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Berkeley Lab

I’m not an electrician! Why do I have to follow all these requirements? Aren’t safe work practices just for electricians?

Electricity is used by everyone…it is all around us, all the time. So, first and foremost, we all need to follow electrical safe work practices to ensure our safety while we work on or around electricity and electrical equipment.

Additionally, 10 CFR 851 and LBNL’s contract with DOE incorporate NFPA 70E requirements.

From NFPA 70E, Section 90.1:

The purpose of this standard is to provide a practical safe working area for employees relative to the hazards arising from the use of electricity.

From NFPA 70E, Section 90.2(A):

This standard addresses electrical safety-related work practices, safety-related maintenance requirements, and other administrative controls for employee workplaces that are necessary for the practical safeguarding of employees relative to the hazards associated with electrical energy during activities such as the installation, inspection, operation, maintenance, and demolition of electric conductors, electric equipment, signaling and communications conductors and equipment, and raceways. This standard also includes safe work practices for employees performing other work activities that can expose them to electrical hazards

Informational Note: This standard addresses safety of workers whose job responsibilities entail interaction with electrical equipment and systems with potential exposure to energized electrical equipment and circuit parts. Concepts in this standard are often adapted to other workers whose exposure to electrical hazards is unintentional or not recognized as part of their job responsibilities. The highest risk for injury from electrical hazards for other workers involve unintentional contact with overhead power lines and electric shock from machines, tools, and appliances.

These electrical safe work practices are for everyone!