Electrical hazards are among the most prolific dangers on a construction site. Temporary power sources, exposed wires, and exposure to the elements are just a few of the many possible dangers that construction workers face each day.
Most Common Electrical Hazards on Job Sites
Even if you do not work directly with electrical systems or electrically powered equipment, you could face dangers caused by such items. You might accidentally come into contact with something carrying an electrical current and suffer electric shock or even electrocution.
Electric Shock or Electrocution
Electric shock and electrocution can occur on construction sites. They most often occur when construction workers accidentally come into contact with high-voltage power lines. Electrocution is the most lethal and results from direct contact with power lines.
Electric shock occurs when a power line is not grounded correctly and sends an electrical current through a worker’s body. Electric shock might not kill a worker, but it could in some scenarios. Instead, it often results in burn injuries that require medical care and time away from work.
Burn Injuries Caused by Electrical Ignition of Gases
An arc or flash caused by electrical equipment or exposed power lines could ignite flammable or explosive gases. Those gases could cause serious workplace injuries or death to construction workers.
A sudden release of electrical energy causes an electric arc, or flash, that emits electricity into the air. If that air is mixed with flammable gas, the gas could ignite, triggering a catastrophic explosion.
Injuries Caused by Falls and Moving Objects
Electrical lines and equipment also could create tripping and falling hazards for workers. When a line or a piece of equipment is exposed or otherwise lying on the ground, a worker might catch a foot on it or step on it and lose balance. The resulting fall could cause a serious injury or even death when working from an elevated position.
When workers fall, they also might drop an electrical tool or another object. The item might cause blunt force trauma or worse if it has moving parts that are sharp or otherwise very dangerous for workers to contact.
How Electrical Injuries Can Be Avoided
It is essential to identify high-risk areas that might pose significant risks of accidents and injuries. Dangerous areas should be clearly marked with cones, markings, and safety barriers, and workers should be aware of the risks.
Worksites should be regularly inspected to ensure workers are safe from exposed wires and other electrical dangers. Workers should know the correct lockout/tagout procedures and practice them regularly to help shut off electrical power when they are finished working or when a dangerous condition may exist.
Workers should have appropriate safety equipment, including face shields, helmets, and gloves, to protect against electrical shocks and other worksite hazards. Qualified electricians should be on the job site to properly maintain and repair any faulty electrical lines or systems.
Rhoades & Morrow Can Help You Recover Compensation After Electrical Construction Accidents
If you have a workplace electrical injury and need help with your claim, speak with one of our Workers’ Compensation lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow. Contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We are located in Wilmington, Bear, Milford, and Lewes, Delaware. With offices in all three counties of Delaware, we serve clients throughout the state.
