Electricity is an essential part of our everyday lives, from the moment we wake up until dinner time. We’ve come to take it for granted and have forgotten how powerful and dangerous it can be.
We are aware of the electrical dangers when we are at home and adhere to safety rules such as unplugging unused devices, delaying switches when not in use, avoiding open or live wires, utilizing circuit breakers, and so on. When we come to our workplace, where most of the job activities are completed in an air-conditioned office building, it may appear to be a perfectly safe place. However, in an office environment, there are a plethora of hazards. We’ve compiled a list of common electrical hazards to help you avoid being injured at work.
Hazard #1 – Wiring malfunctions
Wires or cables that are no longer functioning should be eliminated at once. Loose wires, frayed cables, and exposed wires need to be fixed. Damaged wiring and cabling can result in electrical shocks and fires.
Hazard #2 Overloaded circuits
When many devices are connected to the same circuit, the current will heat the wires to a very high temperature, potentially causing a fire. If the wire insulation melts, a fire may break out in the region where the overload exists or even within a wall.
Hazard #3 – Damaged extension cords
Extension cords have a poor history of reliability. Over time, extension cords may develop fractures and other flaws that cause shocks. Electrical tape won’t help you here either. Rather than using an extension cord, place your electrical equipment as near to an electrical outlet as possible.
Hazard #4 – Water on an electrical device
In the case of contact with water, no electrical equipment should be used or even switched on. Water significantly raises the danger of electrocution, especially if the equipment has frayed insulation. Unplug all wet equipment after turning off the main power supply. Make sure they’re completely dried out. Have an electrician check the equipment to confirm it can be used again and is no longer a hazard.
Hazard #5 – Improper Grounding
To establish a low resistance channel for dissipation of current into the earth, every electrical equipment, appliance, or gadget must be earthed. Ground fault current is a serious safety hazard that can cause fires and electrical shock. Electric systems that aren’t grounded might also be harmful to your electronics. This essential safety feature removes extra power from your gadget and prevents its damage.
Hazard #6 – Wrong placement of electrical cords
Electrical cords should be installed safely and correctly. They are most often placed along or near the walls. Make sure that no electrical lines run through busy areas, beneath carpets, or across entrances.
Hazard #7 – Plugs with a loose fitting
To protect your equipment, make sure all electrical components are firmly connected. Loose-fitting plugs might cause equipment to overheat and catch fire. Each plug needs to be inspected for wear and tear regularly. When cleaning the workspace, ensure that you don’t move any equipment or cause the plug to come loose from the socket.
Let us all be aware of our surroundings and take the appropriate precautions to minimize any danger at work. It’s our workplace; therefore, we must be a part of the electrical safety measures and initiatives. Risks are all around us; how we respond to them makes a significant difference. Be vigilant; keep yourself safe with our expert electrical safety training.