The Common Electrical Safety Hazards in the Workplace Should be Prevented at All Costs
It is important to know what the electrical hazards are so you can avoid and prevent any accident from taking place at work. If you are an employee, you will know if something is wrong and tell the right people to get it fixed. For business owners, they can act on it right away and call an electrician to fix the issue. The most at risk from electrical hazards are the ones working in the construction industry. In any case, common electrical safety hazards in the workplace should be prevented and here is what you need to know:
Damaged Wiring
This means if there are any malfunctioning cables or wires, they should be removed right away because they are a serious electrical hazard. The loose, frayed, or loose electrical cables with exposed wires should be replaced right away. Damaged wires can lead to fires and electrical shocks. In order to stop this, electrical wiring have to be regularly checked.
Improper Extension Cord Use
Extension cords are useful but most of the time people misuse them and causes a hazard. To stop this situation from happening, purchase UL rated ones and match it with the cord. For instance, if you have an outdoor extension cord, purchase one that can stand against elements.
Make sure not to over load cords by plugging heavy-duty appliances and do not let it run under a rug or even on other surfaces. Before using the cord, check its condition because they do not last a lifetime. In case an extension cord is always being used to power up a certain area, install more electrical outlets.
Electrical Parts that get Exposed
For instance, a temporary lighting, power distribution units and insulation parts that are detached are all examples of exposed parts. They can cause shocks and burns that is harmful to humans. These items have to be properly secured with the right guarding mechanisms, and always check for exposed parts that might need immediate repair.
Safety of Equipment
It does not matter what kind of electrical equipment it is as they are electrical hazards if it cannot be used the right way. When it gets exposed to equipment that you thought was dead but still works can lead to bad injury. The shocks that come from electrical equipment can make scaffolds, ladders, and platforms to fall. This is why it is important to practice the right safety protocols for the equipment when using anything electric.
When safety seminars are regularly done and other sessions that are educational as they are helpful to your employees as well with regards to electrical handling. Properly checking the equipment before using also ensures the safety of equipment.
Using an Unsafe Appliance
Regardless if it is a small toaster or clothes dryer that regularly trips on a circuit breaker, any malfunctioning appliance is not safe to use. In order to keep an electrical fire, burn, injury, or a shock from happening, never use such appliances.
When an appliance begins to malfunction while you are using it, cut the power off from your home’s main electrical panel because the appliance is plugged in there. You must unplug the appliance and recycle it or have a professional repair it. Have caution when you buy used appliances because their safety is not guaranteed. It is also not wise to use a recalled appliance.
Exposure to Water
When any form of electricity experiences water exposure, there is a big risk of getting shocked. You need to make sure that all electrical equipment is away from any water source. Even your hands have to be dry when handling any electrical equipment to stop any shocks and burns from threatening your life.
These are very common occurrences and now that you know what they are, you will avoid them and prevent any accidents from happening. It can pose hazard to you and of course everyone else working in the same area.
