with high-voltage areas and must touch the lines as part of your work, always touch the possible high voltage area with the back of your hand. If electrocuted, this will allow you to pull the back of your hand away faster, rather than letting go of the wire. Otherwise, electrical freezing may occur, where your body contracts due to the high-voltage, not allowing your hand to respond. In addition, always remove jewelry prior to working because most types of jewelry are made of metals that conduct.
Be Alert and Never Work Alone – Working alone with high-voltage lines is like swimming in the ocean during a hurricane without a life jacket – it is just not a smart thing to do. Working with others provides a buddy system where individuals can respond quickly if an accident does occur. In addition, always make sure you have adequate sleep while working with electrical lines. Being alert may save your life, especially because most accidents that occur are due to human error. If you are unable to concentrate and do the job correctly, more opportunities arise for potential hazards.
By following these tips, you will be one step closer to remaining safe while working with high voltage wires. Paying attention to the power supply and wearing the protective equipment should help you avoid any future issues with electrocution. If a problem does occur, remember always to work in groups with competent safety personnel on site. To ensure these tips are always followed, it pays to have an organized approach to your health and safety procedures. Employing specialized software to assist in managing these procedures ensures that all procedures will be followed, and such software can be found from companies such as eCompliance Management Solutions.
About the author:
The writer, Matthew Hall, took courses in electrical engineering during his time in college, and so knows his way around a power line, with safety being the most stressed part of any of his classes. To learn more about Matthew you can visit on Google+.
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