Background

Firefighters are frequently exposed to electrical hazards when responding to emergencies.

Concerns/hazards

Firefighters may be exposed to the risk of injuries from electrical hazards during the following situations:

  • electrical utility equipment that is damaged or has caught fire
  • a vehicle collision with an electrical pole
  • an electrical transformer explosion
  • structural fires where fire has compromised the electrical power supply

Actions for employers

Employers must:

  • familiarize firefighters with electrical hazards, to protect their health and safety
  • train firefighters on working safely near electrical hazards

Employers should:

  • develop procedures for working near electrical hazards

Working near electrical hazards

Consider the following when developing procedures for working near electrical hazards:

  • sources of electricity
  • how to isolate the electricity
  • appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment

Applicable regulations and acts

Read:

  • Occupational Health and Safety Act
    • clause 25(2)(a) for providing information and instruction to a worker
    • clause 25(2)(d) for making workers aware of hazards
    • clause 25(2)(h) for taking every precaution reasonable in the circumstances to protect workers

Related

Read the , Hydro One Networks Inc., Electrical Safety Authority, Office of the Fire Marshal, and Public Services Health and Safety Association, revised 5th Edition, 2013.

Read firefighter guidance note 6-16 Machinery/electrical lockout during emergency response