Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard: ELECTRIC

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to electrical hazards including potential electrocution while maneuvering a 27 foot 5 inch long aluminum laddervadder within 10 feet of uninsulated 13,200 volt (phase to ground) primary electrical wires: Jobsite: The employer did not ensure through visual observation, instruction and training that the laddervator was maintained at safe approach distance from the power lines at all times. On or about January 7, 2010, the above laddervator came in contact or within close range of the overhead power line to draw an electrical arc between the laddervadder and the overhead 13,200 volt power lines while employees were maneuvering the laddervadder resulting in employees sustaining serious injuries and severe electric shocks from the incident. Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable abatement method to correct the hazard is to: 1. Maneuver any and all metal equipment and objects at least 10 feet from uninsulated power lines. 2. Contact the local electric utility company or other responsible part to install adequate protective insulating cover on the overhead power lines. 3. Utilize other safe and effective means.