OSHA Highlights Electrical Safety Risks for Non-Electrical Workers
A new OSHA toolbox talk emphasizes that most workplace electrical fatalities occur outside traditional electrical trades and outlines practical steps employers can take to reduce risk.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Mar 13, 2026
Electrical hazards remain a significant risk on construction sites and in many other workplaces—and they often affect workers who are not electricians. OSHA emphasizes that the vast majority of workplace electrical fatalities occur in non-electrical occupations, highlighting the need for broader awareness and stronger safety practices across job sites.
The agency’s guidance stresses that electrical work should be performed only by qualified personnel and that circuits should be de-energized whenever possible before work begins. Lockout/tagout procedures, voltage testing to confirm circuits are de-energized, and the use of insulated tools are among the key safeguards recommended to prevent accidental contact with energized equipment.
OSHA also advises workers and supervisors to regularly inspect cords, tools, and electrical equipment before use, ensure ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are functioning properly, and wear appropriate personal protective equipment when working near electrical sources.
In addition, safe work practices can significantly reduce risk. These include avoiding electrical work in wet conditions, preventing overloaded outlets, using extension cords properly, and maintaining safe distances from overhead power lines.
Electrical hazards continue to affect workers across a wide range of occupations, including construction laborers, HVAC technicians, roofers, truck drivers, and painters. OSHA says increasing awareness of these risks—and reinforcing basic electrical safety practices—can help prevent serious injuries and fatalities on the job.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco brings a strong and varied journalism background to her role at Occupational Health & Safety, having previously served as a multimedia editor, broadcast journalist, professor and reviewer across major news organizations. As Content Editor, she writes news and feature articles, hosts sponsor and editorial webinars, co-hosts the SafetyPod worker health and safety podcast, and manages the brand’s digital and social media presence. She is committed to informing and engaging the safety community through compelling reporting and conversations that support safer, healthier workplaces.