Is it generally prohibited to work within the limited approach boundary at voltages equal to or greater than 50 volts when alertness is impaired?

Working within the limited approach boundary at voltages equal to or greater than 50 volts when alertness is impaired is indeed considered a significant safety risk. The limited approach boundary is the distance within which personnel can be exposed to live electrical parts; thus, maintaining a high level of alertness is critical to ensure safety and quick decision-making in potentially hazardous situations.

When alertness is compromised, individuals may struggle to recognize hazards, respond appropriately to electrical risks, or carry out necessary safety protocols effectively. This impairment can manifest from various factors, including fatigue, illness, substance use, or distractions.

The NFPA 70E standard emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and cognitive function while working around electricity, reinforcing that working near live parts should only occur when individuals can fully focus and respond to any unexpected events. Therefore, the affirmative stance on prohibiting such work under impaired conditions is critical for preventing accidents and ensuring worker safety in the electrical workplace.