Electrical Safety

Electric Shock from equipment installation or tools rose from 5.7% of the total construction fatalities in 2015 to 12.7% in the first quarter of 2016.

How to assist a worker being shocked

• Ensure your own safety, by making the scene safe
• If possible, and if it is safe to do so, shut off the source of electricity.
• Call emergency response number with detailed information on address & inform them the source of the current such as a downed pole, etc. Do not hang up on the call until instructed to do so.
• If you cannot shut off the source of the electricity, attempt to remove the worker from the electric line by using a non-conducting source such as a PVC pole or a dry piece of lumber without placing yourself at risk of electrocution.
• High Voltage lines will radiate current through the ground. Do not risk your own life.
• Ensure the current is off and the area is safe, if possible, start CPR, use an AED, and keep the victim warm until EMS arrives.

In 2015, 8.6% of construction fatalities were electrocutions