How Far Must A Worker Be From An Energized Electrical Circuit?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Voltage to Ground Distance 50kV or below

10 feet
Over 50kV 10 feet (plus 4 in. for each 10kV over 50kV)

What is the minimum safe working distance from exposed electrical conductor?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that equipment be kept at least

10 feet away

from power lines with voltages up to 50kV. For lines with voltages higher than 50kV, the required distance is even greater (see below).

Can you work on energized circuits?


Only qualified employees may work on or with exposed energized

lines or parts of equipment. Only qualified employees may work in areas containing unguarded, uninsulated energized lines or parts of equipment operating at 50 volts or more. Treat as energized.

What is considered energized work?

You are completing an energized

electrical

work task when there are exposed energized electrical conductors

Which of the following is a requirement when performing energized electrical work?

When it is necessary to perform work on energized equipment, OSHA 1910.333(a)(2) requires

safety-related work practices to be

used and NFPA 70E Article 110.8(B)(1) requires an Electrical Hazard Analysis before work is performed on live equipment operating at 50 volts and higher.

What is electrical safety in the workplace?

Unplug and store unneeded electrical tools or equipment. If a tool has a damaged cord, is hot or creating sparks, stop using it immediately and label “do not use”

Keep electrical equipment ventilated

– never put a cover over a piece of equipment. Never leave equipment running unattended.

What is a qualified person OSHA?

“Qualified” means one who,

by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing

, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated his ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.

What does the term energized mean when there is a short circuit?

Energized –

Electrically connected to or having a source of voltage

(2004 NFPA 70E), or electrically charged to have a potential significantly different from that of earth in the vicinity.

What is a lockout/tagout procedure?

The purpose of a “Lockout/Tagout” procedure is

to protect employees from machines and equipment capable of causing injury due to unexpected energization

, release of stored energy or the start-up of equipment while an employee is performing maintenance or servicing equipment.

What are five examples of confined spaces?

Confined spaces include, but are not limited to,

tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, pits, manholes, tunnels, equipment housings, ductwork, pipelines

, etc.

When can you work on live electrical equipment?

ANSWER: According to OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.333(a)(1), working on live parts that operate above 50 volts is allowable ONLY when the employer “

can demonstrate that de-energizing introduces additional or increased hazards or is infeasible due to equipment design or operational limitations

.”

Who is responsible for electrical safety in the workplace?

OSHA publication 29 CFR 1910 lays out

employer

responsibilities for protecting their workers from electrical safety hazards. It states that the employer shall train workers to use safe work practices that are designed to avoid injury.

What are the five safety rules?

  • Your safety is your personal responsibility.
  • Always follow the correct procedures.
  • Never take shortcuts.
  • Take responsibility and clean up if you made a mess.
  • Clean and organize your workspace.
  • Ensure a clear and easy route to emergency exits and equipment.
  • Be alert and awake on the job.

What is the most common OSHA electrical violation?


Lockout/Tagout

had the most violations of any electrical category. At number 5 on the “Most Frequently Cited Standards” list, LOTO violations are proof positive that many facilities still do not prioritize employee safety training as much as they should.

What are the basic rules of electrical safety?

  • Prevent All Potential Contact With Live Electrical Current. …
  • De-energize Equipment and Use Lockout/Tagout. …
  • Ensure Safe Use of Electrical Equipment. …
  • Install Proper Physical Barriers Around Electrical Hazards. …
  • Beware of Conductive Tools and Cleaning Materials.
David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.