Executive Summary - hdbk109220040209

DOE-HDBK-1092-2004

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Task Group on Electrical Safety of Department of Energy Facilities, in its January 1993

report, described a Model Electrical Safety Program. This concept has been expanded from its

original narrative form into more detailed guidelines, drawing upon the electrical safety program

of the Sandia National Laboratory for additional material. This model program is offered to the

entire Department of Energy (DOE) complex as guidance to assist in developing and

maintaining an effective and sound electrical safety program to ensure the safety and well being

of all DOE, including contractor, and subcontractor employees working within any DOE site or

facility. The model program has been designed to address the major areas of concern identified

by the Task Group.

In essence, an Electrical Safety Program for protecting DOE and contractor workers and

facilities should be founded firmly on established requirements of OSHA's electrical safety

regulations in 29 CFR 1910 and 29 CFR 1926, National Electrical Code (NFPA-70), Standard

for Electrical Safety in the Workplace (NFPA-70E). DOE Orders and applicable state, local,

mine, and tunnel safety standards. This program should establish an electrically safe workplace-

free from recognized electrical hazards for all employees. Management should commit to

involvement at all levels based on familiarity with the requirements.

Each site should establish an electrical safety committee and designate an Authority Having

Jurisdiction (AHJ) for interpreting the electrical requirements of OSHA, NEC, and other

standards applicable to the site or its facilities. All personnel engaged in electrical work should

be trained to have knowledge and understanding of electrical safe work practices. Appropriate

electrical testing equipment and personal protective equipment should be provided, properly

maintained and used.

A proactive preventive maintenance and inspection program for electrical systems and

equipment should be in place and staffed by qualified electricians.

All electrical equipment purchases should meet appropriate codes and electrical safety

requirements, as determined by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or as approved by the

AHJ.

Before a site can have a successful electrical safety program, a continuous improvement effort

and commitment must be clearly understood and shared throughout the site.

Each facility must demonstrate continuous improvement for design, construction, operation,

maintenance and revisions at the site. Improvements must be tested against changing codes

and regulations as they are made.

The ten principles of personal safety are as follows:

1. Plan every job-Planning is the key to preventing incidents therefore, eliminating injuries.

2. Anticipate unexpected events - If a person thinks about what can go wrong and does

something about it, then a potential incident can be prevented.

3. Use the right tool for the job - Each employee must make sure that the correct tool is used

and management must make sure the correct tool is available.

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