Work in Excess of 600 Volts

DOE-HDBK-1092-98

7.0 WORK IN EXCESS OF 600 VOLTS

Qualified and competent electrical workers are required to perform a variety of tasks with and around

higher voltage electricity, electrical equipment, and apparatus. The nature of such work necessitates

an understanding of applicable safety policies and rules.

Many electrical hazards and work practices are the same regardless of the voltage involved.

However, due to the nature of high voltage work, there are many hazards and work practices that are

specifically related to high voltage.

The following standards and sections provide information for repairing, servicing, construction, and

maintaining electrical circuits and equipment that are supplied by systems of 600 V or more.

1. 29 CFR 1910

2. 29 CFR 1926

3. ANSI/IEEE C-2, National Electrical Safety Code.

4. NFPA 70E

7.1 RESPONSIBILITIES FOR SAFETY

This section provides safety guidelines and requirements for carrying out assigned job tasks. It is

essential that each employee exercise sound judgment to perform assigned tasks safely. Safety is the

responsibility of each employee.

7.1.1 WORKERS

The greatest responsibility for a worker's safety lies directly with the worker. This means that all

workers are responsible for performing their work in a manner that does not endanger themselves,

their co-workers, or others in the area and for complying with safety rules and requirements. Workers

should not rely solely on the care exercised by another for their protection. Workers are encouraged

to contribute to the safety program and bring to the attention of their supervisors or safety

representative any condition they believe is unsafe.

Other safety responsibilities of workers include the following:

1. The worker should examine the work area for existing hazards and proceed in a safe manner.

2. When seen in a dangerous situation, fellow workers should be warned in such a manner as to

avoid confusing, startling, or suddenly alarming them.

3. Before climbing poles, ladders, or other such structures or before working on scaffolds,

workers shall make a careful inspection to determine whether the structures are safe and are

properly supported. Workers should not carry anything in their hands while ascending or

descending ladders. Small objects or tools may be carried in pockets or pouches. Larger

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