SOURCE: MSHA | October 30, 2025
Arlington, VA — Electrical work should begin only when a circuit is fully deenergized and proper lockout/tagout procedures are in place, the Mine Safety and Health Administration is reminding miners.
In a recent safety alert, MSHA says it has recorded 289 arc flash or electrical shock incidents since 2015, 15 of which resulted in a death. Following safe work procedures for locking and tagging out hazardous energy sources can “protect miners from the dangers of uncontrolled and unplanned releases of energy.”
Other best practices for safe electrical work:
- Maintain a thorough understanding of electrical hazards.
- Avoid touching any electrical component until verifying that it’s completely deenergized.
- Develop and adhere to a comprehensive and safe work plan or troubleshooting procedure.
- Safeguard against electrical shock, arc blast and arc flash hazards by always wearing properly rated and well-maintained personal protective equipment in accordance with NFPA 70E – the National Fire Protection Association’s standard for electrical safety in the workplace.
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