© Recognizing Electrical Risk Factors Module 2

© Recognize Evaluate Control

© Define electrical risk factors. Module Objectives List and describe electrical risk factors that may contribute to workplace injuries. List the most important electrical risk factors to look for in your workplace.

© Identify methods for identifying electrical hazards. Module Objectives Identify causes of arc blast and the risk factors that contribute to it. Presented with a problem, describe how to determine risk factors, then list the risk factors.

© An existing or potential condition that, by itself or interacting with other variables, could create an electrical incident that could result in injury, death, property damage or other loss Also called electrical hazard Electrical Risk Factor

© Four Risk Factor Categories EnvironmentEquipment Work PracticesIndividual

© Electrical risks that are in the work environment Environmental Risk Factors

© Electrical risks in the equipment at a worksite Equipment Risk Factors

© Electrical risks caused by work requirements, processes or procedures Work Practices Risk Factors

© Risks that are unique to and caused by the individual Individual Risk Factors

© Identifying Electrical Hazards Tailgate meetings and job briefings Checklists Job safety analysis Safety inspections OSHA log analysis Incident investigation logs PROACTIVEPROACTIVE REACTIVEREACTIVE

© Luminous electrical discharge (bright, electrical sparking) through the air that occurs when high voltages exist across a gap between conductors Arc Flash

© An explosive release of molten materials from equipment caused by high-amperage arcs Arc Blast

© Copper expands by a factor of 67,000 1.Heat builds to 35,000º F What Happens in an Arc Blast? 3.Metal melts 4.There is intense light 6.Shrapnel flies 5.There are pressure and sound waves

© Arc Blast

© Skin burns Ignition of clothing Damage of eyesight Hearing loss/ruptured eardrums Lung collapse Concussion/loss of memory Consequences of Arc Blast

© Shrapnel wounds Physical wounds Loss of life Lost work time Loss or damage of equipment Consequences of Arc Blast— continued

© Electrocution for unqualified workers. Arc flash/blast for qualified workers. Did You Know? The electrical hazard responsible for 80% of incidents and fatalities is:

© Panel boards Switchboards Motors Transformers Motor starters Drive cabinets Fused disconnects Where Does Arc Blast Occur?

© Proximity to a high-amp source with a conductive object Equipment failure from substandard parts Improper installation of equipment or outlets Worn or damaged equipment Causes of Arc Blast

© Broken insulation A dropped tool that causes a spark Dust, corrosion or other impurities on the surface of the conductor Accidental contact (by humans or animals) Improper work procedures Causes of Arc Blast—continued

© Accidental Contact—Example Photo courtesy of Schneider Electric

© Accidental Contact—A Better View Photo courtesy of Schneider Electric

© Removing or installing circuit breakers or fuses Working on energized control circuits Racking circuit breakers in and out of switch gear Applying safety grounds Removing and replacing panel covers Hazardous Tasks

© Electrical Hazards—Case 1 Photo courtesy of Schneider Electric

© Electrical Hazards—Case 2 Photo courtesy of Schneider Electric

© Electrical Hazards—Case 3 Photo courtesy of Schneider Electric

© Electrical Hazards—Case 4 Photos courtesy of Schneider Electric

© Planning for Your Small Business ActionPotential BarriersOvercoming the Barriers