As a construction project manager, you are responsible for ensuring the safety of everyone involved. One of the areas that could be potentially dangerous is the electricity that is used by workers. A good way to keep everyone safe is to know which mistakes to avoid when it comes to electricity and electrical safety. Here are some of the most commonly made mistakes.  

Failing to Use GFCIs Where Needed

There are numerous ground fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, regulations that govern everything from how they are used to when to use them. It is imperative that you do not ignore those regulations and correctly use them when necessary. If not, electricity could flow through water or to a person when it is not properly grounded.  

Ideally, you should use GFCIs for any receptacles that are used near water. You can opt to use individual receptacles, but some project managers opt to use breakers that are capable of protecting entire circuits.  

Forgetting to Check Safety Changes

Various organizations have electrical safety requirements that are in place to ensure the safety of everyone who is involved in the project. For instance, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, has regulations that are designed to protect workers on your site. The National Fire Protection Association, or NFPA, has guidelines that direct how wiring and other electrical equipment is used on commercial projects.  

The safety regulations for the organizations change on a regular basis to reflect advances in electrical technology. Before starting your project, it is important that you take the time to review those standards with your electrical contractor to ensure that every measure possible is being taken to follow them.  

Improperly Replacing Wires

As your project evolves, there might be a need to make changes to some of the wiring. Before making those changes, it is important that you and your electrical contractor are sure of the proper way to make changes.  

For instance, a two-wire receptacle should not be replaced with a three-wire receptacle. However, you can use a GFCI receptacle to make the change and still ensure the safety of the project.  

There are other potential safety hazards that could endanger you and your workers. Take the time to work with a professional electrical construction contractor to ensure that everyone is aware of the safety rules and regulations and what it takes to adhere to them. If changes are to be made to your electrical plan, work with the contractor to find the safest way to do so. For more information, check out a site like http://www.albarell.com.

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