Unsafe Conditions When Running Raceway — Part 7
Running raceway can be physically exhausting, especially if it is large diameter conduit or if you have to climb up and down ladders as you go. Keep in mind that you are not expected to be a world-class endurance athlete. Even if you are in excellent physical shape, there is only so much gas in your tank.
If you feel fatigue coming on, ask your supervisor for a different task to do for an hour or so while your back and shoulders recharge.
Better yet, assess the situation ahead of time and plan blocks of time in which you alternate between overhead work and something else. For example, suppose Jim bends conduit while you and Gary install it overhead. Every half hour or so, one of you switches with whoever is at the conduit bender. Or, you run raceway for about an hour, do a wirepull (if there is one ready to do), strip and terminate conductors for about half an hour, and then run raceway for about an hour.
Don’t try to outlast fatigue.
About the Author
Mark LamendolaMark Lamendola
Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.
Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.
Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.