Industrial workplaces contain many potential electrical hazards that can cause injuries and fatalities if not properly controlled. Older, legacy facilities in particular often lack updated electrical systems and safety features compared to newer plants. Improving electrical safety should be a top priority for any company operating an aging industrial facility.

Assessing the Electrical Risks

The first step is thoroughly evaluating the electrical risks throughout the facility. Here are some key areas to inspect:

Thoroughly document all electrical safety gaps that are found. Risk assessments by qualified electrical engineers may be warranted for older facilities.

Improving Electrical Safety Policies

Legacy industrial sites often lack formal electrical safety programs with defined responsibilities, procedures, and controls. Key policy improvements include:

Upgrading Electrical Infrastructure

Ultimately, legacy electrical components and systems need to be retired, replaced, or refurbished to incorporate modern safeguards. Key upgrades include:

While upgrades take time, interim containment measures such as installing polycarbonate barriers or access restrictions can also mitigate hazards.

Training Electrical Workers

Worker training is essential for reinforcing electrical safety policies and procedures. Training topics should include:

Hands-on exercises are highly recommended to improve skills in a safe environment. Ensure qualified electricians receive additional technical training on the new equipment and systems.

Conclusion

Improving safety around aging electrical systems requires a multi-pronged strategy of hazard assessment, policy updates, infrastructure upgrades, and worker training. However, the substantial benefits of modernizing electrical safety make the effort and investment well worth it for the protection of industrial workforces. Staying proactive with upgrades, maintenance, and training is key for sustainability.