The Electrical Safety Authority's (ESA) most recent Electrical Safety Report illustrates a trend towards safer workplaces in terms of electrical safety due to continued efforts by authorities and workplaces themselves. However the remaining injuries and fatalities show that much more work can be done.
All Too Common Scenarios
From the safety report, we can see that the largest portion of electrical fatalities come from industrial workplaces, affect maintenance/repair workers in non-electrically trained trades, and are attributed (when applicable) to improper procedure and a lack of hazard assessment:
Industrial workplaces account for over 20% of occupational electrical fatalities
Repair/maintenance work account for almost 50% of occupational electrical fatalities
Improper procedure and lack of hazard assessment are the 2 identified leading causes of electrical fatalities
Non-electrical related trades account for over 70% of fatalities
Of particular note is the last point, many of these incidents could be prevented or at least minimized through hazard analysis and appropriate training. As the majority of these fatalities are not in electrically-related trades they need to made aware of the potential dangers associated with their tasks and responsibilities, and it is the legal responsibility (Section 217.1 of the Canadian Criminal Code) of the employer to take the necessary steps to protect them.
How We Can Help
As electrical experts we can work with you to identify potential hazards and bring your building up to code. Our engineers are experienced with a wide variety of buildings and projects and can help you develop a comprehensive maintenance plan that includes preventative infrared maintenance and other tests/inspections as required to keep your equipment running reliably and safely.
By following standards such as CSA Z462 (arc flash hazard analysis and labelling) and CSA Z463 (electrical maintenance) and using them to develop procedures and documentation for your facility that meets insurance and bylaw requirements, but most importantly protects workers.
See also:
Sources and Further Reading
Electrical Safety Authority - Ontario Electrical Safety Report 2020
Government of Canada - Criminal Code 217.1
CSA Group - CSA Z463 Transforming from Guideline into Standard