Practices For Electrical Safety In The Workplace

Electricity is a necessity for efficient functioning in daily life, whether it be at home or at work. It is a great source of energy, which gives power to equipment, machinery, lights, tools and various other items that are used on a daily basis. In the workplace, electricity powers all the moving parts that makes the business run. It powers your computers, printers and photocopiers, telephones, machinery and lighting to name a few examples. The amount of electricity that is required to run many types of businesses is much larger than what can be found in the home. With that comes a larger electrical system with more and larger hazards that can have devastating consequences for employees who don’t work with it safely.

We’re going to show you what you need to do to remain safe at work, in terms of electricity.

• Ensure that the electrical equipment isn’t located in a hazardous environment, like one which is damp or wet or where it is exposed to flammable gases/liquids, etc.
• Ensure that the current and safety devices are properly functioning and are not tampered with.
• Ensure that there are no defects in the power cord or plug of the electrical equipment.
• Ensure that the electrical equipment has an emergency shutoff switch and make sure you know where it is before you use it.
• Ensure that there is enough space around the circuit or the electrical equipment, to maintain or operate it.
• Ensure that workers remove all metal jewelry or accessories before operating or operating on any electrical equipment before using it.
• Ensure that all workers who are using electrical equipment or working near open electrical systems are wearing properly maintained PPE.
• Ensure that any electrical equipment that needs repairs is de-energized, locked or tagged out, and properly grounded before starting to work on it.
• Ensure electrical hazards that can’t be mitigated or eliminated have physical barriers installed around them so employees are kept at a safe distance
• Be extra careful and keep a safe distance when working around electrical equipment with tools and cleaning materials that can conduct and electric current
• Under no circumstances should you work with live electrical wiring if you are not certified to do so.

These are just a few tips to follow in order to remain safe around electrical systems. Considering the health risks that accompany electric shocks, these tips should be considered the bare minimum in terms of how to stay safe in the workplace when it comes to electricity. You really can’t be too careful when it comes to working with electrical equipment. To make sure people are able to work as safely as possible with this equipment, Advanced Consulting & Training is proud to offer a comprehensive course for arc flash and electrical awareness. Don’t take any chances by not taking electrical safety seriously and contact us today to learn everything you need to know about electrical safety.