Key Questions
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What is approved electrical equipment?
For a product to be considered approved electrical equipment, OSHA standards require that a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL), such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), certifies the product is safe.
What are the listing and labeling processes for electrical equipment?
Each NRTL maintains a listing of products that were tested and found safe for a specified use. All electrical equipment must have a unique label or other identifying mark of the testing laboratory to indicate the equipment complies with nationally recognized standards.
What is the working space requirement?
According to the working space requirement, All electrical equipment must have sufficient access and working space so that it can be safely operated and maintained. A clearance of at least 3 ft. (0.9 m) is required in front of the equipment. Additional space may be required for equipment operating over 150 volts if there are other electric parts in the vicinity. The width of the access area needs to be at least 2.5 ft. (0.7 m) or as wide as the equipment, whichever is greater. The work space needs to be clear from the floor to a height of at least 6.5 ft. (2 m).
What are the requirements for guarding electrical equipment?
Guarding is required to protect people from accidental contact with live equipment. For equipment operating at 50 volts or more, live parts must be guarded. Guards must be designed so live parts cannot be contacted by objects inserted through vents or other openings. Also, guards should be strong enough to prevent physical damage from vehicular traffic or other hazards.
What is a qualified person?
Only persons qualified to work on electrical equipment can be present when working on live equipment that is normally enclosed. A qualified person is someone that has received training and has demonstrated the skills and knowledge to safely work with the electrical equipment in question.