Last month we discussed safelyworking with electricity. This month we are going to look at where to find electrical standards, how they have been developed and what recent changes have been implemented.
OSHA has put into practice the standards of the two primary standards groups recognized within the United States-the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The standards and references that OSHA uses are found in 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S Appendix A. Also keep in mind that anything not covered in the standard or Consensus standards can be sited by OSHA under the General Duty Clause: "Each employer shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees."
In addition to the primary electrical standards, there are also a number of other standards that related to electrical safety. Visit theSafety Resourcessection ofwww.asa.netto read these other standards and for information on how to ensure your company is in compliance with OSHA. Also found there is a PowerPoint presentation on arc flash safety and aToolbox Talkfor use in educating your employees on this important safety topic.
