Guides
Electrical safety on job sites
Written by the OK Sécurité team · Updated September 7, 2026
Electrical energy demands rigor: temp design, grounding, labeling, lockout, qualifications, and standoff from overhead lines.
Temporary distribution
Size protection devices, grounding, and circuit labels. Guard cables from crush and moisture.
Keep panels enclosed and limit access to authorized people.
Cords, boxes, and GFCIs
Inspect cords, plugs, and protective devices. Remove damaged gear from service.
GFCIs and periodic test plans reduce shock risk in field conditions.
Energized work and qualifications
Prefer de-energize and verify. Energized work follows strict rules and specific competence.
Document who is authorized for which tasks.
Overhead lines and equipment
Respect limits of approach and travel paths for cranes, lifts, and booms. Use the overhead-line checklist alongside general electrical work.
Coordinate with hoisting teams in shared zones.
Electrical work is regulated and hazardous. Follow applicable codes, company procedures, and CNESST requirements. For information only — this is not legal advice. OK Sécurité is an independent company with no affiliation to the CNESST: we are not mandated, endorsed or certified by it. Where there is any discrepancy, the official text published by Légis Québec or the CNESST prevails.
Sources
Informational only. Confirm obligations with your prevention program and:
- CNESST — Mesures spécifiques pour les chantiers de construction
- Safety Code for the construction industry (CSTC) and Regulation respecting occupational health and safety (RSST)
Official rules
Related checklists
Checklists for electrical work and interfaces:
Common questions
- Who may change a temp panel?
- Only competent people authorized by the employer. Log changes to avoid mystery circuits.
- How often inspect temp power?
- Per your program and use: after install, after moves, after incidents, and on a defined interval for long jobs.
- What if a cord is crushed?
- Remove it from service, tag it, and replace or repair to qualified standards—not with tape alone.
- Is there an overhead-line checklist?
- Yes—OK Sécurité includes a list for work near overhead lines, useful with electrical and hoisting tasks.