Service contractor realities - minimizing risk

Abstract

Making safety practical for service contractors is difficult. Typically, sites have no electrical staff, drawings, maintenance of electrical gear, and arc flash analysis. Most owners balk at paying for maintenance and studies when no one has been hurt…but they want the work done. If a service contractor refuses a job, another contractor or plant staff will do it. Short of closing shop, the only alternative for the conscientious service contractor is the “least worst” scenario of minimizing risk. For service contractors meeting all safety regulations is overwhelming, impractical, and costly; some do not bother. The culture needs to be changed and the first step is to accept to “minimize risk.” The author utilizes this approach with his company. He outlines the policies (no live work, random audits), the PPE (clothing, equipment, portable kits), and the programs of knowledge (courses, safety meetings). Included is a grid developed integrating Z462 tables and MOL regulations on one page for field use by electricians. Showing service contractors practical ways to minimize risk by simplifying process and by illustrating safety can change the culture and prevent electrical incidents and injuries.