Electricity

Electrical shock can deliver serious and even fatal injuries. Title 30 §56 Subpart K defines a number of rules about electricity safety at surface mining operations. It is important to review all of these regulations, but some of these deserve special attention. The following list summarizes some of the rules that guard against frequent injury-causing conditions:

• Circuits must use appropriate overload protection fuses and circuit breakers.
• Electric equipment must have approved switches and controls.
• Energized power cables over 150 volts may not be moved without proper equipment.
• Install suitable danger signs at all major electrical installations.
• Guard lights that could present a shock or burn hazard.
• Use weatherproof lamp sockets when exposed to wet conditions.
• Test grounding systems annually and after installation, repair, or modification.

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