On July 21, 2014, a 28-year-old assistant plant manager with 11 years of mining experience was killed at a sand and gravel dredge operation. He was riding in an aluminum boat that became stuck in low water on top of 480 volt energized power conductors. The victim was electrocuted when he exited the boat, attempting to pull slack on the power conductors.
Best Practices
- Establish and discuss safe work procedures before beginning work. Identify and control all hazards associated with the work to be performed and use methods to properly protect persons.
- Train all persons to understand the hazards associated with working near energized electrical conductors.
- De-energize power and ensure that the circuit is visibly open before working near energized conductors that may have damaged insulation.
- Lock and Tag! Place YOUR lock and tag on the disconnecting device.
- Use properly rated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including Arc Flash Protection such as a hood, gloves, shirt, and pants.
- Ensure electrical conductors are properly rated and designed for the applications used.
- Ensure that ground fault protection is provided to protect persons
- Ensure that all electrical systems are safely designed and properly installed.
Click here for: MSHA Preliminary Report (pdf)