1926.405(j)(1)(i): No Exposed Live Parts on Fixtures and Receptacles
Fixtures, lampholders, lamps, rosettes and receptacles must have no live parts normally exposed to employee contact. However, rosettes and cleat-type lampholders and receptacles located at least 8 feet (2.44 m) above the floor may have exposed parts.
Key takeaways
- 1926.405(j)(1)(i) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart K).
- OSHA cited it 72 times in the last 3 years, in 72 inspections, with $69,074 in current penalties.
- Most citations: VA (17), NY (13), IN (11).
- Related part: 1926.405(j) Equipment for general use (96 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.405(j)(1)(i) ("Live parts") is one requirement inside 1926.405 Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart K). The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(i) Live parts. Fixtures, lampholders, lamps, rosettes, and receptacles shall have no live parts normally exposed to employee contact. However, rosettes and cleat-type lampholders and receptacles located at least 8 feet (2.44 m) above the floor may have exposed parts. 72 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.405.
Where and how often it was cited
| Year | Citations |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 10 |
| 2024 | 23 |
| 2025 | 31 |
| 2026 | 8 |
Top states: VA (17), NY (13), IN (11), PR (6), GU (4)
Largest penalties
| Employer | Location | Penalty for this rule |
|---|---|---|
| ISLAND INTERIORS DESIGN LLC | BROOKLYN, NY | $4,610 |
| GUIDRY ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, INC. | HOUMA, LA | $3,972 |
| HALAL BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION INC. | BROOKLYN, NY | $3,572 |
| BLAIR CONSTRUCTION, INC. | DANVILLE, VA | $3,440 |
| CRB ELECTRICAL & MECHANICAL INC. | DANVILLE, VA | $3,440 |
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.405(j)(1)(i), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
- Can energized electrical outlets and switches be taped when rooms are painted (2015-11-02)
- Protection of employees from exposure to live electrical parts with plastic switch plates/receptacle cover and non-conductive screws. (2004-09-17)
- Electrical standard requirements concerning covers for electrical pull boxes, junction boxes, and fittings. (2002-10-03)
Related parts of this rule
- 1926.405(j) Equipment for general use 96 citations
- 1926.405(j)(1) Lighting fixtures, lampholders, lamps, and receptacles 94 citations
- 1926.405(j)(1)(ii) Support 20 citations
Get your crew competent
Trainers on Black Belt Safety: Marc Harvey, Dana Reyes
Trainers and suppliers: feature your business on this rule for $25/month.
Frequently asked questions
Can light fixtures have exposed live parts?
No. They must have no live parts normally exposed to employee contact.
Is there an exception?
Rosettes and cleat-type lampholders and receptacles at least 8 feet (2.44 m) above the floor may have exposed parts.
Does this include receptacles?
Yes. Receptacles are covered.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.405 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-10-19
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.