OBJECTIVE

This policy is intended to establish work practices to prevent electric shock, fires, or other injuries due to direct or indirect contact with electrical wires, tools, or appliances.

AUTHORITY

OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.331 - 335

POLICY

This policy applies to both qualified and unqualified persons.

Qualified: a person with the experience, training, and permission to work on or near energized electrical devices.

Unqualified: a person with little or no training in recognizing or avoiding electrical hazards.

Exemption: this policy does not apply to high voltage work and devices covered under 29 CFR 1910.151 or construction 29 CFR 1926 subpart K.

Electrical system components shall not be modified in any way without the prior approval of an electrician from the appropriate University maintenance division.

All plug connected electrical equipment, portable electrical equipment, and extension cords shall be handled in a manner that will not cause damage. Damaged equipment or cords must be removed from service for repair or disposal.

Portable electrical equipment and extension cords used in wet locations shall be protected through the use of a ground fault circuit interrupter.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Environmental Health and Safety Division

Environmental Health and Safety is responsible for the development of this policy for the control of hazardous energy.

University Departments

It is the responsibility of University Departments to implement this policy through the development of the necessary specific written procedures, training of staff, purchase of equipment, and modification to equipment and systems where necessary.

Supervisors

It is the responsibility of the supervisor to enforce this policy, and other specific written procedures, and to assure that the necessary equipment is provided.

The supervisor should identify employees exposed to electrical hazards and ensure they are adequately trained to identify potential hazards and apply appropriate means to secure those hazards.

Employees

All employees are required to comply with this policy.

PROCEDURES

Circuit breaker panels, wiring, switches, outlets, fixtures, and other electrical system components shall not be modified in any way without the prior approval of an electrician from the appropriate physical plant department.

All plug connected electrical equipment, portable electrical equipment, and extension cords shall be handled in a manner that will not cause damage. Portable electrical equipment and extension cords shall be inspected before use for damage, missing parts, or signs of internal damage. If there is a defect or evidence of damage that might expose an employee to an increased risk of injury the item must be removed from service until it has been repaired.

Portable electrical equipment and extension cords used in wet locations shall be protected through the use of a ground fault circuit interrupter.