Work On or Around Energized Equipment or Systems

Electrical equipment and systems must be treated as energized until they have been tested or proven to be de-energized.

Sometimes, work must be performed on energized equipment or systems. This work should not be performed until each of the following conditions is met:

• Responsible supervisors have determined that the work must be performed while the equipment or system is energized.
• Workers have been instructed on the work procedures and the hazards of working under such energized conditions.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and used.
• Approved, insulated gloves are worn for voltages in excess of 250 volts to ground.
• Eye protection is provided and used.
• When required for safety, barricades, tags, or signs are present and used.
• If employees will be exposed to flame or arc flash hazards, they must not be wearing clothing or other apparel that could make the extent of their injuries greater, including clothing made of acetate, nylon, polyester, or rayon.

When the work on the energized equipment or system has been fully completed, any temporary PPE in the work area must be removed, and all permanent barriers and covers must be reinstalled.

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