The Importance of Electrical Safety in the Workplace
Electrical safety should always be the top priority in any work environment where electricity is present. As electrical systems pose dangers like shock, burns, fires and even death, taking the necessary precautions is critical. This article will discuss why electrical safety is so important, best practices to follow, and tips for professionals to keep their crews safe on the job.
Content
Hazards of Electricity
Electricity moves at the speed of light through conductors. Any contact with exposed wiring can lead to injury or worse. Even low voltage applications under 50 volts pose a shock hazard. As little as 25 milliamps of current passing through the body can cause ventricular fibrillation, stopping the heart. Burns may also occur due to high temperatures in electrical equipment. Fires started by electrical faults or overloads can also quickly spread in buildings. Proper safety protocols and equipment help protect workers from these ever-present risks.
Lockout/Tagout Procedures
Before performing any service or maintenance on electrical equipment, lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures must be followed to ensure circuits are properly de-energized and isolated. This involves turning off and locking out all power sources and then attaching warning tags to prevent accidental re-energization during the work. Only the worker who applied the lockout/tagout devices may remove them once work is complete.
Personal Protective Equipments
When exposed electrical parts that cannot be de-energized or isolated still pose a risk, personal protective equipment (PPE) acts as a last line of defense. For electricians and other workers, this includes flame-resistant clothing, insulating gloves rated for the voltage, and dielectric shoes to prevent electric shock. Hard hats protect from impact hazards as well.
Safe Work Practices
Following safe work practices is just as important as using the right PPE. This includes inspecting all cords/cables for damage before use, keeping work areas uncluttered, not using electrical equipment in wet conditions, and more. Proper job site planning and oversight from an experienced Electrician in Yonkers helps ensure crews adhere to safety standards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking electrical safety seriously through following proper lockout/tagout procedures, using PPE, practicing safe work habits and more can help protect workers from harm. Professionals must lead by example and enforce safety compliance.
FAQs
What should you do if someone is shocked?
Call for emergency help immediately. Only use an insulated object to move the victim clear of the live circuit. Administer CPR if they are unresponsive and not breathing.
How can arc flash hazards be prevented?
Through arc flash risk assessments, proper PPE for the assessed risk level, and limiting employee exposure times when working on live electrical equipment.
Shellie Olivares is a dedicated home blogger who has been blogging for over six years. She covers everything home related. Shellie also loves writing posts about her travels to Europe with her husband and two children.
