Good example of “gambling with wire” while stringing up temporary lights (Photo: Jan Thomas).

While teaching electrical safety in our OSHA 10/30 classes I like to throw out the question “Who thinks putting metal and potentially exposed electrical together is a good idea?”  On all worksites I’ve seen a slow evolution to the use of nonconductive tools and equipment.  For example, the replacement of metal ladders for fiberglass, the repair of extension cords with molded plastic replacement plugs, the use of plastic cages on temporary light strings instead of metal guards.  All good, but in today’s photo we have short lengths of wire being used to hang the sting lights.

Is this a problem?  The string lights are from a reputable manufacturer.  Built-in molded plastic hanger eyes are provided.  But, check the manufacturers’ literature- the plastic hanger eye is provided for use with “messenger cable or hooks.”    Messenger cable???  Why bother with that when we can just hang the lamps using some bits of wire?

Look closely – this is not a usual case – the lamp assembly is pulled over and tied off to a metal stud with a spare length of wire pointing into the aisle, ready to catch a worker or hit the bulb. Then there is a small twist of wire being used to lock the clam shell type cage.  Why is wire being used when plastic zip ties and bits of string are readily available in the workplace?

The installation shown above might pass OSHA inspection since the wire is passing through the manufacturer’s establish plastic eye (reference OSHA 1926.405(a)(2)(ii)(F) Temporary lights shall not be suspended by their electric cords unless cords and light are designed for this means of suspension).

My suggestions – stop arguing about OSHA compliance.  Instead, fool proof everyone’s safety by setting up a worksite rule that says “ NO wires” when setting up temporary lighting or extension cords,  that keeps everyone from making a random mistake that could lead to electrical shock.

Tags: Electrical Safety, OSHA, Safety Management

This entry was posted on Tuesday, October 20th, 2009 at 5:55 pm and is filed under All Industries, Construction, Safety Advise, Safety Topics. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.