May is Electrical Safety Month

Electrocutions Are One of OSHA’s Fatal Four

Did you know that three of the ten most violated (and cited) OSHA standards involve electrical safety? In fact, “Electrocutions” are one of OSHA’s Construction Fatal Four. The Fatal Four is a list of hazards that accounted for over 64% of fatalities in the construction industry in 2015.

Of the construction fatalities, 8.6% of them dealt with electrocutions.

Focus on Prevention

The following are some ways to prevent run-ins with electrical hazards:

  • Make sure your lockout/tagout program is up to date.
  • Routinely inspect extension cords and electrically powered tools for wear and tear.
  • If any extension cords or other electrical equipment have visible damage, ensure that they are removed from circulation immediately.
  • Ensure that all personnel are equipped with the proper knowledge and experience to handle hazardous energy.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) runs an annual campaign that focuses on mitigating electrical involved incidents by raising electrical safety awareness. Click here for more information on ESFI’s campaign.

What exactly are building codes? We have all heard of them, but some may not know what they’re all about. Building codes are regulations that dictate the construction and maintenance of structures. They cover the minimum requirements needed to protect the welfare of the persons occupying the building. The International Code Council (ICC) has a set of codes that many choose to follow instead of maintaining their own.

The ICC’s set of international codes include:

  • International Building Codes (IBCs)
  • International Residential Codes (IRCs)
  • International Existing Building Codes (IEBCs)

May is also building safety month! The ICC founded Building Safety Month to help raise awareness as to what it takes to build safe and maintainable structures. Click here for more information on the ICC’s building safety month.