Electrical Safety

The following rules apply only to electrical installations used on the jobsite, both temporary and permanent:

1.Extension cords used with portable electrical tools and appliances shall be of three-wire types. Grounds are never to be removed from the extension cords.

2. Temporary lights shall be equipped with guards to prevent accidental contact with the bulb. Guards are not required when the reflector is constructed in such a way that the bulb is deeply recessed.

3. Temporary lights shall not be suspended by their electric cords unless cords and lights are designed for this means of suspension.

4. Splices shall have insulation equal to that of the cable.

5. Electrical and extension cords or cables are not to be laid on floors, in walkways, etc., unless it is impractical to do otherwise. They should be suspended or secured in such a way as not to block or hang in walkways, doorways or work areas.

6. Panel boxes shall have a cover on them at all times, except when being serviced and when a temporary cover is in place it should be marked "HOT" to denote live current.

7. Explain to the employees which ground fault system is being used, either GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTERS OR ASSURED EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTOR PROGRAM.

With electricity we are dealing with something that cannot be seen and is still the most useful power controlled by man. It is useful but can be a very destructive power to both man and material if the proper precautions are not taken. The danger is always there and we must know what means of protection can be used to eliminate the hazards.

Portable Power Tools

In construction portable power tools with defective wiring cause many injuries. The following safe practices are recommended:

1. Use tools with three wire plug and make sure connections are tight.

2. Check tool, equipment and cables frequently for safe condition.

3 .Disconnect tool before making adjustments or repairs.

4. When using power tools in a wet area, use caution. The shock hazard is increased.

ELECTRICAL OUTLETS

BEFORE USING - make a safety check for loose cable connections, bare wires, cracked outlets and missing or damaged face plates.

WHEN USING - be sure plug fits firmly and check for any signs of heating caused by faulty connections.

TO REMOVE CORD - GRAB AT PLUG

Yanking a cord from an outlet can:

·       Break cord insulation and wires

·       Pull loose wire connections

·       Bend plug prongs

·       Spread clips inside outlet

ABOUT THE THREE (3) PRONG PLUG

Guard it! It is your shock LIFEGUARD. Never cut off the third prong to fit an older two-hole outlet. Never use a two-wire extension cord with this three-prong plug. If using an adapter at a two-hole outlet, be sure the pigtail is attached to face plate screw. (NOTE: Screw must be tested for known "ground source".)