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Electrical hazards are an area of major safety concerns in construction and account for a large number of injuries and fatalities. Extension cords and GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) can be found on any construction site and remembering a few safety tips can help prevent serious injuries from happening.

OSHA Standard 1926.416(a)(1) states that no employer shall permit an employee to work in such proximity to any part of an electric power circuit that the employee could contact the electric power circuit in the course of work, unless the employee is protected against electric shock by de-energizing the circuit and grounding it or by guarding it effectively by insulation or other means.

Never use extension cords that have broken or missing ground pins!
Common temporary set-up of electrical panel with GFCI outlets found on a construction site.

According to OSHA, a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) “is a fast-acting circuit breaker designed to shut off electric power in the event of a ground-fault within as little as 1/40 of a second.”

  • Use GFCIs on any construction site to reduce the potential of electrical shocks due to a ground fault.
  • Always test GFCIs before use by using the test and reset buttons. If found defective do not use that GFCI.

Never take electricity for granted! No matter how small the job, always use safe work practices, especially when using electrical tools and equipment.

Midsouth Mechanical has been doing business for almost 30  years. We offer our industrial clients efficient and cost-effective fabrication, modification, and repair of industrial equipment. From preventive plant maintenance, designing, installing and aligning machines, our exceptional skill and craftsmanship set us apart from the competition. Our number one priority day to day is safety. To see our published weekly Toolbox Talks, follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.