6 Electrical Safety Tips You Should Know About
Today, electricity powers every office and business. As such, computers, machines, and other electrical equipment may be dangerous if used or maintained incorrectly, resulting in shock and burn accidents. So, if you work with electricity but are not certified to handle electrical components directly, you should observe electrical safety and work practices according to that to keep yourself and others safe. Most general employees do not need specific training in electrical safety. Although, listed below are six electrical safety suggestions for the workplace to assist you to prevent electrical dangers:
1. Don’t Get Any Close to a Live Electrical Current
Avoiding electrical dangers is the most excellent way to remain safe. Unqualified individuals should stay away from electrical currents higher than 50 volts and should not try to handle them. And if you have to operate near an electrical danger or equipment that uses more than 50 volts, keep a safe distance away from them. Also, before working, make sure all panel doors are closed and no exposed wires are in the vicinity.
2. Assuring the Safe Use of Electrical Equipment
Cowley Electrical Narooma explains that when electrical equipment is used correctly, it may go a long way toward increasing electrical safety in the workplace. And for that reason:
- Electrical cables should be handled with care by employees.
- Pulling on the plug head instead of the cable is the ideal and safest way to disconnect cords.
- To avoid damaging the electrical cable, avoid pressing or stretching it in any way.
- Never use staples to attach wires.
- Don’t use electrical cables to hang anything.
In order to make sure they’re free of flaws, all cables and plugs in the office should be visually examined before being used. And if you come across a damaged cable or plug, don’t use it.
3. Invest in Proper Physical Barriers Around Electrical Hazards
To keep workers safe from electrical dangers, put up physical barriers around them. Electrical panels should keep their cabinet doors locked at all times, and no gaps should be present that might allow an employee to come into contact with live wires.
Moreover, the use of shields, barriers, or insulating materials is recommended when cabinets cannot be closed or an electrical danger is not entirely enclosed. And to prevent unauthorised access, use physical obstacles when a certified electrician is working on an electrical panel and must leave the panel open. The area in front of the electrical panel should also be clear of obstacles, and signs should alert workers of the danger.
4. ALERT: Conductive Tools and Cleaning Materials Could Cause Damage
You should always presume that electrical components are live if you operate in an area with an electrical danger. Use of conductive instruments is strictly prohibited in this region. Also, note that certain cleaning products are conductive as well, so use extra care while cleaning the area. Steel wool and metalised cloth and solvent, and water-based cleaning products are all electrically conductive. So avoid cleaning with these chemicals and using non-conductive tools near electrically active components and equipment.
5. Keep an Eye Out for Any Electrical Lines That May Be Running Over You
Watch out for electrical wires if you’re doing any repair or maintenance at a height. A common hazard in the workplace is ladders or high platforms because of active electrical equipment and components. So, when doing overhead work, utilise a portable ladder with non-conductive side rails and keep at least ten feet from any exposed electrical wires.
6. Be Cautious Around Flammable Materials
Where flammable vapours, fumes, or dust are present, do not utilise electrical equipment that may spark and ignite. These rules do not apply when trained people take steps to lockout and isolate electrical energy sources before using volatile substances or when electrical equipment is specifically intended for usage in these kinds of situations.
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