Avoid the Hazards of Telecommunications Work

 

Telecommunication workers perform many duties near energized electrical parts. These job functions include installation, operation, maintenance, or removal of equipment, or trimming trees and line clearance. In order to perform your duties safely, you must understand what the electrical hazards are and how to avoid them.

General Safety Requirements for Telecommunication

Battery Handling

·         Wear eye protection, protective clothing, and gloves when checking the specific gravity of the battery.

·         Follow emergency procedures.

·         Add acid to water; never water to acid.

·         Cover the open end of hydrometer with an acid-resistant material when you move it from cell to cell.

·         First-aid supplies should be readily available and inspected monthly.

Power Lines

·         Approach distances to exposed energized overheard power lines and parts depend on the voltage of the lines or parts.

Working in Public Areas

Protection from traffic requires the use of:

·         Warning signs.

·         Flags.

·         Other traffic control devices.

·         Barriers.

·         For night work, use warning lights and protective barricades.

Tools and Personal Protective Equipment

Follow your employer’s guidelines on the use of all special tools, personal protective equipment, and protective devices. A competent person must inspect this equipment each day before use. Defective equipment must not be used.

Personal climbing equipment must be used when working more than 4 feet above the ground on poles and towers.

Pole climber gaffs must be 1-1/4 inches long. Cover gaffs with safety caps when they are not being used.

Other Equipment

Safety requirements for other types of equipment used include:

·         Avoiding flame-type heaters for tent heaters.

·         Using torches in a tent only when the tent material is fire resistant.

·         Following the appropriate grounding procedures for all equipment used.

·         Using wiping cloths or gloves, and eye protection when performing lead work.

·         Using a drip pan to catch hot lead drippings. 

This information is provided by Assurance Agency https:www.assuranceagency.com