Occupational hazards are very common in commercial industries, electrical accidents being amongst the top. Electricity can be dangerous to deal with and cause burns, paralysis, and in worst cases, deaths. A recent survey analyzed that more than 1000 accidental deaths occur in the USA due to electrical shocks, including lightning, low-voltage, and high-voltage electrocution. To create a safer work environment, it is necessary to educate everyone about the safety precautions that should be taken when working with electricity. Commercial contractors and workers should provide proper training and follow safety guidelines set by the government.
Here are some ways you can ensure safety while working with electricity-
- Always Seek a Specialist: The best way of keeping yourself safe is by taking help from a professional electrician. They are trained and experienced in solving all your problems related to electricity. They also follow every safety rule to protect themselves from any hazard.
- Turn Off the Mains: Not turning off the main power supply before handling any electrical wiring can cause terrible accidents. There are many cases when people forget to follow this rule and get electrocuted, which can be life-threatening. Therefore, never make the mistake of leaving your mains on.
- Keep Surroundings Dry: Liquids, including water, are good conductors of electricity. Hence, you should ensure that you are not close to anything wet. Moreover, your body should be dry before you touch anything with a flowing current. If you have to work around a pool, make sure you wear insulating clothes to avoid direct contact with the wires.
- Check for Damaged Insulation: Old wires often lose their plastic insulations. Even if you turn off the mains, there still might be residue current that can be damaging. If you see a damaged cover anywhere, do not touch it without wearing insulating gloves. Also, mark that area to warn others about the naked wire.
- Use Insulated Tools: Tools are usually made up of metals, but they have plastic handles. This insulation ensures that the current is not conducted to you, preventing you from getting electrocuted.
- Always Use Personal Protective Gear: Before touching power circuits, you should wear goggles, gloves, and footwear that are resistant to electricity.
- Look Out for Warning Signs: Equipment with exposed parts that can get energized suddenly has warning signs like “Shock Risk” and “High-Voltage” written on it. Look for such warnings to save yourself and others around you from electric shocks.
- Always De-Energize the Energized Equipment: Make sure you check every part of live and hot wires for current with a tester. If the equipment is energized, de-energize it before touching it.
- Do Not Use Metal Ladder: Metals are good conductors of electricity. Use a wooden ladder when working with elevated cables.
- Understand Wire Codes: Wire codes are different in every country. You should have a good understanding of codes before working. Moreover, make sure you look at the circuiting of the house in the blueprints to avoid damaging wrong connections.
About Edgar Electric Inc.
If you are looking for a reliable industrial company for construction, electrical, and planning needs, check out Edgar Electric Inc. Our team has five years of training in electrical works and regular education classes to sharpen their skills. Our electric company provides complete client satisfaction and quality assurance with cost-effective, safe, and timely work. Meet us in our headquarters in Paragould, Arkansas or contact us on 870-450-0616 or visit our website for more details.
