The Most Common Electrical Hazards In The Workplace

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Electrical safety is an overall practice of workers who are visible to handling and sustaining electrically powered equipment. It is a set of rules they follow to mitigate electrical hazards and stop its dangerous effects in case of an event. Unable to adhere to electrical safety can lead to accidents, near misses, or even fatalities.
Electrical Hazards:
Electrocution is one of the most communal hazards across construction sites according to OSHA. Electrical safety training which helps to gain knowledge and understanding of communal electrical hazards found at workplaces, which can cause injuries to and even death of workers assigned with electrical works as well as electrical accidents leading to extensive damage to lives and properties in industrial setting. Here are common electrical hazards in the workplace
Overhead Power Lines: Overhead powered and eager electrical lines have high voltages which can cause main burns and electrocution to workers. Remember to maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet from above power lines and nearby equipment. Conduct site examinations to confirm that nothing is stored under ...
... overhead power lines. Also, safety blocks and signs must be fit to warn nearby non-electrical workers of the dangers present in the area.
Injured Tools and Equipment: Exposure to damaged electrical tools and equipment can be very risky. Do not fix anything unless worker are qualified to do so. Carefully check for cracks, cuts, or abrasions on cables, wires, and cords. In case of any flaws, have them repaired or replaced. Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) processes should be accomplished at all times before commencing electrical maintenance and repairs. LOTO processes are there to guard all workers on a workplace.
Insufficient Wiring and Overloaded Circuits: Using wires of unsuitable size for the present can cause overheating and fires to happen. Use the accurate wire suitable for the operation and the electrical load to work on. Use the right extension cord designed for heavy-duty use. Also, do not overload an outlet and use appropriate circuit breakers. Accomplish regular fire risk assessments to classify areas at risk of bad wiring and circuits.
Uncovered Electrical Parts: Uncovered electrical parts contain temporary lighting, open power distribution units, and separate insulation parts on electrical cords. These hazards can cause potential shocks and burns. Protected these items with appropriate guarding mechanisms and always check for any exposed parts to be repaired instantly.
Inappropriate Grounding: The most mutual OSHA electrical violation is the unsuitable grounding of equipment. Appropriate grounding can eliminate unwanted voltage and decrease the risk of electrocution. Never eliminate the metallic ground pin as it is responsible for returning unwanted voltage to the ground.
Damaged Insulation: Defective or inadequate insulation is a risk. Be aware of damaged insulation and report it immediately. Turn off all power sources before replacing spoiled insulation and never try to cover them with electrical tape.
Wet Conditions: Never function electrical equipment in wet locations. Water importantly increases the risk of electrocution specially if the equipment has damaged insulation. Have a qualified electrician examine electrical equipment that has gotten wet before energizing it.
Source:
https://ohsawareness.wordpress.com/2022/12/22/the-most-common-electrical-hazards-in-the-workplace/