Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Program (AEGCP)
If an Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Program (AEGCP) is used in place of ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs)
for ground-fault protection, the following minimum requirements apply, though additional tests or procedures
are encouraged:
- Keep a written description of the program at the jobsite. Outline specific procedures for the
required equipment inspections, tests, and test schedule, and make them available to OSHA and to
affected persons upon demand.
- Designate one or more competent persons to implement the program. OSHA defines a competent
person as someone who is a) qualified to identify hazards, and b) authorized to take prompt
corrective measures.
- Visually inspect all cord sets, attachment caps, plugs and receptacles, and any equipment connected
by cord and plug, before use each day. If you see any external damage,
such as deformed or missing pins, damaged insulation, etc., or discover internal damage, take the
equipment out of use until it is repaired.
- Perform two OSHA-required tests on all electrical equipment: a continuity
test, and a terminal
connection test. Tests are required:
- Before first use.
- After any repairs, and before placing back in service.
- After suspected damage, and before returning to use.
- Every 3 months [for exceptions see, 29 CFR 1926.404(b)(1)(iii)(E)(4)].
- Maintain a written record of the required tests, identifying all equipment that passed the test and
the last date it was tested (or the testing interval). Like the program description, make it
available to OSHA inspectors and affected persons upon demand.
Additional Information:
The continuity test ensures that the equipment grounding conductor is electrically continuous.
Perform this test on all cord sets, receptacles that are not part of a building or structure's
permanent wiring, and cord- and plug-connected equipment required to be grounded. Use a simple
continuity tester, such as a lamp and battery, bell and battery, an ohmmeter, or a receptacle
tester.
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The terminal connection test ensures that the equipment grounding conductor is connected to its
proper terminal. Perform this test with the same equipment used in the first test. |
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