Hazard: Electricity

Started 01/12/2019 145 0 0

Electricity is used in almost all workplaces, so it is important to make sure you follow the rules and use it safely.

When someone has an electric shock, the electric current passes the body and can cause burns or make their heart to stop (electrocution).

Electric shock also causes ‘throw off’ (for example from a ladder or scaffold) leading to further serious injury and, even, death.

It is essential that electrical systems and equipment are designed, constructed, selected, maintained and used with care.

Controls to reduce the risks linked to the use of electricity include:

insulation – protects people against direct contact with electricity
earthing – provides a connection to earth, protecting against contact with electricity
fuses – protective strips of metal that melt and break if overheating occurs, stopping the supply of electricity and preventing overheating and fire
circuit breakers – to detect excess flow of electrical current and stop the electricity supply to the circuit, provided that they are of the correct type and rating
residual current circuit breakers – to protect against electric shock
voltage reduction – so that the lowest possible voltage is used
use of cables, plugs and sockets suitable for the task
Inspection and maintenance
keep the power supply disconnected when it is not required
keep water and electricity apart
check equipment before use and report defects immediately
use appropriate equipment for the task
use equipment according to the safety procedures of the workplace
use electrical equipment only if you have been trained and are authorised to use it.

Equipment and systems that use electricity must be tested regularly and maintained by a competent person.

The frequency of testing depends on a number of factors, such as the degree of wear and tear. Portable tools require extra attention.