Electrical Safety Program

Onsite electrical risks and the way they are controlled should be documented in a comprehensive electrical safety program.

The program should show the results of the electrical hazard risk assessment. High hazard situations, exceptions and any unresolved safety issues should be included. When changes in the system occur or improvements are made, the risk assessment and electrical safety program should be updated.

The risk assessment is performed with the equipment in a certain condition of maintenance. If any safety related issues are found, observations and recommendations for improvement are to made and implemented. This means that the risk assessment assumes a certain condition of maintenance of the equipment.

Appropriate inspection and maintenance programs ensure that the risk assessment results remain accurate. The minimum requirements for these programs should be included in the electrical safety program.

Any administrative solutions implemented for risk control should be described in detail in the electrical safety program. The procedures should clearly state their goal, to whom they apply and the required steps to achieve that goal.

Before procedures are implemented, a test run with personnel performing the tasks helps to make instructions unambiguous and clear. Procedures should be posted near work locations for ease of reference.

To ensure compliance and accuracy, the program itself should be audited by reviewing risk assessment results, training logs, requirements and procedures. Additionally, the execution of the program can be tracked by auditing the adherence to procedures, correct PPE use and awareness of the safety program of personnel and contractors.