Electricity is an essential part of our everyday lives, powering our homes, schools, and workplaces. However, it is incredibly dangerous if not handled with care. For example, your workplace may be prone to a lot of electrical hazards that, if overlooked, can lead to serious injuries and property damage.
To stay prepared, let’s take a closer look at seven of the most common electrical hazards you may encounter in the workplace and how you can avoid them. We’ll also explain how having regular electrical testing and tagging services can help mitigate the risks and keep your property safe.
7 Common Electrical Hazards in the Workplace
Ensure your workplace remains safe from the dangers of electricity by checking for and addressing these seven common electrical hazards:
1. Overhead Power Lines
Overhead power lines carry high-voltage electricity, and can easily cause electrocution upon contact. It is important to maintain a safe distance from these power lines, especially in areas where ladders and tall equipment are used.
To prevent accidents from overhead power lines, install safety barriers and signs to ensure that people are aware these power lines are live. This will help people remain at a safe distance of at least 10 feet away.
2. Damaged Tools and Equipment
Electrical tools and equipment can become damaged or faulty if not maintained properly, which can cause severe accidents. Regularly inspect your workplace tools and equipment, and replace any that are damaged or faulty.
Store each tool and equipment properly after use, avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, and corrosive substances. Workers should also use the correct tools and equipment for each job they are doing since using the wrong tool can cause malfunction and damage.
3. Overloaded Circuits
When too many devices are connected to a single circuit, it can overload and overheat, causing electrical shocks and damaged equipment.
To prevent this, keep track of the number of devices connected to a single circuit. It is also recommended to use surge protectors as an additional measure of protection against power surges and voltage spikes. Surge protectors can be especially useful for sensitive electronic devices.
4. Faulty Wiring
Over time, wiring can deteriorate and fray, leading to exposed lines that can electrocute you if you touch them accidentally. In addition, if the insulation around the wires is damaged, it can short-circuit and cause sparks that can ignite a fire.
Have a professional electrician inspect the wiring in your home or business regularly and recommend where upgrades are needed. Upgrading wiring can include installing new circuit breakers, replacing old outlets and switches, and rewiring the entire electrical system.
5. Exposed Electrical Parts
Electrical parts should always be covered and protected to prevent accidental contact. Ensure that any electrical parts in your workplace are properly installed and maintained, checking for any signs of wear and tear.
Also, make sure that any electrical parts are clearly marked and easily visible. If you notice any exposed electrical parts, have them repaired or replaced immediately.
6. Wet Conditions
Wet conditions can significantly increase the risk of hazards when working with electrical equipment or outlets. Water conducts electricity and can easily cause electrical shock or electrocution.
Keep electrical equipment and outlets away from wet areas, and use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to prevent electrical shocks in wet conditions. Water can seep into electrical equipment or outlets, even if they are not directly exposed to wet conditions, so it is essential to inspect them regularly and ensure they are dry.
7. Damaged Insulation
Insulation is an important component of electrical wiring systems, as it is designed to protect wires from damage and prevent electrical shorts that could lead to serious accidents. Insulation damage can occur due to various reasons, such as exposure to heat or moisture, mechanical damage, or age-related wear and tear.
Have insulation regularly inspected by a qualified electrician who can identify any signs of damage and recommend repairs or replacements as necessary. Additionally, proper maintenance of electrical systems can help prevent insulation damage and ensure that they continue to function safely and efficiently.
How Can a Test and Tag Inspection Help?
Electrical hazards are a serious issue that can cause injuries, property damage, and even death. As such, it is essential for business owners to take the necessary steps to prevent them from happening. One of the best ways to do this is by conducting regular test and tag inspections.
Test and tag inspections involve inspecting all electrical equipment, including tools, appliances, and outlets, to ensure that they are working correctly and are safe to use. During an inspection, a test and tag expert checks the workplace for any potential hazards and ensures that all necessary maintenance has been performed.
The Test and Tag Experts You Can Rely On
Our team of qualified and experienced experts provides top-quality testing and tagging services, which include electrical safety compliance, regular maintenance, safety checks, and inspections. We strive to stay up-to-date with the latest electrical safety requirements and innovations by continuously undergoing safety training.
We provide the following testing and tagging services to help keep your business safe:
- Reminder Service – We will let you know before your equipment and appliances are due again for retesting so you don’t lose track.
- Data Management Service – We will keep an accurate record of your testing results for you.
- Repairing of Faulty Items – We can repair faulty items for you or coordinate with our partners to ensure that your appliances are well taken care of.
- Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) – Every time we visit your site, we will conduct a risk assessment of your environment and report any hazards to you.
We provide a comprehensive range of services, such as workplace safety inspections, electrical testing and tagging, RCD testing, and microwave testing, all in one place. You won’t need to look for different providers to keep your business safe.
This is why Jim’s Test & Tag is the most trusted name for electrical testing and tagging services by businesses all throughout New Zealand. Call us at 0800 454 654 to learn more about our services, or request a free quote via our online form.
