CHAPTER 26 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

26 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS There are also restrictions in the Construction

Projects regulation (O. Reg. 213/91, s. 182) on who
can work on electrical equipment:
1. No worker shall connect, maintain or modify
electrical equipment or installations unless,
(a) the worker holds a certificate of qualification
issued under the Ontario College of Trades and
Apprenticeship Act, 2009, that is not suspended,
in the trade of,
(i) electrician — construction and maintenance, or
(ii) electrician — domestic and rural, if the
worker is performing work that is limited to the
scope of practice for that trade; or
(b) the worker is otherwise permitted to connect,
maintain or modify electrical equipment or
installations under the Ontario College of Trades
and Apprenticeship Act, 2009 or the Technical
Standards and Safety Act, 2000. O. Reg. 627/05,
s. 4; O. Reg. 88/13, s. 2.
An electrical hazard can be defined as 2. A worker who does not meet the requirements
-- a dangerous condition where a worker could of clause (1) (a) or (b) may insert an attachment
make electrical contact with energized plug cap on the cord of electrical equipment
equipment or a conductor, and from which the or an electrical tool into, or remove it from, a
person may sustain an injury from shock; and/or, convenience receptacle.
-- there is potential for the worker to receive an Guidelines for working on or near electrical equipment
arc flash burn, thermal burn, or blast injury. and conductors are found in several documents:
• Construction Regulation (O. Reg. 213/91)
Note: An electrical hazard is considered to be • Ontario Electrical Safety Code
removed when protective measures are put in place • Operating manuals for different tools and equipment.
at the source (remove hazard or de-energize), or • CAN/CSA-Z462: Workplace Electrical Safety.
along the path (place electrical insulation/barrier
between the worker and the electrical hazard). An important aspect of electrical work involves
Where PPE is relied upon for worker protection, an isolating electrical energy. A reference for detailed
electrical hazard is considered to remain and it is information on lockout and control of hazardous
still necessary to address safety requirements for energy is the CAN/CSA-Z460: Control of Hazardous
other workers in the area. Energy—Lockout and Other Methods.

Injuries resulting from a worker making electrical Electrical Injuries

contact represent a relatively small portion (7.7%)
of the lost-time injuries electricians experience, There are basically two ways to be injured by electricity.
according to 1997–1999 statistics. It is reasonable One is by electric shock and the other is by arc flash.
to assume that the situation is similar today. Other Electric shock is the passing of electric current
mechanical trades that do some electrical work can through the body. Electrical contact can cause
probably expect even fewer electrical injuries. involuntary physical movements. The electrical
Nevertheless, working on or near electrical hazards current may do the following.
is dangerous and can be fatal. Any work on or near • Prevent you from releasing your grip from a live
energized equipment must be done only when conductor
measures are in place to provide protection from • Throw you into contact with a higher voltage
electric shock and burn. With adequate safety conductor
measures in place, every electrical injury and • Cause you to lose your balance and fall
fatality can be prevented. • Cause severe internal and external burns
The law requires safe work practices. Under • Kill you.
the Occupational Health and Safety Act and
A household 125-volt circuit can deliver 15 amps.
Regulations for Construction Projects (the green
Current as low as 30/1000 of 1 amp (30 mA) can
book), employers, supervisors, and workers each
cause breathing to stop. A 15-amp circuit contains
have legal responsibilities to ensure that work is
many times the current needed to cause death.
being carried out in a safe manner.

Hazards 26-1
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

A major cause of accidents involving electricity comes Safeguards

from the failure to identify the hazards associated with
live electrical equipment and wiring (Figure 26-1). Protective Tools and Equipment
Workers exposed to an electrical hazard must use
mats, gloves, shields, flame resistant clothing, and
any other protective equipment required to protect
themselves from electric shock and burn. As part of
everyday work, electrical workers should always do
the following.
• Remove watches, rings, neck chains, or other
current-conducting apparel.
• Wear electric-shock-resistant footwear.
• Wear a CSA-approved Class E hard hat or
equivalent.
• Wear safety glasses with side shields.
• Wear under and outer clothing that has flame-
resistance properties.
Tools, devices, and equipment—including personal
protective equipment—used for live work must be
Figure 26-1: designed, tested, maintained, and used so as to
Electrical Injuries provide adequate protection for workers.
Where there is the potential for an arc flash, all PPE
should be chosen with consideration for the kinds
of hazards that can result from an arc flash. (See
"Flash hazard arc flash protection" below.)
An arc flash is a release of energy caused by an
electric arc (Figure 26-2). The flash causes an explosive The following information provides guidelines on
expansion of air and metal. The blast produces appropriate and required personal protective
equipment. Check the reference documents identified
• A dangerous pressure wave
at the beginning of this chapter to determine your
• A dangerous sound wave
job-specific needs. See also the chapters on personal
• Shrapnel
protective equipment in this manual.
• Extreme heat
• Extreme light.
Clothing
Whether or not the day’s planned work involves
working near an electrical hazard, workers that do
electrical work should choose everyday clothing
that offers some flame-resistance properties. When
work must be done in the presence of an electrical
hazard, ensure that all clothing is chosen to provide
adequate protection from the potential hazards.
(See "Flash Hazard (Arc Flash) Protection" section
in this chapter.)
Figure 26-2: Electric Arc
Head Protection
These dangers can result in blast injuries, lung
injuries, ruptured eardrums, shrapnel wounds, The following types of hard hats comply with the
severe burns, and blindness. Arc flash injuries can Construction Projects regulation (213/91):
also result in death (Figure 26-3). • Class E, Type 1 or 2 (CAN/CSA-Z94.1)
• Type II, Class E (ANSI Z89.1)
• Type I, Class E (ANSI Z89.1).
Type 1 hard hats provide protection to the top of
the head, while Type 2 hard hats provide protection
to the top and sides of the head. Because it
protects against side impact, CSA Type 2 hard hats
are recommended for construction work. Class
E hard hats are able to withstand an electrical
contact equal to 20,000 volts (phase-to-ground).
Figure 26-3: Arc Flash

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 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Foot Protection Hearing Protection

Construction workers require Grade 1 toe Hearing protection is important at work since
protection with sole puncture protection in continuous exposure to excessive noise can lead
accordance with CAN/CSA Z195-14: Protective to hearing loss and tinnitus. Hearing protection
Footwear. A green triangular patch on the tongue is required for some arc flash hazards. Hearing
or the ankle of protective footwear indicates that protection is available in three general types:
it meets the requirements of the Construction
1. Disposable ear plugs made of pliable material.
Projects regulation (213/91).
One size fits all, but they should only be used once.
Construction workers who are exposed to electrical 2. Reusable custom-fit ear plugs are available to
hazards (e.g., mechanical tradespeople) should also provide protection for specific frequencies of
wear protective footwear that resists electric shock. noise. These provide a good seal and can be
This is indicated by a white rectangular label bearing washed and reused.
the CSA logo and the Greek letter omega in orange. 3. Earmuffs. They need to be fitted to provide
maximum protection.

Shock Protection
The passage of electricity through the body is
called shock. Effects can range from a tingling
sensation to death. A shock that may not be
CSA logo omega label enough to cause injury can nonetheless startle a
worker, causing an involuntary reaction that can
result in serious injuries or death.
Eye Protection
A household 125-volt circuit can deliver 15 amps.
CAN/CSA Z94.3-15: Eye and Face Protectors can Current as low as 30/1000 of 1 amp (30 mA) can
assist you in classifying hazards and recommending cause breathing to stop. A 15-amp circuit has many
eye protectors. Appropriate protection chosen times the current needed to cause death.
according to this standard meets with the intent
of the Construction Projects regulation (213/91) Rubber gloves and leather protectors are the most
regarding eye protection worn on the job. common personal protective equipment used for
shock protection. These must be adequate to protect
In any case, eye protection should be of industrial the worker from electrical shock or burn. The rubber
quality eye protection in the form of safety glasses gloves must have been tested and certified.
incorporating side-shields or a wrap-around style.
Arc flash protection requires a face shield that is Class 0 and Class 00 gloves must be air-tested
rated for arc flash, with safety glasses underneath. and visually inspected for damage and adequacy
immediately before each use. Class 0 and Class 00
Regular plastic face shields do not to provide arc are exempt from regular recertification unless work
flash protection. They can burn and melt in an arc is carried out under the Electrical Utility Safety
flash incident. Use a face shield that is designed Rules (see RB-ELEC available at ihsa.ca). Rubber
and rated for arc flash protection. gloves rated for use with voltages above 5,000
volts AC must be regularly tested and certified to
ensure that they can withstand the voltages for
which they are rated,
• At least once every three months if they are in
service, or
• Once every six months, if they are not in service.
Workers must be trained in the proper use, care, and
storage of rubber gloves and leather protectors.
Rubber mats and shields can also be used with
standard personal protective equipment to protect
the worker from electric shock or burn. The rubber
mat must have been tested and certified.
The best shock protection is afforded by turning off
or isolating the electrical power from the worker.
The Construction Regulation requires all work to be
done with the system de-energized unless certain
specified conditions are met. (See "Working on
Energized Systems" in this chapter.)

Hazards 26-3
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Flash Hazard (Arc Flash) Protection

A flash hazard is defined as a dangerous condition
associated with the release of energy caused by
an electric arc (NFPA 70E 2004). The release of
energy is often referred to as an arc flash.
An arc flash produces thermal energy which is
measured in calories/cm2. Adhering to arc flash
protection calculations can still expose a worker to
second degree burns, or 1.2 calories/cm2.

One calorie is the amount of heat needed to raise

the temperature of one gram of water by 1°C.
Second degree burn results from exposure to 1.2 Figure 26-5: Flash Protection Designed into
cal/cm2 for more than 0.1 second. Disconnect Switch/Plug
1.2 calories/cm2 is equivalent to holding your
finger in the blue part of a butane lighter flame Mechanical workers who are potentially exposed
for one second. to arc flash should always wear clothing that
provides for some level of arc-flash protection.
Clothing made of synthetic fibres can be readily
These conditions can lead to arc flash:
ignited by arc flash and melt to the workers’ skin.
• Accidental contact between two conductors Cotton or wool fabrics are more flame-retardant
• Wiring errors and are therefore recommended as outer-wear and
• Insulation deterioration or failure inner-wear for work clothes. Clothing that is arc-
• Corrosion of equipment flash rated to provide protection up to a specified
• Contamination of the equipment (e.g., dust, hazard category must be worn when there is a
moisture) flash hazard.
• Animals, tools, or fallen parts that short-circuit
Protection from an arc flash is afforded by
the equipment
protective clothing and equipment such as
• Poor maintenance
• Workers using improper or non-rated tools. • Arc-rated clothing
• Flame-resistant eye protection (arc-rated face
If a worker is close to energized electrical
shield is often required as well)
equipment, the worker may be exposed to a flash
• Hand protection
hazard, even if the source of the arc flash is not
• Hearing protection.
being worked on. Employers and supervisors need
to ensure these workers are protected from flash There are a number of levels of arc-rated clothing,
hazards, and should educate workers on flash ranging from cotton-like clothes to the higher
hazard recognition. arc-rated suits and face shields (Figure 26-6). The
level of protection necessary is determined by a
It may be possible to eliminate the electrical
calculation using tables or a computer program.
hazard with equipment designed to offer flash
protection. The plugs in Figures 26-4 and 26-5 are
designed for flash protection and can be used as a
disconnect switch.

Figure 26-6: Flash Suit and Face Shield

Figure 26-4: Flash Hazard Switch Plug

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 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

A hypothetical example: Unless the work consists only of diagnostic

testing or involves a nominal voltage under 300
For voltage testing on an energized part, 240 volts
volts, an adequately equipped competent worker
or less, a worker may require the following.
who can perform rescue operations, including
• Arc-rated pants and shirt (each rated to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), must be
withstand 4 calories/cm2) stationed where he or she can see the workers
• Arc-rated face shield and safety goggles performing the live work.
• 500-Volt-rated class 00 gloves (class 0 gloves
Work on energized equipment nominally rated
protect up to 1000 volts)
greater than 400 amperes and greater than 200
• 1000-Volt-rated tools
volts, or greater than 200 amperes and greater
• Approved hard hat
than 300 volts, can only be done if all of the
• Hearing protection.
following conditions are met.
Actual calculations for this task may yield different
results. 1. The owner of the equipment provides the
employer and the constructor with a record
Workers who encounter a flash hazard can take showing that it has been maintained according
additional precautions to reduce exposure. to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Standing as far away as possible from the hazard 2. A copy of the maintenance record is readily
lowers the calorie intensity of an arc flash. available at the project.
• Standing to the side when opening electrical-box 3. The employer has determined from the
doors can reduce exposure to the full force of a blast. maintenance record that work on the equipment
can be performed safely without disconnecting it.
Information is available to assist with arc-flash 4. Before beginning live work, the worker has
energy calculations. Here are some sources: verified that requirements 1), 2), and 3) have
• The (US) National Fire Protection Association’s been met.
Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace
Repair or permanently disconnect defective
(NFPA 70E). Contact the NFPA: www.nfpa.org
equipment.
• The Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers’ standard 1584, Guide for Performing Section 2-300 of the Ontario Electrical Safety
Arc-Flash Hazard Calculations. Contact the IEEE: Code requires operating electrical equipment to
www.ieee.org be kept in safe and proper working condition.
• CSA standard Z462 Workplace Electrical Safety.
Contact the CSA: www.csagroup.org The constructor must ensure that written
procedures for work on or near live equipment are
produced and implemented to protect workers
Working on Energized Systems from electrical shock and burn. The constructor
What if there’s an electrical hazard but work must must have copies of the procedures available for
be done on or near enough to the hazard to make employers on the project.
electrical contact, or near enough to be exposed
The employer must provide and explain the written
to injury from an arc flash? In such cases, working
procedures to workers before they start work on
while the system is energized is permitted only if
or near live equipment. The constructor and the
specific conditions are met.
employer both have a general duty to ensure that
Work on energized equipment is permitted only in the health and safety of workers are protected.
one of the following situations.
• It is not reasonably possible to disconnect the
Operating Equipment Near
equipment, installation, or conductor from the Energized Powerlines
power supply. Incidental powerline contact happens too often,
• The equipment is rated at a nominal voltage especially considering the potential severity of the
of 600 volts or less, and disconnecting the consequences. The Ministry of Labour reported 108
equipment would create a greater hazard to powerline contacts in 1998. That number rose to
workers than proceeding without disconnecting it. 196 in 2005. See Table 26-1.
• The work consists only of diagnostic testing.
Constructors must be aware of electrical hazards
when equipment such as a crane, dump truck,
Note: Testing with a meter is working on energized
or other vehicle is going to be operated near an
equipment, and requires appropriate protection
energized overhead electrical conductor, or when
including personal protective equipment.
excavating equipment such as a backhoe will be
operated near underground powerlines (Figure 26-7).

Hazards 26-5
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

When equipment operates within reach of,

and could therefore encroach on, the minimum
permitted distances from live overhead powerlines
(as listed in Table 26-2), the constructor is required
to have written procedures in place to prevent it
from occurring and to have copies of the procedure
available for every employer on the project.

Note: The wind can blow powerlines, hoist lines,

or your load. This can cause them to cross the
minimum distance.

Overhead powerlines are most frequently hit by

dump trucks and cranes; however, elevating work
platforms and low-tech equipment such as ladders
and rolling scaffolds are also involved. Keep in
mind that many powerline contacts involve low-
voltage service and buried cable.

Figure 26-7: Electrical Hazards

Near Overhead Powerlines

Table 26-1: Summary of Powerline Contacts

Overhead Lines Buried Cables
Year Crane Dump truck Tree felling Other Digging Other Total
2005 19 21 9 87 45 15 196
2004 11 16 5 57 53 9 151
2003 16 19 9 63 35 6 148
2002 16 20 4 50 36 6 132
2001 16 22 5 43 27 7 120
2000 15 10 3 59 32 3 122
1999 11 26 2 48 27 1 115
1998 10 17 8 39 27 7 108
TOTALS 114 151 46 446 282 54
Source: Ontario Ministry of Labour

Table 26-2: Minimum Distance from Powerlines

Voltage Rating of Powerline Minimum Distance

750 to 150,000 volts 3 m (10 ft)
150,001 to 250,000 volts 4.5 m (15 ft)
over 250,000 volts 6 m (20 ft)
Source: O. Reg. 213/91, s. 188

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 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Safety Measures Prevention

Written measures and procedures required by the Ensure that contractors and workers understand
Construction Projects regulation (213/91) include that work should be planned to avoid powerlines.
the following: Prepare for work that must be done in close
proximity to energized powerlines by developing
• Place enough warning devices in the area of the
written procedures ahead of time. Have overhead
hazard so that at least one is always visible to the
powerlines moved, insulated, or de-energized
operator. The warning devices must be visible to
where possible. Insulating or "rubberizing"
the operator under any conditions in which the
powerlines offers some protection against brush
equipment may be operating (night, rain, fog,
contact in some circumstances. The local utility
etc.), and must be specific about the hazard.
may provide this service.
Provide a sign meeting the requirements of O.
Reg. 213/91, s. 44, stating, for example, "Danger!
Electrical Powerlines Overhead." We recommend
that you include the voltage (Figure 26-8).

POWERLINES Figure 26-9: Inside the Limit of

OVERHEAD 72000 V
Approach to the Powerline

Figure 26-8: Warning Sign Identify the voltage of the service by checking
markings on the utility pole and calling the utility.
• Ensure the equipment operator has been If material must be stored under powerlines,
provided with written notification of the electrical hang warning flags and signs to inform workers
hazard before beginning the work. about the hazard and the need to obtain written
• Ensure there is a sign warning of the hazard that procedures if hoisting (Figure 26-10).
is visible to the operator at the operator’s station.
This may come as a sticker with the machine.
Check to ensure the sticker is still legible.
• Before the operator starts work, ensure that the
employer of the equipment operator provides and
explains the procedures to the equipment operator.
• A competent worker must be designated as a
signaller to warn the operator when any part of
the equipment, load, or hoist line may approach
the minimum distance. The signaller must then be
in full view of the operator and have a clear view
of the equipment and the conductor. Section 106
of the Construction Regulation also applies with
respect to the designated signaller. Figure 26-10: Warning Signs on Utility Poles
An exemption to these measures is only allowed if,
Provide instruction as part of site orientation.
under the authority of the owner of the electrical
conductor (typically the local utility), protective • Tell operators of large equipment where overhead
devices and equipment are installed, and written and buried powerlines are and where overhead
procedures are implemented (e.g., using the Electrical powerlines may be lower than expected.
Utilities Safety Rules) that are adequate to protect the • Remind workers not to let a ladder, scaffold,
equipment operator from electrical shock and burn. or elevated work platform lean or drift toward
overhead powerlines. Always maintain minimum
allowable clearances.
• Inform all workers how powerline hazards are
identified on site and that written procedures are
required prior to operating near them.
• Review an appropriate emergency response
for equipment operators and workers assisting
operators, in case contact should occur.

Hazards 26-7
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

In the event of contact between equipment and For underground powerlines:

overhead powerlines:
• Before excavating, request that the owner of the
1. Stay on equipment. Don’t touch equipment and service locate and mark underground powerlines.
the ground at the same time. Touching anything • Contact the utility through Ontario One Call to
in contact with the ground can be fatal. Stay on locate all underground services.
the equipment unless forced off because of a life- • Locate and mark underground lines on drawings
threatening hazard such as fire. that will be used for excavating.
2. Keep others away. Warn everyone not to touch • Post warning signs along the route of
the equipment or its load. That includes buckets, underground powerlines.
outriggers, load lines, and any other part of the • When operators of excavation equipment arrive
machine. Beware of time-delayed relays. After on site, tell them where underground services are
line damage trips a breaker, relays may still try located and how they are identified.
to restore power. They may reset automatically For powerlines embedded in concrete:
two or three times.
• Ensure various trades provide sleeving when
3. Break contact. If possible, break contact by moving concrete is poured to reduce the need to drill.
the equipment clear of the wires. This may not be • Try to have powerlines laid along dedicated
feasible where contact has welded conductors to sections of flooring and walls.
equipment, the hoist line, or the load. • Mark powerline locations on drawings that will be
4. Call the local utility. Get someone to call the referenced for drilling.
local electrical utility for help. Stay on the • Use a location service to x-ray the concrete and
equipment until the utility shuts down the line locate embedded powerlines.
and confirms that power is off. Report incidents
of powerline contact so that the utility can check Multimeters
for damage that could cause the line to fail later.
In the process of troubleshooting, electrical workers
5. Jump clear. If forced to leave the equipment, face the risk of injury from improper multimeter
jump carefully off the equipment onto the selection or use (Figure 26-12). Multimeters that are
ground landing only on your feet, with your designed to meet the International Electrotechnical
feet together. Touching the equipment and the Commission (IEC) 1010 and overvoltage category
ground at the same time can be fatal. Touching standards, when properly used, offer the electrician
the ground at different points can also be fatal. an acceptable level of protection that is recognized
Shuffle slowly away from the equipment using by the electrical industry. The use of fused leads
very small steps to minimize the contact area provides additional protection for the worker.
with the ground.
6. Report the contact. See "Reporting Electrical
Incidents" in this chapter.

Hidden Power Supplies

Digging into buried cable resulted in 282 powerline
contacts between 1998 and 2005 (see Table 26-1). A
great many of these resulted from excavating prior
to getting a locate on the service (Figure 26-11). If the
electrical power cannot be shut off during excavation, Figure 26-12: A Failed Multimeter
the owner (of the service) must be present to
supervise the uncovering of the powerline. Overvoltage Categories
Momentary high-voltage transients or spikes can
travel through a multimeter at any time and without
warning. Motors, capacitors, lightning, and power
conversion equipment such as variable speed drives
are all possible sources of spikes.
The IEC 1010 standard defines categories I through IV
that are abbreviated as CAT I, CAT II, CAT III, etc. The
higher-numbered categories represent an electrical
environment that is susceptible to higher-energy
spikes. For example, multimeters that are designed
to the CAT IV standard provide the worker more
Figure 26-11: Underground Powerline Hazards protection from high transient voltage spikes than do
CAT III, CAT II, or CAT I designs. See Figure 26-13 and
The following are some prevention measures for Table 26-3 for an explanation of each category.
hidden powerlines.

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 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Table 26-3: Multimeter Overvoltage Categories

Parts of this table are reprinted with permission from Fluke Electronics Canada Inc.

Be sure that the multimeter model has

been tested. Simply being designed to
the CAT III standard, for example, does
not mean the multimeter was also
tested to that standard. Look for proof
of independent testing by an organization
accredited by the Standards Council of Canada—
such as the CSA (Canadian Standards Association)
International logo—along with the appropriate
category rating on the equipment. Test leads
should also be rated at the same or greater voltage
than the multimeter.
Figure 26-13: Examples of Overvoltage Categories

Hazards 26-9
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Understanding Overvoltage Installation • Connect to the ground first, and disconnect from
Categories ground last.
• Test the multimeter on a known power source
The division of a power distribution system into to verify that the meter is functioning properly
catagories is based on the fact that a dangerous before and after testing the suspect circuit, using
high-energy transient such as a lightning strike will the same power function for all three tests.
be attenuated or dampened as it travels through the
impedance (AC resistance) of the system. A higher Testing for power with a meter
CAT number refers to an electrical environment
Set the meter to the power function to be used
with higher power available and higher-energy
for validating the zero energy. Test to ensure
transients. Therefore, a multimeter designed to the
the meter is functioning correctly by testing
CAT III standard is resistant to much higher-energy
on a known power source, then test the locked
transients than one designed to the CAT II standard.
out circuit to verify that the power has been
Categories I through IV apply to low voltage (less
effectively isolated, and finally re-test on the same
than 1000 V) test equipment.
known power supply to verify the meter’s fuse
has not blown and the meter is still functioning
Safe Use of Multimeters
correctly on that power setting.
• Use only multimeters that display both the CSA
logo (or equivalent) and the CAT (I, II, III, or IV)
designation. Categories I through IV apply to low Portable Tools and Extension Cords
voltage (less than 1000 V) test equipment.
• Check to ensure that the meter’s voltage rating 1. Unless they are double-insulated, tools must have:
is appropriate for the work being done. Be aware a) the casing grounded
of multimeters with maximum voltage ratings b) a polarized plug connection.
typical of other countries (550 V for example). 2. Extension cords must be of the outdoor type,
• Use personal protective equipment such as rated for 300 volts, and have an insulated
arc flash fire-resistant clothing; eye and face grounding conductor.
protection; long-sleeved shirts; dielectric safety 3. Defective cords must not be used. They should
boots; rubber gloves with leather protectors; and be either destroyed or tagged and removed
mats, blankets, or shields as required (Figure 26-). from the jobsite until they are repaired.
Do not wear synthetic inner or outer clothing
4. Extension cords should be protected during use
that can melt if an arc flash occurs.
to prevent damage.
5. Extension cords should be plugged into Class A
ground fault circuit inturruptors (GFCIs). When
built-in GFCI receptacles are not available,
protection can be attained with an in-line GFCI
plugged directly into the supply receptacle.
To plug-in safely while working outside, follow the
directions in Figure 26-14.

Figure 26-: PPE When Using Multimeters

• Check the manufacturer’s manual for special

cautions. Moisture and cold may affect the
performance of your meter.
• Wipe the multimeter and test leads clean to remove
any surface contamination prior to use.
• Use fused test leads. Ensure fused leads and internal
probe fuses are rated as high as or higher than the
equipment you are going to work on. A minimum of
30 kA is recommended (200 kA is desirable).
• Ensure that test leads are in the correct input jacks.
• When the values to be measured are uncertain,
start testing with high ranges of the multimeter,
then move to the lower ranges.
Figure 26-14: Plug-in Safely

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 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Electric tools used outdoors or in wet locations 6. The switch that controls a service entrance,
must be protected by a Class A GFCI (Figure 26-15). service feeder, or branch circuit providing
temporary power
• must not be locked in the energized
position; and
• must be housed in an enclosure that can be
locked and is provided with a locking device
(Figure 26-16). (O. Reg. 213/91, s. 194)

Lockout

Photo courtesy of EGS Electrical Group Canada Ltd.

Shelter for
Figure 26-15: In-line Class A GFCI Temporary Panel

Temporary Wiring and Power Figure 26-16: Shelter and

1. Temporary wiring for construction or Lockouts for Temporary Panels
demolition projects must be installed in
accordance with the Ontario Electrical Safety 7. When supplying power to tools that will
Code 2015, 26th edition. Copies are available be used outdoors or in wet locations, the
from Orderline by visting www.orderline.com. receptacle must be protected by a class A
2. Temporary wiring must be inspected and GFCI (Figure 26-17). (O. Reg. 213/91, s. 195.2)
approved when initially installed and should be
checked regularly. (OESC 2015, Rules 2-004,
2-014, 2-016)
3. Temporary installations shall be constructed
as separate installations and shall not be
interconnected with any of the circuits of the
permanent installations except by special
permission. (OESC 2015, Rule 76-014) Figure 26-17: GFCI in Panel Box
4. Feeders supplying fixed distribution centers
shall be installed in armoured cable or the 8. Portable generators with no connection between
equivalent. A feeder supplying a portable the neutral and the case cannot be used as a
distribution center is permitted to be flexible stand-alone electrical supply for the operation of
cord or power cable of the outdoor type portable electrical equipment. Typically, generators
suitable for extra-hard usage. feeders shall be with no connection between the neutral and the
protected at all times from mechanical damage. case are intended to be connected through a
(OESC 2015, Rule 76-010). transfer switch to a distribution system for use as
a standby back-up system in a residential home, in
5. A switch and panel board must meet the case of power outage.
following requirements (as per O. Reg 213/91,
s. 194): 9. "Generators supplied by equipment rental
a) Must be securely mounted on a soundly stores for use as a stand-alone supply
constructed vertical surface to portable electrical devices shall be
b) Must have a cover over uninsulated parts a generator with the neutral bonded to
carrying current the case to facilitate the operation of the
c) Must be located in an area where water will overcurrent protection device(s)" (Electrical
not accumulate and be within easy reach of Safety Authority Flash notice 03-03-FL).
workers and readily accessible to them 10. Labeling on newer portable generators must
d) must be kept clear of obstructions in the indicate the status of the neutral conductor
area in front of the panel board (O. Reg. and shall be marked on each machine as
213/91, s. 194) follows: NEUTRAL FLOATING or NEUTRAL
BONDED TO FRAME (Figure 26-18).

Hazards 26-11
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Capacitors
Isolate the capacitor by opening the circuit breaker
or the isolation device connecting it to the circuit.
Drain off the accumulated charge for five to ten
minutes with the system device. Short circuit and
ground the capacitor using a hot stick and required
personal protective equipment.

Electrical fires
Never put water on fires in live electrical equipment
or wiring. Water is a conductor and increases the
Figure 26-18: "Neutral Floating" risk of arc flash and electrocution. An electrical fire
Label on Generator in a confined space can rapidly deplete oxygen
and may release toxic fumes. If possible, switch
off power. Avoid inhaling fumes and vacate the
Other Electrical Issues area at once. If necessary, breathe through a
damp cloth and stay close to the floor. Use a Class
Electromagnetic induction C fire extinguisher. Intended for electrical fires,
Electromagnetic induction can create an electric Class C extinguishers employ a non-conductive
current in a dead circuit. The condition occurs extinguishing agent. An ABC fire extinguisher may
when a magnetic field from another wire, circuit, or also be used on an electrical fire. Every worker who
device cuts across a wire in its path and produces may be required to use a fire extinguisher must be
a charge in that wire. Temporary grounding will trained in its use. Report fires immediately. Wiring
prevent electromagnetic induction. The temporary or equipment involved in a fire must be inspected
grounding cable must be the same size conductor by the electrical utility inspector before being
as the one found within the circuit. reactivated.

Want More Information?

Grounding
More info on electrical safety can be found in
A ground conductor provides a direct physical
IHSA's Electrical Construction and Maintenance
connection to the mass of the earth. It limits the
Workers' Safety Manual (M010). This pocket-sized
voltage or current to the ground during normal
manual was written for electrical workers and is
operation, and also prevents excessive voltages
a useful tool that apprentices, journeypersons,
due to lightning strikes.
supervisors, and management can use to help
A temporary ground provides a direct physical keep safety in mind when planning work. A new
connection to the mass of the earth. Temporary 2016 version of "the blue book" is now available.
grounding typically involves the use of a wire
or cable that has one end connected to a
de-energized circuit, and the other end to a known
grounded connection. The known grounded
connection can be the equipment frame (note
that if the equipment is electrically isolated, the
frame may not provide an effective grounded
connection), a metal water pipe, a ground
electrode, or other acceptable grounding medium.
Ground all phases. Attach a temporary ground
cable to the system and keep it in place until work
is completed.

Connecting and disconnecting conductors

Any disconnect devices used to isolate electrical
equipment must be certified by CSA International
or another certification body accredited by the
Standards Council of Canada. It is important that
the device has the appropriate rating for the
available current and load it is serving. Never
assume a circuit has been de-energized when the
disconnect is in the open position. Check for power
in all conductors, then follow prescribed lockout
and tagging procedures before beginning work.

26-12 Construction Health and Safety Manual

 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Reporting Electrical Incidents Notice of accident, explosion or fire

causing injury
All incidents, regardless of severity, must be
reported promptly to management and the If a person is disabled from performing his or her
immediate supervisor, and a record should be usual work or requires medical attention because
kept at the jobsite. When a serious or fatal injury of an accident, explosion, or fire at a workplace,
involves a union member, the union office and but no person dies or is critically injured because
steward must be notified immediately. Labour and of that occurrence, the employer shall, within four
management should cooperate fully in conducting days of the occurrence, give written notice of the
an investigation. occurrence containing the prescribed information
and particulars to the following:
Part VII of the OHSA specifies the requirements
for notification in the event of fatalities, injuries, 1. The joint health and safety committee or the
health and safety representative, and the trade
and incidents. In the event of an incident that
union, if any
requires reporting and investigation, care should be
2. The Director, if an inspector requires
taken not to disturb the incident scene, nor should
notification of the Director.
equipment or tools involved in the incident be
removed. For the purpose of the Act, the Regulations, and
the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, "critically
Contact with an overhead powerline injured" means an injury of a serious nature that,
Contact with an overhead powerline must be • places life in jeopardy;
reported to multiple parties. • produces unconsciousness;
• results in substantial loss of blood;
If accidental contact occurs with an energized
• involves the fracture of a leg or arm but not a
powerline carrying 750 V or more, report the
finger or toe;
contact to the inspection department of the • involves the amputation of a leg, arm, hand, or
Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), and provide foot but not a finger or toe;
written notice to the Ministry of Labour, joint • consists of burns to a major portion of the
health and safety committee or health and safety body; or,
representative, and trade union. • causes the loss of sight in an eye.
Note: O. Reg. 834 and Ontario Electrical Safety
Fatality or critical injury
Code (OESC) (26th edition, 2015) use virtually
A written report is required under subsection identical wording for the definition of "critically
51 (1) of the Act, respecting an occurrence in which injured."
a person is killed or critically injured. (See box on
next page.) For the purpose of section 53 of the Act, a
"prescribed incident" includes:
Section 53 of the Act: Where a notice or report is
not required under section 51 or 52, and an • accidental contact by a worker or by a
worker’s tool or equipment with energized
• accident electrical equipment, installations or
• premature or unexpected explosion, fire, flood or conductors. (s.11 O. Reg. 213/91)
inrush of water • Accidental contact by a crane, similar hoisting
• failure of any equipment, machine, device, article, device, backhoe, power shovel or other vehicle
or thing or equipment or its load with an energized
• cave-in, subsidence, rockburst electrical conductor rated at more than 750
• or other incident as prescribed (see box below) volts. (s.11 O. Reg. 213/91)
occurs at a project site, mine, or mining plant,
notice in writing of the occurrence shall be given to "Serious electrical incident" means,
a director, the joint health and safety committee or a) Any electrical contact which causes death or
health and safety representative, and trade union, critical* injury to a person, or
if any, by the constructor of the project or the b) Any fire or any explosion or any condition
owner of the mine or mining plant within two days suspected of being electrical in origin which
of the occurrence containing such information and might have caused a fire, explosion, loss of
particulars as are prescribed. life, critical* injury to a person, or damage to
property, or
Reporting serious electrical incidents to the ESA c) Any electrical contact with electrical
An owner, contractor, or operator of a facility equipment operating at over 750 volts, or
must report any serious electrical incident to the d) Any explosion or fire of electrical equipment
Inspection Department of the ESA within 48 hours operating at over 750 volts.
after the occurrence. OESC 2015
* see definition of "critically injured" under
"Fatality or critical injury" above.

Hazards 26-13