Electricity
The most common cause of electrocution in the construction industry is contact with overhead wires. This is because people can misjudge heights and distances between the ground and overhead wires when carrying equipment like poles and ladders, or operating equipment with height extension such as cranes. Electrical tools and machinery that may be outdated and poorly maintained are also hazardous.
Your employer should have safe work procedures for working near overhead wires and a maintenance program in place.
Your employer should also provide residual current devices (RCDs) or safety switches on construction sites to reduce the risk of electric shock and electrocution. RCDs are an additional safety measure, not a substitute for them.
You should follow safe work procedures for working with electrical equipment and report any breakdowns or faulty equipment to your supervisor.
An example of the dangers of working with electricity in the building and construction industry can be found in the case study Electrocution of Rigger.
