The article provides an overview of industrial electrical hazards, discussing the dangers associated with power lines, energized sources, and improper use of power cords. It highlights the importance of safety practices and the potential risks, such as burns, electrocution, and shocks, when working around electrical equipment.
Before we dive into electrical safety, we need to understand the electrical hazards that takes place in industry. Understanding electrical hazards will provide us with the skills to protect ourselves and respond safely to hazardous events.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) warns that electrical hazard is dangerous and present when a worker can or does make electrical contact with energized equipment or conductors. Making contact, whether directly or indirectly, puts a worker at risk for serious injury.
Electrical hazards are classified into three types:
- Contact with power lines.
- Contact with energized sources.
- Improper use of power cords.
Contact with Power Lines
Power lines are electrical conductors that transfer electricity from power plants to industries and homes. They are typically made of aluminum or steel and can be found overhead or underground. They come in different sizes and are used to distribute power at various voltage levels.
Figure. Overhead Electrical Power Transmission lines
When working near the proximity of power lines, it is crucial to receive proper training, wear the proper protection, and work safely. It is critical not to make contact directly or indirectly with live power lines. If a contact is made with an active power line, electricity can flow through your body, potentially causing serious injury or death. The severity of the injury or damage will depend on the voltage of the power line and the duration of contact.
High voltage power lines can cause severe burns, muscle contractions, and cardiac arrest. Even if you survive the initial contact, you may suffer from long-term injuries such as nerve damage. It is extremely important to stay away from power lines and to call for professional help if you suspect that a power line may be down, or if you need to work near them. Additionally, it is required to maintain a safe distance while working near and below power lines.
Table 1 shows the OSHA recommended minimum clearance distance.
| Voltage (kV, AC) | Minimum Clearance Distance (feet) |
| Up to 50 | 10 |
| Over 50 to 200 | 15 |
| Over 200 to 350 | 20 |
| Over 350 to 500 | 25 |
| Over 500 to 750 | 35 |
| Over 750 to 1000 | 45 |
| Over 1000 | As established by an authorized person. |
Adapted from OSHA, Part 1926, standard 1926.1408.
Table 1. Minimum Clearance Distances when working near or below power lines.
Contact with Energized Sources
Energized sources are the devices that are actively carrying electricity or stored electrical energy. Some examples of energized sources are electrical wiring which is actively carrying electricity, electrical panels, and a variety of electrical appliances. As with power lines, never make contact with any energized source. All electrical wiring should be covered to avoid accidental contact. Electrical equipment that carries or uses 50 volts or more must be guarded. In addition, all electrical panels must have a dead front. Per the National Electric Code, dead front means without live parts exposed to a person on the operating side of the equipment.
Figure 2. Electrical Panels must have a Dead Front.
Improper Use of Power Cords
Improper use of extension cords is also a type of electrical hazard. Power cords are often mishandled and worn out at a faster rate compared with fixed wiring. The wear and tear on the extension cords can loosen the wires and often expose them. The exposed wires can cause serious burns and electrical shocks. Before operating machinery or tools, we must inspect the condition of the cords to eliminate any mishap in the workplace.
Figure 3. Always inspect power cords before use
The major types of injuries caused by electrical hazard are Burns, Electrocution, Shock, Arc Flash/Blast, Fire, and Explosions. The first letters from these injuries spells “BE SAFE.” Think of this acronym to be aware of the surroundings in the workplace.
Key Takeaways
Understanding industrial electrical hazards, such as contact with power lines, energized sources, and improper use of power cords, is essential for maintaining workplace safety and preventing serious injuries or fatalities. These hazards are particularly critical in applications across industries like construction, manufacturing, and electrical maintenance, where workers are regularly exposed to high-voltage equipment.
Industrial Electrical Hazards Review Questions
- True or False? Contact with an active power line has the potential to cause serious injury or death.
- The purpose of a dead front is to _____.
- warn operators of dangerous voltage
- keep live parts of electrical wiring covered to protect people on the operating side of equipment
- shut down an energized source
- None of the above.
- True or False? Power cords should always be inspected before use in the workplace.
Answers
- True
- B
- True