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Check cords and connections
Use power tools and equipment safely
Lockout/tagout
Keep tools clean and dry
Protect yourself and others
If your vehicle Is touching a power line
Avoid unsafe shortcuts
Fallen power lines
Electrical fire
Use personal protective equipment

Safety in the workplace

Check Cords and Connections

Before you start work, check electric cords for wear. If you're outside or in a wet location, be sure tools and extension cords are suitable for outdoor use and circuits are equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) which prevent serious shock. Are the cords free of oil, heat, and corrosive chemicals? Never yank, kink, or bend the cords. Unwind them fully before use, and store loosely coiled in a dry place.

Use Power Tools and Equipment Safely (return to top)

Never carry a tool by its cord. Be sure a tool is switched "off" before plugging or unplugging -- this protects you and the next person who uses it. When using portable power tools, keep the cord behind you where it can't be cut. Watch out for energized areas when reaching into equipment.

Lockout/Tagout (return to top)

Learn and follow your company's lockout/tagout procedures for de-energizing equipment before service or maintenance. If in doubt, ask a supervisor or qualified electrical worker for help.

Keep Tools Clean and Dry (return to top)

Dirt and dampness increase the risk of shock. Keep your tools, work area, and storage space clean and dry. When cleaning electrical equipment, be sure it's unplugged, and follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions.

Protect Yourself and Others (return to top)

In your workplace, or working around the house, take these three steps near power lines to be safe:

* Locate nearby overhead and underground lines. Contact utility companies before starting work. Some states have one-call systems for locating underground power lines before you start digging. Juneau's line locate number is (907)586-1333.

* Warn others about nearby power lines and other electrical hazards.

* Keep your distance. Make sure booms, poles, ladders, antennae, and other equipment clear lines by at least 10 feet in every direction. Never use metal poles or ladders near power lines.

If Your Vehicle Is Touching A Power Line (return to top)

If you cannot safely drive away from the line, stay inside and wait for rescue workers. Warn others to stay away from the vehicle. If you must get out because of fire or other danger, jump out without touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Shuffle away in very small steps. Don't try to help others out of the vehicle - you could be shocked.

Avoid Unsafe Shortcuts (return to top)

It might take longer to keep your area clean and dry, or inspect cords for wear, but it's worth a few minutes to prevent shock or fire. Shields, barriers, insulation, and GFCIs protect you, so don't modify them just to get a job done faster.

Fallen Power Lines (return to top)

Never touch a fallen power line, or anything or anyone in contact with it. If someone is in a car that is touching fallen lines, do not touch them or the car - you could be shocked. Instead, call the power company.

Electrical Fire (return to top)

If electrical equipment catches fire, unplug it, or interrupt power at the main switch. Tell the fire department it's an electrical fire. If it's small, use a multipurpose fire extinguisher. If you doubt you can put it out, leave and take everyone with you. Remember, never use water on an electrical fire. (Learning your company's fire escape plan and procedures for notifying emergency personnel will help you move quickly if a fire occurs.

Use Personal Protective Equipment (return to top)

Personal protective equipment is your first line of defense against shock and electrical burns. Keep boots, gloves, and other gear clean and in good condition - even a pinhole will let electricity through. Wear non-conductive protection and use insulated tools.