Basic Electrical Safety

Electrical Safety - Basic Information

Why is it so important to work safely with or near
electricity?
The voltage of the electricity and the available electrical current in regular businesses and
homes has enough power to cause death by electrocution. Even changing a light bulb
without unplugging the lamp can be hazardous because coming in contact with the "hot",
"energized" or "live" part of the socket could kill a person.

What do I need to know about electricity?

All electrical systems have the potential to cause harm. Electricity can be either "static" or
"dynamic." Dynamic electricity is the uniform motion of electrons through a conductor
(this is known as electric current). Conductors are materials that allow the movement of
electricity through it. Most metals are conductors. The human body is also a conductor.
This document is about dynamic electricity.
Note: Static electricity is accumulation of charge on surfaces as a result of contact and
friction with another surface. This contact/friction causes an accumulation of electrons on
one surface, and a deficiency of electrons on the other surface. The OSH Answers document
on How Do I Work Safely with Flammable and Combustible Liquids? (Static Electricity) has
more information.
Electric current cannot exist without an unbroken path to and from the conductor.
Electricity will form a "path" or "loop". When you plug in a device (e.g., a power tool), the
electricity takes the easiest path from the plug-in, to the tool, and back to the power source.
This is also known as creating or completing an electrical circuit.

What kinds of injuries result from electrical currents?

People are injured when they become part of the electrical circuit. Humans are more
conductive than the earth which means if there is no other easy path, electricity will try to
flow through our bodies.
There are four main types of injuries: electrocution (fatal), electric shock, burns, and falls.
These injuries can happen in various ways:
  Direct contact with exposed energized conductors or circuit parts. When electrical
current travels through our bodies, it can interfere with the normal electrical signals
between the brain and our muscles (e.g., heart may stop beating properly, breathing
may stop, or muscles may spasm).
 When the electricity arcs (jumps, or "arcs") from an exposed energized conductor or
circuit part (e.g., overhead power lines) through a gas (such as air) to a person who
is grounded (that would provide an alternative route to the ground for the electrical
current).
 Thermal burns including burns from heat generated by an electric arc, and flame
burns from materials that catch on fire from heating or ignition by electrical
currents or an electric arc flash. Contact burns from being shocked can burn internal
tissues while leaving only very small injuries on the outside of the skin.
 Thermal burns from the heat radiated from an electric arc flash. Ultraviolet (UV) and
infrared (IR) light emitted from the arc flash can also cause damage to the eyes.
 An arc blast can include a potential pressure wave released from an arc flash. This
wave can cause physical injuries, collapse your lungs, or create noise that can
damage hearing.
 Muscle contractions, or a startle reaction, can cause a person to fall from a ladder,
scaffold or aerial bucket. The fall can cause serious injuries.

What should I do if I think I am too close to overhead

power lines?
Do not work close to power lines. Recommended distances vary by jurisdiction and/or
utility companies. Check with both your jurisdiction and electrical utility company when
working, driving, parking, or storing materials closer than 15 m (49 feet) to overhead
power lines.

 If you must be close to power lines, you must first call your electrical utility
company and they will assist you.
 If your vehicle comes into contact with a power line:
o DO NOT get out of your vehicle.
o Call 911 and your local utility service for help.
o Wait for the electrical utility to come and they will tell you when it is safe to
get out of your vehicle.
o Never try to rescue another person if you are not trained to do so.
o If you must leave the vehicle (e.g., your vehicle catches on fire), exit by
jumping as far as possible - at least 45 to 60 cm (1.5 to 2 feet). Never touch
the vehicle or equipment and the ground at the same time. Keep your feet,
legs, and arms close to your body.
o Keep your feet together (touching), and move away by shuffling your feet.
Never let your feet separate or you may be shocked or electrocuted.
o Shuffle at least 10 metres away from your vehicle before you take a normal
step. Do not enter an electrical power substation, or other marked areas.
  Do not enter an electrical power substation, or other marked areas.

What are some general safety tips for working with or

near electricity?
 Inspect portable cord-and-plug connected equipment, extension cords, power bars,
and electrical fittings for damage or wear before each use. Repair or replace
damaged equipment immediately.
 Always tape extension cords to walls or floors when necessary. Nails and staples can
damage extension cords causing fire and shock hazards.
 Use extension cords or equipment that is rated for the level of amperage or wattage
that you are using.
 Always use the correct size fuse. Replacing a fuse with one of a larger size can cause
excessive currents in the wiring and possibly start a fire.
 Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets may be a sign that unsafe wiring
conditions exists. Unplug any cords or extension cords to these outlets and do not
use until a qualified electrician has checked the wiring.
 Always use ladders made with non-conductive side rails (e.g., fibreglass) when
working with or near electricity or power lines.
 Place halogen lights away from combustible materials such as cloths or curtains.
Halogen lamps can become very hot and may be a fire hazard.
 Risk of electric shock is greater in areas that are wet or damp. Install Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) as they will interrupt the electrical circuit before a
current sufficient to cause death or serious injury occurs.
 Use a portable in-line Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) if you are not certain
that the receptacle you are plugging your extension cord into is GFCI protected.
 Make sure that exposed receptacle boxes are made of non-conductive materials.
 Know where the panel and circuit breakers are located in case of an emergency.
 Label all circuit breakers and fuse boxes clearly. Each switch should be positively
identified as to which outlet or appliance it is for.
 Do not use outlets or cords that have exposed wiring.
 Do not use portable cord-and-plug connected power tools with the guards removed.
 Do not block access to panels and circuit breakers or fuse boxes.
 Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical accident.
Always disconnect the power source first.

What are some tips for working with power tools?

 Switch all tools OFF before connecting them to a power supply.
 Disconnect and lockout the power supply before completing any maintenance work
tasks or making adjustments.
  Ensure tools are properly grounded or double-insulated. The grounded equipment
must have an approved 3-wire cord with a 3-prong plug. This plug should be
plugged in a properly grounded 3-pole outlet.
 Test all tools for effective grounding with a continuity tester or a Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) before use.
 Do not bypass the on/off switch and operate the tools by connecting and
disconnecting the power cord.
 Do not use electrical equipment in wet conditions or damp locations unless the
equipment is connected to a GFCI.
 Do not clean tools with flammable or toxic solvents.
 Do not operate tools in an area containing explosive vapours or gases, unless they
are intrinsically safe and only if you follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

What are some tips for working with power cords?

 Keep power cords clear of tools during use.
 Suspend extension cords temporarily during use over aisles or work areas to
eliminate stumbling or tripping hazards.
 Replace open front plugs with dead front plugs. Dead front plugs are sealed and
present less danger of shock or short circuit.
 Do not use light duty extension cords in a non-residential situation.
 Do not carry or lift up electrical equipment by the power cord.
 Do not tie cords in tight knots. Knots can cause short circuits and shocks. Loop the
cords or use a twist lock plug.

What is a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)?

A Class A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) works by detecting any loss of electrical
current in a circuit (e.g., it will trip at a maximum of 6mA). When a loss is detected, the GFCI
turns the electricity off before severe injuries or electrocution can occur. A painful non-fatal
shock may occur during the time that it takes for the GFCI to cut off the electricity so it is
important to use the GFCI as an extra protective measure rather than a replacement for
safe work practices.
GFCI wall outlets can be installed in place of standard outlets to protect against
electrocution for just that outlet, or a series of outlets in the same branch circuit. A GFCI
Circuit Breaker can be installed on some circuit breaker electrical panels to protect an
entire branch circuit. Portable in-line plug-in GFCIs can be plugged into wall outlets where
appliances will be used.

When and how do I test the Ground Fault Circuit

Interrupter (GFCI)?
It is important that you follow the manufacturer's instructions with respect to the use of a
GFCI. Test permanently wired GFCIs monthly, and portable devices before each use. Press
the "test" and "reset" buttons. Plug a "night light" or lamp into the GFCI-protected wall
outlet (the light should turn on), then press the "TEST" button on the GFCI. If the GFCI is
working properly, the light should go out. If not, have the GFCI repaired or replaced. Press
the "RESET" button on the GFCI to restore power.
If the "RESET" button pops out but the "night light" or lamp does not go out, the GFCI has
been improperly wired and does not offer shock protection at that wall outlet. Contact a
qualified electrician to correct any wiring errors.

What is a sample checklist for basic electrical safety?

Inspect Cords and Plugs

 Check extension cords and plugs daily. Do not use, and discard if worn or damaged.
Have any extension cord that feels more than comfortably warm checked by an
electrician.

Eliminate Octopus Connections

 Do not plug several items into one outlet.
 Pull the plug, not the cord.
 Do not disconnect power supply by pulling or jerking the cord from the outlet.
Pulling the cord causes wear and may cause a shock.

Never Break OFF the Third Prong on a Plug

 Replace broken 3-prong plugs and make sure the third prong is properly grounded.

Never Use Extension Cords as Permanent Wiring

 Use extension cords only to temporarily supply power to an area that does not have
a power outlet.
 Keep extension cords away from heat, water and oil. They can damage the insulation
and cause a shock.
 Do not allow vehicles to pass over unprotected extension cords. Extension cords
should be put in protective wireway, conduit, pipe or protected by placing planks
alongside them.
~~~~

Though you cannot see electricity, you are aware of it every day. You see it used in countless ways. You
cannot taste or smell electricity, but you can feel it.

Basically, there are two kinds of electricity - static (stationary) and dynamic (moving). This module is
about dynamic electricity because that is the kind commonly put to use.

Electricity (dynamic) is characterized by the flow of electrons through a conductor. To understand this
phenomenon, you must know something about chemical elements and atoms.

A material that contains many free electrons and is capable of carrying an electric current is called a
conductor. Metals and (generally) water are conductors. Gold, silver, aluminum and copper are all
good conductors.

Materials that contain relatively few free electrons are called insulators. Non-metallic materials such as
wood, rubber, glass and mica are insulators.

Fair conductors include the human body, earth, and concrete.

Generating Electricity

There are several ways to produce electricity. Friction, pressure, heat, light, chemical action, and
magnetism are among the more practical methods used to make electrons move along a conductor.

To date, magnetism is the most inexpensive way of producing electrical power and is therefore of most
interest to us. Because of the interaction of electricity and magnetism, electricity can be generated
economically and abundantly and electric motors can be used to drive machinery. Electricity is produced
when a magnet is moved past a piece of wire. Or, a piece of wire can be moved through a magnetic
field. A magnetic field, motion, and a piece of wire are needed to produce electricity.

The effects of electric shock on the human body depend on several factors. The major factors are:

1. Current and Voltage 2. Resistance 3. Path through body 4. Duration of shock

The muscular structure of the body is also a factor in that people having less musculature and more fat
typically show similar effects at lesser current values.

~~~~

Basic Electrical Safety - What is it?

Basic Electrical Safety is a very important part of everyday life, but what has become an integral part of
today’s modern world can harm you - or even kill you! Two of the most common causes of today’s
electrical accidents, such as electrical shock, is (1) lack of education, and/or (2) lack of appreciation of
basic electrical safety practices. Electrocutions (death by electric shock) occur when victims aren’t
aware of basic electrical safety, or these victims do possess knowledge of basic electrical safety but they
proceed anyway in spite of existing electrical dangers.

Basic Electrical Safety -- What Are The Risks?

Electrical dangers can occur very easily, which is why basic electrical safety must be practiced. Electrical
accidents can happen when victims use unsafe or defective tools. Also, sometimes victims fail to de-
energize, or do not exercise proper lockout and tagout procedures during electrical equipment repair,
inspections or maintenance. Hence, they subject themselves to electrical danger. Another reason
accidents occur is that some workers are elevated in a position that has allowed them to accidentally
contact overhead power lines, resulting in electrocution. At home, basic electrical accidents occur when
outlets are overloaded with too many appliances or when a third prong (ground pin) on a three-pronged
plug is removed in an attempt to fit the plug into a two-pronged outlet. This allows the faulted current to
flow into a person, instead of traveling through the ground pin to the house's electrical grounding
system.

Using defective electrical equipment can also lead to electrical accidents. Faulty insulations, loose
connections, defective parts, improper grounding or using home-made extension cords can make a
simple procedure turn into a trip to the hospital.

Basic Electrical Safety – Why practice basic electrical safety?

Burns, physical injuries or damages to the nervous system are caused when electricity travels through
your body and connects to its originating source. Electricity can travel via hand-to-hand, hand-to-foot or
take a route through the heart thus damaging the most important organ in your body.

Basic Electrical Safety – How can I practice basic electrical safety?

Here are a few ways to improve your Basic Electrical Safety:

 Minimize your risk to static shock: Avoid cleaning your computer monitor or your television
screen while turned on. Injury can occur.
 Follow OSHA or CSA Basic Electrical Safety work practices: Electrical shock can occur while
you’re at work, so avoid wet working conditions and use proper wiring and connectors. Also,
use ground-fault circuit interrupters because they can detect ground faults (identify where
exactly electricity is leaking). Having a basic electrical safety plan at work is also great basic
electrical safety.
  Use safe equipment: Don’t use damaged or modified equipment and always use equipment
correctly (according to the manufacturer’s specifications)

~~~~

Basic Electrical Safety

Surge suppressor with overcurrent protection

We rely on electricity, but sometimes underestimate its capability of causing injury.

Even household current (120 volts) can stop your heart. UW personnel need to be
aware of the hazards electricity poses, such as shock, fire and explosion, and either
eliminate or control those hazards.

Shock
Electrical shock happens when current passes through the body. Electricity travels
through closed circuits, and people, sometimes tragically, can become part of the
circuit. When a person receives a shock, electricity flows between parts of the body
or through the body to a ground. This can happen if someone touches both wires of
an energized circuit, touches one wire of the circuit while standing unprotected or
touches a metal part that has become energized.

Electrocution refers to the injury or lethal dose of electrical energy. Electricity can
also cause forceful muscle contraction or falls. The severity of injury depends on the
amount of current flowing through the body, the current's path through the body,
the length of time the body remains in the circuit and the current's frequency.
Fire/Explosion
Electrical fires may be caused by excessive resistance that generates heat from any
of the following:

 Too much current running through wiring where overcurrent protection fails
or does not exist
 Faulty electrical outlets resulting in poor contact or arcing
 Poor wiring connections and old wiring that is damaged and cannot support the
load

An explosion can occur when electricity ignites a flammable gas or comubstible dust
mixture in the air. Ignition from a short circuit or static charge is possible.

What you need to know

Electrical Safety Basics

 Don't work with exposed conductors carrying 50 volts or more.

 Make sure electrical equipment is properly connected, grounded and in good
working order.
 Extension cords may not be used as permanent wiring and should be removed
after temporary use for an activity or event.
 Surge suppressors with built-in circuit breakers may be used long-term and are
available with three, six and 15 foot-long cords.
 High amperage equipment such as space heaters, portable air conditioners and
other equipment must be plugged directly into permanent wall receptacles.
 Do not access, use or alter any building’s electrical service, including circuit
breaker panels, unless you are specifically qualified and authorized to do so.
 Wet environments can increase the risk of an electrical shock.
Housekeeping and Maintenance

 Maintain at least 30 inches of clearance in front of electrical panels to ensure a

safe environment for facilities workers.
 Make sure that all junction boxes are covered.

What you can do to stay safe

Avoid Activities That Requires Training

 Working with exposed conductors carrying 50 volts or more

 Making repairs or alterations to any electrical equipment
 Opening up the case, or removing barrier guards, of any equipment that utilizes
electricity
 Using any tools or a meter to measure for the presence of electricity
 Reseting a tripped circuit breaker, or replace a blown fuse

Ask a qualified person to perform these tasks.

Grounding
To prevent electrical hazards, always make sure equipment is properly grounded.
Electrical grounding provides an alternate path for electricity to follow, rather than
going through a person. Equipment with a grounding prong must be plugged into an
extension cord with a ground; the grounding plug should not be removed from the
equipment.

Wet Locations
When using electricity in a wet or damp location, including outdoor locations, a
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) must be used. The GFCI ensures that any
electrical shock is brief. Although painful, it wouldn’t be fatal because the GFCI
creates a ground fault or leak in the current.

Lockout/Tagout
When servicing and maintenance tasks involve electricity and electrical equipment,
you must prevent the unexpected startup of equipment. More information on
lockout/tagout procedures is available on the Hazardous Energy Control page.

Services available
EH&S provides the following services:

 Consultation on basic electrical safety

 Advice on safe work practices for energized circuits and parts, or high voltage
electrical transmission and distribution systems
 Investigation of accidents and injuries to help educate and prevent recurrence

All injuries and near-misses, including those potentially caused by electricity or

electrical equipment, must be reported using the Online Accident Reporting
System (OARS).

~~~~

Basic Electrical Safety Policy

OBJECTIVE
This policy is intended to establish safety requirements for University faculty, staff and students who may
work with or near electrically energized equipment during the course of normal activities. Separate lock
out, tag out and electrical safety policies are already in place to cover the service and repair of electrical
equipment.
POLICY
This policy applies to both Qualified and Unqualified employees. For the purposes of this policy the
following definitions apply:

Qualified person: One who has skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of the
electrical equipment and installations and has received safety training to recognize and avoid the hazards
involved.
Unqualified person: A person who is not a qualified person. Any electrical system modification must be
reviewed by and approved by an electrical supervisor from the appropriate University maintenance
division.

AUTHORITY
By authority delegated from the University President, the Vice-President for Business Affairs is
responsible for the safety of all University facilities. Under this authority, policies are developed to provide
a safe teaching, research, service, housing and recreational environment.

Reference
OSHA Electrical Safety Standard 29 CFR 1910.331 – 335
NFPA standard 70E

RESPONSIBILITIES

Environmental Health and Safety Division (EH&S)

EH&S is responsible for the periodic review and updating of this policy. EH&S will also assist in basic
electrical safety presentations when requested. Inspections to monitor compliance with this and other
safety related policies will be performed by EH&S on a routine basis.

University Departments
Each University department is responsible for the implementation of the policy within their respective
departments. While there are no specific training requirements associated with this policy, any specialized
training that may become necessary will be the responsibility of the Department to provide.

Supervisors
It is the supervisor’s responsibility to enforce this policy. Supervisors are also responsible for the
identification of and correction of potential electrical safety hazards covered by this policy. Supervisors
are expected to identify employees requiring specialized training to safely complete their tasks relative to
this policy.

Employees
All employees are required to comply with this policy. Any concerns related to electrical safety should be
reported to supervisors.
PROCEDURES

General
All electrical outlets in completed installations must have a cover, faceplate or fixture canopy. No storage
is allowed in rooms designated for electrical equipment.

Electrical Panels
Electrical panels must be kept free of obstructions with at least 3 feet of clearance provided in front of the
panel. Panel doors must be able to open a minimum of 90º and doors must be kept closed unless work is
being done to the panel. Circuit breaker blanks must be installed in open panel slots. All panels and
breakers must be labeled to indicate the circuit’s specific function.

The movement of circuit breaker switches must not be restricted by tape or other material placed across
the breaker. The use of tape to restrict breaker movement is not an acceptable method of lock out/tag
out.

Portable Electric Power Tools

Electric power tools are required to be plugged into a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) either at the
extension cord, outlet or at the circuit breaker panel regardless of whether they are used inside or outside
of a structure. Handheld power tools are to be inspected before each use for frayed or damaged power
cords. Power tools with observed damage shall be taken out of service until repaired by a qualified
person or replaced. Extension cords used with power tools must be rated for the power demands of the
tool and have an intact grounding pin. Portable electrical equipment must be handled in a manner that
will prevent damage to the electrical cord and equipment.

Power Strips and Extension Cords

The use of power strips is allowed as long as they are UL listed; have built in overcurrent protection; have
cords that are no longer than necessary for the application; should not be used for appliances or
equipment requiring a large electrical load (i.e. microwave ovens) and are used within the manufacturer’s
guidelines.

Power strips must not be used in series with other power strips or extension cords. Extension cords are
for temporary use only. The permanent use of extension cords is prohibited. Temporary, as it relates to
this policy, is defined as no longer than necessary, but shall not exceed a 90 day period of time.

Cords must be inspected regularly for damage. External damage to the insulation may be repaired by a
qualified electrician. Damage to internal wiring will require disposal of the cord.

Extension cords must not be run through walls, above ceilings, through window openings, under rugs and
floor mats or used in any manner that prevents inspection and risks damage to the cord. Extension cords
running along or across areas of foot traffic must be secure to prevent a tripping hazard.

Shop made extension cords with receptacle boxes do not meet electrical code requirements and cannot
be used.
~~~~

Basic electrical safety on the job

Although injuries from electrical hazards represent a fraction of total on-
the-job injuries, they are more likely to result in death than injuries from
other causes, according to the Arlington, VA-based Electrical Safety
Foundation International. However, the foundation notes, although only
skilled employees specifically trained in electrical safety procedures
should handle electrical equipment and systems, many electrical hazards
can be avoided by following approved NFPA 70E and OSHA guidelines.
ESFI warns that no worker should ever assume equipment is de-
energized, and to always “test before you touch.” The organization also
advises workers:

 Identify all possible energy sources that could pose on-the-job

hazards.
 Know and follow safety requirements.
 Select proper personal protective equipment, such as hard hats,
gloves, goggles, safety shoes, flame-resistant shirts and pants, and
safety glasses.
 Use lockout/tagout procedures.
 Make sure test equipment is working both before and after use.
 If at any time the job becomes more hazardous than anticipated,
stop and revise the plan.

~~~~
Basic Electrical Safety Online Course
This program, Basic Electrical Safety in the Workplace, trains employees to have a
basic understanding of electricity and how it works. It covers the different types of
electricity such as low voltage, high voltage, and static electricity, all with the purpose of
training employees to be more aware of electrical safety. This video is perfect for non-
electricians, including maintenance workers and machine operators, and anyone else
who works with and around electrical tools and equipment.

~~~~

Home Electrical Safety

Many electrocutions and home fires can be prevented simply by understanding basic
electrical safety principles and adhering to safe practices. ESFI has developed a number of
resources to help educate homeowners, consumers, older adults, and children.

Whether you are a homeowner or a renter, electrical safety should be a top priority in your
home. Awareness of electrical hazards is the key to reducing the staggering number of
electrically-related home fires, injuries and deaths that occur every year.

The following information and resources from ESFI will help you gain a better
understanding of how to use electricity and electrical products safely:

Prevent Electrical Overloads - Overloaded electrical circuits are a major cause of

residential fires. Help lower your risk of electrical fires by not overloading your electrical
system.

Extension Cord Safety - Roughly 3,300 home fires originate in extension cords each year,
killing 50 people and injuring 270 more. Extension cords can overhead and cause fires
when used improperly, so keep these important tips in mind to protect your home and
workplace.

Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors - Working smoke alarms can mean the
difference between life and death in the event of a home fire, but there is more you need to
do to ensure your family is prepared to safely escape from a fire emergency.

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Electrical Safety - Review ESFI recommendations and safety tips
before you decide to tackle electrical projects in your home.
Virtual Home - Take a tour of ESFI's interactive virtual home for a visual introduction to
your home electrical system and safety tips for using common electrical devices.

Electrical Safety Videos - ESFI's video library contains a wide variety of safety videos that
demonstrate critical home electrical safety concepts and tips. Many videos are also
available in Spanish.

Home Safety Checklists - Use these easy checklists to help you identify and correct
electrical and fire hazards in your home before a serious incident occurs.

Workplace Safety
Electricity and electrical products play fundamental roles in how we do business each day.
However, if not used or maintained appropriately, they can pose serious risks. Over the last
ten years, more than 30,000 workers have been injured in workplace electrical accidents.
While electrical hazards are not the leading cause of on-the-job injuries and accidents, they
are disproportionately fatal and costly. These injuries not only disrupt the lives of the
workers and their families, but also impact the productivity of employers. The good news is
that most on-the-job electrocutions and electrical injuries can be prevented by following a
few basic steps.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is the leading authority on workplace
electrical safety. ESFI recognizes that each work environment presents different electrical
hazards. ESFI’s workplace safety materials provide valuable information to help employees
make safe choices everyday and tips for creating a safer work environment, whether work
takes place in an office, on a job site, or in a manufacturing setting.

~~~

Basic Electrical Safety

Since the day it has been invented electricity has become a part and parcel of human life. There are very few areas in this
world which are untouched by electricity. Though electricity is of immense use it has also been the source through which
human life has been lost. This loss happens due to non awareness of electricity and its dangers and also the lack of proper
training while doing electrical jobs.

SCOPE OF THE PROGRAM:

 1. Definition of electricity.
2. Evolution of electricity.
3. Hazards associated with electrical devices.
4. Safe work practices while on electrical jobs.
5. Importance of work permits.
6. Personal protection while doing electrical jobs.
7. Awareness on latest electrical standards.

~~~

21 Safety Rules for Working with Electrical Equipment

A safe work environment is not always enough to control all potential

electrical hazards. You must be very cautious and work safely. Safety rules
help you control your and others risk of injury or death from workplace hazards.
If you are working on electrical circuits or with electrical tools and equipment,
you need to use following golden safety rules:

21 Golden Safety Rules

Rule no. 1
Avoid contact with energized electrical circuits. Please don’t make fun of
this rule if you already know this (and you probably already know if you are
reading these lines) and remember that if something bad occurs – you probably
won’t have second chance. That’s not funny.

Rule no. 2
Treat all electrical devices as if they are live or energized. You never know.

Rule no. 3
Disconnect the power source before servicing or repairing electrical equipment.

The only way to be sure.

 Rule no. 4
Use only tools and equipment with non-conducting handles when working on
electrical devices.

Easy to check.

Rule no. 5
Never use metallic pencils or rulers, or wear rings or metal watchbands when
working with electrical equipment. This rule is very easy to forget, especially
when you are showing some electrical part pointing with metallic pencil.

Always be aware.

Rule no. 6
When it is necessary to handle equipment that is plugged in, be sure hands are
dry and, when possible, wear nonconductive gloves, protective clothes and
shoes with insulated soles.

Remeber: gloves, clothes and shoes.

Rule no. 7
If it is safe to do so, work with only one hand, keeping the other hand at your
side or in your pocket, away from all conductive material. This precaution
reduces the likelihood of accidents that result in current passing through the
chest cavity.

If you ever read about current passing through human body you will know, so
remember – work with one hand only.

Rule no. 8
Minimize the use of electrical equipment in cold rooms or other areas where
condensation is likely. If equipment must be used in such areas, mount the
equipment on a wall or vertical panel.

Rule no. 9
If water or a chemical is spilled onto equipment, shut off power at the main
switch or circuit breaker and unplug the equipment.

Very logical. NEVER try to remove water or similar from equipment while
energized. Afterall, it’s stupid to do so.

Rule no. 10
If an individual comes in contact with a live electrical conductor, do not touch
the equipment, cord or person. Disconnect the power source from the circuit
breaker or pull out the plug using a leather belt.

Tricky situation, and you must be very calm in order not to make the situation
even worse.

Like in previous rules – Always disconnect the power FIRST.

Always disconnect the power FIRST

Rule no. 11
Equipment producing a “tingle” should be disconnected and reported promptly
for repair.

Rule no. 12
Do not rely on grounding to mask a defective circuit nor attempt to correct a
fault by insertion of another fuse or breaker, particularly one of larger capacity.

Rule no. 13
Drain capacitors before working near them and keep the short circuit on the
terminals during the work to prevent electrical shock.

Rule no. 14
Never touch another person’s equipment or electrical control devices unless
instructed to do so.

Don’t be too smart. Don’t try your luck.

 Rule no. 15
Enclose all electric contacts and conductors so that no one can accidentally
come into contact with them.

If applicable do it always, if not be very carefull.

Rule no. 16
Never handle electrical equipment when hands, feet, or body are wet or
perspiring, or when standing on a wet floor.

Remeber: Gloves and shoes

Rule no. 17
When it is necessary to touch electrical equipment (for example, when checking
for overheated motors), use the back of the hand. Thus, if accidental shock
were to cause muscular contraction, you would not “freeze” to the conductor.

Rule no. 18
Do not store highly flammable liquids near electrical equipment.

Rule no. 19
Be aware that interlocks on equipment disconnect the high voltage source when
a cabinet door is open but power for control circuits may remain on.

Read the single line diagram and wiring schemes – know your
switchboard.

Rule no. 20
De-energize open experimental circuits and equipment to be left unattended.

Rule no. 21
Do not wear loose clothing or ties near electrical equipment. Act like an
electrical engineer, you are not on the beach.
~~~~
Hazard Control
• Electrical systems are inherently safe
• Injuries typically occur when: – Procedures are inappropriate – Procedures are
not followed or ignored – Safety systems are circumvented

Summary
• Electricity will try to reach ground even if it means going through a person •
Even the “small” voltage from your home can cause serious injury • Always
inspect power tools and cords and do not use them if damaged • Do not attempt
to repair electrical equipment unless trained and qualified