Electrician – Fact Sheets

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 electrical, building, and fire 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 journeymen, 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:

  • Risk of fatal electrical shock.
  • Risk of electrical burns.
  • Fire.
  • Working in confined spaces.
  • Lead, solvents, solder, and other materials.
  • Welding hazards, including UV radiation.
  • Working in extreme conditions. 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.
  • Working alone.
  • Possible exposure to asbestos.

What are some preventive measures for electricians?

  • Inspect work area before work starts to identify potential hazards and their controls.
  • 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.
  • Use 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
    • Lockout/tagout
    • Confined spaces entry
    • Working at heights
    • Working with ladders
    • Lifting
    • Working with hand tools, and power tools
    • Fire safety
  • Use, maintain and store personal protective equipment according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Learn about chemical hazards, WHMIS and SDSs.
  • Know how to report a hazard.
  • Follow good housekeeping procedures.
  • Follow company safety rules and operating procedures.

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