ACCIDENT SUMMARY No. 30
| Accident Type: |
Electrocution |
 |
| Weather Conditions: |
Raining |
| Type of Operation: |
Electrical Contractor |
| Size of Work Crew: |
2 |
| Collective Bargaining |
No |
| Competent Safety Monitor on Site: |
Yes |
| Safety and Health Program in Effect: |
Inadequate |
| Was the Worksite Inspected Regularly: |
Yes |
| Training and Education Provided: |
No |
| Employee Job Title: |
Journeyman Electrician |
| Age & Sex: |
39-Male |
| Experience at this Type of Work: |
16 Years |
| Time on Project: |
1 Day |
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCIDENT
An electrician was removing metal fish tape from a hole at the base of a metal light pole. The fish tape became energized, electrocuting him.
INSPECTION RESULTS
As a result of its inspection, OSHA issued a citation for three serious violations of the agency's construction standards. Had requirements for de-energizing energy sources been followed, the electrocution might have been prevented.
ACCIDENT PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS
- Ensure all circuits are de-energized before beginning work (29 CFR 1926.416(a)(3)).
- Controls to be deactivated during the course of work on energized or de-energized equipment or circuits must be tagged (29 CFR 1926.417(a)).
- Employees must be instructed to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions associated with their work (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)).
SOURCES OF HELP
- Construction Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 2207) which contains all OSHA job safety and health rules and regulations (1926 and 1910) covering construction.
- OSHA-funded free consultation services. Consult your telephone directory for the number of your local OSHA area or regional ofrice for further assistance and advice (listed under U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where states administer their own OSHA programs).
- OSHA Safety and Health Training Guidelines for Construction (available from the National Technical Information Service - Order No. PB-239-312/AS) comprised of a set of 15 guidelines to help construction employees establish a training program in the safe use of equipment, tools, and machinery on the job.
NOTE: The case here described was selected as being representative of fatalities caused by improper work practices. No special emphasis or priority is implied nor is the case necessarily a recent occurrence. The legal aspects of the incident have been resolved, and the case is now closed.
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