According to the electrical safety standards, when must protective equipment be provided and maintained?

Protective equipment must be provided and maintained whenever there are identifiable hazards present because the purpose of such equipment is to reduce the risk of injury or harm due to electrical work. When a workplace has identifiable hazards, such as live wires, potential arc flash, or other electrical risks, the use of protective equipment becomes essential to ensure the safety of employees.

Standards emphasize the need for assessments to determine the presence of hazards and to provide appropriate protective gear accordingly. This proactive approach not only safeguards workers but also aligns with regulatory compliance and industry best practices. Thus, identifying hazards is a key factor in determining the necessity of protective equipment, making it crucial to protect employees effectively.