U. S. POWER DISTRIBUTION SERVICES, LLC.
Safety Training Program 0
(ORIGINATED AUGUST 2013)
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Table of Contents U S Power Distribution Services, LLC............................................................................0 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................3 ELECTRIC HAZARDS............................................................................................3 PURPOSE.............................................................................................................4 SCOPE..................................................................................................................4 ELECTRIC SAFETY PRINCIPLES-ENERGIZED CONDITION....................................4 REFERENCES......................................................................................................4 RESPONSIBILITIES................................................................................................5 Safety Managers/Coordinators..........................................................................................5 Supervisors.................................................................................................................5 Employees..................................................................................................................5 DEFINITIONS.......................................................................................................5 TRAINING.............................................................................................................8 Requirements...............................................................................................................8 Qualified Electrical Worker..........................................................................................8 DISCIPLINARY PROGRAM......................................................................................9 Disciplinary Action Guidelines.........................................................................................9 WASTE MANAGEMENT........................................................................................12 FIRST AID...........................................................................................................12 First Aid Training.......................................................................................................12 BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS..................................................................................13 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT..................................................................14 General Requirements..................................................................................................14 Flame-Resistant Apparel...............................................................................................15 Rubber Insulating Equipment.........................................................................................16 Insulated Tools and Materials.........................................................................................16 Fire Protection/Extinguishers.........................................................................................16 Entry Restrictions.......................................................................................................17 PORTABLE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND EXTENSION CORDS..............................17 RIGGING GUIDELINES.........................................................................................19 SCAFFOLD GUIDELINES.......................................................................................19 LADDER SAFETY................................................................................................20 FALL PROTECTION..............................................................................................21 NOISE/HEARING CONSERVATION......................................................................26 PURPOSE...............................................................................................................26 POLICY..................................................................................................................26 EMPLOYEE EDUCATION AND TRAINING...............................................................26 Audiometric Testing Program..................................................................................27 Recordkeeping........................................................................................................29 POWER/HAND TOOLS..........................................................................................29 TEMPORARY WIRING..........................................................................................29 WET AREAS........................................................................................................30 WORKING SPACE ABOUT ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT..............................................31 CONFINED SPACE POLICY....................................................................................31 Purpose..............................................................................................................31 Policy.....................................................................................................................31 Training.................................................................................................................32 General Procedures................................................................................................32 Outside Attendants................................................................................................33
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ENTRY SUPERVISOR.............................................................................................34 RESCUE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES.................................................................34
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HAZARD COMMUNICATION...................................................................................36 RESPONSIBILITIES OF SUPERVISORS/MANAGEMENT.........................................36 EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY..............................................................................37 INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................37 EMPLOYERS COVERED.........................................................................................37 PURCHASES..........................................................................................................38 CONTAINER LABELING..........................................................................................38 MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS (MSDS) – GENERAL PROCEDURES.................38 SECTION I IDENTITY.............................................................................................40 SECTION II HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS/IDENTITY INFORMATION......................40 SECTION III PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS........................................40 SECTION IV FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD DATA...............................................41 SECTION V REACTIVITY DATA...............................................................................41 SECTION VI HEALTH HAZARD DATA.....................................................................41 SECTION VII PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE HANDLING AND USE...............................42 SECTION VIII CONTROL MEASURES, PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT42 EMPLOYEE INFORMATION AND TRAINING............................................................42 EMPLOYEE TRAINING GUIDELINES......................................................................43 NON-ROUTINE TASKS............................................................................................44 WORKING ON DE-ENERGIZED EQUIPMENT...........................................................45 Electrically Safe Condition............................................................................................45 Lockout/Tagout Program...............................................................................................45 VEHICULAR AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT........................................................50 Elevated Equipment.....................................................................................................50 Aerial Lifts................................................................................................................50 Equipment Contact......................................................................................................51 Equipment Grounding..................................................................................................51 WORKING ON OR NEAR ENERGIZED EQUIPMENT..................................................51 Energized Electrical Work Permit....................................................................................52 Approach Distances To Exposed Live Parts.......................................................................52 Other Precautions........................................................................................................53 ENERGIZED ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT SAFETY PROGRAM....................................54 Equipment Labeling....................................................................................................54 CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEES.................................................................................55 APPENDIX...........................................................................................................56 Implementation Procedures for Arc Flash Considerations.......................................................56 Arc Flash Hazard Analysis............................................................................................56 Approach boundaries to live parts for shock prevention.........................................................57
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INTRODUCTION Electrical work is an important part of our business. USPDS, LLC. is committed to providing a safe work environment for its employees. This electrical safety program is designed to minimize the hazards associated with electrical work. It establishes minimum standards to prevent hazardous electrical exposures to personnel and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. This program establishes minimum standards to prevent hazardous electrical exposures to personnel and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements applicable to electrical systems. Working on equipment in a deenergized state is required unless de-energizing introduces an increased hazard or is infeasible. This program is designed to help ensure that energized electrical work at all facilities is performed safely by qualified electrical workers, who are trained and provided with the appropriate safe work procedures, protective equipment and other controls. The program is intended to protect employees against electrical shock, burns and other potential electrical safety hazards as well as comply with regulatory requirements. In order to maximize safety, all employees will: Work only on de-energized equipment, unless it increases the hazard, or it is not possible to complete critical work. Be well trained in safe electrical work practices. Utilize all required safety and personal protective equipment.
ELECTRIC HAZARDS Electricity-related hazards include electric shock and burns, arc-flash burns, arc-blast impacts, and falls.
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Electric shock and burns. An electric shock occurs when electric current passes through the body. This can happen when touching an energized part. If the electric current passes across the chest or head, death can result. At high voltages, severe burns can result.
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Arc-flash burns. An electric arc flash can occur if a conductive object gets too close to a high-amp current source or by equipment failure (for instance, while opening or closing disconnects). The arc can o heat the air to temperatures as high as 35,000 F, and vaporize metal in the equipment. The arc flash can cause severe skin burns by direct heat exposure and by igniting clothing.
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Arc-blast impacts. The heating of air and vaporization of metal creates a pressure wave that can damage hearing and cause memory loss (from concussion) and other injuries. Flying metal parts are also a hazard.
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Falls. Electric shocks and arc blasts can cause falls, especially from ladders or unguarded scaffolding.
PURPOSE The purpose of this program is to: Ensure the safety of employees who work on or near electrical equipment. Ensure understanding and compliance with safe electrical work practices. Comply with OSHA Standards and focus on the following priorities: 1. Provide a safety program with defined responsibilities. 2. Determine the degree of arc flash hazard by qualified personnel. 3. Use appropriate hazard warnings. 4. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers. 5. Provide documented training to workers on Lockout/Tagout procedures and the hazards of arc flash. 6. Provide appropriate tools for safe work.
SCOPE This program applies to all company workers and contractors who are performing electrical work, or work that may have electrical hazards. Employees who work in the vicinity of electrical work are also covered.
ELECTRIC SAFETY PRINCIPLES-ENERGIZED CONDITION o
De-energize whenever possible.
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Plan every job. The approach and step-by-step procedures to complete the work at hand must be discussed and agreed upon between all involved employees before beginning. Write down first-time procedures. Discuss hazards and procedures in a job briefing with supervisors and other workers before starting any job. It is the employer’s responsibility to have or develop a checklist system for working on live circuits, if such a scenario arises. Identify the hazards. Conduct a job hazard analysis. Identify steps that could create electric shock or arc-flash hazards. Minimize the hazards. De-energize any equipment, and insulate, or isolate exposed live parts so contact cannot be made. If this is impossible, obtain and wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools. Anticipate problems. If it can go wrong, it might. Make sure the proper PPE and tools are immediately available for the worst-case scenario. Obtain training. Make sure all involved employees are a qualified electrical worker with appropriate training for the job.* Qualified Employees. Qualified employees must adhere to the approach distance in Table S5 on page 60.
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REFERENCES • • •
NFPA 70-E, “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace”, 2004 edition. IEEE Standard 1584-2002, “Guide for Performing Arc Flash Hazard Calculations”. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.331 through 1910.335, “Electrical Safety-Related Work Practices”.
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OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147, “The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout).”
RESPONSIBILITIES Safety Managers/Coordinators Evaluate work being performed and determine compliance with this program. Provide or assist in the task of specific training for electrical work qualifications. Maintenance of training records. Periodically review and update this written program. Provide or coordinate general training for work units on the content of this program. Evaluate the overall effectiveness of the electrical safety program at least annually and whenever an electrical accident occurs. Supervisors Will lead by example and promote electrical safety awareness to all employees. Ensure employees comply with the provisions of the electrical safety program. Ensure employees receive training appropriate to their assigned electrical tasks and maintain documentation of such training. Develop and maintain a listing of all qualified employees under their supervision. Ensure employees are provided with and use appropriate protective equipment. Employees Follow the work practices described in this document, including the use of appropriate protective equipment and tools. Attend all training required relative to this program. Immediately report any concerns related to electrical safety to supervision. Do not perform any electrical work without proper training and equipment.
DEFINITIONS Authorized Lockout/Tagout Employee - A person who has completed the required hazardous energy control training and is authorized to lockout or tagout a specific machine or equipment to perform service or maintenance. A person must be certified as an Authorized Lockout/Tagout Employee in order to apply a lock or tag to control hazardous energy. All Authorized Lockout/Tagout Employees must be trained in:
o Electrical Safety/Lockout/Tagout Training o Equipment specific procedures in their individual work units Confined space - An enclosed space which has limited egress and access, and has an atmospheric hazard (e.g., explosive atmosphere or asphyxiating hazard) and/or other serious safety hazards (e.g., electrical
hazard). Damp location - Partially protected locations subject to moderate degrees of moisture, such as some basements. De-energized electrical work -Electrical work that is performed on equipment that has been previously energized and is now free from any electrical connection to a source of potential difference and from electrical charges. Disconnecting (or Isolating) switch - A device designed to close and/or open an electric circuit. Dry location - Locations not normally subject to dampness or wetness, as in the case of a building under construction. Energized electrical work - Repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, or testing on electrical circuits, components, or systems while energized (i.e., live). Only Qualified High Voltage Electrical Workers are permitted to work on energized circuitry of 50 volts/25 amps to ground or greater. Energy source -Any source of electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, or other energy. Exposed electrical parts - Energized parts that can be inadvertently touched or approached nearer than a safe distance by a person. Parts not suitably guarded, isolated, or insulated. Examples include terminal contacts or lugs, and bare wiring. Flash Protection Boundary - An approach limit distance from exposed live parts within which a person could receive a second degree burn if an electrical arc flash were to occur. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt (GFCI) - A device whose function is to interrupt the electric circuit to the load when a fault current to ground exceeds a predetermined value that is less than that required to operate the over-current protective device of the supply circuit. Ground -A conducting connection, whether intentional or accidental, between an electrical circuit or equipment and the earth or to some conducting body that serves in place of the earth. Hazardous Location - An area in which an airborne flammable dust, vapor or gas may be present and would represent a hazard if a source of ignition were present (see National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Class I & II and Division 1 & 2). Interlock - An electrical, mechanical, or key-locked device intended to prevent an undesired sequence of operations. Isolating Switch - A switch intended for isolating an electric circuit from the source of power. It has no interrupting rating, and is intended to operate only after the circuit has been opened by some other means. Life Safety Equipment - Equipment that provides critical protection for safety in the event of an emergency or other serious hazard. Life safety equipment, which is electrically energized, should be worked on using Energized Electrical Equipment (EEW) procedures to ensure that the protection provided by the equipment is not lost (e.g., fire alarm and evacuation). Limited Approach Boundary – An approach limit is a distance from an exposed live part within which a
shock hazard exists. Lockout - The placement of a lock on an energy-isolating device according to procedure, ensuring that the energy isolating device and the equipment being controlled cannot be operated until the lockout device is removed. Lockout / tagout - A standard that covers the servicing and maintenance of machines and equipment in which the unexpected re-energization of the equipment or release of stored energy could cause injury to employees. It establishes performance requirements for the control of such hazardous energy. Prohibited Approach Boundary – An approach limit distance from an exposed live part within which work is considered the same as making contact with the live part. Qualified Electrical Worker – A qualified person trained and knowledgeable of construction and operation of equipment or a specific work method and is trained to recognize and avoid the electrical hazards that might be present with respect to that equipment or work method. o Qualified electrical workers shall be familiar with the proper use of the special precautionary techniques, personal protective equipment (PPE), including arc-flash, insulating and shielding materials, and insulated tools and test equipment. A person can be considered qualified with respect to certain equipment and methods but is unqualified for others. o An employee who is undergoing on-the-job training and who, in the course of such training, has performed duties safely at his or her level of training and who is under the direct supervision of a qualified person shall be considered to be qualified. o Only a Qualified Electrical Worker is allowed to work on energized circuits. o Qualified electrical workers shall not be assigned to work alone, except for replacing fuses, operating switches, or other operations that do not require the employee to contact energized high voltage conductors or energized parts of equipment, clearing trouble, or emergencies involving hazard to life or property. Note One: Whether a person is considered to be a “qualified” person will depend upon various circumstances in the workplace. It is possible and, in fact, likely for an individual to be considered “qualified” with regard to certain equipment in the workplace, but “unqualified” as to other equipment. Note Two: An employee who is undergoing on-the-job training and who, in the course of such training, has demonstrated an ability to perform duties safely at his or her level of training and who is under the direct supervision of a qualified person is considered to be a qualified person for the performance of those duties. Restricted Approach Boundary – An approach limit distance from an exposed live part within which there is an increased risk of shock, due to electrical arc-over combined with inadvertent movement, for personnel working in close proximity to the live part. Remote-control Circuit - Any electric circuit that controls any other circuit through a relay or an equivalent device. Service -The conductors and equipment for delivering energy from the electricity supply system to the wiring system of the premises served. Service Equipment -The necessary equipment, usually consisting of a circuit breaker or switch and fuses, and their accessories, located near the entrance of supply conductors to the building and intended to constitute the main control and means of cutoff of the supply. Setting Up - Any work performed to prepare a machine or equipment to perform its normal production
operation. Switching Devices - Devices designed to close and/or open one or more electric circuits. Included in this category are circuit breakers, cutouts, disconnecting (or isolating) switches, disconnecting means, interrupter switches, and oil (filled) cutouts. Tagout -The placement of a tagout device on an energy-isolating device according to procedure to indicate that the equipment may not be operated until the tagout device is removed. Voltage (of a circuit) - The greatest root-mean-square (effective) difference of potential between any two conductors of the circuit concerned. Voltage, high -Circuits with a nominal voltage more than 50 volts. Voltage, low - Circuits with a nominal voltage less than or equal to 50 volts. Voltage, nominal - An approximate value assigned to a circuit or system for the purpose of conveniently designating its voltage class, e.g., 120/240, 480/277, and 600. Wet location - Installations subject to saturation with water or other liquids.
TRAINING Requirements Workers near energized or potentially energized electrical circuitry shall be trained in energized electrical safe work practices and procedures, and certified as a qualified electrical worker. Qualified Electrical Worker Employees must receive training in avoiding the electrical hazards associated with working on or near exposed energized parts prior to performing energized electrical work. Such training will be provided when the employee is initially assigned to the job. Refresher training will be provided every three years or when hazards change. The following items are to be included in the training of Qualified Electrical Workers: The Lockout/Tagout Training Program including safe work practices required to safely de-energize electrical equipment. Universal electrical safety procedures. Skills and techniques necessary to distinguish exposed live parts from other parts of electric equipment. Perform on-the-job training with a qualified electrical worker. Skills and techniques necessary to determine the nominal voltage of exposed live parts. The approach distances and the corresponding voltages to which the qualified electrical worker will be exposed. Selection and use of proper work practices, personal protective equipment, tools, insulating and shielding materials and equipment for working on or near energized parts.
Qualified Electrical Workers must also be trained in recognizing signs and symptoms of electric shock, heart fibrillation, electric burns, and proper first aid protocols for these conditions. They must have the following training: 1. Basic Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR); 2. Automatic External Defibrillator (AED); and 3. Contacting emergency personnel and basic first aid.
DISCIPLINARY PROGRAM It is the goal to maintain a safe workplace for our employees. Therefore, violations of policies and procedures and standard safe work practices will not be tolerated. Managers and Supervisors are responsible for and shall be held directly accountable for the safety performance of their subordinates and the enforcement of. Disciplinary Action Only Managers and Supervisors may administer disciplinary action. Managers and Supervisors are required to conduct periodic inspections of work areas. Supervisors are expected to use reasonable judgment in applying the guidelines outlines below. 1. Oral Warning with Documentation 2. Written Warning 3. Time Off Without Pay 4. Probation 5. Termination of Employment Disciplinary Action Guidelines It is not possible to list all the potential violations of Health and Safety Rules. The following list is an effort to provide the Manager/Supervisor with an overview of potential violations and recommended progressive disciplinary action. LEVEL I 1. Hearing Protection: Not wearing required hearing protection i.e. ear plugs, ear muffs etc. 2. Work Boots: Improper type or excessive wear. 3. Safety Glasses: Not wearing safety glasses Progressive Discipline 1. Oral warning with documentation. 2. Written Warning. 3. Remainder of shift suspension and/or one shift suspension.
4. Three shift suspension. 5. Up to a 10 shift suspension, with probation.
6. Termination. LEVEL II 1. Barricade: Violating a barricaded area. Failure to barricade when required. 2. Confined Space: Non-entrant breaking plane of a confined space. Failure to follow Stand-by attendant’s instructions. Failure to properly sign-in and out on confined space entry/exit log. 3. Daily Work Exit Report: Signing out before the end of a shift. Failure to sign out. 4. Eye protection: Not wearing Z87 safety glasses, side shields, goggles, face shield, double layer protection when required. 5. Fire Prevention: Any violation of standard fire prevention practices. 6. Grinders: Operating grinder without a guard or with a modified guard. 7. Hard hat: Not worn. 8. Health and Safety Rules: Any violation of a Health and Safety rule or safe work practice, or engaging in any conduct which tends to create a safety hazard. 9. Improper conduct: i.e. Roughhousing, horseplay etc. 10. Material Handling: Manually handling heavy material without help 12. PPE: Failure to wear minimum policy/permit required PPE. Failure to wear upgraded PPE as required by supervisor. 13. Respiratory protection: Wearing respiratory protection without current; training, fit test and/or physical exam. 14. Staging: Unauthorized modification. Working on untagged or tagged “unsafe to use” staging. 15. Tools and Equipment: Any improper use or modification of tools and equipment. Using cheater bars. 16. Ventilation: tampering with ventilation equipment (i.e. reducing air power to copus blowers). Progressive Discipline 1. Remainder of shift suspension and/or one shift suspension. 2. Three shift suspension. 3. Up to a fifteen shift suspension, with probation. 4. Termination. LEVEL III 1. Daily Work Exit Report: Signing out for another worker. 2. Fall Protection: Not wearing harness and lanyard when required. Not tied off as required by policy. 3. Ladders: Climbing with tools in hand, ladder not properly secured at top, more than one person on a ladder at a time. 4. Radiographic: Intentionally violating X-ray barricade.
5. Hazard Analysis: Working without a completed hazard analysis. 6. Injury/Incident: Failure to report promptly. Failure to report.
7. Insubordination: To refuse to follow a Supervisor’s work direction. 8. Hot Work: Performing hot work without a firewatch. 9. Mobile Motorized Equipment: Operating Mobile Equipment in a reckless or careless manner (i.e., speeding, unsecured loads, unsafe for current road or weather conditions). Failure to walk the path of travel and use spotters in congested areas or areas with limited clearance. Operating Mobile Equipment without; (1) current certification (always required) and/or valid driver’s license if required by the site/policy; (2) seat belt; and (3) a completed daily equipment inspection form. 10. Permit Violation: Working without a required permit. Performing work outside scope of permit. Failure to read permit. Failure to comply with permit requirements. Any major permit/policy violation that results in or could have resulted in serious injury or major property damage. 11. Poor craftsmanship: Any poor quality work that results in or could have resulted in a leak, plant upset, fire etc. i.e. improper gasket, poor bolt-up. 12. Smoking: Smoking in unauthorized areas or at unauthorized times 13. Stand-by attendants: Leaving assignment without proper relief. Failure to remain alert to changing conditions. 14. Offensive language or a superior attitude when giving work orders or assignments. 15. Piping Valve and Fitting Safety: Equipment not clearly identified by Supervisor, system not walked and verified by Supervisor and Crew. First break PPE requirements not followed.
Progressive Discipline 1. Three shift suspension. 2. Up to a twenty shift suspension, with probation. 3. Termination. LEVEL IV 1. Contraband: Possession of contraband on company/client premises. Contraband can include weapons, hand guns, drugs or drug paraphernalia, alcoholic beverages, etc. 2. Disorderly conduct of any kind i.e. fighting, wrestling or any other unauthorized activity considered to be potentially dangerous to life and limb. 3. Falsifying company records or reports. Falsifying signatures on records or reports. 4. Lockout-Tagout: Any violation of client/company LOTO procedure. i.e. Failure to place personal lock. Unauthorized removal of another worker’s lock. Failure to de-energize equipment prior to beginning work. 5. Unauthorized entry or unauthorized leaving client premises: Any employee entering or assisting another person to enter client premises in an unauthorized manner. 6. Sleeping on the job. 18
7. Stealing or destruction of another party’s property. 8. Supervisor intimidation of subordinates.
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9. Harassment: Jokes, slurs, innuendoes or derogatory comments, written or verbal directed at a particular group or person (such as sex, race, or ethnic group); Intimidation, threats or disparaging conduct directed at a particular group or person; or Sexual Harassment. Progressive Discipline 1. Up to a thirty shift suspension, with one year probation. 2. Termination. LEVEL V 1. Instigating a fight. 2. Sabotage. 3. Worker’s Compensation: Filing fraudulent claim. 4. Intentional, careless and/or negligent act that results in or could have resulted in injury to self or another worker and/or major equipment/property damage. Discipline 1. Termination.
WASTE MANAGEMENT Before any assignment is to begin, workers are to evaluate and estimate amount of waste, trash, materials that will be required to dispose of. All workers have been trained to classify waste generated as general, non-hazardous, trash, materials, and hazardous. All workers have been trained to properly store, handle, organize and dispose of waste and scrap materials to minimize potential impact to the environment. Any outdoor receptacles will be covered at all times. When at all possible, workers will take steps in order to promote recycling.
FIRST AID First Aid Training All Qualified Electrical Workers on job locations have been trained at Tennesse Valley Training Center in Decatur, AL., an approved training facility. All Qualified Electrical Workers have been certified in CPR, AED, as well as have had first aid training from Tennessee Valley Training Center in Decatur, AL. 20
First Aid Kits/Procedures ď Ź First aid kits should be easily accessible. Each Vehicle as well as trailers are supplied with kits. ď Ź First aid kits are appropriately supplied as well as the availability of eye flush in the absence of plentiful amounts of clean water.
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The contents of the first aid kits shall be checked before being sent out to each job & at least weekly on each job to ensure that the expended items are replaced. For emergency and non-emergency treatment, inform your supervisor. Use the emergency telephone numbers and instructions to proceed to an approved medical facility. Your supervisor will assist with transportation if necessary.
BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS Training Training will be provided before any assignment for all workers who have occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Workers receive training on the epidemiology, symptoms, and transmission of bloodborne pathogen diseases. All workers are trained on the appropriate procedures of cleaning and decontaminating the equipment and surfaces in case of any contact with blood or other infectious material. All workers are trained to utilize universal procedures. Under circumstances in which differential between body fluids is difficult or impossible, all body fluids will be considered potentially infectious. All workers are trained annually and records are kept for 3years. For any employee that may have occupational exposure medical records are maintained for the duration of employment plus 30 years after. Exposure Control Plan Workers covered by the bloodborne pathogens standard receive an explanation of the ECP during their initial training session conducted prior to their initial assignment. It will also be reviewed in their annual training. The ECP will be reviewed and revised if necessary annually to reflect changes in technology that eliminate or reduce exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Accommodations All workers if hand washing facilities are not available will be provided with antiseptic hand cleanser, antiseptic towelettes, and cloth or paper towels. All workers are provided PPE at no cost. All workers are provided the Hepatitis B Vaccine at no cost.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT General Requirements Employees working in areas where there are potential electrical hazards must be provided with and use personal protective equipment (PPE) that is appropriate for the specific work to be performed at no cost to the worker. Only PPE supplied by the company may be used and each employee will be individually fitted. The electrical tools and protective equipment must be specifically approved, rated, and tested for the levels of voltage of which an employee may be exposed. The company provides electrical protective equipment (Arc Flash Gear) required by this program. Such equipment shall include 11 calorie, and 40 calorie rated Arc Flash apparel (until a full arc flash hazard analysis is made), eye protection, head protection, hand protection, insulated footwear, and face shields where necessary. Protective Clothing Characteristics Category
Cal/cm2
Clothing
0
1.2
Untreated Cotton
1
5
Flame retardant (FR) shirt and FR pants
2
8
Cotton underwear, FR shirt and FR pants
3
2 5
Cotton underwear, FR shirt, FR pants and FR coveralls
4
4 0
Cotton underwear, FR shirt, FR pants and double layer switching coat and pants
Employees shall wear nonconductive head protection whenever there is a danger of head injury from electric shock or burns due to contact with live parts or from flying objects resulting from an electrical explosion. Employees shall wear protective equipment for the eyes whenever there is a danger of injury from electric arcs, flashes, or from flying objects resulting from an electrical explosion. Employees shall wear rubber insulating gloves where there is a danger of hand or arm contact with live parts or possible exposure to arc flash burn. Where insulated footwear is used as protection against step and touch potential, dielectric overshoes shall be required. Insulated soles shall not be used as primary electrical protection. Face shields without arc rating shall not be used for electrical work. Safety glasses or goggles must always be worn underneath face shields. Additional illumination may be needed when using tinted face shields as protection during electrical work. Electrical Protective Equipment must be selected to meet the criteria established by the American
Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) and by the America National Standards Institute (ANSI).
Electrical Protective Equipment must also be assessed for hazards that are present or could become present and must be documented. These records will be kept on file. Any PPE that is found to pose any type of hazard will not be used until it is determined safe. Insulating equipment made of materials other than rubber shall provide electrical and mechanical protection at least equal to that of rubber equipment. PPE must be maintained in a safe, reliable condition and be inspected for damage before each day's use and immediately following any incident that can reasonably be suspected of having caused damage. All employees will be properly trained in the maintenance, use, care, and the necessity of PPE. Employees will undergo retraining whenever the PPE is changed, more current training is issued, or in any instance where a refresher course is needed. All training certifications will be kept on file. Employees must use insulated tools and handling equipment that are rated for the voltages to be encountered when working near exposed energized conductors or circuits. Tools and handling equipment should be replaced if the insulating capability is decreased due to damage. Fuse handling equipment (insulated for circuit voltage) must be used to remove or install fuses when the fuse terminals are energized. Ropes and hand lines used near exposed energized parts must be non-conductive. Protective shields, barriers or insulating materials must be used to protect each employee from shock, burns, or other electrical injuries while that person is working near exposed energized parts that might be accidentally contacted or where dangerous electric heating or arcing might occur. Supervisors will insure that all PPE is maintained, cleaned, and kept in a sanitary condition at all times. Flame-Resistant Apparel FR apparel shall be visually inspected before each use. FR apparel that is contaminated or damaged shall not be used. Protective items that become contaminated with grease, oil flammable liquids, or combustible liquids shall not be used. The garment manufacturer’s instructions for care and maintenance of FR apparel shall be followed. When the apparel is worn to protect an employee, it shall cover all ignitable clothing and allow for movement and visibility. FR apparel must cover potentially exposed areas as completely as possible. FR shirt sleeves must be fastened and FR shirts/jackets must be closed at the neck. Non-melting, flammable garments (i.e. cotton, wool, rayon, silk, or blends of these materials) may be used as underlayers beneath FR apparel. Fibers that can melt, such as acetate, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, and spandex shall not be permitted in fabric underlayers next to skin. (An incidental amount of elastic used on non-melting fabric underwear or socks shall be permitted).
FR garments worn as outer layers over FR apparel (i.e. jackets or rainwear) must also be made from FR material. Flash suits must permit easy and rapid removal by the user. Rubber Insulating Equipment Rubber insulating equipment includes protective devices such as gloves, sleeves, blankets, and matting. Insulating equipment must be inspected for damage before each day’s use and immediately following any incident that could have caused damage. An air test must be performed on rubber insulating gloves before each use. Insulating equipment found to have defects that might affect its insulating properties must be removed from service until testing indicates that it is acceptable for continued use. Where the insulating capability of protective equipment is subject to damage during use, the insulating material shall be protected by an outer covering of leather or other appropriate materials. Rubber insulating equipment must be tested according to the schedule supplied by the manufacturer. Rubber insulating equipment must be stored in an area protected from light, temperature extremes, excessive humidity, ozone, and other substances and conditions that my cause damage. No repairs to rubber insulating equipment shall be attempted without the approval of the safety manager or coordinator. Insulated Tools and Materials Only insulated tools and equipment shall be used within the Limited Approach Boundary of exposed energized parts. Insulated tools shall be rated for the voltages on which they are used. Insulated tools shall be designed and constructed for the environment to which they are exposed and the manner in which they are used. Fuse or fuse holder handling equipment, insulated for the circuit voltage, shall be used to removed or install a fuse if the fuse terminals are energized. Ropes and hand-lines used near exposed energized parts shall be nonconductive. Portable ladders used for electrical work shall have nonconductive side rails. Fire Protection/Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are selected for the types of materials and placed in areas where they are to be used. Where fire extinguishers are provided, training will take place to familiarize employees with the general principles of fire extinguisher use and the hazards involved in incipient stage fire fighting. Class A: Ordinary combustible materials fire. Class B: Flammable liquid, gas, or grease fires. Class C: Energized-Electrical equipment fires. All workers are properly trained for fire prevention and use of the different classes of fire extinguishers previous to assignment and annually. All fire extinguishers undergo visual inspections monthly and are annually checked by a qualified technician. Entry Restrictions Barricades shall be used in conjunction with safety signs to prevent or limit access to work areas containing live parts. Conductive barricades shall not be used where they might cause an electrical hazard. Barricades shall be placed no closer than the Limited Approach Boundary. If signs and barricades do not provide sufficient protection, an attendant will be assigned to warn and protect pedestrians. The primary duty of the attendant shall be to keep an unqualified person out of the work area where an electrical hazard exists. The attendant shall remain in the area as long as there is a potential exposure to electrical hazards.
PORTABLE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND EXTENSION CORDS The following requirements apply to the use of cord-and-plug-connected equipment and flexible cord sets (extension cords): Extension cords may only be used to provide temporary power. Portable cord-and-plug connected equipment and extension cords must be visually inspected before use on any shift for external defects such as loose parts, deformed and missing pins, or damage to outer jacket or insulation, and for possible internal damage such as pinched or crushed outer jacket. Any defective cord or cord-and-plug-connected equipment must be removed from service and no person may use it until it is repaired and tested to ensure it is safe for use. Extension cords must be of the three-wire type. Extension cords and flexible cords must be designed for hard or extra hard usage (for example, types S, ST, and SO). The rating or approval must be visible. A supervisor being a competent person, will be responsible for the execution of this program. The supervisor will also test all grounding conductors for continuity and shall make sure they are electrically continuous. This testing will be conducted and recorded at a minimum of before each use, before any equipment is back in service after any repairs, if at any time any equipment is
returned to use after any damage or being run over, and at a minimum of at least every 3 months, every 6 months if cords are fixed and not exposed to any damage.
Job-made extension cords are forbidden per the electrical code. Personnel performing work on renovation or construction sites using extension cords or where work is performed in damp or wet locations must be provided, and must use, a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). Portable equipment must be handled in a manner that will not cause damage. Flexible electric cords connected to equipment may not be used for raising or lowering the equipment. Extension cords must be protected from damage. Sharp corners and projects must be avoided. Flexible cords may not be run through windows or doors unless protected from damage, and then only on a temporary basis. Flexible cords may not be run above ceilings, or inside or through walls, ceilings or floors, and may not be fastened with staples or otherwise hung in such a fashion as to damage the outer jacket or insulation. Cords must be covered by a cord protector or tape when they extend into a walkway or other path of travel to avoid creating a trip hazard. Extension cords used with grounding-type equipment must contain an equipment-grounding conductor (i.e., the cord must accept a three-prong, or grounded plug). Attachment plugs and receptacles may not be connected or altered in any way that would interrupt the continuity of the equipment grounding conductor. Additionally, these devices may not be altered to allow the grounding pole to be inserted into current connector slots. Clipping the grounding prong from an electrical plug is prohibited. Flexible cords may only be plugged into grounded receptacles. The continuity of the ground in a two-prong outlet must be verified before use. It is recommended that the receptacle be replaced with a three-prong outlet. Adapters that interrupt the continuity of the equipment grounding connection may not be used. All portable electric equipment and flexible cords used in highly conductive work locations, such as those with water or other conductive liquids, or in places where employees are likely to contact water or conductive liquids, must be approved for those locations. Employee's hands must be dry when plugging and unplugging flexible cords and cord-and-plug connected equipment if energized equipment is involved. If the connection could provide a conducting path to employees hands (for example, if a cord connector is wet from being immersed in water), the energized plug and receptacle connections must be handled only with insulating protective equipment. Locking-type connectors must be properly locked into the connector. Lamps for general illumination must be protected from breakage, and metal shell sockets must be grounded. Temporary lights must not be suspended by their cords unless they have been designed for this purpose.
Portable lighting used in wet or conductive locations, such as tanks or boilers, must be operated at no more than 12 volts or must be protected by GFCI’s. Extension cords are considered to be temporary wiring, and must also comply with the section on “Requirements for Temporary Wiring” in this program.
RIGGING GUIDELINES All employees will be trained in the proper use and inspection of any rigging equipment for material handling. All rigging equipment must have sufficient rated capacity for the task being performed. Rigging equipment must never be overloaded. Determine the weight and balance of the loads or object to be lifted to ensure that lifting equipment will be within its capabilities. Never point load hooks. Inspect cables, slings, ropes, and other lifting equipment regularly and prior to each lift. If lifting equipment is found to be damaged or defective, it must be taken out of service and tagged “DO NOT USE” If rigging around sharp corners or sharp objects, use softeners to protect slings, rope, wire rope, and other lifting equipment. Store lifting equipment off of the ground in a clean and dry environment and must be removed immediately from the work area when not in use. Never leave a load suspended while unattended. All employees shall be kept clear of loads about to be lifted and of suspended loads. Tag lines shall be used unless their use creates an unsafe condition. Hooks on overhaul ball assemblies, lower load blocks, or other attachment assemblies shall be of a type that can be closed and locked, eliminating the hook throat opening. Alternatively, an alloy anchor type shackle with a bolt, nut and retaining pin may be used.
SCAFFOLD GUIDELINES All employees will be trained in the proper use of any scaffolding equipment. This training shall include but is not limited to: 1. Prevention and control of hazards that are inherent to scaffold construction 2. The correct procedure for erecting, disassembling, moving, operating, repairing, inspecting, and maintaining the type of scaffold being built.
3. The design criteria, maximum intended load-carrying capacity. 4. The types of fall arrest systems
5. The requirement to comply with tagged damaged or unsafe equipment/conditions. Training will be required when any change is made at the worksite that could present a hazard, at any time a different type of scaffold is used, at any time PPE changes, or when a supervisor feels the employee may need a refresher course.
Scaffolds shall be inspected by a competent person before use and periodically during use to ensure the safety of all. All scaffold erectors will wear a full body harness and lanyards while working 6’ or above and tie off when stationary for more than a few moments. All scaffolds must be placed on a firm and solid footing. Placing legs on dunnage, bricks or blocks is prohibited. Scaffold platforms shall not be less than 18” wide unless otherwise specifically required or exempted. Do not alter any scaffolding members by welding, cutting, burning, drilling, or bending.
LADDER SAFETY •
All employees will be trained in the proper use of ladders and ladder safety practices.
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Ladders may only be used for their intended purpose and must not ever exceed the load capacity for the task.
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All ladders must meet OSHA specifications and must be inspected before use. Any ladder found to not meet OSHA specifications or are found to be defective, must be tagged and removed from service.
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Ladders must maintain a minimum of 3’ above the top of upper landing surface.
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All extension ladders will be positioned at a 4:1 ratio.
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Safe ladder working practices must be followed at all times. These include, but are not limited to:
1. When ascending or descending, the climber must face the ladder. 2. Portable ladders are designed as a one-man working ladder based on a 200-pound load and will be used accordingly.
3. Portable rung and cleat ladders will be used at such a pitch that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is one-quarter of the working length of the ladder (the length along the ladder between the foot and the top support).
4. The ladder will be so placed as to prevent slipping, or it will be lashed, or held in position. The ladder base section must be placed with a secure footing.
5. Employees will equip all portable rung ladders with nonslip bases when there is a hazard of slipping. However, nonslip bases are not intended as a substitute for care in safely placing, lashing, or holding a ladder that is being used on oily, metal, concrete, or slippery surfaces.
6. The top of the ladder must be placed with the two rails supported, unless equipped with a single support attachment.
7. On two-section extension ladders, the minimum overlap for the two sections in use will be according to OSHA specifications. Portable rung ladders with reinforced rails will be used only with the metal reinforcement on the under side.
8. The bracing on the back legs of stepladders is designed solely for increasing stability and will not be used for climbing, unless specifically designed for such use.
FALL PROTECTION PURPOSE •
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the employees working in areas where exposure to fall hazards of 4 feet or more exist are protected against accidental falls. This includes but is not limited to floor openings, skylights, pits, manholes, floor holes, wall openings, wall holes, open sided floors, and stairway railings.
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No employee shall be permitted to work in areas where unprotected fall hazards of 4 feet or more exist, without specific training and use of proper fall protection procedures and equipment.
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To protect our employees from fall exposures of 4 feet and greater, we must anticipate the need for fall protection, and to plan work activities accordingly. Employers are required to assess the workplace to determine if the walking/working surfaces on which employees are to work have the strength and structural integrity to safely support workers. Employees are not permitted to work on those surfaces until it has been determined that the surfaces have the requisite strength and structural integrity to support the workers. Once employers have determined that the surface is safe for employees to work on, the employer must select one of the options listed for the work operation if a fall hazard is present. For example, if an employee is exposed to falling 4 feet (l .8 meters) or more from an unprotected side or edge, the employer must select a guardrail system, or personal fall arrest system to protect the worker. Similar requirements are prescribed for other fall hazards as follows.
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A supervisor is responsible for the developing and maintaining this fall protection plan. This includes employee training, record keeping, enforcement, and periodic fall protection plan evaluation. The employer shall provide for prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall or shall assure that employees are able to rescue themselves.
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In the event of any accidents, fall, near miss, or other serious accident, the supervisor will conduct an investigation to evaluate the fall protection plan for updates, practice changes, or training in order to prevent reoccurrence.
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Floor Opening-an opening measuring more than 12 inches in its least dimension, in any floor, platform, pavement, or yard in which a person may fall.
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Wall Opening-an opening at least 30 inches high and 18 inches wide, in any wall or partition, through which person may fall
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Standard Railing-railing that consists of top rail, mid rail, and upright posts. Top rail shall measure 42 inches from the floor, platform, etc, to the top of the rail. The mid rail shall be midway between the top
rail and floor, platform, etc. The ends of the rails shall not extend past the terminal posts except where such overhang does not constitute a projection hazard. •
Stair Railing-constructed similar to a standard railing, but the vertical height shall be no more than 34 inches or less than 30 inches.
Hand Rail-lengthwise member mounted directly to a wall or partition by means of brackets attached to the lower side of the handrail. The height of handrails shall not be more than 34 inches or less than 30 inches measured from the top of the hand rail. All railings and covers must be constructed to with stand a load of 200 pounds in all directions. Note: Covers for use on roadways must be constructed to withstand a truck rear axle load of at least 20,000 pounds. PRE-WORK FALL HAZARD CHECKLIST Prior to beginning work in any area where a fall hazard exist, a pre-work checklist must be completed that includes the following items. • Stairways o All standard covers or railings in place o All hand rails and guard rails in place o All treads and risers on stairs are in good repair o Non-slip surfaces in place on stair tread surface o All stars meet OSHA and ANSI specifications • Loading Docks o Dock blocks are up and in place when dock is not in immediate use o Dock door is kept closed when a truck is not backed against it. • Floor & Wall Openings, Skylights, Pits, Manholes, Excavations o All floor and wall openings are safely covered or blocked from access o If not adequately guarded or covered has someone been assigned to constantly monitor the area surrounding the fall hazard and alert other employees that may closer than 6 feet.
get
o All pits and manholes properly guarded • Platforms and Runways o All sides protected with standard railing o All floor holes adequately covered
FALL PROTECTION SYSTEMS AND CRITERIA Guardrail Systems If, the employer chooses to use guardrail systems to protect workers from falls, the systems must meet the following criteria: • Top rails and midrails of guardrail systems must be at least one-quarter inch (0.6 centimeters) nominal diameter or thickness to prevent cuts and lacerations.
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If wire rope is used for top rails, it must be flagged at not more 6 feet intervals (1.8 meters) with highvisibility material.
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Steel and plastic banding cannot be used as top rails or midrails.
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Manila, plastic, or synthetic rope used for top rails or midrails must be inspected as frequently as necessary to ensure strength and stability.
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The top edge height of top rails, or (equivalent) guardrails must be 42 inches plus or minus 3 inches, above the walking/working level.
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When workers are using stilts, the top edge height of the top rail, or equivalent member, must be increased to an amount equal to the height of the stilts.
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Screens, midrails, mesh, intermediate vertical members, or equivalent intermediate structural members must be installed between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking/working surface when there are no walls or parapet walls at least 21 inches high.
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When midrails are used, they must be installed at a height midway between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking/working level.
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When screens and mesh are used, they must extend from the top rail to the walking/working level and along the entire opening between top rail supports.
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Intermediate members, such as balusters, when used between posts, shall not be more than 19 inches apart.
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Other structural members, such as additional midrails and architectural panels, shall be installed so that there are no openings in the guardrail system more than 19 inches.
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The guardrail system must be capable of withstanding a force of at least 200 pounds applied within 2 inches of the top edge in any outward or downward direction. When the 200 pound test is applied in a downward direction, the top edge of the guardrail must not deflect to a height less than 39 inches above the walking/working level.
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Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid panels, and equivalent structural members shall be capable of withstanding a force of at least 150 pounds applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the midrail or other member.
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Guardrail systems shall be surfaced to protect workers from punctures or lacerations and to prevent clothing from snagging.
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The ends of top rails and midrails must not overhang terminal posts, except where such overhang does not constitute a projection hazard.
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When guardrail systems are used at hoisting areas, a chain, gate, or removable guardrail section must be placed across the access opening between guardrail sections when hoisting operations are not taking place.
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At holes, guardrail systems must be set up on all unprotected sides or edges. When holes are used for the passage of materials, the hole shall have not more than two sides with removable guardrail sections. When the hole is not in use, it must be covered or provided with guardrails along all unprotected sides or edges.
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If guardrail systems are used around holes that are used as access points (such as ladder ways), gates must be used or the point of access must be offset to prevent accidental walking into the hole.
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If guardrails are used at unprotected sides or edges of ramps and runways, they must be erected on each unprotected side or edge.
PERSONAL FALL ARREST SYSTEMS These consist of an anchorage, connectors, and a body belt or body harness and may include a deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combinations. If a personal fall arrest system is used for fall protection, it must do the following: •
Limit maximum arresting force on an employee to 900 pounds when used with a body belt;
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Limit maximum arresting force on an employee to 1,800 pounds when used with a body harness;
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Be rigged so that an employee can neither free fall more than 6 feet nor contact any lower level;
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Bring an employee to a complete stop and limit maximum deceleration distance an employee travels to 3.5 feet ; and
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Have sufficient strength to withstand twice the potential impact energy of an employee free falling a distance of 6 feet (1.8 meters) or the free fall distance permitted by the system, whichever is less.
As of January 1, 1998, the use of a body belt for fall arrest is prohibited. • Personal fall arrest systems must be inspected prior to each use for wear damage, and other deterioration. •
Defective components must be removed from service.
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Dee-rings and snap hooks must have a minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds.
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Dee-rings and snap hooks shall be proof-tested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600 pounds without cracking, breaking, or suffering permanent deformation.
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Snap hooks shall be sized to be compatible with the member to which they will be connected, or shall be of a locking configuration.
Unless the snap hook is a locking type and designed for the following connections, they shall not be engaged; • Directly to webbing, rope or wire rope; •
To each other;
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To a dee-ring to which another snap hook or other connecter is attached;
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To a horizontal lifeline; or
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To any object incompatible in shape or dimension relative to the snap hook, thereby causing the connected object to depress the snap hook keeper and release unintentionally.
OSHA considers a hook to be compatible when the diameter of the dee-ring to which the snap hook is attached is greater than the inside length of the snap hook when measured from the bottom (hinged end) of the snap
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keeper to the inside curve of the top of the snap hook. Thus, no matter how the dee-ring is positioned or moved (rolls) with the snap hook attached, the dee-ring cannot touch the outside of the keeper, thus depressing it open. As of January 1, 1998, the use of non-locking snap hooks is prohibited. Anchorages shall be designed, installed, and used under the supervision of a qualified person, as part of a complete personal fall arrest system that maintains a safety factor of at least two, i.e., capable of supporting at least twice the weight expected to be imposed upon it. Anchorages used to attach personal fall arrest systems shall be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms and must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per person attached. Lanyards and vertical lifelines must have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds. POSITIONING DEVICE SYSTEMS THESE BODY BELT OR BODY HARNESS SYSTEMS ARE TO BE SET UP SO THAT A WORKER CAN FREE FALL NO FARTHER THAN 2 FEET (0.6 METERS). THEY SHALL BE SECURED TO AN ANCHORAGE CAPABLE OF SUPPORTING AT LEAST TWICE THE POTENTIAL IMPACT LOAD OF AN EMPLOYEE'S FALL OR 3,000 POUNDS, WHICHEVER IS GREATER. Requirements for snap hooks, dee-rings, and other connectors used with positioning device systems must meet the same criteria as those for personal fall arrest systems. TOE BOARDS-PROTECTION FROM FALLING OBJECTS •
When toe boards are used as protection from falling objects, they must be erected along the edges of the overhead walking/working surface for a distance sufficient to protect persons working below.
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Toe boards shall be capable of withstanding a force of at least 50 pounds applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the toe board.
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Toe boards shall be a minimum of 3.5 inches tall from their top edge to the level of the walking/working surface,
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Have no more than 0.25 inches clearance above the walking/working surface
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Be solid or have openings no larger than l inch in size.
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Where tools, equipment, or materials are piled higher than the top edge of a toe board, paneling or screening must be erected from the walking/working surface or toe board to the top of a guardrail system's top rail or midrail, for a distance sufficient to protect employees below.
TRAINING •
Employers must provide a training program that teaches employees who might be exposed to fall hazards how to recognize such hazards and how to minimize them.
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Training shall take place before and job is to be started and at a minimum of annually thereafter. Retraining will be enforced if there are any deficiencies in the training, any work place changes, or at any time there are any equipment or system changes that would render the previous training obsolete.
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All training will be certified and will include who is trained, date of training, signature of the person that provided the training and the date the employer determined the training was adequate
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All training records will be kept of file.
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Employees must be trained in the following areas:
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The nature of fall hazards in the work area;
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The correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, dis-assembling, and inspecting fall protection systems;
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The use and operation of guardrails, personal fall arrest, and positioning systems;
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The limitations on the use of the fall protection equipment.
NOISE/HEARING CONSERVATION
PURPOSE OSHA requires all employees who are exposed to noise that equals or exceeds an 8-hour time-weightedaverage (TWA) sound level of 85 decibels, in any facility, to use hearing protection. If in any case an employee is may have been exposed to exceed this limit, it is mandated that a monitoring program be implemented which includes, but not limited to: annual audiometric testing, hearing protections, noise reductions, and continued monitoring. Due to the complexity and changing conditions found at most construction sites, it is difficult, if not impossible, to institute effective engineering controls for noise exposures. Therefore, this policy has been developed to establish a Hearing Conservation Program to protect employees from noise induced hearing loss while working.
POLICY Suitable engineering controls to reduce levels will be provided whenever possible. Due to the changing conditions in the workplace, which can result in significant variations in sound levels, employees are required to wear hearing protection at all times while in the work area. Work area is defined as areas where a minimum level of PPE is required. The minimum level of protection required is earplugs with a 26 NRR. In areas posted or identified as excessive noise areas additional hearing protection, such as earmuffs, will be provided when required to provide adequate attenuation. Hearing protectors will be provided to employees, without cost, by the company and must be replaced as frequently as necessary to ensure adequate personal protection and hygiene.
EMPLOYEE EDUCATION AND TRAINING Each new employee will be trained in hearing conservation, and then annually thereafter. This training will include the following: • A summary of the State noise standard. • Information on the effects of noise on hearing.
• Specific information about job site machine noise. • The role of administrative and engineering controls. • The contents of the Company's noise control plan.
• A discussion of hearing protectors - the advantages and disadvantages of various types, and instructions on the selection, fitting, use, and care of the protectors. • An explanation of the purpose of the audiometric testing and the test procedure, as well as the specific noise exposure for employees.
Audiometric Testing Program All new employees, required to work in areas with high noise levels, shall be given an audiometric test to establish baseline hearing threshold levels before being assigned to work in such areas. Before the baseline test, the employee is not to be subjected to industrial or loud non-occupational type noise for a period of 14 hours. All employees exposed at or above an 8-hour time-weighted average noise exposure level of 85 dBA shall be provided with an annual audiometric test at no cost to the employee. The employee's department may at any time have an audiometric test performed on any noiseexposed employee if hearing deterioration is suspected. A thorough otologic/audiologic case history shall be taken each time an audiometric test is performed. Appendix C contains a copy of a representative case history form. This form or its equivalent shall be forwarded to the Office of Safety and maintained. If at any time any employee may have been exposed to equal or have exceeded the 8 hr. time-weighted average of 85 decibels, then a monitoring program must be executed to any employee that could be affected. The audiometric testing program shall be under the supervision of an audiologist, otolaryngologist, or physician with expertise in the area of hearing assessment and protection, who shall also function as the professional reviewer of the audiogram performed as part of the university's hearing conservation program. The individual who c o n d u c t s audiometric tests shall exhibit at least the minimum level of training required. The successful completion of an audiometric technician training course approved by the Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation (CAOHC) will satisfy this requirement. Audiometric technicians shall be retrained/recertified as necessary to comply with CAOHC requirements. All audiogram shall be administered using a properly-calibrated audiometer in a sound-treated room with acceptable background sound levels during testing (see Appendix B for the minimum requirements specified by the OSHA noise regulation). The audiometer's calibration status shall be checked on each day of testing, according to the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.95 This check shall include the following: a. testing a person with known, stable hearing thresholds (or an equivalent electronic device) and comparing established threshold values to previously established threshold values to assure that deviations for any frequency do not exceed 5dB and b. listening to the audiometer's output to be sure that it is free from distorted or unwanted sounds. Audiometers shall be electronically and acoustically checked annually in accordance with the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.95 If departments contract with outside physicians, a copy of the calibration results shall be forwarded to the Office of Safety.
Each employee's annual audiogram shall be compared to his or her baseline audiogram to determine if the audiogram is valid and if an standard threshold shift [as defined in 29 CFR 1910.95 (g) has occurred. In making this comparison, the technician or professional reviewer may take into consideration appropriate age corrections as defined in the OSHA noise regulation. If a standard threshold shift is detected, follow-up steps as defined in 29 CFR 1910.95 shall be implemented promptly in order to increase the degree of protection for the affected employee. These steps include: Supervisor's Responsibilities: a. notification of the employee in writing within 21 days; b. fitting or refitting, as appropriate, of the employee's hearing protectors, c. training or retraining, as appropriate, of the employee in the proper use and care of hearing protectors; Departmental Responsibilities: d. performance of a noise-free retest to determine the validity of the threshold shift; e. determination by the professional reviewer of the need for referral of the employee for additional testing or otologic examination. Should it be suspected through testing or upon diagnosis by the professional reviewer or another medical professional that an employee has experienced an occupational hearing loss, the Office of Safety shall be notified immediately so that the occurrence of the occupational hearing loss may be recorded on OSHA Form 200. Such recording shall also be made whenever an employee experiences a standard threshold shift, in accordance with current enforcement policy of NCOSHA. However, in the latter case, the entry shall be lined out if a retest within 30 days indicates that the threshold shift was temporary or if a detailed written statement is obtained from a physician that none of the threshold shift in question is occupationally related. Audiogram performed as a part of this program are the property of the university and shall be controlled by the Office of Safety. All tests results shall be a part of employees permanent medical files and shall not be released to anyone except employees or their representatives without the documented consent of the employee in question. Audiometric technicians shall insure that proper department and employee identification is shown on each audiogram, as well as the following information: a. the specific purpose of the audiometric test (baseline, annual, retest, other) b. the specific audiometric equipment used and its most recent calibration date c. the tester's name d. the date and time of the audiometric test e. the otologic/audiologic case history information f. the hearing threshold values obtained g. the tester's judgment of the subject's response reliability h. the tester's comments, if any i. the results of hearing protector inspection, and a record of any refitting, reissuing, or retraining
The audiometric testing program, as defined in this section, will detect university employees who begin to develop significant hearing impairment as result of on-the-job noise exposures; at the same time, it will identify employees whose off-the-job noise exposures or personal medical or genetic conditions may be producing hearing threshold changes. Appropriate counseling shall be provided to all employees who exhibit significant hearing changes of any type. Medical or audiologic referral shall be made whenever deemed appropriate by the audiometric technician.
Recordkeeping The Office of Safety shall maintain records that support compliance with all applicable federal and state standards and with all sections of this policy. These records must be forwarded by the department to the Office of Safety immediately following training. These records shall be available at all times for inspection by authorized university personnel, by affected employees or their designated representatives, and government inspectors. In the case of employee audiogram and other associated medical records, access shall be limited to the affected employee or representative, authorized Office of Safety personnel, and representatives of the Assistant Secretary of Labor. Although computer storage of records is permitted, original copies of all records associated with individual audiometry and noise exposure monitoring shall be retained in personal medical files.
POWER/HAND TOOLS All workers will be trained in the proper use of power and hand tools. At all times, power and hand tools are to be maintained in a safe condition and properly maintenanced to insure a safe working condition. Guards must be used at all times as per the requirements in ANSI B15.1 and may not be altered in any way. Due to hazards that may arise from using power and hand tools, workers are required to use proper PPE. Any power or hand tool that is found to not be in working condition or found to be unsafe must be tagged and locked immediately.
TEMPORARY WIRING Temporary electrical power and lighting installations 600 volts or less, including flexible cords, cables, and extension cords, may only be used during and for renovation, maintenance, repair, or experimental work. The duration for temporary wiring used for decorative lighting for special events and similar purposes may not exceed 90 days. The following additional requirements apply: Ground-fault protection (e.g., ground-fault circuit interrupters, or GFCI) must be provided on all
temporary-wiring circuits, including extension cords, used on construction sites. ď Ź In general, all equipment and tools connected by cord and plug must be grounded. Listed or labeled double insulated tools and appliances need not be grounded.
Feeders must originate in an approved distribution center, such as a panel board, that is rated for the voltages and currents the system is expected to carry. Branch circuits must originate in an approved power outlet or panel board. Neither bare conductors nor earth returns may be used for the wiring of any temporary circuit. Receptacles must be of the grounding type. Unless installed in a complete metallic raceway, each branch circuit must contain a separate equipment-grounding conductor, and all receptacles must be electrically connected to the grounding conductor. Flexible cords and cables must be of an approved type and suitable for the location and intended use. They may only be used for pendants, wiring of fixtures, connection of portable lamps or appliances, elevators, hoists, connection of stationary equipment where frequently interchanged, prevention of transmission of noise or vibration, data processing cables, or where needed to permit maintenance or repair. They may not be used as a substitute for fixed wiring, where run through holes in walls, ceilings or floors, where run through doorways, windows or similar openings, where attached to building surfaces, or where concealed behind building walls, ceilings or floors. Suitable disconnecting switches or plug connects must be installed to permit the disconnection of all ungrounded conductors of each temporary circuit. Lamps for general illumination must be protected from accidental contact or damage, either by elevating the fixture or by providing a suitable guard. Hand lamps supplied by flexible cord must be equipped with a handle of molded composition or other approved material and must be equipped with a substantial bulb guard. Flexible cords and cables must be protected from accidental damage. Sharp corners and projections are to be avoided. Flexible cords and cables must be protected from damage when they pass through doorways or other pinch points.
WET AREAS Work in wet or damp work locations (i.e., areas surrounded or near water or other liquids) should not be performed unless it is absolutely critical. Electrical work should be postponed until the liquid can be cleaned up. The following special precautions must be incorporated while performing work in damp locations: Only use electrical cords that have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs); Place a dry barrier over any wet or damp work surface; Remove standing water before beginning work. Work is prohibited in areas where there is standing water; Do not use electrical extension cords in wet or damp locations, and Keep electrical cords away from standing water.
WORKING SPACE ABOUT ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT •
Sufficient access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electric equipment to permit ready and safe operating and maintenance of such equipment. Enclosures that house electric apparatus and are controlled by lock and key shall be considered accessible to qualified persons.
•
Working Space. Working space for equipment operating at 600 volts, nominal, or less to ground and likely to require examination, adjustment, services or maintenance while energized shall comply with the dimensions of 70E 400.15(A)(1), 400.15(A)(2), and 400.15(A)(3) or as required or permitted elsewhere in the 70E Standard. o Depth of Working Space. The depth of the working space in the direction of live parts shall be not less than that indicated in Table 400.15(A)(1) unless the requirements of 400.15(A)(1)(a), 400.15(A)(1)(b), or 400.15(A)(1)(c) are met. Distances shall be measured from the exposed live parts if such are exposed or from the enclosure or opening if the live parts are enclosed. Condition 1: Exposed live parts on one side and no live or grounded parts on the other side of the working space, or exposed live parts on both sides effectively guarded by suitable wood or other insulating materials. Insulated wire or insulated busbars operating at not over 300 volts to ground shall not be considered live parts. Condition 2: Exposed live parts on one side and grounded parts on the other side. Concrete, brick, or tile walls shall be considered as grounded surfaces. Condition 3: Exposed live parts on both sides of the work space (not guarded as provided in condition 1) with the operator between.
•
Deadfront Assemblies. Working space shall not be required in the back or sides of assemblies, such as dead‐ front switchboards or motor control centers, where all connections and all renewable or adjustable parts, such as fuses or switches, are accessible from locations other than the back or sides. Where rear access is required to work on non‐electrical parts on the back of enclosed equipment, a minimum horizontal working space of 762mm (30 in) shall be provided.
•
Low Voltage. Smaller working spaces can be permitted where all uninsulated parts operate at not greater than 30 volts rms, 42 volts peak, or 60 volts dc.
CONFINED SPACE POLICY Purpose Employees often have to perform entries into confined spaces for the purpose of performing maintenance, cleaning, or make repairs. Workers may encounter a wide range of hazards while working in a confined space. The purpose and intent of this policy is to identify confined spaces, provide employees with the general requirements of practice and procedure to ensure protection while performing tasks in a confined space, as well as comply with applicable regulations.
Policy All employees, host and contract, must comply with general confined space requirements and/or permit required
confined space requirements before entering into a confined space. No employee is permitted to enter into a permit required confined space unless he/she has:
Receive applicable training. Confirmed an entry permit has been issued. Complied with all permit requirements. Confirmed that the standby attendant is in place. Confirmed the emergency communication procedures Participated in completing Pre-Entry Hazard Abatement. Signed onto the entry log as an authorized entrant.
Training All employees will be trained before working in confined spaces, when there are changes in permit space operations and procedures, or if the employer feels there is an inadequacy of an employee’s knowledge in the use of the Permit Required Confined Space Procedures. Each affected employee must be trained prior to initial assignment, prior to a change in assigned duties, if a new hazard has been created or special deviations have occurred. The employer must certify that the required training has been accomplished... The training must be documented and contain the employee’s name & signature, trainers name & signature, and date the training was performed. Employees who will be entering into a Permit Required Confined Space shall receive training prior to assignment. The employer shall ensure that authorized entrants know, at a minimum, the following:
•
Entry Permit-How to read/review an entry permit along with the hazards and restrictions of
the permit.
•
Hazards that may be faced during entry operations, sings/symptoms of exposure and the of the exposure. Reference to the applicable MSDS sheets.\
consequences
•
Communication Procedures-Acceptable methods used to communicate with outside attendants. This includes how to communicate evacuation, signs of expose, and unsafe conditions by both the authorized entrants and outside attendants.
•
Evacuation-Procedures, related alarms, and should immediately inform the attendant if they dangerous condition.
•
Sign in/out procedures for signing in/out of the permit space on the log kept by the outside
•
Emergency and rescue procedures.
•
Equipment communication, testing/monitoring, ventilation.
detect any attendant.\
General Procedures •
The employer shall evaluate its workplace and determine if any spaces are permit required confined spaces and if any spaces are non-permit required confined spaces.
•
When permit confined spaces are identified, the employer shall provide pedestrian, vehicle, or other barriers as necessary to protect entrants from external hazards.
•
When permit confined spaces are identified they shall inform exposed employees by posting danger signs, or other equally effective means of the existence, location, and dangers posed by the permit required confined
spaces.(Signs that read “DANGER-PERMIT REQUIRED CONFINED SPACE-DO NOT ENTER” would satisfy the requirement for a sign)
•
If an employer decides that its employees will not enter permit required spaces
1. The employer shall take effective measures to prevent its employees from entering the permit required spaces.
2. The employer shall evaluate and reclassify, if necessary, non-permit required confined spaces when there are changes that in the use or configuration of the non-permit required confined space that might increase the hazards to entrants.
•
If an employer decides that its employees will enter permit required confined spaces then, the employer shall implement a written permit required confined space program that complies with OSHA regulation. (CFR 1910.146) The written program shall be available for inspection by the employees.
1. Inform the contractor of any precautions or procedures that the host has implemented for the protection of employees in or near permit required confined spaces where contract personnel will be working.
2. If employees of more than one employer will be working in a permit required confined space then there shall be a procedure developed and implemented to coordinate entry operations, so the employees of one employer do not endanger the employees of another employer.
3. Debrief the contractor/contractors at the end of entry operations regarding the permit required space program followed and regarding any hazards confronted or created during entry operations.
•
In addition to complying with permit required confined space requirements that apply to all employers, each contractor who is retained to perform permit required confined space entry operations shall:
1. Obtain any available information regarding permit required confined space hazards and entry operations from the host employer
2. Coordinate entry operations with the host employer when both employers will have employees working in or near the permit required confined space in question
3. Inform the host employer of the permit confined space program that the contractor will follow, and of any hazards encountered or created during entry operation.
Outside Attendants Employees who will be working as an outside attendant shall receive training prior to assignment. The employer shall ensure that the outside attendants know, at a minimum, the following: • Hazards that may be faced during entry, signs/symptoms of exposure and the consequences of Reference to the applicable MSDS sheets
the exposure.
• Possible behavioral effects of exposure to authorized entrants • How to accurately maintain the sign in/out log • Never leave the Permit Space during entry operations unless relieved by another attendant • Communication methods to be used to monitor entrant status and relay emergency and evacuation information and related alarms
• How to monitor activities inside and outside the space and order an evacuation if: o There is detection of a prohibited condition
o Notices behavioral effects of hazard exposure in an authorized attendant o There is detection of an outside condition that could affect the authorized entrants o If the attendant can’t effectively manage all of the duties.
• How to summon rescue and other emergency services • Deny entry of the permit space to unauthorized entrants and inform the entry supervisor if an person has entered the space.
unauthorized
• At no time shall a single attendant be allowed to monitor several confined spaces.
ENTRY SUPERVISOR Entry Supervisors shall be trained in and have the duties of the following: • Hazards that may be faced during entry operations, signs/symptoms of exposure and the of the exposure. Reference to the applicable MSDS sheets
consequences
• Verifies, by checking that the appropriate information has been put on the permit, all tests have been conducted, and that all procedures and equipment specified on the permit are in place prior to endorsing the entry permit and allowing entry operations to begin. • Terminates entry operations when necessary • Verifies that rescue services are available, and means of summoning are operable. • Continually evaluates and determines if entry conditions remain consistent with the entry entry conditions remain acceptable.
permit, and if
RESCUE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES 1. We provide rescue and emergency services and the ERT members are at a minimum is trained to: • Perform the assigned rescue duties • Correctly use personal protective equipment required for the job • Be proficient as an authorized entrant • Has at least one member trained in basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) • The rescue team may practice a Permit Required Confined Space rescue at least every 12
months.
• If at any time there are any immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) conditions, rescue services must be on-site at all times.
2. We rely on local Fire and Rescue Personnel for our rescue and emergency services. A safety representative has evaluated the Emergency Rescue Team and found that they are adequately trained and equipped and can also respond in a timely manner. Alternate procedures for Entry into a Permit Required Confined Space: The alternate entry procedures into a Permit Required Confined Space may only utilized under the following conditions.
• The only hazard posed is an actual or potential hazardous atmosphere. • Forced air ventilation alone can maintain the space safe for entry.
o The monitoring and inspection data supporting this must be recorded and documented. o If an initial entry is required to obtain the monitoring and inspection data, the entry must be to the Permit Required Confined Space Entry Program
made according
• The determinations of the space and all supporting data (monitoring and inspection data) must be made available to all employees entering the space or to their authorized representative.
• A certification must be produced that contains the date, the location of the space, and signature of the person providing the certification. The certification shall verify that the space is safe, and that the pre-entry requirements listed below have been satisfied.
o This certification must be made available to all employees and/or their authorized
representatives.
If a Permit Required Confined Space meets the above conditions and the alternate entry procedures will be used, it must be used in conjunction with the following requirements.
• Any conditions making it unsafe to remove an entrance cover will be eliminated before the cover is removed. • After removing the entrance cover, the opening shall be guarded to prevent accidental fall through of employees and/or foreign objects from entering the space.
• Forced air ventilation must be on, directed at areas the employees will be working, and be on at all times employees are in the space.
• The air supply for the forced air ventilation must be from a clean source and not able to increase the hazards in the space. • Before the initial entry is made the atmosphere must be tested for acceptable atmospheric conditions, and periodically to ensure that the forced air ventilation is preventing the accumulation of a hazardous atmosphere. (Employees or their representatives are entitled to request additional monitoring at any time.) If a hazardous atmosphere or other hazards are detecting at any time throughout the entry operation the following must occur:
•
All entrants must immediately evacuate the space
•
The space must be evaluated to determine how the hazard developed
•
Measures must be implemented to protect the entrants from the hazards before any subsequent entry takes place
•
If necessary reclassify it back to a Permit Required Confined Space.
•
Reclassifying a Permit Required Confined Space to a Non Permit Required Confined Space: A Permit Required Confined Space can be reclassified as a non-permit required confined space, the following conditions:
but only under
•
If the space poses no actual or potential hazardous atmosphere and all other hazards within the space can be eliminated or controlled without entry into the space. It may remain reclassified as long as the non-atmospheric hazards remain eliminated.
•
If it is necessary to enter the space to eliminate the hazards for reclassification, then the entry must be performed as a Permit Required Confined Space. Once the hazards have been eliminated, testing and inspections have confirmed elimination, then the space can be reclassified as a non-permit required confined space, and may remain so as long as the non-atmospheric hazards remain eliminated.
•
A certification must be produced that contains the date, the location of the space, and signature of the person providing the certification. The certification shall document the basis for determining the hazards in the space have been eliminated, that the space is safe, and that the pre-entry requirements have been satisfied. o This certification must be made available to all employees and/or their authorized representatives.
If at any time hazards arise in the space the following must be done: • Entrants must Immediately Evacuate the Space
•
Employer must re-evaluate the space, reclassifying it as a Permit Required Confined Space if necessary.
A safety representative is responsible for the periodic review and updating of the Permit Required Confined Space Entry Program. Cancelled permits are kept for 12 months and reviewed to assist in finding deficiencies and areas of improvement.
HAZARD COMMUNICATION On May 25, 1986 the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) placed in effect the requirements of a new standard called Hazard Communication (29 CFR 1910.1200). This standard establishes requirements to ensure that chemical hazards in the workplace are identified and that this information, along with information on protective measures, is transmitted to all affected employees. When hazardous substances are used in the workplace, a hazard communication program dealing with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), labeling and employee training must be set up and operational. MSDS materials will be readily available on the job site for each hazardous substance used. A training program plus regular question and answer sessions on dealing with hazardous materials will be given to keep employees informed. The program will include: • explanation of what an MSDS is and how to use and obtain one •
explanation of the "Right to Know";
•
identification of where employees can see the written hazard communication program
RESPONSIBILITIES OF SUPERVISORS/MANAGEMENT •
Identify hazards for respective work areas.
•
Ensure hazards are properly labeled.
•
Have the written Hazard Communication Program available to all employees.
•
Provide hazard-specific training for employees.
•
Develop a written Hazard Communication Program.
•
Maintain a central file of material safety data sheets.
•
Provide generic training programs.
•
Assist supervisors in developing hazard-specific training programs and Oversee the Hazard Communication Standard written policy and implementation plans Alert on-site contractors to hazardous materials in work areas.
•
Alert on-site contractors that they must provide to their employees information on hazardous materials they bring to the work site.
EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY •
Attend safety-training meetings.
•
Perform operations in safe manner.
•
Notify management immediately of any safety hazards or injuries.
“Your best defense against accidents is your knowledge and use of safe practices.”
INTRODUCTION OSHA requires employers to develop a written plan to communicate with employees about the hazards of particular chemicals used in the workplace. Perhaps the most significant part of this requirement is the reading of Material Data Safety Sheets (MSDS). A plan includes: • Container labeling procedures • MSDS procedures (Material Safety Data Sheets) • Employee information and training guidelines • Sample forms to be used as part of the plan • Information on how to request, read, and understand a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
EMPLOYERS COVERED Any employer using a hazardous material (any material that has or requires a Material Safety Data Sheet) is covered. The OSHA requirements for a written plan found in 29 CFR 1910.1200. 1. In order to comply with 29 CFR 1910.1200, the following written Hazard Communication Plan (HCP) is to be implemented for personnel of: Tri-State Industrial Group, LLC 2. The plan will be used by all personnel; further all personnel speak and understand English. 3. A safety representative will be responsible for ensuring that the plan is current and enforced. 4. A copy of this plan must be available to employees on hiring, and a copy will be supplied to any employees on request.
5. The safety representative will be contacted when a copy of the plan is needed.
6. The plan will be updated when new chemicals or hazards are introduced into the working environment and will be reviewed annually.
PURCHASES Leadership will check all chemical purchase requests (PR) and verify that a statement requesting a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) appears on each purchase request before it is processed.
CONTAINER LABELING 1. Present leadership will be responsible for monitoring all containers of hazardous chemicals entering the present workplace. He or she will ensure that the chemical containers are properly labeled with: • Chemical name • Hazard warning • Name and address of manufacturer, importer, or responsible party 2. No chemical will be used until it has been checked by leadership 3. If chemicals are to be transferred to a separate container, leadership will ensure that the new container is properly labeled and that all secondary containers are labeled. Secondary labels can be an extra copy of the manufacturer’s label or a generic label. All secondary labels must list Chemical Identity, Hazard Warning, and Manufacturer. 4. A safety representative will review the labeling system annually and update it as required. 5. Contractors should ensure that pipes are labeled properly. 6. Contractors should also inform employees of the hazards associated with the chemicals contained in pipes within the work area.
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS (MSDS) – GENERAL PROCEDURES A safety representative will be responsible for obtaining and maintaining the MSDS system for this company. Copies of all MSDSs will be kept by: the safety representative. They will review annually for the accuracy and completeness of each MSDS. The MSDS system includes the following requirements: •
A current master inventory list of all MSDSs will be maintained. The list will be indexed by number to the MSDS referenced on the inventory list.
•
The chemical name or identity used on each MSDS will be the same as that used on the container label.
•
The chemical and common name of all ingredients determined to present a hazard will appear on all MSDSs.
The information on an MSDS includes:
•
Physical and chemical characteristics of the chemical, including vapor pressure, flash point, etc.
•
Fire, explosion, and reactivity hazards of the chemical, including boiling point, flash point, and autoignition temperature.
•
Health hazards of the chemical mixture, including signs and symptoms of exposure, medical conditions recognized as aggravated by exposure, and primary routes of entry.
•
Permissible exposure limits (PEL) or any other exposure limit used or recommended by the manufacturer, importer, or employer.
•
Whether the chemical is listed as a carcinogen by the National Toxicology Plan (NTP) or has been found to be a potential carcinogen by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) or OSHA.
•
Control measures for the chemical, including fire, engineering, and personal protective equipment.
•
General precautions for safe handling and use, including protective measures during repair and maintenance of equipment involving the chemical.
•
Procedures for cleanup of spills and leaks.
•
Emergency first aid procedures.
•
Date the MSDS was prepared or revised.
•
Name, address, and telephone numbers of manufacturer, importer, or responsible party to call in an emergency.
MSDS originals will be kept on file. The MSDS will also be part of the plan for use by employees. Each supervisor will keep a current copy of the plan on file. A new chemical will not be used until its MSDS has been obtained.
Reading and Understanding the MSDS The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is the primary document in hazard communication. OSHA standards require manufacturers and importers to provide an MSDS with each of the chemicals they ship. OSHA standards also require employers to have an MSDS for each hazardous chemical they use. The importance of the MSDS can’t be overstated. This form contains all known hazard and protection information on a hazardous chemical. The MSDS is a guide to safety. OSHA has developed a sample Material Safety Data Sheet form that many companies are using. Although the agency doesn’t insist that everyone use OSHA’s form, OSHA does expect all MSDSs to include the same basic information. A Material Safety Data Sheet should include information on these topics:
SECTION I IDENTITY This section tells you the name of the chemical as it appears on the container label. The only time identity information is not provided is if the chemical name is a trade secret. Even in that situation, the MSDS must provide full hazard protection data. The identity section also lists the name, address, and telephone number of the company that makes the chemical. An employer may contact the manufacturer for additional information.
SECTION II HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS/IDENTITY INFORMATION This section lists the hazardous parts of the chemical. The chemical is identified by its common and scientific names in this section. If it’s a compound with more than one hazardous ingredient, the principal ingredients are listed here – usually by percentage. This section also lists the exposure limits set by OSHA and other organizations. Both OSHA’s Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) and the Threshold Limit Value (TLV) set by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) are listed. These limits specify the maximum amount of exposure to the substance a worker can have based on an eight-hour workday. The OSHA limit is a legal one; ACGIH’s limit is the stricter one and is a recommendation. Both limits are usually given in parts per million (PPM) or milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). Section II may also give a ceiling, or top exposure limit, which is the maximum allowable exposure at one time. Short-term (15-minute) exposure limits (STEL) may be provided. There may also be information on whether the substance is “Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health” (IDLH). If the chemical is IDLH, the respiratory protection supplied by the employer must take this rate into consideration.
SECTION III PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS This section lists the chemical’s normal state and helps define how the chemical will behave when it is released. For example, a chemical that is normally a liquid may evaporate quickly in a hot environment, thus increasing its risk as a fire hazard. A chemical’s physical characteristics could also affect its health hazards and the protection that an employee needs. A liquid may be dangerous if it splashes on skin, thus requiring that the employee wear protective clothing. But if the same chemical changes to a vapor, the chief risk may result from inhalation, requiring respiratory protection. The chemical’s normal appearance and odor are described in this section. Knowing the chemical’s normal appearance, an employee can spot any changes or differences that could indicate trouble. In addition to the normal state of the chemical, this section lists the circumstances, such as temperature, that could change that state. •
Melting Point The melting point is the temperature at which a solid changes to a liquid.
•
Boiling Point The boiling point is the temperature at which a liquid changes to a gas.
•
Evaporation Rate The evaporation rate is how long the chemical takes to evaporate. Butyl acetate has a relative evaporation rate of 1. A chemical with a higher number evaporates faster; one with a lower number evaporates slower.
•
Specific Gravity The specific gravity is the density of the chemical compared to water, which has a relative value of 1. If the chemical’s specific gravity is greater than 1, the chemical is heavier than water and will sink in water. If the chemical’s specific gravity is less than 1, the chemical will float on water.
•
Vapor Density The vapor density is the density of the chemical’s vapor compared to air, which has the density of 1. If a chemical’s vapor density is higher than 1, the vapor is heavier than air and will go to the floor. If the chemical’s vapor density is lower than 1, the vapor will rise in the air.
•
Vapor Pressure Vapor pressure measures how volatile a liquid is. Vapor pressure also measures how easily a liquid evaporates. The higher the number, the faster the liquid evaporates. This section of the MSDS also has a space that explains how much of the chemical will dissolve in water. The ability to dissolve is usually stated as a percent or as parts per million (PPM).
SECTION IV FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD DATA This section states whether the chemical has a potential to catch fire or explode. Flash point is the lowest temperature at which a chemical’s vapors are concentrated enough to ignite. The lower the flash point number, the more dangerous the material. Example: Gasoline’s flash point is -45°F. Diesel fuel #2 has a flash point of +125°F. This section contains the upper (UFL) and lower (LFL) flammable limits. Between these limits the substance is likely to ignite. This section also lists the upper (UEL) and lower (LEL) explosive limits. These provide the minimum and maximum concentration of the chemical’s vapor in the air required for an explosion to occur. Finally, this section contains fire-fighting procedures and the extinguishing media.
SECTION V REACTIVITY DATA Some substances are unstable. They can react with other substances or in specific kinds of conditions. This section lists the chemicals or conditions to avoid. Any hazardous byproducts the chemical could generate are also listed, along with the hazards (such as toxic gases) that could be created if the chemical decomposes
SECTION VI HEALTH HAZARD DATA This section describes how the chemical gets into the human body and what effects it has on the body. The following are the usual methods of exposure: • inhalation or breathing • ingestion or swallowing • direct skin contact This section also lists the health hazards the chemical poses: •
acute: effects that show up immediately after exposure
•
chronic: effects that develop over time (usually serious)
•
carcinogenic: It notes whether the conclusion that the chemical causes cancer is based on findings of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) or National Toxicology Program (NTP). The section also states whether OSHA regulates the chemical for its cancer hazard. This section of the MSDS also lists the symptoms of exposure.
SECTION VII PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE HANDLING AND USE This section provides the following types of information: • • • • •
how to handle the chemical under normal conditions how to handle a spill what to use to clean up a spill whether to evacuate immediately if there is a spill how to dispose of waste chemical
SECTION VIII CONTROL MEASURES, PROTECTIVE CLOTHING, AND EQUIPMENT This section describes the type of ventilation needed, for example: • • •
local exhaust mechanical exhaust other
It also describes respiratory protection needed (if any). This section contains OSHA’s recommended protective devices and clothing. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS are also listed in this section.
EMPLOYEE INFORMATION AND TRAINING Before a new employee starts work, the employee’s supervisor or foreman will go over the employee’s copy of the Hazard Communication Plan (HCP) and each MSDS applicable to the employee’s job. Before any new chemical is used, all employees will be informed of its use. Each affected employee will be instructed on safe use and trained on the hazards of the new chemical. All employees will attend additional training, as appropriate, to review the HCP and MSDS. Appropriate library reference material will also be discussed during the training sessions. The minimum orientation and training for a new employee contains the following: • an overview of the requirements contained in the Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200 •
the chemicals present in the workplace operations and this office
•
location and availability of the written HCP
•
the physical and health effects of the hazardous materials listed on the inventory list of this plan
•
methods and observation techniques used to determine the presence or release of hazardous chemicals in the work area
•
how to lessen or prevent exposure to these hazardous chemicals through use of control/work practices and personal protective equipment
•
emergency procedures to follow if exposed to any chemicals
•
location of MSDS file, all MSDS files will be kept readily available by means of location in all vehicles as well as trailers in the case of working at multiple job locations.
•
location of the hazardous chemical inventory list
Before a new chemical hazard is introduced into any section of the workplace, each employee will be given information and training as outlined. This person is also responsible for ensuring that the MSDS on each new chemical is available before the chemical is used. After attending the training class, each employee will sign a form to verify that he or she attended the training. Each employee will sign a form to verify that the written Hazard Communication Plan was or is made available for review and that he or she understands the HCP. Before entering a questioned establishment, a safety representative will ascertain what hazards he or she may be exposed to and then take appropriate action to be protected. If an employee has any questions about what protection he or she will need, the employee will immediately contact the safety representative.
EMPLOYEE TRAINING GUIDELINES Prepare Objectives: •
Develop safety attitudes.
•
Make employees aware of the hazardous chemicals.
•
Motivate employees to protect themselves by preventing exposure to hazardous chemicals.
•
Learn how to read and understand labels and MSDSs.
Design a Training Plan that Teaches the Following: •
which hazardous chemicals are found in the work area and where they are found
•
what the chemicals look like and the odor of the chemicals
•
the nature of the operation in which an employee might be exposed
•
information to aid employees in recognizing conditions or situations that may result in the release of a hazardous chemical
•
the purpose and description of detection or monitoring devices
•
the purpose for, and application of, specific first aid procedures and practices
•
availability of personal protective equipment
•
type, use, and limitations of personal protective equipment
•
location of personal protective equipment
•
the overview on MSDSs
•
review of the Hazard Communication Standard, located at 29 CFR 1910.1200
Implement the Following Techniques in the Training Plan: •
handout materials – examples of MSDSs and labels, employer’s form for request of MSDS and checklist of completeness for material safety data sheets.
•
audiovisuals – examples of labels and MSDSs
•
demonstration of protective equipment: what it is, how to use it, where protective equipment is located, etc.
•
tests and quizzes
•
attendance records
Assess Effectiveness: •
Were training objectives met?
•
What part of the training plan needs to be revised?
•
What part of the training plan was already known and unnecessary?
•
What material was confusing?
•
What material was missing?
•
How often should training be repeated?
•
What did the employees learn?
•
What did the employees fail to learn?
Implement the Use of MSDSs: •
Were employees taught how to read and understand an MSDS?
•
Did the Hazard Communication Plan include instructions from the overview on reading and understanding MSDSs, and the checklist for MSDSs?
NON-ROUTINE TASKS Note: If no non-routine tasks are known to exist at the time of preparation of this plan, skip this section. Before any non-routine task is performed, the employee will be advised of special precautions to follow. If the employee receives no instruction, the employee should contact a safety representative. In the event such tasks are required, a safety representative will provide the following information about the activity as it relates to the specific chemicals expected to be encountered: • specific chemical names •
hazards of the chemicals
•
personal protective equipment required
•
safety measures to be taken
•
emergency procedures
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measures that have been taken to lessen the hazards, including ventilation, respirators, and the presence of other employees
WORKING ON DE-ENERGIZED EQUIPMENT Electrically Safe Condition The most important principle of electrical safety is to assume all electric circuits are energized unless each involved worker ensures they are not. Every circuit and conductor must be tested by using the provided testing devices, disconnecting, grounding, and locking out breakers every time work is to be done. Each employee individually is required to ensure this before any work is to commence. Proper PPE must be worn until the equipment is proven to be de-energized. Voltage rated gloves and leather protectors must be worn Electrically insulated shoes should be worn Approved insulating mats Safety glasses must be worn The required Arc Flash PPE must also be worn There are six steps to ensure conditions for electrically safe work that must be completed by each employee individually. 1. Identify all sources of power to the equipment. Check applicable up-to-date drawings, diagrams, and identification tags. 2. Remove the load current, and then open the disconnecting devices for each power source. 3. Where possible, visually verify that blades of disconnecting devices are fully open or that drawout-type circuit breakers are fully withdrawn. 4. Apply lockout/tagout devices in accordance with a formal, written policy. 5. Test each phase conductor or circuit part with an adequately rated voltage detector to verify that the equipment is de-energized. Test each phase conductor or circuit part both phase-to-phase and phase-to-ground. Check the voltage detector before and after each test to be sure it is working. 6. Properly ground all possible sources of induced voltage and stored electric energy (such as capacitors) before touching. If conductors or circuit parts that are being de-energized could contact other exposed conductors or circuit parts, apply ground-connecting devices rated for the available fault current. The process of de-energizing is "live" work and can result in an arc flash due to equipment failure. When deenergizing, follow the procedures described in "Working On or Near Live Equipment."
Lockout/Tagout Program
PURPOSE This procedure establishes this company’s requirements for the lockout of energy isolating devices whenever maintenance, servicing, or repairs is done on machines or equipment, in accordance with the requirements of OSHA’s 1910.147. It is used to ensure that the machines or equipment is stopped, isolated, from all potentially hazardous energy sources and locked out before employees perform any servicing or maintenance where the unexpected energization or start-up of the machine or equipment or release of stored energy could cause injury. This program applies to all work operations where employees must deal with lockout/tagout situations as part of their job duties. AUTHORIZED AND AFFECTED EMPLOYEES An authorized employee is one who lockouts out or tags out a piece of equipment or machine in order to perform maintenance, repair, or service. An affected employee is one whose job requires that they operate a piece of equipment or machine that is serviced, maintained, or repaired under lockout/tagout, or are required to work in the area where a piece of equipment or machine is covered under the lockout/tagout program. MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT The machinery and equipment in this facility that falls under the Control of Hazardous energy Standard may be dependent on location. LOCKOUT/TAGOUT PROCEDURES
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Lockout or tagout devices shall be affixed to each energy isolating device by authorized employees.
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Affected Employees - are to be notified verbally, by the authorized employee who is locking out/tagging out the equipment/machine in question, when the affected employee’s machine or machine in their area is to be locked out for service, repair, or maintenance.
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Group Lockout - When servicing is to be conducted by a crew, or multiple tradesmen, each authorized employee involved in the service or maintenance must affix their own personal lock and tag. This can be accomplished by using a multiple lock adapter.
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Shift or Personnel Changes - During continuing service and maintenance between shifts, ensuring continuity of energy control during personnel changes requires that the on-coming shift worker affix his/her lock and tag to the energy isolating device immediately after the off-shift worker removes his/her devices.
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(For the machines and equipment listed above, individually list them again, the energy sources for each, energy control devices of each, and the methods to be used to effectively secure the machine/equipment in a zero energy state) The authorized employee shall reference this to help identify the power sources and control devices of the machine/equipment in question.
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If the equipment/machine is running, shut it down by using the normal stop control.
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Locate and de-activate the energy isolation devices for the equipment/machine. (Switches, valves,
blocks, etc.) •
Lock out and Tag out the energy isolating devices with individual locks.
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Lockout devices, where used, shall be affixed in a manner that will hold the energy isolating devices in a safe or off position.
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Tagout devices, where used, shall be affixed in such a manner as will clearly indicate that the operation or movement of energy isolating devices from the safe or off position.
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Where tagout devices are used with energy isolating devices designed with the capability of being locked, the tag attachment shall be fastened at the same point at which the lock would have been attached.
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Where a tag cannot be affixed directly to the energy isolating device, the tag shall be located as close as safely as possible to the device in a position that will be immediately obvious to anyone attempting to operate the device.
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Now stored energy must be dissipated. (The energy source can be of any origin including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, or other energy.)
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Test the machine/equipment by attempting to start it to ensure all energy sources have been isolated, locked out, and stored energy has been released. After testing and verifying the isolation of the equipment/machine return, all controls to the off position.
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To restore a piece of equipment/machine back to service, check the immediate area to ensure that non essential items and personnel have been removed and the machine/equipment is clear, verify that all controls are in the off position, remove locks and re-energize the energy sources.
LOTO Guidelines: •
LOCKOUT DEVICE: If an energy source can be locked out this method shall be utilized. A device that utilizes a lock, either key or combination to hold an energy isolating device in a safe position.
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TAGOUT DEVICE: If an energy source cannot be locked out a tagout system shall be utilized, a warning tag (weather & chemical resistant) standardized in size, color, with wording warning of hazardous energy (Do Not Start) (Do Not Open) (Do Not Close) (Do Not Energize) (Do Not Operate).
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A lock being utilized for LOTO shall have only one key. The key shall remain in control of the Authorized employee who installed the lock for the purpose of LOTO. NO EMPLOYEE WILL REMOVE A LOTO LOCK THAT HE/SHE DID NOT INSTALL.
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All locks installed for the purpose of LOTO shall be accompanied by at tag with at least the following information; o The name of the authorized employee who installed the lock and date
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Identification of the machine/equipment being locked out
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The time the lock was installed, and the expected time lock removal.
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Transfer of LOTO locks and responsibilities. In such case where the LOTO must run through shift change, the initiating authorized employee will remove his/her lock only after the authorized employee from the oncoming shift has installed their LOTO lock. The LOTO procedure is then the responsibility of the authorized employee of the oncoming shift, and he/she shall inform the affected employees of the oncoming shift of the equipment/machine that are locked out and tagged out.
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In a situation where an energy source can not be locked out, it must be turned to the off position, closed, etc. and tagged. The tag must read “DO NOT OPERATE”, the name of the authorized employee who installed the tag, time & date installed, equipment/machine being isolated, time and date of expected time of tag removal. NO EMPLOYEE SHALL OPERATE A TAGGED ENERGY SOURCE, OR REMOVE ANOTHER EMPLOYEES ISOLATION TAG.
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All locks and tags used for the purpose of LOTO must be durable and able to resist the conditions and environment in which it is to be used.
TRAINING Each authorized employee shall be trained as follows: • The recognition of hazardous energy source, type & magnitude of energy available, methods & means necessary for energy isolation & control. •
That all affected employees are instructed in the purpose & use of the energy control procedure.
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Training will address when tagout systems are used including the limitations of a tag (tags are warning devices & do not provide physical restraint).
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That a tag is not to be removed without authorization.
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That a tag is never to be ignored or discounted in any way.
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Retraining is required when there is a change in job assignments, in machines, a change in the energy control procedures, or a new hazard is introduced.
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Training provisions will be made for any other employee whose work operations are or may be in an area where energy control procedures may be utilized.
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All training and/or retraining must be documented and signed.
PERIODIC PROCEDURE INSPECTION A periodic inspection will be conducted & documented, at least annually, to ensure procedures & requirements are being followed. This inspection will include date, equipment, employees & the inspector's name. These inspections will be performed by a TSIG safety representative. ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES A safety representative is responsible for the overall responsibility of the LOTO program. Copies of the written program can be obtained from a the safety representative or viewed in the written safety program that is located at the office. Lockout/tagout application. Each person who could be exposed to electric energy must be involved in the lockout/tagout process. After de-energizing, each employee at risk should apply an individual lockout/tagout device to each
source of electric energy. Pushbuttons or selector switches cannot be used as the only way to deenergize.
The supervisor must ensure that the machine or equipment has been isolated and deenergized prior to any work. In the event of a group lockout or tagout only the supervisor will be responsible for a group of employees. The supervisor will ascertain the exposure status of each individual group member. Each employee will attach their personal lockout or tagout device to the group lockout or tagout. Only the employee assigned to the lockout or tagout may remove it after they are finished and during any shift change, the supervisor is responsible for ensuring that all employees are the only ones removing the lockout tagout to ensure the safety of all. A lockout device is a key or combination lock with a tag that can be attached to a disconnecting device to prevent the re-energizing of the equipment being worked on without removal of the lock. The lockout device should have a way of identifying whose lock it is. Individual lockout devices with the employee name on them are preferred. That employee must be the only person who has the key or combination for the lockout device they install, and that employee should be the only person to remove the lock after all work has been completed. A tagout device is a tag and a way to attach it that can withstand at least 50 pounds of force. Tagout devices should be used alone only when it is not possible to install a lockout device. The tag used in conjunction with a lockout or tagout device must have a label prohibiting unauthorized operation of the disconnecting means or unauthorized removal of the device. Before beginning work, each involved employee must verify through testing that all energy sources have been de-energized. Electric lockout/tagout procedures should be coordinated with all other site procedures for controlling exposure to electric energy and other types of energy sources. Individual qualified-employee control procedure. For minor servicing, maintenance, inspection, and so on, on plug-connected equipment, work may be done without attaching lockout/tagout devices if the plug is next to where the employee is working, is always easy to see, and the equipment is never left alone while being serviced. Complex lockout/tagout procedures. Special procedures are needed when there is more than one energy source, crew, craft, location, employer, way to disconnect, or lockout/tagout procedure - or work that lasts beyond one shift. In any of these cases, one qualified person should be in charge of the lockout/tagout procedure with full responsibility for ensuring all energy sources are under lockout/tagout and to account for all people on the job. There should be a written plan addressing the specific details and naming the person in charge. Removal of lockout/tagout devices. Lockout and tagout devices should be removed only by the person installing them. If work is not completed when the shift changes, workers arriving on shift should apply their locks before departing workers remove their locks. Return to service. Once work is completed and lockout/tagout devices removed, tests and visual inspection must confirm that all tools, mechanical restraints, electric jumpers, shorts, and grounds have been removed. Only then is it safe to re-energize and return to service. Employees responsible for
operating the equipment and needed to safely re-energize it should be out of the danger zone before equipment is re-energized. Temporary release. If the job requiring lockout/tagout is interrupted for testing or positioning equipment, follow the same steps as in return to service (above). All electrical workers will be trained on and follow the requirements of the company Lockout Tagout program. This is a prerequisite for any electrical work.
VEHICULAR AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT Protective measures such as guarding, isolating, or insulating are provided, these precautions shall prevent employees from contacting such lines directly with any part of their body or indirectly through conductive materials, tools, or equipment. Overhead power lines will be de-energized and grounded before any work is performed by any vehicle or mechanical equipment near the energized overhead power lines. If the overhead lines can not be de-energized, then the vehicle or mechanical equipment will be operated so that a clearance of 10 feet is maintained. If the voltage of the overhead line exceeds 50 kv, the distance will be increased 4 inches for every 10 kv increase in power. If 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 the table on page 61. Elevated Equipment Where any vehicle or mechanical equipment structure will be elevated near energized overhead lines, they shall be operated so that the Limited Approach Boundary distance of NFPA table 130.2(C), column 2, is maintained. However, under any of the following conditions, the clearances shall be permitted to be reduced: If the vehicle is in transit with its structure lowered, the Limited Approach Boundary distance to the overhead lines in NFPA Table 130.2 (C), column 2, shall be permitted to be reduced by 6 ft. If insulated barriers, rated for the voltages involved, are installed and they are not part of an attachment to the vehicle, the clearance shall be permitted to be reduced to the design working dimensions of the insulating barrier. If the equipment is an aerial lift insulated for the voltage involved, and if the work is performed by a qualified person, the clearance (between the un-insulated portion of the aerial lift and the power line) shall be permitted to be reduced to the Restricted Approach Boundary given in NFPA Table 130.2 (C), column 4. Aerial Lifts All vehicle and/or mechanical equipment shall be tested before each shift to determine that the equipment is in safe working order. Including that the backing up alarm system is properly working or a spotter must be used.
ď Ź All vehicle and/or mechanical equipment are only to be used by authorized and properly trained workers.
All vehicle and/or mechanical equipment shall not be used to exceed the manufactures load limits at any time. All vehicle and/or mechanical equipment must maintain a minimum clearance of at least 10 feet from any lines that rate 50KV or below. For the safety of workers as well as others, anyone operating the equipment shall not climb on the rails, ladders, or baskets at any time and should always stand firmly on the floor. All workers must wear an approved fall restraint system that is attached to the boom or basket only at all times. Unless supplied with written approval from the manufacturer, no modifications to the equipment is to be made at any time. Equipment Contact Employees standing on the ground shall not contact the vehicle or mechanical equipment or any of its attachments, unless either of the following conditions applies: The employee is using protective equipment rated for the voltage. The equipment is located so that no un-insulated part of the structure (that portion of the structure that provide a conductive path to employees on the ground) can come closer to the line than permitted in NFPA 130.5 (E)(1). Equipment Grounding If any vehicle or mechanical equipment capable of having parts of its structure elevated near energized overhead lines is intentionally grounded, employees working on the ground near the point of grounding shall not stand at the grounding location whenever there is a possibility of overhead line contact. Additional precautions, such as the use of barricades or insulation, shall be taken to protect employees from hazardous ground potentials (step and touch potential), which can develop within a few feet or more outward from the ground point.
WORKING ON OR NEAR ENERGIZED EQUIPMENT Working on live circuits means actually touching energized parts. Working near live circuits means working close enough to energized parts to pose a risk even though work is on de-energized parts. Common tasks where there may be a need to work on or near live circuits include: Taking voltage measurements Opening and closing disconnects and breakers Racking breakers on and off the bus
ď Ź Removing panels and dead fronts ď Ź Opening electric equipment doors for inspection
Facilities should adopt standard written procedures and training for these common tasks. For instance, when opening and closing disconnects, use the left-hand rule when possible (stand to the right side of the equipment and operate the disconnect switch with the left hand).
Energized Electrical Work Permit If live parts are not placed in an electrically safe condition, work to be performed shall be considered energized electrical work and shall be performed by written permit only. Work related to testing, troubleshooting, and voltage measuring may be completed without a permit provided appropriate safe work practices and PPE are used. The permit must be originated by the qualified electrical worker. Energized Work Permits shall be submitted to the appropriate supervisor. The permit must be posted in an appropriate location where the energized work is taking place for the duration of the task. Approach Distances To Exposed Live Parts The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) defines 3 approach distances for shock hazards and one for arc flash. The limited approach boundary is the distance from an exposed live part within which a shock hazard exists. The restricted approach boundary is the closest distance to exposed live parts a qualified person can approach without proper PPE and tools. Inside this boundary, accidental movement can put a part of the body or conductive tools in contact with live parts or inside the prohibited approach boundary. To cross the restricted approach boundary, the qualified person must: Have an energized work permit that is approved by the supervisor or manager responsible for the safety plan. Use PPE suitable for working near exposed lived parts and rated for the voltage and energy level involved. Be certain that no part of the body enters the prohibited space. Minimize the risk from unintended movement by keeping as much of the body as possible out of the restricted space; body parts in the restricted space should be protected. The prohibited approach boundary is the minimum approach distance to exposed live parts to prevent flashover or arcing. Approaching any closer is comparable to making direct contact with a
live part. To cross the prohibited approach boundary, the qualified person must: 1. Have specified training to work on exposed live parts.
2. Have a permit with proper written work procedures and justifying the need to work that close. 3. Do a risk analysis. 4. Have (2) and (3) approved by the appropriate supervisor. 5. Use PPE appropriate for working near exposed live parts and rated for the voltage and energy level involved. The Flash Protection Boundary is the approach limit at a distance from exposed live parts within which a person could receive a second degree burn if an electrical arc flash were to occur. 1. Use PPE appropriate for working near exposed live parts and rated for the voltage and energy level involved. 2. For systems of 600 volts and less, the flash protection boundary is 4 feet, based on an available bolted fault current of 50 kA and a clearing time of 6 cycles for the circuit breaker to act, or any combination of fault currents and clearing times not exceeding 300 kA cycles. 3. When working on de-energized parts and inside the flash protection boundary for nearby live exposed parts: a. If the parts cannot be de-energized, use barriers such as insulated blankets to protect against accidental contact or wear proper PPE. Other Precautions When working on de-energized the parts, but still inside the flash protection boundary for nearby live exposed parts: If the parts cannot be de-energized, barriers such as insulated blankets must be used to protect against accidental contact or PPE must be worn. Employees shall not reach blindly into areas that might contain exposed live parts. Employees shall not enter spaces containing live parts unless illumination is provided that allows the work to be performed safely. Conductive articles of jewelry and clothing (such as watchbands, bracelets, rings, key chains, necklaces, metalized aprons, cloth with conductive thread, metal headgear, or metal frame glasses) shall not be worn where they present an electrical contact hazard with exposed live parts. Conductive materials, tools, and equipment that are in contact with any part of an employee’s body shall be handled in a manner that prevents accidental contact with live parts. Such materials and equipment include, but are not limited to long conductive objects such as ducts, pipes, tubes, conductive hose and rope, metal-lined rules and scales, steel tapes, pulling lines, metal scaffold parts, structural members, and chains. When an employee works in a confined space or enclosed spaces (such as a manhole or vault) that
contain exposed live parts, the employee shall use protective shields, barriers, or insulating materials
as necessary to avoid contact with these parts. Doors, hinged panels, and the like shall be secured to prevent them from swinging into employees. Refer to the confined space entry program.
ENERGIZED ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT SAFETY PROGRAM Equipment Labeling Switchboards, panel boards, industrial control panels, and motor control centers must be labeled to warn workers of potential electric arc flash hazards. The term Industrial Control Panel covers every enclosure that may contain exposed energized conductors or components. Marking is intended to reduce the occurrence of serious injury or death due to arcing faults to workers working on or near energized electrical equipment. Markings (labels) shall be located so they are visible to personnel before examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance of the equipment. This DANGER label (or its equivalent) shall be used when information is not presently available. This is the minimum NEC 110.16 requirement.
Figure 1 - Minimum Required Labeling The DANGER label should remind a qualified worker who intends to open the equipment for analysis or work: Electric arc flash hazard exists Turn off all power before opening Follow all requirements of NFPA 70E for safe work practices and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the specific hazard.
The second DANGER label (or its equivalent) shall be used when a qualified electrical worker or electrical engineer determines the values of the shock and flash protection information.
Figure 2 - The Preferred Label When arc flash and shock data are available for industrial control panels, labels shall include information on flash hazard boundary, the hazard category, required PPE, minimum arc rating, limited approach distances, restricted approach distances and prohibited approach distances. An unqualified person must not be near open energized equipment.
CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEES Safety programs used by contractors must meet or exceed all applicable guidelines of this Safety Program. Contractors are required to comply with applicable Safety and Health regulations such as OSHA, NFPA, and EPA. Contractors may be required to submit copies of their safety program to the safety coordinator upon request.
APPENDIX Implementation Procedures for Arc Flash Considerations 1. Immediately place danger labels on equipment required to be labeled by NEC 110.16. 2. Until an arc flash hazard analysis can be made, a qualified Electrical Worker using NFPA Table 130.7(C)(9)(a), Hazard/Risk Category Selections, shall for each situation: Determine the hazard/risk category Determine the use of V-rated gloves o V-rated gloves are gloves rated and tested for the maximum line-to-line voltage upon work will be done. Determine the use of V-rated tools o V-rated tools are tools rated and tested for the maximum line-to-line voltage upon work will be done. 3. The company will complete a flash hazard analysis as required by the NFPA. The arc flash hazard analysis shall only be completed by a licensed electrical engineer. The arc flash hazard analysis shall be completed on all major electrical system upgrades or renovations. The arc flash hazard analysis shall be done for all new electrical system installations. The company will prioritize arc flash hazard analysis for cases where: o Some equipment may be old, or possibly in poor condition, creating a greater potential for flashover. o Equipment requires greater than average maintenance. o Frequent use of high hazard/risk category personal protective equipment during the conduct of maintenance. Qualified electrical workers are frequently wearing high hazard/risk PPE. Arc Flash Hazard Analysis An Arc Flash Hazard analysis will be performed for any equipment where employees might approach an exposed electrical conductor or a circuit part that has not been put in an electrically safe condition. An arc flash hazard analysis includes the following: Collect data on the facility’s power distribution system. ◆ Arrangement of components on a one-line drawing with nameplate specifications of every device. ◆ Lengths and cross-section area of all cables.
ď Ź Contact the electric utility for information including the minimum and maximum fault currents that can be expected at the entrance to the facility.
Conduct a short circuit analysis followed by a coordination study. Feed the resultant data into the NFPA 70E-2000 or IEEE Standard 1584-2002 equations. o These equations produce the necessary flash protection boundary distances and incident energy to determine the minimum PPE requirement. o The flash protection boundary is the distance at which PPE is needed to prevent incurable burns (2nd degree or worse) if an arc flash occurs. (It is still possible to suffer 1st or 2nd degree burns.) For systems of 600 volts and less, the flash protection boundary is 4 feet, based on an available bolted fault current of 50 kA (kiloamps) and a clearing time of 6 cycles (0.1 seconds) for the circuit breaker to act, or any combination of fault currents and clearing times not exceeding 300 kA cycles (5000 ampere seconds). For other fault currents and clearing times, see NFPA 70E.
Approach boundaries to live parts for shock prevention (All dimensions are distance from live part to employee) Nominal system voltage range, phase to phase 0 to 50 volts 51 to 300 volts 301 to 750 volts 751 to 15 KV KV 15.1 kV to 36 KV 36.1 KV to 46 kV 46.1 KV to 72.5 KV 72.6 KV to 121 KV 138 to 145 161 KV to 169 KV 230 KV to 242 KV 345 KV to 262 KV
Limited approach boundary Expose Exposed d fixed- circuit movabl part Not specified Not specified 10 ft. 0 in. 3 ft. 6 in. 10 ft. 0 in. 3 ft. 6 in. 10 ft. 0 in. 5 ft. 0 in. 10 ft. 0 in. 6 ft. 0 in 10 ft. 0 in. 8 ft. 0 in 10 ft. 0 in. 8 ft. 0 in. 10 ft. 8 in. 8 ft. 0 in. 11 ft 0 in 10 ft. 0 in. 11 ft 8 in. 11 ft. 8 in. 13 ft. 0 in. 13 ft. 0 in. 15 ft. 4 in 15 ft. 4 in.
Restricted approach boundary (allowing for accidental movement) Not specified Avoid contact 1 ft. 0 in. 2 ft. 2 in. 2 ft. 7 in. 2 ft 9 in. 3 ft 2 in. 3 ft. 3 in. 3 ft. 7 in 4 ft. 0 in. 5 ft. 3 in. 8ft. 6 in.
Prohibit ed approac Not specified Avoid contact 0 ft. 1 in. 0 ft. 7 in. 0 ft. 10 in. 1 ft. 5 in. 2 ft. 1 in. 2 ft. 8 in. 3 ft. 1 in. 3 ft. 6 in. 4 ft. 9 in. 8 ft. 0 in.
Source: From a portion of table 2-1.3.4, Approach Boundaries to Live Parts for Shock Protection (NFPA 70E Standard for Electrical Safety Requirements for Employee Workplaces, 2004 edition). FR - flame resistant. ATPV - arc thermal performance exposure value of the clothing in calories/cm2. Source: Based on Table F-1 in appendix F of NFPA 70E, Electrical Safety Requirements for Employee Workplaces, 2000.