Utility Safety Podcast by Incident Prevention Magazine

Article Review - Hand Protection for Electrical Shock and Arc Flash Hazards

Hand Protection for Electrical Shock and Arc Flash Hazards

Written by Hugh Hoagland and Zarheer Jooma, BSEE, M.S. on October 1, 2024. Posted in Worksite Safety.

Read the article here: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/hand-protection-for-electrical-shock-and-arc-flash-hazards/

 

Ensuring proper hand protection against electrical shock and arc flash hazards is vital for worker safety. This podcast delves into the evolution of protective gloves, highlighting advancements in multihazard protection, safe work practices, glove testing methods, and updates on international standards.

 

Key Takeaways:

•Evolution of Hand Protection: Transition from basic leather gloves to advanced multihazard protective gear.

•Standards and Testing: Overview of ASTM D120-22 specifications and glove testing procedures.

•Safe Work Practices: Importance of integrating proper glove use into daily safety protocols.

•International Standards Updates: Recent developments in global standards for electrical safety gloves.

 

FAQs:

1. What are the main types of hand protection used for electrical work?

There are two main types of hand protection used for electrical work:

Rubber Insulating Gloves: These gloves are designed to protect against electrical shock. They are made of specialized rubber that is electrically strong and tested to withstand high voltages. They are classified according to their maximum AC use voltage, ranging from Class 00 (500V) to Class 4 (36kV).

Protector Gloves: These gloves are worn over rubber insulating gloves to provide mechanical and thermal protection. Traditionally made of leather, they are now available in various materials and designs, including cut-resistant fabrics and composite materials, thanks to standards like ASTM F3258.

2. Why are protector gloves worn over rubber insulating gloves?

Protector gloves serve several important purposes:

• Mechanical Protection: They protect the rubber insulating gloves from punctures, cuts, and abrasions, which can compromise their electrical integrity.
• Thermal Protection: They offer protection against heat and flames, particularly important in arc flash situations.
• Grip Enhancement: Leather protector gloves can improve grip, especially in oily conditions. Newer materials and designs can offer even better grip and dexterity.

3. What are the key considerations for selecting hand protection for electrical work?

Choosing appropriate hand protection involves assessing the specific hazards present in the work environment:

• Shock Hazard: If a shock hazard exists, rubber insulating gloves with the appropriate voltage rating are mandatory.
• Arc Flash Hazard: If an arc flash hazard is present, arc-rated gloves are required. The arc rating should match or exceed the potential incident energy calculated for the task.
• Mechanical Hazards: Consider the need for cut, puncture, and abrasion resistance based on the work environment.
• Environmental Conditions: Factors such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of chemicals should influence glove selection.
• Dexterity Requirements: Choose gloves that allow for sufficient dexterity to perform the task safely and efficiently.

4. How often should rubber insulating gloves be tested?

OSHA mandates that rubber insulating gloves be electrically tested every six months using the ASTM D120 proof test. Additionally, daily visual inspection and air inflation testing are required before each use.

5. What are the recent advancements in hand protection for electrical work?

Several advancements have improved hand protection for electrical workers:

• New Materials: ASTM F3258 allows for protector gloves made from materials other than leather, offering better dexterity, grip, and cut resistance while meeting safety requirements.
• Multi-Hazard Protection: Gloves are increasingly designed to protect against multiple hazards, combining electrical insulation with cut resistance, arc flash protection, and other features.
• Enhanced Comfort and Fit: Innovations in design and materials have led to more comfortable and better-fitting gloves, improving user experience and compliance.

6. What are the challenges of hand protection in clean room environments?

Clean room environments often restrict the use of leather due to concerns about contamination. This poses challenges for electrical workers who require both shock and arc flash protection. ASTM F3258 addresses this gap by allowing for non-leather protector gloves, but finding suitable options for low-voltage installations with both hazards remains a challenge.

7. How do international standards compare to US standards for hand protection?

IEC 60903, the international standard for electrical insulating gloves, differs from ASTM D120 in several aspects, including the absence of a thickness requirement and the inclusion of composite gloves. The upcoming IEC 63232 will address arc testing methods and arc-rated glove standards for international use, aligning more closely with US practices.

8. What should workers do when exposed to both shock and arc flash hazards?

When both shock and arc flash hazards are present, workers must use rubber insulating gloves with the appropriate voltage rating and arc-rated protector gloves. OSHA mandates arc-rated gloves for incident energies exceeding 14 cal/cm². Selecting gloves that meet the latest ASTM standards (F696 or F3258) ensures adequate protection against both hazards.

 

#ElectricalSafety #ArcFlashProtection #HandProtection #WorkerSafety #PPE #SafetyStandards

 

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

From the Olympics to the Utility Field: Dr. Kevin Rindal, DC on Preventing Soft Tissue Injuries

In this episode of the Incident Prevention Utility Safety Podcast, Kate Wade interviews Dr. Kevin Rindal, DC, chiropractor, human performance expert, and co-founder of Vimocity. Drawing from his extensive experience with the U.S. Olympic Swim Team and industrial athletes, Dr. Rindal shares insights on preventing soft tissue injuries, implementing dynamic warmup programs, and securing organizational buy-in for holistic well-being strategies. Learn how utilities can leverage sports medicine principles to enhance safety, reduce costs, and improve workers’ quality of life.

Key Takeaways

1. Industrial Athletes and Soft Tissue Injuries: How utility workers face similar physical demands to athletes and the role of dynamic preparation in reducing injury rates.
2. Proactive vs. Reactive Approaches: The importance of addressing leading indicators like pain to prevent more significant injuries or reliance on opioids and other pain mitigations.
3. Integration with Daily Routines: Methods to seamlessly incorporate warmups, muscle maintenance, and recovery into existing workflows, making it scalable for smaller organizations.
4. Leveraging Technology and Gamification: How apps, micro learning, and team challenges foster engagement and create sustainable safety habits.
5. Leadership and Culture: The critical role of leadership buy-in at all levels in making safety and well-being programs successful.

Connect with Kevin:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/
• Email - kevin@vimocity.com

Resource Links:

• Short form job-task specific training video | LINK
• Dynamic/ Full-body movement routine (5 min or less) | LINK
• Avoid Slips, Trips and Falls video | LINK

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

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Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

#UtilitySafety #IndustrialAthletes #InjuryPrevention #Vimocity #WorkplaceWellbeing #DynamicWarmups

Safety by Design: Transforming Utility Safety with Pam Tompkins, CUSP

In this episode of the Safety by Design podcast, Pam Tompkins, CUSP, shares her extensive 40-year journey in the utility safety industry. Pam dives into the critical importance of intentional safety planning and proactive assessments, emphasizing the need for quality over quantity in safety initiatives. With insights drawn from her global consulting experience, Pam provides actionable strategies to design systems that protect both employees and organizations. She also previews her upcoming article series in Incident Prevention Magazine, which will provide a deep dive into transforming safety practices for utility professionals.

Key Takeaways

1. Proactive Assessments are Vital: Most safety assessments are reactive, conducted after incidents occur. Pam stresses the need for proactive assessments to prevent significant injuries or fatalities.
2. Quality Over Quantity: Simply adding more safety initiatives doesn't translate to better safety outcomes. Organizations must ensure their programs are effective and aligned.
3. Importance of Standards: Leveraging ANSI and ISO standards can guide organizations in creating robust safety systems.
4. Systemic Alignment Matters: Safety programs should align at all organizational levels to ensure effectiveness and consistency.
5. Baseline and Metrics: Establishing a baseline and measurable goals for every safety initiative is essential for tracking success.

Relevant Hashtags

#SafetyByDesign #UtilitySafety #ProactiveSafety #CUSPLeadership #IncidentPrevention #WorkplaceSafety

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

Utility Safety Podcast - Deep Dive into iP's Q&A Oct/Nov Issue written by Jim Vaughn, CUSP

Utility Safety Podcast - Deep Dive into iP's Q&A Oct/Nov Issue written by Jim Vaughn, CUSP

 

Read the article: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/october-november-2024-qa/

 

This conversation delves into Jim Vaughn’s article for iP Magazine.

 

The "October-November 2024 Q&A" article on Incident Prevention addresses critical safety concerns in the utility industry, focusing on the management of SF6 gas switches, OSHA regulations regarding hot-line clamps, and the handling of insulated elbows in pad-mounted transformers. The article provides practical guidance for utility professionals to enhance safety protocols and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Key Takeaways:

• SF6 Gas Switches: Due to environmental concerns, SF6 gas switches are being phased out. Leaking switches must be addressed promptly to avoid regulatory issues. An audit of existing breakers is recommended to develop a replacement program.

• OSHA Regulations on Hot-Line Clamps: OSHA does not explicitly prohibit the use of hot-line clamps to make or break loads, provided that employees are not exposed to hazards during the operation. Employers should ensure that devices used are designed to handle the current involved and that safety protocols are strictly followed.

• Handling Insulated Elbows: Insulated elbows in pad-mounted transformers are not considered safe to touch with bare hands, even when wearing rubber gloves. Manufacturers advise against handling energized elbows due to potential safety risks.

 #UtilitySafety #SF6GasSwitches #OSHACompliance #ElectricalSafety #IncidentPrevention

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

From Operations to Safety: Journey and Insights From Mike Starner, CUSP, Director of Outside Line Safety at NECA

Welcome to the Utility Safety Podcast, recorded live at the IP Utility Safety Conference! In this episode, host Nick, Creative & Marketing Director for UBM, sits down with Mike Starner, Executive Director of Outside Line Safety at NECA. Mike shares his unique journey from field operations to safety leadership, emphasizing the crucial intersection of safety and operations. Discover how evolving safety philosophies, mental health awareness, and frontline leadership can drive meaningful change in the utility industry. Key topics include safety management history, human and organizational performance, and the critical role of human connection in creating a safer work environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Mike Starner's path from hands-on operations to becoming a safety advocate
• How safety management philosophies have evolved over time
• The impact of human behavior and mental health on workplace safety
• The importance of frontline leaders actively engaging with their crews
• Practical steps and resources, like partnering with the 988 crisis helpline, to support worker well-being

#UtilitySafety #SafetyLeadership #MentalHealthAwareness #HumanPerformance #SafetyManagement #ConstructionSafety #UtilityConference #WorkplaceWellness #Leadership #SafetyCulture

 

Mike Starner is the Director of Outside Line Safety for the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). Mike is a Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP) and an OSHA Authorized Outreach Trainer. Mike has 29 years of operational and safety management experience in the electric utility field, including time with investor-owned utilities and electrical contractors before joining NECA.

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

Utility Safety In Depth: The 100th Monkey Effect and Human Connection in Safety - Doug Hill, CUSP & Bill Martin, CUSP

In this episode of Utility Safety In Depth, we delve into the fascinating concept of the 100th monkey effect and its implications for safety in the utility industry. Join us as we discuss how collective consciousness and human connection can drive significant improvements in safety culture and outcomes. We'll explore practical strategies to foster a more caring and supportive work environment, emphasizing the importance of communication, empathy, and mutual respect. Discover how embracing the power of human connection can lead to a safer and more resilient workforce.

Key Takeaways:

• The 100th Monkey Effect: How collective consciousness can influence individual behavior.
• The importance of human connection in safety culture.
• Practical strategies to foster a more caring and supportive work environment.
• The power of communication, empathy, and mutual respect.
• The role of leadership in creating a positive safety culture.

#utilitiesafety #safetyculture #humanconnection #100thmonkeyeffect #workplacewellbeing #safetyleadership #utilityindustry

 

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

 

Building a Culture of Safety - Insights from IUOTA Board Chair Mark Taylor, CUSP

In this episode of the Utility Safety Podcast, host Nick sits down with Mark Taylor, CUSP, and board chair of IUOTA. Mark shares his journey from working as an electrician in Calgary to becoming a safety leader in the utility industry. He reflects on the challenges of promoting safety culture in a dynamic workforce and how personal experiences, including the implementation of innovative safety programs, helped his teams achieve impressive results. Mark also discusses his tenure as IUOTA's chair and the importance of sharing safety knowledge to ensure everyone gets home safe.

Key Takeaways:

1. Adapting Safety Practices for New Generations: Mark highlights the evolving nature of safety practices and the need to adjust communication styles to cater to younger workers who learn and respond differently.
2. Cultural Shift in Safety: His team’s success in reducing workplace injuries stemmed from fostering a culture of genuine care and engagement, shifting from a command-control model to a more collaborative one.
3. Importance of Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Mark emphasizes how sharing safety practices across utilities, particularly through IUOTA, has led to the adoption of innovative ideas without duplicating efforts.
4. Challenges of Safety Leadership: Mark's personal stories of safety failures and successes offer valuable lessons, particularly the importance of verifying safety conditions and the role of supervisors in knowing and supporting their teams.

Check out the IUOTA Conference - Conference Link

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

________________________________

This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

#UtilitySafety #SafetyCulture #IUOTA #WorkplaceSafety #LeadershipInSafety #SafetyFirst

Utility Safety Podcast - Beyond the Checklist - A New Model for Workplace Safety - Bill Martin, CUSP

Beyond the Checklist - A New Model for Workplace Safety - Bill Martin, CUSP - critiques the current approach to workplace safety, where simply completing required safety activities like meetings and events often leads to minimal change. The text advocates for a new model where knowledge is actively applied, and feedback loops are created to assess the effectiveness of safety tactics. The speaker stresses that true improvement requires engaging the workforce in decision-making, testing new ideas, and fostering follow-through. Management-driven safety initiatives are often disconnected from real-world application, and the workforce must value and test new strategies for sustainable change.

Key Takeaways

1. Knowledge vs. Application: New safety information is meaningless unless there is a plan to implement it.
2. The Importance of Synchrony: Teams need to be aligned, much like in nature and sports, to successfully apply safety strategies.
3. Management-Driven Initiatives: Most safety programs are management-focused, but a worker-centered approach is necessary.
4. New Safety Models: Instead of "checking the box," organizations need to involve workers in testing and evaluating safety measures.
5. Feedback Loops: Continuous feedback from workers can ensure the practical implementation of safety tactics.
6. Fostering Engagement: A model that incorporates workforce feedback and values is crucial for long-term improvement.

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

#WorkplaceSafety #SafetyCulture #EmployeeEngagement #SafetyTraining #KnowledgeApplication #NewSafetyModel #WorkforceFeedback #SafetyInnovation #CheckTheBox #ContinuousImprovement

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

 

Voice of Experience - Surviving the Storm: Lessons from the Field with Danny Raines, CUSP

In this episode of The Voice of Experience, Danny Raines, CUSP, shares his invaluable insights from decades of storm work as a lineman and utility safety expert. From the devastation of Hurricane Katrina to modern-day storm recovery challenges, Danny takes us through the physical and mental toll of responding to natural disasters. He explains the dangers of backfeeds, the rise of alternative energy sources, and the importance of verifying safety before restoring power. Learn from his firsthand stories, safety lessons, and how the landscape of utility work has evolved over the years. Whether you're in the utility industry or just curious about storm response, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge from one of the most respected professionals in the field.

Key Takeaways:

1. The dangers of storm work: Power restoration involves more than meets the eye, especially with evolving technology like solar panels and generators creating backfeed hazards.
2. Mental and physical challenges: Long hours, dangerous conditions, and the emotional impact of storm recovery can lead to severe fatigue and stress.
3. Importance of testing and verifying: Danny stresses the importance of safety procedures, especially when dealing with energized systems after a storm.
4. Stories from the field: Real-life experiences from Hurricane Katrina and other storms demonstrate the unpredictable nature of storm recovery.
5. Utility evolution: Changes in technology, regulations, and community expectations are reshaping the utility industry’s response to natural disasters.

You can read the current magazine at Incident Prevention Magazine.

Subscribe to Incident Prevention Magazine - https://incident-prevention.com/subscribe-now/

Register for the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

 

The Voice of Experience with Danny Raines podcast is produced by the same team that publishes Incident Prevention. It delivers insights based on Danny's regular column in the magazine, also called the Voice of Experience. To listen to more episodes of this podcast, as well as other podcasts we produce, visit https://incident-prevention.com/podcasts. You can reach Danny at rainesafety@gmail.com

Purchase Danny's Book on Amazon - https://a.co/d/556LDvz

#UtilitySafety #StormWork #HurricaneKatrina #LinemanLife #BackfeedDangers #MentalHealthMatters #TestAndVerify #PowerRestoration #StormRecovery #AlternativeEnergy #UtilityIndustry #SafetyFirst #DannyRaines #CUSP #ElectricGrid #DisasterResponse

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!

Special Edition - Are you attending the premier Utility Safety Conference? iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo - Dallas, Tx - Oct. 22-24, 2024

Join us for an insightful podcast episode as we dive into the details of the upcoming iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo, happening in Dallas, Texas, from October 22-24. In this episode, we’ll discuss the conference’s robust educational lineup, featuring top industry experts, hands-on exhibits with 90+ vendors, and invaluable networking opportunities. From pre-conference workshops to a fun welcome reception at a unique venue, this event promises to enhance your safety expertise and connect you with peers who face the same challenges. Don't miss out on earning CUSP points and engaging with key leaders in the field!

 

⚡️ Saddle Up for Safety at the iP Utility Safety Conference & Expo! ⚡️

 

The wait is over—the agenda is now LIVE on our website! 🗓️
See what sessions you are going to attend: https://utilitysafetyconference.com/

Register Today:https://utilitysafetyconference.com/register/

Don’t miss out! Earn #CUSP Points for attending sessions and elevate your safety expertise.

Join us in Dallas, Texas, at the Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel & Convention Center on Oct 22 - 24th for an electrifying 3 days of:

• Insightful Discussions
• Powerful Connections
• Pre-Conference Workshop: Preventing SIFs with Above the Line Work Planning & Execution led by David McPeak, CSP, CHST, CIT, CUSP, CSSM
• A Fun Welcome Reception
• Inspirational Keynote
• Huge expo hall with 95+ Exhibitors And much more!

Check out the full agenda now and start planning your experience!

#UtilitySafetyConference #UtilitySafety #Safety #Lineworkers #Lineman #Linemen #Utilities

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This podcast is sponsored by T&D Powerskills. If you are looking for a comprehensive lineworker training solution, visit tdpowerskills.com today and use the exclusive podcast listener promo code IP2024 to receive a 5% discount!