THE CIRCUIT fall & winter 2013
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Figure 2
of their electrical distribution system (2) Identify which electrical equipment is critical to the electrical infrastructure and (3) Understand which equipment must be replaced and that which can be reconditioned, as shown in Figure 2 (above)
E
lectrical equipment exposed to water can be extremely dangerous if re-energized without proper reconditioning or replacement. Assessing the damage goes beyond visual water indications. Moisture and weather exposure can affect the equipment’s integrity. Water can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, salt, debris, and other substances. Foreign debris could possibly remain inside the electrical enclosure. These contaminants may cause loss of dielectric spacing
and can be a hazard upon reenergization.
STEP 2: Develop or Update an Electrical Safe Work Practices Policy
A
n Electrical Safe Work Practices (ESWP) policy is a written document created by the employer that covers all areas of the company’s electrical safety practices. While having a safety policy has been a requirement of NFPA for several revision cycles, the 2012 Edition further refines the requirements for developing and auditing the policy. The ESWP policy is not a one-size-fits-all policy to cover a company with multiple locations. For example, voltage, energy level, circuit conditions and hazard levels are different in each facility. The policy should identify
detailed information specific to that location. This may include the location of the safety policy for employee (or contractor) access, who is the onsite authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) for decisions, etc.
D
eveloping and auditing an ESWP policy is critical to business continuity and disaster recovery. Since creating a comprehensive program may seem overwhelming, it may be helpful to use the following guidelines to get started. 1) Facility - Includes company policies and systems regarding: • Equipment maintenance • Tools • Testing • Repairs • Clearance requirements • Safe working conditions
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