SAFETY TOOL BOX TALK

Card No. 6a

ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Electricity is a vital part of our everyday lives.  However it can be
dangerous, it must be treated with respect.  The following tips will help:
1. Most electrical appliances are subject to regular testing.  Ensure that
all electrical equipment in use is in good condition and carries an up-to-
date test certification label.
2. The safe and correct use of electrical equipment is essential in
reducing the risk of electric shock, injury, death, fire, damage or
explosion.  Always ensure you have received adequate training and
instruction in the safe use of equipment before attempting to operate it.
3. Check equipment before use.  Unsafe equipment must be reported to
your manager/supervisor immediately and taken out of use until
repaired.
4. Remember - coming into contact with even a relatively small amount
of electric current can have serious consequences on your body.  This
includes physical damage such as burns, emotional disturbance/coma
and death.
5. Multi-way plug adapters/extensions should only be used if absolutely
necessary and must be rated high enough to do the job.  Overloaded
sockets can increase the risk of fire.
6. Always try to place electrical equipment near to the electrical source. 
This can reduce the risk of a lead becoming a tripping hazard or
becoming damaged.
7. Any repairs to electrical equipment must only be carried out by a
qualified person.
8. Where practicable, electrical equipment must be switched off after use
and the plug removed from the socket.  Electrical equipment that
becomes unattended should always be switched off.
9. Isolate equipment before working on it.  Only work "live" if totally
unavoidable.
10. Avoid placing containers of liquid near or on electrical equipment, as
this can cause damage, electric shock or fire.  Should any spillage
occur, switch off the electricity supply to all equipment concerned
immediately and notify your manager/supervisor who will arrange for
the equipment to be properly checked or repaired before further use.
11. With more complex electrical machinery always adhere to the work
procedures and safety precautions that apply to the use and operation
of the equipment.  This includes earthing, isolation and other protection
procedures.
12. Never remove or tamper with any safety guards fitted to electrical
equipment; they are in place for your protection.
13. Do not bring any of your own electrical equipment onto Tube Lines or
LUL sites without obtaining consent.
14. All hired equipment must be properly examined and should be
provided with test certification to ensure that it complies with the
relevant LUL electrical safety standards.
15. Always use personal protective equipment if your work with electricity
demands it.
16. Always maintain a safe method of work around power lines and
conductor rails and always comply with the companies specific safety
procedures.
17. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
18. Do not touch any electrical equipment with wet hands.
19. Do not cover equipment air inlets or outlets as this may cause
overheating and fire.

If you are working with someone who collapses as a result of receiving

an electric shock turn off the electricity supply if possible.  Where
possible ensure the person is clear of the electrical source by following
LUL procedure before attempting to touch them or administer First Aid.
If in doubt seek help.
SAFETY TOOL BOX TALK

Card No. 6b

ELECTRICAL SAFETY
How much do you know?

1. What must you ensure you have had before attempting to work
with any electrical equipment?

2. What are the consequences of failing to work safely when working

with electrical equipment?

3. What should you do with any equipment before you attempt to

use it?

4. Why should you avoid using Multiway plug adaptors and

extensions?

5. Who can carry out repairs to any electrical equipment?

6. What MUST you do before commencing work on any electrical

equipment, and under what circumstances can you work with
LIVE equipment?

7. What must you not place near electrical equipment and why?

8. What should you not bring onto site with you?

9. When working near power lines and conductor rails what must
you ensure you maintain?

10. What can you touch with wet hands?