Most Common Electrical Hazards in the Workplace

Electricity powers everything from massive industrial plants to the smallest devices in your pocket. But while it's one of our greatest innovations, it's also one of the most dangerous when mishandled. Electrical hazards remain a leading cause of workplace injuries and fatalities, especially in environments where safety procedures are overlooked. The good news? Many of these incidents are entirely preventable with the right awareness and NFPA online training.

In this article, we’ll highlight the most common electrical hazards in the workplace and how to avoid them.

What Are Electrical Hazards?

Electrical hazards refer to risks associated with the use or presence of electrical systems. These hazards can lead to serious injuries like burns, electric shock, arc flash, and in severe cases, fatal electrocution. While not the most frequent cause of workplace accidents, electrical injuries tend to be among the deadliest.

Injuries from electrical hazards can include:

• Burns caused by arc flash or direct contact
• Electric shock from exposed wires
• Secondary injuries from falls or sudden movements following a shock
• Hearing damage or trauma from arc blasts

In many cases, these injuries are entirely avoidable through hazard recognition, training, and proper equipment. NFPA 70E electrical safety training can help workers gain the knowledge they need to stay safe while working around energized equipment.

Common Electrical Hazards to Watch For

Recognizing common hazards is the first step in preventing accidents. Here are the most frequently overlooked risks and questions workers should ask on the job:

Is the Equipment Damaged?

Always inspect electrical equipment before use. Look for frayed wires, exposed metal, or missing insulation. Never use damaged equipment until it's been repaired by a qualified professional, and follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures when removing it from service.

Are Circuits Overloaded?

Overloaded circuits are a major cause of electrical fires. Use load-rated extension cords, avoid daisy-chaining power strips, and conduct regular fire risk assessments. Damaged cords should be removed, not taped, and replaced by certified personnel.

Is the System Properly Grounded?

Improper grounding is one of OSHA’s most cited violations. The grounding pin on plugs plays a critical role in redirecting stray electricity. All devices and appliances must be grounded, and regular inspections should be performed to ensure compliance.

Are Overhead Power Lines Properly Marked?

High-voltage overhead lines are particularly hazardous. Maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet between equipment and power lines, install warning signage, and avoid storing items beneath lines.

Is Water Present?

Never operate electrical equipment in wet environments without the proper protective gear and training. Water increases the risk of shock and should always prompt a thorough inspection of any equipment that’s been exposed.

Who Is Most at Risk of Electrical Hazards?

Anyone working around electrical systems is at risk—especially those without adequate training. Electricians, engineers, and line workers face daily hazards, but even office workers or general laborers using faulty equipment can be in danger.

Industries with higher risk include:

• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Utilities
• Agriculture

These fields often involve close interaction with energized systems, making consistent training essential.

Electrical Workplace Injury Statistics

The numbers underscore the severity of the problem. From 2011 to 2023, there were 1,940 electrical fatalities out of 70,692 total occupational deaths, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Other key findings include:

• 98.9% of electrical fatalities were men.
• 63% of fatalities were white workers; 28% Hispanic or Latino; 6% Black.
• Top industries affected:
  • Construction: 855 deaths
  • Business & Professional Services: 212
  • Trade, Transportation & Utilities: 155
  • Natural Resources & Mining: 138
  • Manufacturing: 120

A staggering 96% of victims worked in the private sector. These stats highlight the urgent need for improved training, enforcement, and workplace safety culture.

How to Prevent Electrical Hazards

Prevention starts with compliance. OSHA and NFPA set specific standards to minimize electrical risks. The key areas of prevention include:

Conducting Hazard Analyses

Identify and assess hazards regularly based on voltage levels, live parts, potential for arc flash, and the consequences of contact.

Using the Right PPE

Workers must use appropriate personal protective equipment for the job, such as rubber gloves, arc-rated clothing, and face shields. PPE must be properly maintained and inspected.

Providing Safety Training

OSHA requires employers to train workers on electrical hazards, PPE usage, and safety practices such as lockout/tagout. Well-trained employees are more likely to recognize hazards before they cause harm.

Can I Get Electrical Safety Training Online?

Yes, and it’s one of the best ways to ensure accessibility and consistency across your team. Online training, like our NFPA 70E Arc Flash Online Training, is designed to help workers identify and reduce arc flash risks through expert-designed, self-paced modules. This flexible format allows employees to train at their convenience while gaining essential knowledge to protect themselves and their coworkers in high-risk environments.

Get Started With OSHA.com

If you're looking to build a safer, OSHA-compliant workplace, there's no better time to act. Learn how to avoid electrical hazards and stay up to date with current safety standards through the NFPA 70E (2024): Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace course. Or dive straight into risk mitigation with our NFPA 70E Arc Flash Online Training.

Visit OSHA.com to get started today and empower your team with trusted, online electrical safety training.