• What does an electrician do?
• What are some health and safety issues for electricians?
• What are some preventive measures for electricians?
• What are some good general safe work practices?
• Where can I get more information?

What does an electrician do?

Electricians work in commercial, industrial or residential settings. Some of their main duties are to:

• Install, repair and maintain electrical systems.
• Conform to building codes and other regulations.
• Read, prepare or interpret blueprints and drawings.
• Prepare cost estimates and documentation for clients.
• Use, clean and maintain various equipment.
• Supervise apprentices or other workers.

What are some health and safety issues for electricians?

Electricians work in a variety of settings and may be exposed to several hazards, including:

• Lead, solvents, solder, and other materials
• Risk of fatal electrical shock
• Risk of electrical burns
• Working in confined spaces
• Welding hazards, including UV radiation
• Extreme temperatures
• Risk of pain or injury from awkward positions, repetitive manual tasks, or lifting heavy objects
• Moulds, fungi and bacteria
• Risk of infection from bird or rodent droppings
• Working at heights
• Risk of eye injury from flying particles
• Slips, trips and falls
• Working with various hand tools, power tools and equipment
• Stress
• Shift work or extended work days
• Possible exposure to asbestos

What are some preventive measures for electricians?

• Keep tools and equipment in good working order.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment for the task, including footwear.
• Keep work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
• Avoid awkward positions, and repetitive tasks, or take frequent breaks.
• Learn safe lifting techniques.
• Follow a recommended shift work pattern, and know the associated hazards.

What are some good general safe work practices?

• Follow correct procedures for:
  • Electrical safety
  • Lock-out/tag-out
  • Confined spaces entry
  • Working at heights
  • Lifting
  • Working with hand tools, and power tools

• Use, maintain and store personal protective equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations.
• Learn about chemical hazards, WHMIS and MSDSs.
• Know how to report a hazard
• Follow good housekeeping procedures.
• Follow company safety rules.

Where can I get more information?

General information is available in OSH Answers or through the CCOHS person-to-personInquiries Service.

Want more information?

Document last updated on July 30, 2004

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