According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, from 2011 to 2020, almost half of all deadly electrical accidents at work happened on construction sites. In 2019 alone, 79 construction workers died from electric shocks. If you or someone you love got hurt by electricity on a construction site, due to an OSHA violation, you should contact qualified construction accident attorneys for a free consultation to see how we can help you.
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OSHA's Role in Electrical Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes and enforces safety standards to protect workers from various dangers, including electrical accidents. These regulations are particularly crucial in construction due to the numerous hazards on active job sites.
Power lines overhead, temporary wires, and many electric tools contribute to the elevated electrical risk on these job sites. Moreover, the ever-changing nature of construction work, often involving wet conditions, further amplifies these risks.
Understanding OSHA's specific standards and guidelines for the construction industry is essential for employers and workers. This creates a safe working environment and prevents potentially fatal electrical accidents. The attorneys at Porter Law Group specialize in interpreting these regulations and their application in construction accident cases.
OSHA Standards Specific to Construction (29 CFR 1926)
OSHA's standards for the construction industry, found in 29 CFR 1926, are distinct from those applied to general industry settings. These regulations address the unique hazards and challenges faced in construction environments tailored to construction sites' dynamic nature and their specific electrical risks.
Two key subparts of 29 CFR 1926 crucial for electrical safety in construction are:
- Subpart K - Electrical: Covers general electrical safety requirements for construction sites, including wiring methods, equipment installations, and safety-related work practices.
- Subpart V - Electric Power Transmission and Distribution: Addresses safety standards for constructing electric transmission and distribution lines and equipment.
Let's look closer at some of these important safety rules.
Key OSHA Electrical Safety Standards for Construction
Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to know and strictly adhere to these key OSHA standards. Construction companies can significantly reduce the risk of electrical accidents, protect their workers, and avoid potential legal liabilities if these guidelines are followed.
Electrical Installations (29 CFR 1926.405)
This standard outlines safety requirements for wiring methods, equipment, and grounding in construction. Key points include:
- Proper installation and use of electrical equipment
- Requirements for grounding and bonding
- Protection against electrical hazards in different environmental conditions
Temporary Wiring (29 CFR 1926.403)
Construction sites often rely heavily on temporary electrical installations. This standard provides guidelines for:
- Use of weatherproof equipment
- Proper securing and labeling of temporary wiring
- Protection of temporary lights from accidental contact or breakage
Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) Protection (29 CFR 1926.404)
GFCIs are crucial safety devices that can quickly turn off power to prevent severe shocks. OSHA mandates:
- Use of GFCIs on all 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles on construction sites
- There are a few exceptions. For example, receptacles on a two-wire, single-phase portable, or vehicle-mounted generator rated not more than 5kW don't always need a GFCI if certain conditions are met.
- Regular testing of GFCIs to ensure proper functioning
Electrical Hazard Recognition (29 CFR 1926.416)
This standard focuses on identifying and mitigating electrical hazards, particularly:
- Requirements for working near energized parts
- Safe distances from overhead power lines
- Procedures for de-energizing circuits before work begins
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures (29 CFR 1926.417)
Lockout/tagout (LOTO) is a safety practice that involves turning off power sources and locking or tagging them so they can't be turned on by accident while someone is working on them.
LOTO procedures are critical for preventing accidental energization of electrical systems during maintenance or repair. Key requirements include:
- Development and implementation of a comprehensive LOTO program
- Training of employees in LOTO procedures
- Use of standardized lockout devices and tags
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Electrical Work (29 CFR 1926.28 and 1926.95)
Proper PPE is essential for protecting workers from electrical hazards. OSHA standards require:
- Use of appropriate insulating gloves and sleeves
- Flame-resistant clothing for protection against arc flash hazards
- Face and eye protection when working on energized equipment
Employers must ensure that workers are provided with and trained in the use of:
- Insulated tools designed for electrical work
- Properly rated hard hats for electrical hazards
- Dielectric footwear when necessary
Training and Competency Requirements (29 CFR 1926.21)
OSHA places significant emphasis on worker training and competency in electrical safety. Key requirements include:
- Comprehensive training on electrical hazards and safe work practices
- Specific training for workers who may be exposed to electrical hazards
- Regular refresher training to maintain competency
Employers must ensure that only qualified persons work on or near exposed energized parts. A qualified person, as defined by OSHA, must have:
- Skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of electrical equipment
- Received safety training to identify and avoid electrical hazards
Work Environment Safety (29 CFR 1926.403)
Maintaining a safe work environment is crucial for preventing electrical accidents. OSHA standards require:
- Keeping work areas clean and free of debris that could create electrical hazards
- Proper organization of electrical equipment and wiring
- Clear and visible signage warning of electrical hazards
Proper hazard communication is also essential, including:
- Use of danger and warning signs near electrical installations
- Labeling of electrical equipment with voltage, current, and other relevant information
If your employer has failed to abide by these regulations, they may be held liable for negligence and you can hold them responsible for an electrical accident.
Common Electrical Hazards in Construction
Construction workers face various electrical hazards daily. Employers must be keenly aware of these risks to maintain a safe working environment:
- Overhead power lines: Contact with overhead lines is a leading cause of construction-related electrical fatalities. Workers must maintain safe distances and use proper equipment near these lines.
- Damaged electrical cords and tools: Regularly inspect all electrical equipment for signs of wear or damage. Remove damaged items from service immediately.
- Improper grounding: Ensure all electrical systems and equipment are properly grounded to prevent shock hazards.
- Arc flash and arc blast hazards: An arc flash is a dangerous burst of energy from an electrical problem that can cause severe burns and other injuries. It can occur when working on energized equipment. Proper PPE and safe work practices are essential to prevent severe injuries or fatalities.
Understanding the Dangers of Electric Shock
Even small amounts of electricity can cause serious harm or death. The following table, based on data from the OSHA, illustrates the effects of various levels of electric current on the human body:
| Current Level (milliamperes) | Potential Impact on the Human Body |
| 1 mA | Barely noticeable. Can be hazardous in certain situations. |
| 5 mA | Mild shock sensation. Most can release their grip, but sudden reactions may cause injuries. |
| 6-30 mA | Painful jolt, grip muscles may seize. Often called the "can't-let-go" range. |
| 50-150 mA | Intense pain, breathing difficulties, severe muscle spasms. Potentially fatal. |
| 1,000-4,300 mA | Heart rhythm disruption, major muscle and nerve trauma. High risk of death. |
| 10,000 mA | The heart stops, critical burns, likely fatal. |
As this table shows, even currents as low as 6 milliamps can cause a loss of muscular control, making it difficult for a worker to let go of an energized object. At higher levels, the effects become increasingly severe, leading to extreme pain, difficulty breathing, and potentially fatal heart problems.
It's important to note that standard household circuit breakers typically operate at 15 or 20 amperes and are not designed to protect against electric shock. They're meant to prevent fires from overheated wires. This means that the current levels in many construction site electrical systems are more than capable of causing severe injury or death.
Learn more about direct electrical injuries and how serious they can be here.
2014 Update and Final Rule
On April 11, 2014, OSHA issued a final rule to improve workplace safety and health for workers performing electric power generation, transmission, and distribution work. Key changes included:
- Improved fall protection requirements
- Revised approach-distance requirements
- New requirements to protect workers from electric arcs
This update aimed to make the construction standard more consistent with the general industry standard, enhancing overall electrical safety in construction.
Employer Responsibilities and Compliance
Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe work environment. This includes:
- Implementing a comprehensive electrical safety program
- Ensuring all equipment meets OSHA standards
- Providing necessary PPE and training to workers
Non-compliance with OSHA standards can result in severe consequences, including:
- Substantial fines and penalties
- Legal liability in case of worker injuries or fatalities
- Damage to company reputation and loss of contracts
Legal Implications of Electrical Accidents
When electrical accidents occur on construction sites, there are often significant legal implications:
- Workers' compensation claims: Injured workers may be entitled to benefits covering medical expenses and lost wages.
- Personal injury lawsuits: In cases of severe negligence, workers might pursue legal action against employers or third parties under state personal injury laws. For example, in New York, injured workers may file a lawsuit under Labor Law Section 241(6) if their injury resulted from violating the New York State Industrial Code.
- OSHA investigations and citations: Serious accidents often trigger OSHA investigations, potentially resulting in citations and fines.
Legal representation is crucial in these complex work accidents. The Porter Law Group has a proven track record with these intricate cases. Our experienced attorneys can help protect your rights and ensure fair compensation for injuries sustained due to electrical accidents.
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Real-World Consequences: A Tragic Case Study
A devastating West Virginia accident on March 31, 1993, illustrated the importance of adhering to OSHA's safety regulations. At a construction site, two workers—a 20-year-old truck driver and the 70-year-old company owner—lost their lives when a truck-mounted crane came into contact with an overhead power line.
The accident happened when the driver unloaded concrete blocks on a steep driveway. Operating the crane via a remote control, the driver inadvertently allowed the crane's boom to touch a power line carrying 7,200 volts. The electrical current surged through the truck and the remote control unit, resulting in the driver's electrocution. When the company owner tried to help, he was also electrocuted.
This tragic incident underscores several key points from OSHA's guidelines:
- Stay Away from Power Lines: OSHA says to keep at least 10 feet away from power lines that carry 50,000 volts or less. - 29 CFR 1926.550(a)(15)(i).
- Check the Work Site: Despite a pre-work site survey identifying possible hazards, safer alternative methods were not considered.
- Have a Watcher: OSHA recommends having a designated person to monitor clearance between equipment and power lines.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of why OSHA's electrical safety standards exist and the potential consequences of not adhering to them.
Speak to a Construction Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar electrical incident at work, seek legal advice as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer who knows about construction accidents can help you understand your rights and possible compensation claims to help with medical bills and other costs.
At the Porter Law Group, our team of expert lawyers takes pride in helping families rebuild after on-site injuries. We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case.
Contact us today online for a non-obligatory case evaluation, or call us at 833-PORTER9 to schedule a consultation.
