Electrical Safety OSHA 30-Hour Construction Fact Sheet

Relevant Regulations Hazards Precautions to Take

OSHA’s electrical safety standards for construction
are included in 29 CFR 1926, Subpart K. Additional
information can be found in:
• Subpart L - Scaffolds
• Subpart N - Cranes, Derricks, Hoist Elevators,
and Conveyors
• Subpart V- Power Transmission and Distribu-
tion Workers
• Subpart X - Ladders.
Overhead Power Lines.
Generally, OSHA regulations require that companies
keep workers and equipment, including cranes, scis-
sor lifts, boom lifts, etc., at least 10 feet away from
the overhead power lines to prevent contact.
Electricity creates a significant hazard in the work-
place.
Most injuries and fatalities result from:
• Electric shock
• Electrocution
• Burns
• Arc blasts
• Fires
• Explosions.
Flammable vapors or gases and combustible dust or
fibers may be present in some locations on a con-
struction jobsite, and pose a significant hazard when
mixed with electricity.
If you encounter someone being shocked by electricity:
1. Disconnect the power
2. Call emergency medical services, or 911
3. Don't touch the victim unless you are certain that the
power has been shut off. If you do, you may be the next
victim!
4.Use appropriate first aid and CPR techniques if you are
trained to do so.
5. Don't touch bare wires, frayed wires, power lines, or
power company equipment
6. Don't try to put out a fire started by electricity with
water. Water can conduct electricity.
Before operating or working around electrical equip-
ment, make sure you are properly train.
Do not install or repair equipment if you are not
qualified.
When operating or working around electrical equip-
ment:
• Respect the power of electricity
• De-energize electrical equipment when working
on it
• Inspect and maintain equipment and tools
• Use available safety features, like three-
pronged plugs, tools that are double-insulated,
and safety switches
• Make sure electrical equipment is properly 
grounded
• Follow lockout and tagging procedures
• Use “C” rated extinguishers for electrical fires.
Never use water.
• Practice good housekeeping: care for cables and
cords by keeping them clean and storing them 
properly
• Do not touch water, bare wires, or ungrounded
metal if you are not protected
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment
for the job
• Do not wear clothing or jewelry that can con-
duct electricity
• Use flexible cords only when allowed by the
regulations and when there are no other options.

Grounding
Grounding is a (secondary) method of protecting
employees from electric shock. Choose either ground
fault circuit interrupters or an assured equipment
grounding conductor program to protect employees
on construction sites.