Construction workers have a very important job, but it can also be a dangerous one. Every modern structure requires electricity but its hazards may be overlooked. Most electrical accidents happen because of unsafe equipment or installation, an unsafe environment or because of unsafe work practices.
Electrical accidents
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires all electrical workplace conductors and equipment to be tested, installed and used within their labeled capacity. Accidents can happen when the equipment is overloaded, overheats or is not installed by a licensed electrician.
Construction workers can be electrocuted if they come in contact with electrical equipment that is not properly guarded. Guarding means that the electricity is located and enclosed. It also requires the equipment to be placed only where it can be accessed by a person qualified to work on it.
Grounding the equipment and electricity is also important because it significantly reduces the risk of an accident. It creates a second path for the electrical current to travel, which can help prevent shock and serious injury to the worker. Circuit protection devices stop or limit the flow of electricity if there is an overload or short circuit.
Safe work practices
To reduce the risk of an electrical accident, electric tools should be properly maintained, workers should have access to and must use personal protective equipment and workers should attend an electrical safety program.
All energy sources at the construction site should be disconnected when not in use to ensure they do not cause an accident. If a construction worker has been injured in an electrical accident, he or she can suffer serious injuries like burns, tissue damage and heart issues. An experienced attorney can file a claim on the worker’s behalf.