Toolbox Talk – Cable Management

This toolbox talk is on cable management, this aspect is important to consider as it is an item that employees deals with daily. Ensure that all employees working on site are paying extra attention to route cables and hoses in order to eliminate the risk of tripping. As electric shock as we all know increases tenfold due to the use of damaged cables. Therefore, planning must be done well in advance as to how and where the cables are routed to minimize these risks.

Cable management is essential to a safe and productive construction site. Because cables are always needed, and they are always a safety risk. Cables can easily become inaccessible, dangerous and sometimes a real logistical nuisance. Take a look at our toolbox talk showcasing cable management requirements below:

Features of Good Cable Management.

• All cables should be colour coded per the National Electrical Code (NEC). It must be properly labelled with wire numbers or equipment numbers.
• Cable guides should be used on walls to maintain cables running a long walls.
• Cable strain relief attachment should be used to protect against mechanical stress.
• Cables under counters and workstations should be neatly bundled. Cables can be tied between floor and work surfaces.
• Cable routing should be planned and organized for maximum airflow and minimum employee interference.

Dangers of Poor Cable Management.

• When cables lay exposed on floors or crammed underneath workspaces, become a risk of being pinched, trayed, stepped on, tripped over, and tangled. Other wires resulting in injury, fire or faulty operation of equipment.

Requirements and actions must be taken to reduce the risks.

• Keep passageways clear from cables to minimize trip hazards. Use cable bridges as required to route cables across walkways.
• Be sure to make use of cable trays to lay down multiple cables.
• Always route cables in an orderly manner. Use cable ramps to prevent trip chances.
• Elevate cables and make sure they returned to the proper storage when not in use.
• Separate or isolate cables from sources when not in use.
• Ensure all cables are kept away and clear from water or any other materials that may come into contact with water.
• If electrical work is required near wet surfaces or weather conditions. The equipment used should be IP65 rated.

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