From serious burns and electric shock to electrocution, fire, and explosion, electrical negligence can be a terrible danger for employees in the workplace.
In most cases, electrical accidents in the offices and workplaces can be prevented when everyone develops awareness and pay attention to various electrical hazards.
With this in mind, here are five helpful tips to help prevent electrical accidents and injuries from taking place in the workplace:
- Ensure that there are enough electrical outlets in the workplace.
You can almost always expect that a typical workplace will have to cater to several pieces of electrical equipment at a time. It is critical that you have enough outlets around, so you do not have to rely heavily on one or two particular outlets. Overloading your electrical outlets can cause short circuits and overheating which can pose serious electrical hazards.
- Keep electrical wirings and cords neat and tidy.
When unplugging cords from the outlet, see to it that you disconnect it from the plug rather than merely yanking the cord which can cause potential electric shock and damage the cord. Electrical wires and cords should also be organized to avoid tripping hazards and the risk of electric shocks.
- Conduct a regular inspection to the electrical wirings and equipment in your workplace, and report any signs of damages or defects promptly.
Electrical wirings and equipment in the workplace should undergo regular inspection and preventative maintenance. Do not use cords and outlets that feel warm to touch. Be wary of any burning smells and defective devices. Any signs of fraying, deterioration, and defects should be taken cared of immediately to avoid electrical hazards and potential damages.
- Never use electrical devices and appliances near wet areas or with wet hands.
Water and electricity is a deadly mix. Employees should not touch electrical appliances on wet surfaces or touch them with wet hands to prevent electric shock. To enhance safety, there should be a proper grounding system in place at the office or workplace.
- See to it that all tools and equipment used in the workplace pass safety standards and follow instruction manuals carefully.
Companies should invest in quality appliances and equipment that adhere to safety codes and standards. It is also critical to follow the instructions regarding proper equipment usage and handling to avoid the risks of accidents and injuries.
Many electrical accidents in the workplace happen due to unsafe installation, mishandling of equipment, and faulty or damaged facilities. Eliminating and controlling electrical hazards in the workplace should be everyone’s responsibility – employer and employees alike – to avoid any accidents which can cause life-threatening injuries or even cause electrical fires.
Your workplace is not just the place where you work to earn a living, it should, first and foremost, be a safe place for everyone. Fostering a safe workplace starts by identifying the hidden hazards in the workplace and developing a plan to resolve them. Finally, everyone in the workplace should do their part by not ignoring the safety warnings and being proactive in reporting any potential electrical and safety hazards immediately.