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Unsafe Conditions on Cable Pulls, Part 3

July 16, 2019
Slipping hazards and cable pulls can make for a nasty combination.

Slipping hazards and cable pulls can make for a nasty combination. For example, you can slip and fall into cable pulling gear. Or worse, catch yourself and get your fingers crushed by rotating parts.

The gravel beds commonly installed around outdoor electrical equipment provide poor footing. Setting down a sheet of plywood can alleviate this problem. When setting up on more solid surfaces, look for wet spots left by lift trucks or other equipment. Clean up as needed.

A good safety practice that most people don't follow is to periodically check your work shoes/boots for serviceability. Don't try to get every penny's worth of use out of footwear. If the soles are worn, replace the shoes/boots or have them resoled. Also, make sure they fit snugly but comfortably. If your foot is moving around inside the shoe, you are much more likely to slip or twist your ankle. Sometimes a thicker pair of socks (or double-socking) solves this problem.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.

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