Question 6: What is a State OSHA state verses a Federal OSHA State?

The federal government allows for states to run their own workplace safety that meet or exceed the federal OSHA standards. These states have their own OSHA programs: AL, AZ, CA, CT, HI, IN, IA, KY, MD, MI, MN, NJ, NM, NY, NC, PR TN, UT, VT, VA,WA, and WY

Further notes on Restricted Areas:

Subpart K ? Electrical. Guarding of live parts.1926.403(i)(2)(i) - States that exposed energized electrical parts of 50 volts or more shall be enclosed in a cabinet, junction box, a gutter or any mechanical means for the protection of the workers.

In 1926.403(i)(2)(i)(A) it states that if it is not contained in a cabinet, etc. than it shall be located in a room, vault or similar enclosure that is accessible only to qualified persons. It also goes on to say in 1926.403(i)(2)(i)(B), (C), (D) and (2)(ii) and (iii) that these means may also be used to protect workers from exposed energized electrical circuits and parts.

The major point is that the cabinet does not have to be restricted to any of the listed areas, it is the exposed energized part or circuit that must be restricted to these areas. Thecabinet is one of the ?restricted? means.

Further notes on ?OSHA Barriers?

There are not any definitions in the NEC, NESC or NFPA 70E regarding partitions or screens, but I would assume that they would be referring to physical structures that would prohibit access by unqualified persons. In OSHA a ?barrier? is a means to notify qualified and unqualified persons that there is a hazard and they are not to enter. In the case of an electrical hazard, red hazard tape would be used supported by saw horses, cones or other means. A ?barricade? is a physical barrier restricting access to hazardous areas.