Electrical Safety Basics - What You Need to Know

Each year, electricity causes more than 300 deaths inoutlets. If you notice a significant temperature change
the workplace. These incidents are not "freakin your outlets, unplug any cords and do not use them
accidents." In fact, most electrical injuries can beuntil a qualified electrician can check the wiring.
avoided, if workers take the time to learn basic safetyRisk of electric shock is higher in areas that are wet or
skills. It's important for workers to know these safetydamp. If possible, install ground fault circuit interrupters
skills prior to using any electrical equipment.(CGFIs) so they can interrupt the electrical circuit
Training is a key aspect when doing industrial electricalbefore a current high is sufficient enough to cause
services. In order to do so, workers need the properserious injury.
training on the tasks and procedures that are importantIt is important to know where the breakers and boxes
in conducting their work in a safe manner.are in the event of an emergency. Make sure to label
General Safety Tips When Working With Electricity:all circuit breakers and fuses carefully and clearly. Each
Understanding a few basic, yet crucial, safety tipsswitch needs to be correctly identified in order to
when working with or near electricity can help reduceknow which outlet or appliance it is used for.
the risk of electric shock, electrocution or otherContact a Professional:
electricity-related injury.For large electrical equipment maintenance and
The electrical current in businesses and homes hasinstallation, be sure to contact a professional electrical
enough power to cause death by electrocution. Inspectcontracting company that can provide the safe,
all tools, power cords and electrical fittings for damageefficient service you need. Professional electrical
or wear prior to using them. If anything is damaged,contractors can also visit your home or business for
replace them immediately. Make sure the cords thatroutine inspections, making sure that your residence or
are being used are rated for the level of amperage orbuilding is using electricity safely. Using advanced
wattage you're using. Do not use any outlets or cordsinfrared cameras and thermographic imaging,
that have exposed wirings.professional electrical contractors can find electrical
Make sure the fuse being used is the correct size.failures that may not be noticed otherwise. When
Replacing it with a larger fuse can cause excessiveproblems are spotted early on, you can prevent more
currents in the wiring, which can cause a fire.serious damage from occurring and save time and
A good sign of unsafe wiring: unusually warm or hotmoney.