Electrician

Electricians work in commercial, industrial, or residential settings. Some of their main duties are to:

• Install, repair and maintain electrical systems.
• Conform to electrical, building, and fire codes, and other regulations.
• Read, prepare or interpret blueprints and drawings.
• Prepare cost estimates and documentation for clients.
• Use, clean and maintain various equipment.
• Supervise journeymen, apprentices or other workers.

Electricians work in a variety of settings and may be exposed to several hazards, including:

• Risk of fatal electrical shock.
• Risk of electrical burns.
• Fire.
• Working in confined spaces.
• Lead, solvents, solder, and other materials.
• Welding hazards, including UV radiation.
• Working in extreme conditions. Risk of pain or injury from awkward positions, repetitive manual tasks, or lifting heavy objects.
• Moulds, fungi and bacteria.
• Risk of infection from bird or rodent droppings.
• Working at heights.
• Risk of eye injury from flying particles.
• Slips, trips and falls.
• Working with various hand tools, power tools and equipment.
• Stress.
• Shift work or extended work days.
• Working alone.
• Possible exposure to asbestos.

• Inspect work area before work starts to identify potential hazards and their controls.
• Keep tools and equipment in good working order.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment for the task, including footwear.
• Keep work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
• Avoid awkward positions, and repetitive tasks, or take frequent breaks.
• Use safe lifting techniques.
• Follow a recommended shift work pattern, and know the associated hazards.

• Follow correct procedures for:
  • Electrical safety
  • Lockout/tagout
  • Confined spaces entry
  • Working at heights
  • Working with ladders
  • Lifting
  • Working with hand tools, and power tools
  • Fire safety

• Use, maintain and store personal protective equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations.
• Learn about chemical hazards, WHMIS and SDSs.
• Know how to report a hazard.
• Follow good housekeeping procedures.
• Follow company safety rules and operating procedures.