Prevent Common Causes of Electrical Fatalities – Video Short
Remember to never get too comfortable working near or around energized environments. Be aware of hazards like overhead power lines or energized equipment before you start any job, and always test for voltage. You do not want to come into contact with electricity in a confined space.
How to Charge Batteries on the Job Site – Video Short
When working with lithium-ion batteries on the job, always plug the charger directly into the wall. Do not charge multiple batteries or devices on a power strip or adapter. Only use listed and approved chargers and batteries. If a battery is damaged or no longer works, know how to dispose of the battery properly. Never […]
Always Look Up – Video Short
Before starting any job, always look up, always. Be aware of overhead power lines and other electrical hazards in your space before starting a job. Stay safe out there.
Workplace Safety: Avoid Common Electrical Hazards
Contact with or exposure to electricity is one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities. Follow these tips to avoid electrical injury: Overhead Power Line Contact 46% of all electrical fatalities are caused by contact with overhead power lines 57% of overhead power line fatalities were in non-electrical occupations Always assume all lines are live […]
NFPA 70B: Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance
The 2023 edition of NFPA 70B® introduced the document as a new standard rather than a recommended practice. These new requirements cover what must be done to maintain electrical equipment. Chapter 1.2 of NFPA 70B® lists its purpose as “to provide for practical safeguarding of persons, property and processes from risks associated with failure, breakdown, […]
Workplace Electrical Fatalities: 2011 – 2023
In 2025, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) compiled data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to track electrical safety trends in the workplace. ESFI found that certain demographics and occupations are more prone to electrical incidents in the workplace. Electrical Safety in the Workplace Contact […]
Always Assume Power Lines are Live: Truck Operator Safety
Downed power lines can be deadly. Always assume a downed power line is live and avoid approaching them or anything near them. Use Precaution: Downed power lines can energize the ground up to 35 feet away. Even more in wet conditions. If you see a downed power line, call 911 Never drive over a downed […]
Avoid Overhead Power line Contact: Heavy Truck Operator
According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, heavy truck operators have a high number of workplace electrical fatalities. Remember your GOAL: Get Out And Look. 76% of heavy truck operator electrical fatalities occurred from contact with overhead power lines. Keep raised truck beds at least 10 feet away from all power lines. Have “look […]
Safety Best Practices to Implement in the Year Ahead
ESF and Wesco’s article, Safety Best Practices to Implement in the Year Ahead, was recently published on EHS Today’s website. Read the article here. Safety Best Practices to Implement in the Year Ahead By Brett Brenner, ESF, and Shawn Gregg, Wesco The beginning of a new year brings with it a multitude of new resolutions, […]
Construction Safety: Truck Driver Safety
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), truck drivers of heavy trucks have a high number of workplace electrical fatalities. A total of 76% of these fatalities occurred from contact with overhead power lines. 70% of all worker electrical fatalities occur in non-electrical occupations. 76% of heavy truck driver workplace electrical fatalities occurred […]
Construction Safety: Tree Trimming Safety
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), tree trimming occupations have some of the highest numbers of workplace electrical fatalities. A total of 84% of these workplace fatalities occurred when tree trimmers came in contact with overhead power lines. 70% of all worker electrical fatalities occur in non-electrical occupations. 84% of tree trimming […]
Construction Safety: Roofer Safety
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), roofers have a high number of workplace electrical fatalities. A total of 81% of these fatalities occurred from contact with overhead power lines. 70% of all worker electrical fatalities occur in non-electrical occupations. 81% of roofer workplace electrical fatalities occurred from contact with overhead power lines […]