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How to Prevent Electrical Hazards in the Workplace

Electrical hazards can cause serious harm. And since most workplaces host various electrical equipment such as printers and monitors, it’s good to work safely within their vicinity. However, many employees don’t observe electrical safety measures, risking the safety of themselves and their colleagues.

So, to help you avoid electrical accidents, we’ll discuss how you can prevent electrical hazards at the workplace.

Dangers of Electricity

Electricity has the potential to cause death or serious injuries through shock, burns, explosion, arcing, or fire. These can occur due to a number of reasons, including:

  • Live wire contact
  • Faulty wiring in the workplace
  • Overloaded circuits
  • Exposed electrical parts
  • Lack of PPEs
  • Explosive and flammable substances
  • Nearby overhead power lines
  • Exposing electrical wires to water

How To Prevent Electrical Hazards in the Workplace

To prevent electrical hazards, design safe electrical systems, understand the electrical safety measures, and install equipment in safe places.

The most basic electrical safety precautions include knowing how electricity works, wearing appropriate PPEs, and identifying hazards.

1. Get Enlightened About Using Work Equipment

Learn how to use electrical work equipment, including how to identify faults and what to do in an emergency situation. In case of serious damages, wait for a certified electrician to make repairs on the equipment.

2. Don’t Overload Sockets

Usually, you’ll find many workplaces placing high voltage appliances in one outlet. This is overloading the socket, and it can be incredibly hazardous as it leads to fires when wires overheat.

3. Inspect Your Equipment and Power Cords regularly

It’s good to inspect your work equipment frequently to ensure they’re working correctly to avoid hazards. Observe the wires to check for uninsulated parts and tangled wires.

4. Install Proper Barriers Around Electrical Hazards

When electricians are performing electrical repairs and maintenance in the office, one should place physical barriers and signs to warn employees of the hazard. The area should also be free of any obstructions.

5. Call Experts to Work on Live Electrical Wires

Most live wires at work carry immense power that can be lethal if a shock or electrocution happens. Therefore, it’s good to leave live wires for experts. This can reduce the chances of electrocution and other electrical hazards.

Conclusion

While electricity is useful, it’s also dangerous. Therefore, it’s important to take great caution when repairing or dealing with electrical equipment at work. In case of damages or faulty equipment, call experts and don’t try to fix yourself. Experts can help detect a problem early and eliminate it completely.

 

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An editor at Blogzine
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Louis Ferguson is a senior editor for the blogzine and also reports on breaking news based in London. He has written about government, criminal justice, and the role of money in politics since 2015.

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