Qualified Electrical Workers (QEW) in the Telecommunications Industry
The telecommunications industry is undergoing rapid expansion and technological advancements, necessitating a greater emphasis on expertise, particularly in the realm of electrical work. The continual power upgrades, power supply to cabinets, generators, underground installations, integration of small cell technology, and the increasing overlap with electrical supply zones demand that telecommunications workers possess advanced skills and qualifications. For those engaging in these new areas of work within the industry, training specific to the regulatory and practical qualifications of a qualified electrical worker becomes necessary.
Stats on Fatalities and Electric
• Contact with or exposure to electric accounted for 2.6% of all workplace fatalities in 2020.
• Electrical fatality rates were 0.09 fatalities per 100,000 workers in 2020.
• In 2020, 5.3% of all electrical incidents were fatal.
• “Constructing, Repairing, Cleaning” was the leading activity for electrical fatalities at 64%.
“Using or Operating Tools, Machinery” accounted for 22% of electrical fatalities.
Regulatory Framework and Requirements (Many states and municipalities have additional requirements, so due diligence is must)
NEC Article 100 – “Qualified Person” is a person who has the skill and knowledge related to the construction and operation of the electrical equipment and its installation. This person must have received training on the hazards involved with electrical systems.
NFPA 70E 110.6(A)(1) “A qualified person shall be trained and knowledgeable in the construction and operation of equipment or a specific work method and be trained to identify and avoid the electrical hazards that might be present with respect to that equipment or work method.”
According to OSHA 29 CFR 1926.449, a qualified person is “one who has received training in and has demonstrated skills and knowledge in the construction and operation of electrical equipment and installations and the hazards involved.”
Responsibilities of a “Qualified Person”
Determine the nominal voltage, shock protection boundary, and the appropriate PPE.
Determine if an arc flash hazard exists and if it does set the arc flash boundary as well as establish appropriate arc rated PPE to wear. Sign in or Sign Up (nfpa.org) Free access to NFPA 70E
Use available documentation to determine all possible supply sources for equipment.
Turn off/on and open/close equipment using LOTO with proper PPE (ATS, live panels, boxes, etc.)
Select the appropriate test instrument and perform all measurement of electrical components
Correctly and competently install all electric per the scope of work to include underground & above ground conduit, pulling & terminating wire, pulling & installing breakers, connecting, testing, & troubleshooting all equipment. You should be operationally trained to accomplish these tasks, practical testing and training. NFPA 70E 110.6(A)(1) Training Requirements. Qualified Person.
Training Programs can be in house created and delivered by a qualified person or provided by a qualified 3rd party. Both must have a classroom and practical portion as it is operational training where verification of knowledge should be tested and documented.
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Additional Resources:
Access to NFPA 70E
NFPA 70E 110.6 (A)(1) Training Requirements