Working with or near electricity in your home or business can be very dangerous if you’re not careful. The hazards associated with electricity-related jobs include:
- Fire
- Electrical burns
- Thermal burns
- Electric shock
- Falls
- Fatal electrocution
While these hazards can be scary to think about, the good news is that there are ways to minimize your risk. Here are five of the most important safety tips to keep in mind while working around electricity.
1. Avoid Contact With Water
When working with electricity, it is imperative that you take all necessary precautions to avoid encountering water. Because water increases electrical conductivity, water and electricity do not mix. Even a small amount of moisture in your work area, on your hands, or on equipment can result in a serious accident.
Electrical systems are typically housed inside waterproof enclosures that protect the live wires from damage if water encounters them. However, these enclosures are still susceptible to corrosion, which can create a potential hazard for those who handle electrical equipment.
An electric current can travel through water faster and more effortlessly than through air, making it easier for shock or electrocution to occur. Therefore, when working around wires or other equipment that may be wet or damp, it is essential to exercise extreme caution to ensure your safety. Be sure to keep your hands dry and avoid water when working around electricity.
2. Ensure That All Electrical Wiring is Properly Insulated
Electric shock is a serious hazard that can happen when working around electricity. If all electrical wiring is not properly insulated, it can lead to a person encountering the live wires and suffering an electric shock. This can be extremely dangerous, and in some cases, fatal.
There are several ways to ensure that all electrical wiring is properly insulated. For one, make sure that any loose or exposed wires are covered with electrical tape. Use only appropriately rated electrical cords and plug protectors, and always turn off the power before attempting to repair or replace any electrical components. These simple precautions can help you protect yourself from the risk of electric shock.
3. Wear Appropriate Protective Gear
Proper protective gear is essential for keeping yourself safe when working with electrical currents. Exposure to electricity can be extremely dangerous, both to the people working with it and to those around them. Without appropriate safety gear, there is a serious risk of shock or even electrocution.
Although properly insulated clothing and gloves may seem like overkill, they protect against any accidental contact with stray electrical currents and keep you free from unexpected burns. Furthermore, wearing appropriate gear also reduces your risk of encountering exposed wires or broken insulation, both of which can lead to serious injury.
4. Stay Away From Live Wires
When working around electricity, it is important to stay away from live wires, which are currently carrying an electrical current. This current can cause serious injuries if you encounter it. In addition, live wires can also start fires if they meet flammable materials.
If you see a live wire, do not try to touch it or move it. Instead, call an electrician at Beck Electric, Generators & Plumbing and let us know about the situation. We will send someone out to fix the problem.
5. If in Doubt, Call an Electrician
We cannot overstate the importance of electrical safety. Working with electricity can be dangerous if you’re not familiar with the ins and outs of wiring systems and safety protocols. If you are going to work around electricity, it is a good idea to make sure that you have received adequate training in avoiding electrical hazards. If you do not have these credentials, it is always advisable to call an electrician when you have any doubts or concerns about your electrical work.
An electrician will have years of training and experience working with all kinds of wires, circuits, and other components that are involved in electrical systems. This means that they will be able to detect problems early on, preventing potentially serious incidents down the line. Additionally, electricians typically have access to a wide range of specialized tools and equipment that allow them to quickly diagnose and address any issues they come across.
If you are ever in doubt when working around electricity, make sure to call an electrician at Beck Electric, Generators & Plumbing right away to keep yourself safe. We provide reliable residential and commercial electrical installation services to homeowners and businesses in Canton and the surrounding northeast Ohio areas. Our family-owned business has been delivering exceptional electrician services, generator services, plumbing services, and more since 2007. You can count on us to get the job done. Contact us today!
