Unexpected Electrical Hazards

DOE-HDBK-1092-98

The following are safety directions and measures that should be followed when working on energized

circuits:

1. Know before work begins the work content and the sequence in which it should be

accomplished.

2. Know the safety procedures that shall be followed while performing the work.

3. Ensure that the tools and instruments are in good working order and have up-to-date

calibration or testing as required.

4. Know what tools are required and how to use them and what protective equipment is required

to perform the job safely.

5. Allow only qualified individuals to operate tools and equipment.

6. Use safety signs, symbols, or accident prevention tags to warn and protect employees where

electrical hazards are likely to endanger lives.

7. Use barricades in conjunction with safety signs where it is necessary to prevent or limit

employee access to work areas where they might be exposed to uninsulated energized

conductors or circuit parts. Do not use metal barricades where they are likely to cause an

electrical contact hazard.

8. Use manual signaling and alerting when signs and barricades do not provide sufficient

warning and protection from electrical hazards.

9. Limit access to the work area to authorized individuals who are familiar with the work.

10. Ensure that the PIC notifies all individuals involved in the work of any changes in the work

conditions.

11. If unsafe conditions develop during the work process, immediately report them to the person

in charge or the immediate supervisor.

12. Establish emergency safety procedures to deal with electrical accidents.

2.13.4.4 UNEXPECTED ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

Employees should be instructed to be alert at all times when they are working near exposed

energized parts where unexpected electrical hazards may exist.

2.13.4.5 ILLUMINATION

Adequate illumination shall be provided before workers are allowed to enter spaces containing

exposed energized parts.

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