Dangerous restart

Dangerous Restart

A dangerous restart occurs when power or energy is applied to a device whose "on / off" switch was in the "on" position when power was applied. NIOSH refers to this hazard as "The uncontrolled Release of Mechanical or Electrical and other Types of Hazardous Energy" (DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 99–110 July 1999).

This hazard is currently addressed by OSHA, NFPA and the CSA with mandatory requirements for hazard reduction through the use of large and costly safety devices. (Electrial Standard for Industrial Machinery 2002 Edition 7.5.3 Restarting) (OSHA 29CFR#1910.213(b)(3)*

Due to the cost and size restriction, there are currently no requirements for this hazard reduction on appliances, small tools and hand held power equipment.

Examples of Dangerous Restarts are as follows:

Example #1 Mother and child are working in kitchen with counter top mixer. The mixer is on with cake frosting in the bowl. Power is cut as a result of a local power outage. The mother turns away to evaluate why the power is out. The mixer power switch is still in the "on" position. The young child reaches into the bowl of the now powerless mixer to sample the frosting. Power is restored. The mixer comes on and injures the childs right hand.

Example #2 Man is using electric trimmer to cut hedges around exterior of home. Trimmer is plugged into outlet on exterior of home. Outlet is 75' from where man is working. The trimmer switch is locked in the "on" position and in normal use. Extending beyond the reach of the trimmers power cord the plug is accidentally pulled from the outlet on the house 75' away. The man puts down the trimmer, switch still locked in the "on" position and walks with his back away from the trimmer towards the outlet. A 9 year old boy, playing nearby sees the trimmer on the ground and approaches it. He picks is up with curiousity. Back still turned the man re-inserts the mixers plug into the outlet. The trimmer starts immediately, severly injuring the boys fingers on both hands.