Electrical hazard guidelines

In order to create a safe work environment, workers need to guard against contact with electrical voltages and control electrical currents. Make the environment safer by doing the  following:

• Protect portable electrical equipment with an approved ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) when using the equipment outdoors.
• Ensure all the cords are in good condition, with the caps and plugs well secured on the cables. Ensure the proper U-ground plug is in good working condition.
• Use cords of sufficient gauge for the amount of current used by the tools they are powering. Each tool is labelled with the power that it draws.
• Wear rubber boots when working in wet conditions and keep your feet dry.
• Tag any faulty tool that may result in a shock as “out of service.”
• Stay clear of overhead power lines and do not use ladders or long-handled paint rollers close to any electrical power line.
• Communicate with the electrician or power company to move or disconnect any cable you need moved or altered.
• Treat all conductors and bare wires—even apparently de-energized ones—as if they are energized until they are locked out and tagged.

Grounding tools and equipment

The WCB Occupational Health & Safety Regulation 19.15 requires that, when used outdoors or in a wet or damp location, portable electrical equipment, including temporary lighting, must be protected by an approved ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). Make sure that all the cords are in good condition with the caps and plugs well secured on the cables.

It is important that you use a three-wire cord and the proper U-ground prong on the cord. The third wire is connected to ground: therefore, the operator should not receive an electrical shock if the tool or equipment develops a short circuit.

Double-insulated cords and tools are also effective in preventing shocks when using power tools. Before taking any electrical appliance or tool apart, lock out or disconnect the electrical power supply.