Electrical equipment and electricity, in general, are so common we rarely think about how much our lives and work depend on them. But electrical equipment, including computers and machinery, is potentially dangerous and can result in shock and burn injuries if handled or maintained incorrectly. That’s why fire protection companies offer services to identify and address electrical safety issues; to protect your small business.
Although most general employees don’t require specific electrical safety training, it’s necessary to adhere to electrical safety-related work practices if you deal with electricity but are unable to directly touch electrical components for the sake of others’ safety. You can always opt for fire protection companies to prevent electric fire outbreaks. Here are eight safety precautions to help you prevent electrical hazards at work.
- Any potential contact with live electrical current should be avoided
Avoiding electrical dangers is the greatest way to keep safe. Electrical currents of more than 50V should not be interacted with by or near unqualified individuals. Maintain a safe distance if you must work close to an electrical hazard or equipment that uses more than 50V. Before you start your operations, ensure that all panel doors are closed and that there are no exposed wires near your work area.
- Make sure electrical equipment is used safely
All electrical equipment should be used safely to protect everyone in the workplace. Employees should be cautious when handling electrical cords:
- Never pull on the cable to unhook a plug; always pull on the plug head.
- Electrical cables shouldn’t be pressed or overextended.
- Ensure the cables are not cut or damaged.
- Electrical equipment should not be hung from the cords, fix it in place properly.
Additionally, every cord and plug in the office must be visually inspected for external flaws before use. Do not use any equipment that has a damaged cable or plug.
- Protect Electrical Hazards with Appropriate Physical Barriers
Employees should always be shielded from any electrical dangers by physical barriers. Make sure the doors to electrical panels and cabinets are shut and properly and don’t have openings where workers could accidentally touch exposed wires.
Use shields, barriers, or insulating materials if cabinets can’t be closed or an electrical hazard can’t be completely enclosed, as a temporary measure until you can get the problem fixed.
The area in front of the electrical panel should be clear of any obstructions, and warning signs should be put up to alert staff to the danger.
- Watch out for cleaning products and conductive tools or materials
Always presume that electrical components are live and take precautions as necessary if you are operating in an area with an electrical hazard. Avoid using conductive tools there.
When cleaning the area, be aware that some cleaning supplies are also conductive and require extra care. Steel wool and metalized cloth are electrically conductive, as are solvent- and water-based cleaning products. Store any conductive tools and cleaning agents away from live electrical components and equipment. Read more about 4 Essential Workplace Safety Training Topics.
- Work on live electrical wires should only be done by qualified personnel
Avoid touching live electrical wires if you come across them. On active electrical wires, only trained professionals should perform any work. Hazardous electrical equipment must follow the same electrical safety precaution. Only trained individuals should approach and handle any live electrical hazard. You should alert the relevant electrical safety staff if you detect a live electrical wire that is not being attended to so they can immediately put up physical safety barriers.
- Take Extra Care Around Flammable Materials
Where flammable vapors, fumes, or dust are present, electrical equipment that can ignite must not be used. The only exceptions to this rule are when electrical energy sources are locked out and isolated by trained individuals before these potentially combustible materials are utilized or when the electrical equipment is designed to operate in these circumstances.
- Take Care When Working Above Electrical Lines
Be cautious of electrical lines when performing any repair or work overhead. Most workplaces may contain electrical equipment and sections above the floor that can only be accessed via ladders or high platforms. When undertaking overhead work, utilize a portable ladder with non-conductive side rails and keep at least 10 feet clear of any exposed electrical wires.
- Always adhere to the electrical safety work practices of your company
Depending on the electrical equipment and hazards in your sector and workplace, every organization has different electrical safety work procedures. To keep yourself and other employees safe, it’s crucial to always adhere to your company’s specific electrical safety work procedures. Fire protection companies can ensure their ways can counter electric fires. However, precautions are extremely necessary for every situation.
Conclusion
Electrical hazards are widespread but dangerous in the workplace. Work with electrical components should only be performed by someone qualified, a consultation with qualified and experienced fire protection companies will help identify any electrical hazards. Avoiding contact with live electrical currents is always in your best interest.
Following these tips can help your small business avoid any electric-related accidents.
