Safety in Electrical Installations and NR-10

The safety in electrical installations and work safety are topics of growing importance in our society and among professionals from a wide range of fields. In 2011, the NBR 5410 standard, which covers low-voltage electrical installations, completed six years in effect since its last review and draws the market’s attention to the need to meet certification requirements—both in project execution and in the manufacturing of products intended for the electrical energy sector.

There is no doubt that safety is fundamental, and the increasing understanding of the standard since its first publication in 1980 is evident. The use of grounding systems; outlets with grounding contacts; residual current devices (RCDs); surge protection devices (SPDs); flame-retardant electrical cables with low smoke, toxic gas, and corrosive emissions; and standardized conduits are some examples of new technologies that meet the demands of electrical safety and energy consumption. These features are increasingly present in installation projects.

However, several factors hinder broader application of certification requirements, such as the cost of the standard, its complexity and length—which make access to the text more difficult; professionals struggling to find time and money to dedicate to studying the standard; and the continuous entry of new professionals into the market who are unfamiliar with the regulation. It’s not just a lack of information that puts electrical installations at risk.

The Risks of the Power Grid

Working very close to the power grid imposes some absolutely essential conditions on these professionals, so that safety and accident prevention become as high a priority as doing the job well.

Accidents usually occur due to a series of failures, combined with a lack of awareness of the risks and the failure to use individual and collective protective equipment..

Another important concern is maintaining a minimum distance from power lines to avoid any risk of electric shock. Great care and attention must be taken when handling tools and other devices near the power grid—especially metal ones, which are more prone to electrical conductivity. These precautions should be considered in advance as part of job safety planning, which is often overlooked and not given priority.

As important as recognizing the inherent risks in these hazardous activities is the correct use of protective equipment that can save lives. Proper helmets, electrical insulation gloves, and warning cones are some of the tools that help, if not eliminate risks, at least prevent them.

The risks are heightened when power lines and their safety zones are trespassed by buildings under construction or renovation, painting and cleaning activities, or by awnings, balconies, parapets, signs and panels, lights, fixed and mobile scaffolding, safety and containment platforms, ladders, and safety ropes.

Eliminating or significantly reducing accidents depends on a more preventive attitude from everyone—companies, workers, and society. When faced with imminent risk, the best course of action is to replan the task, prioritizing life.