10 Electrical Safety Rules

Whether you’re at work or at home, both settings operate on electricity. Here are 10 electrical safety tips to help you avoid electrical hazards:

1. Prevent electrical equipment from contacting wet areas

Keep water and other liquids at least 5 feet away from electrical equipment and sources of electricity. It is recommended to install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) which helps in preventing electrical incidents like electrical shock, ground-fault, fires, overheating, and destruction of wire insulation.

2. Ensure safe use when unplugging

When disconnecting electrical equipment, gently pull it by plug instead of jerking the electrical cord. Pulling by the cord can damage the electrical cable and cause a shock. 

3. Install properly and tidy electrical cords

Good electrical installation consists of fixed electrical equipment and electrical cords out of the way (and out of reach of pets that can chew on them).

4. Understand your switchboard

A switchboard is an electrical safety device that protects and isolates the operator from electrical current. It controls the flow of electricity by dividing, distributing, and metering electrical power to different parts and devices. To ensure best performance and safety, electrical power entering the switchboard must resemble the amount of power it distributes. Otherwise, it can cause overheating and lead to fire.

5. Look out for electrical lines

Be aware of power lines before climbing a tree or a ladder, and especially when working at height.

6. Childproof your outlets

Use outlet covers when there are children around to avoid electrocution.

7. Investigate Flickering Lights

Have flickering lights checked and fixed as it can be caused by loose connections somewhere or the bulb itself needs to be secured or replaced.

8. Install warning signs

Use clear visible signs when there’s high voltage in the vicinity that people need to be warned about. 

9. Don’t DIY

Instead of fixing issues, most DIY’s can cause further damage. Should any electrical issues arise, it is always best to have an expert handle it.

10. Call for help

In case of an emergency, don’t hesitate to call the emergency services who will talk you through how to safely assist in the situation until help arrives.

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Electrical Safety Checklist