We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

809: Focus Four - Electrocution Hazards
Skip to main content

809: Electrocution Hazards

Employer Lockout/Tagout Responsibilities

Enforcement. The employer must enforce LOTO safety-related work practices by ensuring:

  • controls that are to be deactivated during the course of work on energized or de-energized equipment or circuits are locked out, tagged or both;
  • equipment or circuits that are de-energized shall be rendered inoperative and post tags attached at all points where such equipment or circuits can be energized;
  • tags are placed to plainly identify the equipment or circuits being worked on; and
  • all circuits used to energize equipment are locked out/tagged out if any worker is exposed to contact with parts of fixed electric equipment that has been de-energized.

Isolation. The employer must ensure electrical parts are properly isolated, and conductors entering boxes, cabinets, or fittings are protected from abrasion.

Wire with abrasion protection
Do you think this electrical wire is protected from abrasion?

Openings through which conductors enter must be closed. Unused openings in cabinets, boxes, and fittings must also be effective.

All pull boxes, junction boxes, and fittings must have covers. Metal covers need to be grounded. In energized installations, each outlet box needs to have a cover, faceplate, or fixture canopy. Covers of outlet boxes having holes through which flexible cord pendants pass shall be provided with bushings designed for the purpose or shall have smooth, well-rounded surfaces on which the cords may rest.

Ensure Proper Guarding. Guarding involves locating or enclosing electrical equipment to ensure workers do not accidentally come into contact with its live parts. Effective guarding requires equipment with exposed parts operating at 50 volts or more to be placed where they are accessible only to authorized people qualified to work with/on the equipment.

Training. Workers need be trained in and familiar with the safety-related work practices that pertain to their respective job assignments. Employers should train their employees to:

  • de-energize electric equipment before inspecting or repairing;
  • use cords, cables, and electric tools that are in good repair;
  • know and understand lockout/tagout recognition and procedures; and
  • use appropriate protective equipment.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-11. What must your employer do to help protect you from electrical hazards?

Previous Section