ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH & SAFETY

ELECTRICAL SAFETY AWARENESS

University personnel may encounter electrical energy during the course of their duties or scholarly pursuits. It is important to understand the risks associated with electrical energy as electrically powered equipment and electrical systems can pose a significant hazard, particularly when mishandled or not maintained. Creating a safe work environment and utilizing safe work practices are the keys to avoiding electrical hazards.

Electrical equipment must be serviced by a Qualified Person, learn more here!

Major hazards associated with electricity

What effect does an electric shock have on the body?

Electric current through the body, even at levels as low as 3 milliamps, can cause injuries or even death. An electric shock can result in anything from a slight tingling sensation to immediate cardiac arrest. The severity depends on the amount of current flowing through the body, the current's path through the body, the length of time the body remains in the circuit, and the current's frequency. This table shows typical effect on the body when current flows from the hand to the foot for just 1 second.

Source: OSHA Publication - Controlling Electrical Hazards, W.B. Kouwenhoven, "Human Safety and Electric Shock," Electrical Safety Practices, Monograph 112, Instrument Society of America

Electrical Hazard Prevention and Safety Tips

Checklist - Electrical Cord Self Assessment

• Identify electrical hazards using the EHS Self-Assessment Checklist for Electrical Cords.
• Inspect power cords for cracks, nicks and obvious signs of damage.
• NEVER remove grounding pin (third prong) from electrical cords. Equipment having a cord with a missing ground pin should be taken out of service immediately.
• Exposed wires present a danger of electric shock or electrocution.
• Extension cords or power strips should not be connected to each other. This is known as a "daisy chaining".
• Limit the use of extension cords. They should be for temporary use only and are not meant to be permanent.
• Minimize potential for water or chemical spills on or near electrical equipment.
• Unplug electrical equipment before working on it (maintenance or repair).
• Avoid flammable materials, sparks or static charges around electrical sources.
• Maintain 36 inches of clearance around electrical panels.
• Avoid running electrical cords through doors and windows, and over or above sinks.
• NEVER use damaged electrical equipment! Immediately, remove from service and notify supervisor.
• Hardwired equipment (e.g., breaker box) is considered part of the facility electrical system and requires shutdown by qualified personnel only!
• Notify Facilities Management (Academic 434-924-2267 or Health System 434-924-3053) to coordinate any repair, relocation, alteration or shutdown of electrical systems.
• Report any electrical shock to your supervisor and seek medical attention.

When is training required?

• According to OSHA, only a "Qualified Person" can perform electrical maintenance and repairs.
• A qualified person is someone who has received training in and has demonstrated skills and knowledge in the operation of electric equipment and installations and the hazards and risk involved.
• EHS can assist in determining if Electrical Safety training is required for your tasks.

WHO TO CONTACT FOR ASSISTANCE

Contact EHS at 434.982.4911 for any questions or guidance.