ELECTRICAL SAFETY

April 30, 2023

ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
A complete circuit
complete Circuit or loop
is necessary for current to flow

Current takes the path of least resistance

ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

BE SAFE:
Burns
Electrocution
Shock
Arc flash/arc blast
Fire
Explosions
 (1,000 milliamperes = 1 amp; therefore, 15,000 milliamperes = 15 amp
circuit)
Current Reaction
Below 1 milliampere Generally not perceptible
1 milliampere Faint tingle
5 milliampere Slight shock felt; not painful but disturbing. Average
individual can let go. Strong involuntary reactions can
lead to other injuries

9-30 mill amperes loss of muscular control , The freezing current or “let-go”
range. Individual cannot let go, but can be thrown away
from the circuit if extensor muscles are stimulated.

50-150 milliamps Extreme pain, respiratory arrest, severe muscular

contractions. Death is possible.

1,000-4,300 milli amperes Rhythmic pumping action of the heart ceases. Muscular
contraction and nerve damage occur; death likely

10,000 milli amperes Cardiac arrest, severe burns; death probable

 Are Cords and Plugs in Good
Condition?
• Inspect cords regularly to ensure
they are not damaged.
• Cord damage includes: cuts/tears
of insulation, fraying, and
exposed wiring.
• Adapters should not be used to
convert a three-prong plug into a
two prong.
Are Power Strips “Daisy Chained”?
• One power strip
should not be
plugged into another
power strip. This is
called “daisy
chaining”.
• Daisy chaining can
result in too many
items plugged into an
outlet causing an
overloaded circuit.
Are Cords Properly Placed to Prevent
Damage?
• Electrical cords should not be placed under
floor mats or carpets.
• Do not use staples, tacks or nails to secure
electrical cords.
• Electrical cords should not undergo severe
bending, pressure or crimping.
• Do not place cords in aisles where they can
become a trip hazard.
Are There Enough Electrical Outlets?
• Extension cords are permitted only for
temporary uses.
• Extension cords should not be used as a
means of reaching a far away outlet.
• If additional outlets are needed in an area,
a Facilities electrician should be contacted
to properly install.
Are Electrical Outlets Free of
Overloading?
• Use of adapters to add plugs into
an outlet should be avoided.
• Too many items plugged into a
single circuit can cause circuit
overload and tripping of the main
breakers.
• In some instances, an overloaded
circuit can overheat and cause a
fire.
Is All Electrical Equipment in Good
Condition?
• Electrical equipment must be maintained in good
operating condition.
• Equipment must have all panels and covers
securely affixed.
• Wall outlets must have the wall plate affixed.
• Look for signs of damage or overheating.
• If equipment is defective, take it out of service
immediately!
Is Equipment Turned Off After Hours?
• Where possible, electrical
equipment should be turned off
during non-business hours.
• Area motion sensors should be
used when feasible to prevent
lights being left on at night.
• Use equipment with the EPA
“Energy Star” logo affixed.
What’s the problem?
Electrical Protection Methods
Use ground-fault circuit
interrupters (GFCI):
• Designed to protect people
from electrical shock
• Detects ground faults and
interrupts electric current
• Limits duration of electrical
shock
Electrical Protection Methods

Inspect portable tools and extension cords:

• Workers need to inspect extension cords prior
to their use for any cuts or abrasion.
• Electric hand tools that are old, damaged, or
misused may have damaged insulation inside.
Electrical Protection Methods

Use power tools and equipment as

designed:
• Follow tool safety tips to avoid misusing
equipment
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions
Electrical Protection Methods

• Common examples of
misused equipment
Electrical Protection Methods

Tool safety tips

• Never carry a tool by the cord.
• Never yank the cord to disconnect it.
• Keep cords away from heat, oil, and
sharp edges.
• Disconnect when not in use and when
changing accessories such as blades
and bits.
Electrical Protection Methods

• Avoid accidental starting. Do not hold

fingers on the switch button while
carrying a plugged-in tool.
• Use gloves and appropriate footwear.
• Store in dry a place when not using.
Electrical Protection Methods

• Don’t use in wet/damp environments.

• Keep working areas well lit.
• Ensure that cords do not cause a tripping
hazard.
• Remove damaged tools from use.
• Use double-insulated tools.
Electrical Protection Methods
Electrical Protection Methods

Power source identification:

• Mark all breakers accordingly for the circuits
they protect
• Mark all disconnect means accordingly for
the equipment they service
• Identify all voltages with proper labeling
Electrical Safety Self-Assessment
• A self-assessment shall be carried out to assist in
identifying electrical hazards.
• If you identify any hazards, let concerned
department know right away.
• Hazards must be promptly corrected. If needed,
isolate the hazardous appliances