How to Wire Your Factory to Avoid OSHA Fines and Lawsuits

Introduction

As a factory owner, ensuring your facility is properly wired is crucial for avoiding Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) fines and lawsuits. Proper electrical wiring prevents injuries, fires, and other hazards that can lead to inspections, citations, penalties, and legal action.

In this comprehensive guide, I will provide actionable recommendations on how to wire your factory to meet OSHA electrical standards and avoid the costs and reputation damage from violations.

Conduct Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Conducting thorough electrical inspections and maintenance is the first critical step for identifying and correcting any wiring hazards before they lead to incidents. I recommend:

• Hiring a qualified electrician to conduct an annual inspection of all electrical systems. They should check for damaged wiring and cords, improper connections, overloads, and other code violations.

• Performing monthly visual inspections internally to spot any new defects. Check wiring terminations, junction boxes, conduits, and electrical panels.

• Replacing old and damaged wiring, cords, receptacles, and devices that pose fire or shock risks. Prioritize high risk areas like breaker panels.

• Ensuring equipment is properly grounded. Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in wet areas to prevent shocks.

• Cleaning around electrical systems to prevent dust and moisture buildup that can cause short circuits and fires.

Use Proper Wiring and Circuit Protection

OSHA has specific wiring standards designed to reduce electrical hazards. Failing to follow proper wiring methods can lead to citations. I recommend:

Use Only Approved Wiring and Components

• Use only UL/NRTL approved wiring and components. Unapproved items increase fire risks.

• Verify the wiring has the correct insulation type, gauge, and temperature rating for each application.

• Use waterproof wiring in damp or wet locations. Run wiring in approved conduit.

Install Sufficient Circuit Breakers and Fuses

• Size circuit breakers and fuses properly for the amperage rating of all wiring and equipment. Undersized breakers increase fire risk.

• Install enough circuits to avoid overloads. Use dedicated circuits for large equipment.

• Select circuit breakers that can interrupt maximum potential short circuit currents.

• Ensure each outlet and switch has overcurrent protection within allowable distance.

Isolate and Guard Live Parts

• Only authorized electricians should access live wiring and terminations. Use safety procedures.

• Properly ground all electrical systems and equipment. Use GFCIs to cut power during faults.

• Guard and isolate live parts like conductors, bus bars, and terminals in approved enclosures.

Provide OSHA-Compliant Equipment and Tools

Damaged electrical tools and equipment can lead to shock and burn injuries. I recommend:

Purchase Approved Electrical Equipment

• Evaluate needs and purchase only electrical equipment rated for industrial use, like motors, lighting, generators, and welders.

• Check that all power tools are grounded, double insulated, or use GFCIs. Inspect regularly for damage.

• Use industrial grade extension cords in good condition. Size conductors for load.

Install Hardwired Equipment Properly

• Hire qualified electricians to install and terminate hardwired equipment like conveyors, machinery, and HVAC.

• Use safety disconnects that fully disconnect equipment for servicing. Install per code.

• Provide proper machine guarding and emergency STOP buttons. Follow lockout/tagout procedures.

Provide Electrical Safety Training

Lack of training on electrical safety contributes to accidents and violations. I recommend:

Train Maintenance Staff on Electrical Work

• Only allow properly trained and authorized maintenance staff to perform electrical work.

• Provide training on lockout/tagout, testing equipment, PPE, arc flash hazards, and other safe work practices.

Train Employees on General Electrical Safety

• Train all employees regularly on electrical hazards and safety procedures.

• Cover dangers of damaged equipment, proper use of cords, avoiding water near electricity, and more.

• Include electrical safety in new employee orientation. Re-train routinely.

Consult an Expert Electrician

Following proper wiring methods, using OSHA-rated components, performing regular maintenance, and training workers will significantly improve electrical safety. However, factories utilize complex systems that require an expert.

Consulting a qualified industrial electrician and electrical engineer is crucial when designing, constructing, and modifying your facility's wiring infrastructure. They can ensure your wiring meets codes and OSHA requirements.

Proper wiring and diligent electrical safety procedures will help avoid OSHA fines, lawsuits, and – most importantly – prevent tragic worker injuries and fatalities. Maintaining a safe workplace should be the top priority for any factory owner.