Electrical Safety

Based on real-world test data and investigation results from on-the-job safety-related incidents, we have found low-voltage arc flash energy can be underestimated. “Low voltage” in the NESC is defined as 50 volts (V) to 600V (ac). Specifically, one area of concern is 480V equipment, because 480V, three-phase related arc flash incidents can have severe consequences.

The CSA Z462 Workplace Electrical Safety Standard has been published for over 10 years now in Canada. It is widely adopted voluntarily by all industry sectors across Canada.

There are three main types of electrical hazards: electric shock, electrical burns, and arc blasts (the effect of blasts). Understanding the basics of these hazards is critical in enforcing electrical safety in the workplace.

Arc flashes are unseen dangers that can occur without any direct contact between a worker’s body and an energized wire or piece of equipment. They’re often accidentally initiated by workers that are unaware that they are in a potentially life-threatening situation.

The 2020 version of the NEC just took a leap forward for at least one of these two locations with changes to a rule that has been a long-standing requirement for many years – the six (6) disconnect rule found in 230.71.

Electric shock drowning (ESD) tragically occurs when a child or adult enters a body of water that is electrically energized or when the water around a person suddenly becomes energized.

The CPSC estimates that 50% of home electrocutions have been prevented by the introduction of Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs).

Contingency planning for continued business operations during a natural disaster is a multi-faceted risk management issue.

When power lines are down, residents can restore energy to their homes or other structures by using another power source such as a portable generator. There are several precautions to follow, however, to prevent electrical disaster. Here are a few quick tips.