OSHA has announce the publication of a new e-tool on OSHA’s Web page: “Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution”. The eTool was developed under the direction of the Office of Technical Programs and Coordination Activities (OTPCA) with much time and technical assistance from various directorates including DEP, DSG, and SOL. The eTool can be accessed at https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/electric_power/index.html
Purpose and Intent of E-Tool The E-Tool provides a detailed review of the technically complex requirements of OSHA’s Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution standard (29 CFR 1910.269). It serves to inform employers of their obligations to develop the appropriate hazard prevention and control methodologies designed to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses and to implement the required (compliance) safe work practices and worker training. It also provides useful ways of empowering qualified workers engaged in the operation and maintenance of electric power generation, transmission and distribution installations to understand the steps their employers must implement in order to provide them with a safe and healthful work environment.
Additionally, the E-Tool seeks to clarify specific topics that are often questioned or misunderstood by explaining the requirements, referencing OSHA interpretation letters and related industry consensus standards (for example, IEEE, National Electric Safety Code (NESC) – ANSI-C2), and highlighting some best practices.
Audience The audience for this E-Tool is employers and qualified workers in work environments associated with the generation, transmission and distribution of electric power. Examples of such employers include electric utilities, power line maintenance contractors, contract line-clearance tree trimmers, independent power producers, industrial generators of electric power, and establishments that perform high-voltage electrical work (including contractors). It will also assist such employers, regulatory enforcement officials (State and Federal) and various safety and health training providers to implement the technically complex and challenging requirements of the 1910.269 standard.
