MAINTENANCE OF ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Now that you understand the difference between a Qualified and Unqualified employee, let's discuss the different types of electrical equipment a Qualified employee may be required to install, maintain, and repair. When discussing electrical installations, the electrical equipment may be in two states: energized or de-energized.

• De-energized: means that any source of energy (electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, chemical, hydraulic) has been turned "OFF", lock/tagged out, and verified that it is in the off position prior to conducting your assigned work. Lockout/Tagout is the placement of a padlock and/or a warning tag on a energy-isolating device (disconnect) which ensures that equipment being controlled cannot be operated until the lockout device is removed.

• Energized: energized equipment or parts have not had all sources of electrical power turned off, locked/tagged, and verified that they are in the off position. Working on energized systems pose a serious safety hazard to the Qualified electrical employee. Live parts to which a Qualified employee contacts must always be turned off and de-energized unless:
  • The de-energization of the equipment is not possible, due to the design of the equipment.
  • The de-energization of the equipment will cause an additional or increased hazard such as, the interruption of life support equipment (hospitals), deactivation of emergency alarm systems, shutdown of hazardous location ventilation systems, or removal of illumination for an area.

If your department determines that you will be required to work on energized electrical equipment, you will be required to follow Safe Work Practices to keep you from becoming injured while working on these systems.

Safe Work Practices include such items as personal protective equipment, insulated tools, and on the job training. Let's talk about personal protective equipment and insulated tools.