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OSHA 1910.269

The operation and maintenance of electric power generation, control, transformation, transmission and distribution lines and equipment.

OSHA 1910.269 is the only federally enforceable law that requires FR clothing.  It pertains to electric utility workers involved in generation, transmission and distribution.  The portion referring to FR clothing states:

“The employer shall ensure that each employee who is exposed to the hazards of flames or electric arcs does not wear clothing that, when exposed to flames or electric arcs, could increase the extent of injury that would be sustained by the employee. 

“Note:  Clothing made from the following types of fabrics, either alone or in blends, is prohibited by this paragraph, unless the employer can demonstrate that the fabric has been treated to withstand the conditions that may be encountered or that the clothing is worn in such a manner as to eliminate the hazard involved: acetate, nylon, polyester, and rayon.”

From a practical standpoint, this means that if an employee’s clothing does not melt, ignite or continue to burn during after an arc or flame exposure, the wearer is in compliance.  In addition, OSHA 1910.269 was revised to include the following:

“Employees in restricted areas shall wear protective equipment meeting the requirements of Subpart I of this Part and including, but not limited to, protective clothing, boots, goggles, and gloves.”

The protective apparel portions of 1910.269 are currently under review by OSHA.  OSHA intends to clarify existing requirements by including the following items:

  • Utilities must perform a hazard analysis to determine incident energy levels.  Workers must wear sufficient clothing to reduce the incident energy level to 1.6 cal/cm2.
  • It is the utility’s responsibility to ensure workers are protected from 2nd degree burns resulting from electric arcs.
  • ASTM Standards and test methods are referenced.

OSHA 1910.269 applies to workers involved in transmission and distribution, generation, control and metering of electric energy.

For more information, view the details at: 

http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=standards&p_id=9868