CSLB C-10 Electrical ContractorSafety and TestingMedium
A qualified electrical worker is performing a routine inspection of an industrial panelboard. They notice that a piece of equipment connected to the panel is not properly grounded, posing a shock hazard. According to Cal/OSHA, what is the most effective control measure to implement FIRST to address this hazard?
- AImplement administrative controls like warning signs and safe work procedures.
- BProvide the worker with insulated gloves and tools.
- CEliminate the hazard by ensuring proper grounding of the equipment.
- DReduce the voltage supplied to the equipment to a safer level.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Eliminate the hazard by ensuring proper grounding of the equipment.
Cal/OSHA emphasizes the Hierarchy of Controls, where elimination of the hazard is the most effective and preferred method. Ensuring proper grounding directly eliminates the shock hazard.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Administrative controls are lower on the hierarchy; they manage the risk but don't eliminate the hazard itself.
- B. PPE is lower on the hierarchy of controls; it doesn't eliminate the hazard, only protects against it.
- D. Reducing voltage might mitigate the hazard but doesn't eliminate the grounding fault and may impede equipment function.
Hierarchy of Controls (Cal/OSHA)
A system used to minimize or eliminate exposure to hazards, prioritizing elimination as the most effective method.
- Elimination is highest priority
- PPE is lowest priority
- Used for all workplace hazards
Memory trick: Eliminate, Substitute, Engineer, Admin, PPE: E.S.E.A.P.!