There’s no house you’d go to today that doesn’t use electricity for one or two (or a dozen) purposes. It is a major source of energy that is used for both domestic and industrial purposes. As much as electricity is useful, you’d have to be extremely careful when handling it as it can be potentially dangerous if used inappropriately. When using electricity, some guidelines are essential. These instructions as well as the numerous safety measures for using electricity are explained in depth on this page.

Stay Away From Live Electrical Currents and Uninsulated Channels

You should ensure that any contact you might have with electrical equipment is thoroughly insulated as this is one of the best methods to stay safe while using electricity. Professionals working in high-voltage locations should put on all necessary safety gear, such as gloves and helmets to prevent electrical accidents. Electrical equipment should be kept far out of the reach of youngsters at home.

There are certain voltages - electrical currents from 50V and above - you shouldn’t attempt handling at home even if you consider yourself a dexterous handyman. If you must work close to electrical hazards or machinery that requires more than 50V, keep your distance. You should also make sure that there are no exposed wires close to your work area and that all electrical panel doors are closed before you begin your operations.

Safely Use Electrical Equipment

Electric equipment can be highly fragile and as such, when using them, the utmost care must be taken. If you own any electrical equipment, spend some time reading the instructions to ensure that you are familiar with all of its features. You should ensure that the electrical equipment is installed in a position that does not constitute any harm to you or damage to the equipment.

The proper usage of all electrical equipment is necessary to ensure everyone's safety at work. When using electrical devices correctly, you must never tug on the cable when unplugging a plug. Instead, always pull on the plug head in such cases. Avoid overextending or straining electrical cords, and never staple cables together. Last but not least, never hang electrical equipment from cables.

Prevent Unwarranted Access To Your Electrical Appliances

You should never leave electrical currents exposed; it is preferable to have a physical barrier around it that keeps people away from any components that could potentially cause an electrical discharge. To prevent unwarranted access to electrical items in enclosures (like a room or elevator), installing equipment on a raised, protected platform is necessary.

Employees should always have physical barriers protecting them from any electrical hazards. Always keep the cabinet doors on electrical panels closed, and make sure there are no gaps where workers could accidentally get in contact with exposed wires. If cabinets cannot be closed (or an electrical risk cannot be entirely contained), you should use shields, barriers, or insulating materials.

When Working at Certain Heights, Take Extra Care

Some occupational duties call for working at heights. Given that some electrical wires pass through particular heights, it is advisable to always exercise caution when working at such heights. Because these electrical cables typically carry high voltage live currents, extra care must be taken when working overhead to avoid coming in contact with them.

Most workplaces could include electrical equipment and areas that are higher than the ground and only accessible by ladders or high platforms. In such places, you should use a portable ladder that has insulated side rails while performing any overhead work, and stay at least 10 feet away from any exposed electrical wires.

Watch Out for Flammable Materials/Channels

Electrical currents can spark, ignite and start a fire. Materials that make it easier for electrical devices to ignite a fire need to be avoided at all costs. Electrical apparatus that can catch fire should not be used in areas where there are flammable vapors, fumes, or dust. For instance, you should not keep fuel - which is extremely combustible - in locations where electric current regularly flows through. Electrical apparatus that can catch fire should not be used in areas where there are flammable vapors, fumes, or dust. 

There are only two instances in which this rule does not apply: when electrical energy sources are shut out and disconnected by skilled personnel before these potentially combustible materials are used, or when the electrical equipment is designed to function in such conditions.

Take Extra Care with Wet or Moist Materials

Try to avoid water as much as you can when working with electricity. Never try to repair any electrical equipment or circuits with wet hands. It increases the conductivity of the electric current as water and other wet materials conduct electricity very quickly.

Place electrical equipment in a dry location before installing it to prevent any moist touch. Additionally, watch out for water spills near electrical currents to prevent injury to anyone nearby since the electrical current can readily move through the water.

Be Extra Careful When Cleaning Electrical Equipment

The easiest and safest way to clean electrical equipment is to always assume that any electrical parts are live and to take the appropriate safety measures if you are working in an area that poses a risk from electricity. If such happens to be the case, you should avoid using conductive cleaning tools. Examples of such highly conductive materials include steel wool, metalized cloth, and solvent-and-water-based liquid cleaning agents.

Always Seek Expert Help When Unsure

When you are not a professional, you shouldn't presume that you are adept at handling electrical equipment. If a professional's services are required, contact them right away. Avoid attempting to fix something you are unfamiliar with because you risk breaking the machinery or hurting yourself and others. If you notice a live electrical wire that isn't being maintained, you should notify the appropriate electrical safety personnel so they can immediately erect physical safety barriers.

Conclusion

While there are several techniques to keep yourself safe while utilizing electrical equipment, you should always avoid coming directly in touch with the electric current itself. Nevertheless, to ensure the safety of lives and property, you should only allow a qualified electrician near you like Cozco Electrical Contractors to handle your home and office electrical needs.