Keep Safe Stay Cool Complete Guide - Importance of safety at workplace | Page 12

lines are protected with properly rated insulating devices, the distance may be decreased. If
the equipment is an aerial lift insulated for the voltage involved and if the work is performed
by a qualified person, the clearance may be reduced to a distance given in Table I. If protective
measures such as guarding or isolation are provided, these measures must protect the
employee from contacting such lines directly with any part of the body or indirectly through
conductive materials, tools, or equipment.
Electrical Equipment/Machinery
All electrical equipment and machinery must be grounded effectively so that there is no
potential difference between the metal enclosures. Use the voltage detector to find
discrepancies and other test equipment to determine the corrective action required.
Disconnects should be easily identified with the specific machinery they shut off. Disconnects
should also be accessible near the machinery for use in an emergency. The disconnects should
be activated periodically to be sure they are operable. All electrical connections to the
equipment must be secure so that no cord or cable tension will be transmitted to the electrical
terminals within the equipment. The wiring installation should be such that it is protected
from damage at all times.
GFCI Protection
Generally, GFCI protection is not required by the NEC on a retroactive basis. Where there is
an employee exposure to potential line-to-ground shock hazards, GFCI protection should be
provided. This is especially important in work areas where portable electrical equipment is
being used in wet or damp areas in contact with earth or grounded conductive surfaces.
Temporary wiring that is being used on a permanent basis should be replaced with fixed
wiring. Conduit and/or cable systems must be protected from damage by vehicles or other
mobile equipment. All fittings and connections to junction boxes and other equipment must
be secure. No exposed wiring can be allowed. Check for missing knockouts and cover plates.
Jerry-rigged splices on flexible cords and cables should be correctly repaired. Electrical
equipment should be installed in a neat and professional manner. Check for damaged
insulation on flexible cords and pendant drop cords.
VII.
Testing and tagging of electrical equipment
Test and tagging is a generic name given to the process of visually and electronically test
appliances that are in use around the workplace. It can also be referred to as: tagging, test &
tag, test tag, electrical appliance testing, electrical testing, portable appliance test or lead
testing.
Test and tag is a way of minimising electrical risks to people in your workplace, it is a process
of inspecting, electronically test, tag (labelling) and logging all electrical appliances. It is a way
of documenting your electrical safety systems for your workplace Risk Assessment.
The aim of test and tagging is to check that the equipment used are in the best condition and
if not, the equipment that is damaged should be removed from the workplace, therefore
preventing dangerous situations for you, your employees and clients. By testing your tools,