(OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Compliant)
Provider: OpsIntegrity^TM

Purpose:
The purpose of this module is to provide employees with a foundational awareness of electrical hazards in general industry workplaces and to introduce OSHA requirements outlined in 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S. This course promotes safe work practices and empowers workers to identify and respond to electrical risks in the workplace.

Introduction

Electricity is an essential part of modern industrial operations, but it can also be deadly if not managed properly. Every year, workers are seriously injured or killed due to preventable electrical incidents such as electric shocks, burns, arc flash events, and fires.

This awareness module is not intended to qualify you as an electrician or authorize you to perform electrical work. Instead, it focuses on helping you:

• Recognize potential electrical hazards
• Understand your role and responsibilities in avoiding them
• Know what to do in case of an emergency
• Identify safety systems and controls that protect against injury

All employees should respect the dangers of electrical systems and follow safe practices. Your employer has designated qualified personnel to perform specific electrical tasks. If you are not trained and authorized, do not attempt to repair, modify, or work on electrical equipment.

This course meets the awareness-level requirements under OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S and promotes a culture of safety and responsibility.

Our Most Important Objective: A Safe and Healthful Workplace

At OpsIntegrity, we believe that maintaining a safe and healthful workplace is the highest priority for every employer and employee. This principle forms the foundation of all training modules and safety resources provided through the OpsIntegrity system.

Employers are responsible for:

• Providing a workplace free from recognized hazards.
• Complying with OSHA standards and other applicable safety regulations.
• Promoting continuous improvement in safety practices.
• Empowering workers to report safety concerns without fear of retaliation.

Employees are responsible for:

• Following safety procedures and practices at all times.
• Reporting safety concerns, hazards, or near misses.
• Actively supporting the safety culture of their workplace.

Through OpsIntegrity’s shared resources, training, and compliance tools, employers and employees work together to identify risks, prevent injuries, and maintain a strong commitment to safety excellence.

Safety is not just a policy. It is a shared responsibility and a daily practice.

Basic Electrical Concepts

Electricity is the flow of electrical power or charge and is one of the most common energy forms used in workplaces. It moves through conductors (such as copper wires) and is measured in several key units:

• Voltage (V): The potential difference or pressure that pushes electrical current through a conductor.
• Current (Amps or A): The rate at which electricity flows through a conductor.
• Resistance (Ohms Ω): The opposition to current flow in a circuit.
• Power (Watts or W): The rate at which energy is used or transferred.

Even voltages as low as 50 volts can be enough to cause severe injury or death under certain conditions. The human body can act as a conductor if it comes into contact with energized equipment, and since electricity seeks the path of least resistance to ground, workers must be extremely cautious around conductive materials and moisture.

Understanding the behavior of electricity helps in identifying and controlling hazards, especially in industrial environments with high-voltage equipment, temporary wiring, or exposed circuitry.

Common Electrical Hazards

Electrical hazards are among the top causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. They can result in:

• Electric Shock: Occurs when an electrical current passes through the body. Severity depends on the current's path, duration, and intensity.
• Electrical Burns: Caused by contact with live electrical parts or arcing events; often internal and may not be visible initially.
• Arc Flash: A sudden release of electrical energy through the air when a high-voltage gap exists and there is a breakdown between conductors. Can cause severe injury or death.
• Fire and Explosion: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or improper grounding can lead to ignition of flammable materials.

Hazards increase in areas where equipment is poorly maintained, wet or damp, or subject to high foot traffic.

Recognizing Electrical Hazards

Effective hazard recognition requires vigilance and training. Common signs of danger include:

• Frayed or damaged wiring, including pinched insulation
  • Response: Immediately tag out the equipment and notify a supervisor. Do not use the equipment until repaired by a qualified person.
• Power tools or extension cords missing ground prongs
  • Response: Remove from service immediately. Do not attempt to repair. Turn in for evaluation and replacement.
• Signs of overheating, such as scorch marks or melted insulation
  • Response: Shut down the equipment if safe to do so, and report the hazard. Do not attempt to touch or move overheated parts.
• Frequent tripping of circuit breakers
  • Response: Notify maintenance or a qualified electrician. Do not reset repeatedly without investigation.
• Improperly secured or open electrical panels
  • Response: Do not touch or access. Secure the area to prevent others from coming into contact and report it to your supervisor.
• Temporary wiring configurations not rated for long-term use
  • Response: Notify safety personnel. Temporary setups should be properly assessed and approved by qualified staff.
• Water near electrical systems
  • Response: Treat the area as a serious hazard. Block access and report immediately. Only a qualified person should assess and correct the situation.

Recognizing and responding to these hazards promptly can prevent injury or fatality. All workers must take personal responsibility for identifying unsafe conditions and escalating concerns according to company protocol.

Safe Work Practices

Electrical hazards are not limited to electricians or maintenance staff. Many workers encounter electricity indirectly - by operating machinery, entering mechanical rooms, using powered tools, or working in proximity to energized panels, extension cords, or temporary power setups. Because of this, safe work practices must be understood and consistently followed by all employees, regardless of role.

General Awareness

• Treat all electrical components as if they are energized unless verified otherwise by a qualified person.
• Recognize warning signs such as buzzing noises, burning smells, flickering lights, or equipment overheating.
• Understand the types of equipment or tools at your job site that involve electrical risk - even if you're not opening a panel, touching a wire, or working on a circuit.

Avoidance of Hazard Zones

• Never open electrical panels or access breaker boxes unless you are trained and authorized.
• Maintain a minimum 3-foot clearance around all energized panels and circuit boxes - this ensures fire safety and emergency access.
• Respect signage and barrier tape placed around electrical work areas. These are set up to restrict entry and protect unqualified personnel from exposure.
• Avoid setting items like ladders, water bottles, boxes, or tools near electrical panels, cords, or floor boxes.

Use of Equipment and Tools

• Inspect power tools and extension cords before use - never use equipment with frayed cords, exposed wiring, or damaged plugs.
• Do not bypass safety features such as interlocks, grounding pins, or GFCI plugs.
• Use equipment in dry conditions only unless it’s specifically rated for damp or wet environments. Even damp concrete can increase the risk of shock.
• Only plug into outlets that are intact and securely fastened to walls or boxes - avoid loose, hanging, or “hot” outlets.

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Awareness

• If equipment is tagged or locked out, do not attempt to use or energize it. This means someone is performing service or repair and energizing the equipment could cause injury or death.
• Understand the LOTO tag colors and messages used at your site. These tags indicate whether equipment is under repair, unsafe to use, or awaiting inspection.

Personal Conduct Near Electrical Systems

• Do not wear metal jewelry, dangling chains, or conductive accessories when working around energized equipment.
• Never touch, rest tools on, or lean against electrical panels, junction boxes, or transformers - even if they are closed.
• Report anything unusual immediately: sparking outlets, warm plugs, tripped breakers, or equipment that shocks, hums, or smells odd.

Emergency Considerations

• Know where to find the nearest shutoff switch or breaker in case of an emergency - but only operate it if instructed to do so and trained.
• In the event of a suspected shock or arc incident, do not approach the victim until the area is confirmed safe.
• Always contact your supervisor or safety lead if you're unsure about any electrical condition or hazard.

Training & Reinforcement

• Attend regular safety briefings and toolbox talks that include electrical awareness topics.
• Ask questions if you are unsure about the equipment you’re using or the environment you’re working in.
• Reinforce a “stop and ask” culture - stopping to verify safety is always better than assuming it's safe.

Extension Cords and Portable Tools

Improper use of extension cords and portable equipment is a frequent source of electrical injuries:

• Only use UL-listed cords designed for commercial or industrial use
• Do not modify cords or plugs; any repairs must be done by qualified personnel
• Avoid running cords across walkways, under rugs, or through doors where they can be crushed
• Never use a cord with a missing ground pin or exposed wiring
• Routinely inspect equipment for wear, and remove defective items from service immediately

Avoid using portable tools in wet or damp locations unless they are double-insulated or connected to a GFCI outlet.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

GFCIs are lifesaving devices that interrupt power when a ground fault is detected:

• Required for outlets in wet, damp, or outdoor locations, including restrooms, kitchens, and construction sites
• Must be tested monthly using the built-in TEST and RESET buttons
• Portable GFCIs should be used for temporary power setups
• If a GFCI trips frequently, the cause must be investigated immediately

These devices prevent thousands of shocks and deaths annually. Their use is not optional in OSHA-covered environments where risk of ground faults exists.

Qualified vs. Unqualified Workers

OSHA makes a clear distinction:

• Qualified Workers: Have received specific training in electrical safety, understand the hazards involved, and are authorized to perform tasks such as installation, troubleshooting, and repair of energized equipment.
• Unqualified Workers: May operate electrical equipment but are not permitted to open enclosures, access live parts, or perform maintenance.

Unqualified workers must:

• Stay outside the limited approach boundary of live parts
• Know how to recognize and report hazards
• Follow all posted warnings and barricades

Training must be documented, and refresher courses are required when tasks change or new equipment is introduced.

Emergency Response

When electrical accidents occur, quick action saves lives:

• Do not touch the victim while they are in contact with electricity
• Use a non-conductive object (wooden broom handle, dry rope) to break contact
• Call 911 immediately
• Administer CPR or first aid only if trained and the area is safe
• Report the incident to supervisors and safety teams as required by company protocol

A post-incident review must occur to determine root cause and implement preventive measures.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers are responsible for protecting workers from electrical hazards by:

• Complying with OSHA 1910 Subpart S and NFPA 70E standards
• Conducting hazard assessments and maintaining a written Electrical Safety Program
• Ensuring all installations comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC)
• Providing training, signage, PPE, and access control to hazardous areas
• Maintaining equipment to manufacturer specifications
• Reporting and recording all electrical-related injuries and near-misses

Failure to provide a safe workplace can result in citations, legal liability, and worker harm.

Employee Responsibilities

Workers play a crucial role in electrical safety by:

• Following all established safety procedures and instructions
• Never working on or near electrical equipment unless qualified and authorized
• Participating in training and asking questions when unsure
• Inspecting tools and equipment before use
• Reporting damaged equipment, exposed wiring, or any signs of malfunction

Each employee is responsible for protecting themselves and their coworkers. Safety is a shared responsibility.

Multi-Employer Worksite Considerations

Many worksites involve multiple employers working together. Each employer must ensure that their employees:

• Know the designated exit routes for the worksite.
• Are familiar with the site's Emergency Action Plan (EAP).
• Participate in coordinated emergency drills when possible.

Primary contractors or host employers typically hold responsibility for coordinating emergency planning with subcontractors and other employers present on-site. All parties must communicate and ensure that emergency procedures are clear and understood by everyone.

Reporting and Resources

• Report blocked exits, damaged signs, or any emergency hazards immediately to your supervisor or designated safety contact.
• OpsIntegrity Safety Portal provides centralized access to:Emergency Action Plans
  
  • Evacuation maps
  • Emergency contacts
  • Hazard reporting tools
  • Training materials and safety procedures
• Records of reported hazards, corrective actions, and training are maintained for compliance and continuous safety improvement.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Electrical safety is a critical aspect of workplace health and safety. Whether you work directly with electrical systems or simply operate equipment near power sources, understanding and respecting electrical hazards can save lives. This training module covered advanced concepts and OSHA requirements outlined in 1910 Subpart S to help reinforce safe behaviors and risk awareness.

Key Takeaways:

• Electricity is powerful and dangerous—even low voltages can be deadly under the right conditions.
• Electrical hazards include shock, burns, arc flashes, and fires, and they can often be prevented through routine inspections and safe work practices.
• Workers must be trained to recognize hazards such as damaged cords, missing ground pins, or overheating equipment and respond appropriately.
• Safe work practices like lockout/tagout, PPE usage, and maintaining clearances around panels are non-negotiable.
• Only qualified workers may perform electrical work; unqualified workers must keep a safe distance and report hazards immediately.
• GFCIs play a vital role in preventing fatal ground faults in damp or wet areas.
• Emergency response procedures must be clearly understood and followed—do not touch victims of electric shock and always call for help.
• Employers are responsible for creating a safe electrical environment; employees must follow procedures and report issues.

Electrical safety depends on both individual actions and organizational systems. Your awareness, preparation, and commitment help ensure that everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.

Acknowledgment of Completion

By completing this training module on Walking-Working Surfaces (1910 Subpart D), I acknowledge that:

• I have received training in accordance with OSHA’s General Industry standards.
• I understand the hazards associated with walking-working surfaces and how to recognize and prevent them.
• I understand both my employer’s responsibilities and my own responsibilities for maintaining safe walking-working surfaces.
• I am aware of the requirement to report unsafe conditions immediately.
• I know how to access safety procedures, training, and resources through the OpsIntegrity Safety Portal.
• I understand that this training is part of a broader safety program and that additional training may be provided by my employer.

I commit to using the knowledge gained in this training to help maintain a safe and compliant workplace.