Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor and GFCI Programs have some basic components that your company needs to cover.What is the intent of the Assured Equipment Grounding and GFCI program in the first place? This program has two basic goals, the first being to prevent workers from being electrocuted while working. The second goal is to satisfy the requirements of your OSHA jurisdiction. All work performed using electricity drawn from a cord or receptacle must be done using electricity that has been tested for ground, and / or has had a GFCI unit installed in the system. Protection is a function or state, not a piece of equipment. If there is effective protection for the worker, the location of the equipment that provides the protection should not be important, but this may vary in your jurisdiction. Different governing jurisdictions may have slight variations in the amount of voltage stated in the applicable OSHA code. The policy and accompanying records must be available on the job site for inspection when requested. There must be a responsible person assigned to test outlets and inspect cords. The program must be in compliance with the requirements of OSHA 1926.404 Safety and Health Regulations for Construction. The policy should establish and implement an Assured Grounding and GFCI Program. It should also cover all 110 volt electrical equipment and tools used in connection with construction or alteration work operations. Each outlet, electric tool, cord and GFCI needs to be inspected prior to use in this program. Depending upon your jurisdiction the required schedule of inspections may vary slightly. |
