Electrical Safety In The Workplace

Electrical safety in the workplace is extremely important for many reasons. As one of the most common sources of workplace injuries, electrical hazards should be regularly assessed and eliminated. Poor maintenance of electrical equipment can lead to electrocution, electric shocks, life changing injuries and in extreme circumstances, death. In this article we'll look at some of the most common electrical hazards found in the workplace.

As a business owner there are legislations in place to ensure health & safety in the workplace remains a focal point. For example;

Electricity At Work Regulation 1989

Health & Safety At Work Act Of 1974

The Management Of Health & Safety At Work Regulation Of 1999

The Provision Use Of Work Equipment Regulation Of 1998

Failure to comply with the above legislations can result in a monetary fine or imprisonment. Furthermore, employers are expected to report certain workplace injuries and incidents to the health and safety executive. Lastly, All UK insurers require you to comply with the law in order to be covered correctly. Failure to comply with any of the above could result in a claim being refused.

Common Electrical hazards In The Workplace

Faulty equipment

The continuous use of faulty or damaged electrical equipment such as, power tools and extension leads can lead to electric shocks. All electrical equipment should be regularly PAT tested to ensure their safe to be used.

Frayed/Exposed electrical cables

Electrical cords on your equipment act as a jacket for the internal live wires. When this jacket is frayed it can leave the live wires exposed. Without the additional layer of protection, the risk of electrical fires or shocks is increased.

Electricity near water

Electricity and water do not mix. Exposure to water can lead to an electrocution which can result in life changing injuries or death. If any of your electrical equipment gets wet it should be unplugged and inspected by a qualified electrician before its used again.

Incorrect Grounding

Electrical devices must be grounded or earthed to avoid the risk of electrocution. This must be checked periodically by a qualified individual. The most common test that analysis this is a PAT Test.

Overloaded Sockets

With the advancement of technology, our offices and homes are flooded with equipment that requires electricity. This often leads to extension cables being used to accommodate for the many appliances.

Ideally, extension leads used for multiple appliances should be fused, multi-way bar leads with with surge protection. In addition, do not overload the extension leads maximum electrical capacity. This can lead to electrical fires. Lastly, basic block adapters are more likely to cause an electrical fire when multiple heavy duty appliances are plugged in at the same time.

Weird smells from your equipment

If your electrical appliances or electrical sockets smell like hot plastic or have yellow scorch marks, this is a sign of an overloaded circuit. This can quickly lead to sparks or smoke. To avoid further damage all appliances should be unplugged until they've been deemed safe by a qualified electrician.

PAT Testing

A Portable Appliance Test (PAT) is an electrical safety check that is carried out on portable electrical equipment. The test checks the condition of the appliance, its lead and plug, and looks for any damage that could make it unsafe. Furthermore, PAT testing should be carried out at least every 12 months. However, some items of electrical equipment may need to be tested more often, depending on how often they are used. For instance, power tools used in construction or coffee machines used in a cafe's should be tested more frequently that fan in a hotel.

 

What Does PAT Testing Involve?

1: Insulation test. This tests the insulation of the appliance to make sure that it is not damaged and that it will not allow electricity to leak through.

2: Continuity test. This test checks that the electrical circuit is complete and that there are no breaks in it.

3: Polarity test. This checks that the appliance is correctly wired and that the live and neutral wires are not reversed.

4: Earth continuity test. This test checks that the appliance has a good earth connection.

5: Functional check. This involves testing the appliance to make sure that it works correctly.

EICR Test

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is an electrical safety check that is carried out on a property's wiring. The test looks for any damage or faults in the wiring and checks that it is safe to use.  In addition, an EICR should be carried out every 5 years, or sooner if there are any concerns about the condition of the wiring. Much alike a PAT Test, an EICR test includes a visual inspection, Continuity test, Polarity test & Earth Continuity.

After the tests have been carried out, the property's wiring will be given a pass or fail rating. Lastly, If the wiring fails any of the tests, it will need to be repaired or replaced before it can be used again.

Common Electrical hazards In The Workplace

Being aware of common electrical hazards in the workplace is critical for many reasons. Failure to stay on top of these hazards could lead to life changing incidents. Both PAT Testing and EICR are a vital part of electrical safety in the workplace. Not only do they ensure your employees are safe but they also ensure your company is complying with government regulations. Employers should make sure all employees are mindful of electrical hazards and encourage employees to report all hazards to the management team.

Click for more information on Electrical Cabling for Businesses and For common fuse problems follow this link. 

What is a circuit breaker?

A circuit breaker is a safety device that interrupts the flow of electricity in an electrical circuit.  The purpose of a circuit breaker is to prevent damage from overload or short circuit.  There are two main types of circuit breakers: thermal-magnetic circuit breakers and solid-state circuit breakers. Thermal-magnetic circuit breakers use a combination of heat and magnetic force to trip the breaker, while solid-state circuit breakers use semiconductor devices to detect an overload or short circuit and then interrupt the flow of electricity. Lastly, circuit breakers are typically installed in household and commercial buildings, as well as in industrial and utility applications.

Overcurrent

Overcurrent is a condition of an electrical circuit when it exceeds the maximum current allowed. As a result, too much current is flowing through the circuit. This can lead to fires, damage to the conductor insulation, and equipment damage. Overcurrent can be caused by a number of things, such as short circuit, overload, ground fault or arc. Due to the potential damage caused by an overcurrent its important to shut off the power to the affected circuit as soon as possible.

Overload

An overload happens when equipment is operating in excess of its normal full-load rating. When this is sustained over a long period of time it causes overheating and damage. An overload can be caused by a number of things, for example an overloaded circuit or faulty appliances. Overloads can cause damage to electrical components and pose a fire hazard, so it's important to shut off the power to the affected circuit as soon as possible.

Short Circuit

A short circuit is caused when an overcurrent extremely exceeds the recommended full load current of the circuit. As the name suggests, a short circuit is when the current travels along an unintended path, taking a short-cut around the load and then back to the power source. As a result, this leads to an excessive current flowing through the circuit. A short circuit can be caused by a loose wire, damaged appliances, or an overloaded circuit.

Why do circuit breakers trip?

There are a few reasons why circuit breakers trip;

1. Overloaded circuits: Too many devices drawing power from the same circuit can cause it to overload and trip.
2. Short circuits: A direct connection between the hot and neutral wires of an electrical circuit can cause it to overheat and trip.
3. Ground faults: When the hot wire of an electrical circuit comes into contact with the ground, it can cause the circuit to trip.
4. Appliance failures: A faulty appliance can cause a circuit to trip.

If your Circuit Breaker trips frequently, it's important to have an electrician check your wiring to ensure everything is up to code and to identify any potential problems.

How do circuit breakers work?

Circuit breakers work by detecting when an electrical circuit is overloaded or has a short circuit. When this occurs, the circuit breaker trips and interrupts the flow of electricity. This prevents damage to the electrical circuit by preventing further current from flowing.

What are the benefits of using a circuit breaker?

Circuit breakers offer a number of benefits over other types of electrical safety devices, such as fuses. Circuit breakers can be reset after they trip, while fuses must be replaced. Furthermore,  circuit breakers also provide protection against both overloads and short circuits, while fuses only provide protection against overloads. Additionally, circuit breakers can be used in a variety of applications, such as household, commercial, industrial, and utility applications.

Circuit Breakers Vs Fuses

Fuses and circuit breakers are both designed to protect electrical circuits from overloads, but they work in different ways. Fuses work by blowing or interrupting the flow of electricity when they sense an overload, while circuit breakers simply shut off the current when they sense an overload. Circuit breakers can be reset after they trip, while fuses must be replaced.

For additional articles on Electrical Safety follow the links below.

Electrical Safety In The Office 

Electrical Equipment Safety 

What I A Pat Test?

What is a EICR Test?

 

Electrical safety in the office is important for many reasons. One of the main purposes is to keep your employees safe. Failure to keep on top of your electrical safety can leave your business exposed to many hazards. For instance, shocks, electrocution, fires, and burns. Furthermore, failure to maintain your electrical safety can void your business insurance. Lastly, failure to comply can also leave you exposed legally. Government regulations such as the health and safety at work act 1974 require companies to follow certain procedures to ensure employees are safe.

Some of the symptoms of electrical shock include: muscle spasms, convulsions, paralysis, and cardiac arrest. Electrical shock can also cause burns, either at the site of contact or internally. In severe cases, electrical shock can lead to death.

Electrical shocks can be prevented by following basic safety precautions, such as using only grounded outlets, not overloading outlets, and not using extension cords unless absolutely necessary. In addition, all office equipment should be properly maintained and inspected on a regular basis. Lastly, tests such as PAT testing and EICR aid in minimising the hazards caused by faulty electrics.

Tips to improve electrical safety in the office

• Avoid overloading outlets.

• Do not plug appliances into each other. For example, do not plug a coffee maker into an extension cord that is plugged into a computer.

• Unplug small appliances when not in use.

•Avoid using extension cords unless absolutely necessary. If you must use an extension cord, make sure it is properly rated for the wattage of the equipment you are using.

• Use only light-duty cords and plugs for office equipment such as computers, printers, and fax machines.

• Never place cords and wires under carpets or rugs.

• Do not staple or nail cords and wires to walls or baseboards.

• Keep work areas well ventilated and free of clutter.

• Report any electrical hazards immediately to your supervisor.

Electrical Safety in the Office ( PAT Testing)

A PAT test, or portable appliance test, is a process in which electrical appliances are checked for safety. The aim of a PAT test is to ensure that electrical appliances are safe to use and pose no risk of electrocution or fire.

PAT tests are typically carried out by a qualified electrician who will carry out a series of tests on the appliance to check for any potential safety hazards. These tests include an insulation test, a earth continuity test and a test for correct functioning of the appliance.

If any faults are found during the PAT test, the electrician will make repairs or adjustments to the appliance to ensure it is safe to use. The appliance will then be retested to ensure it meets all safety standards.

PAT testing is a requirement for many businesses and organisations who use electrical appliances. As a result, it is advisable to have appliances regularly PAT tested to ensure they are safe to use.

For more information regarding PAT Testing follow this link.

Electrical Safety in the Office ( EICR Test)

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) should be part of your electrical safety procedures. A Electrical Installation Condition Report is a periodic inspection of an electrical installation, it's carried out by a qualified electrician. The report will identify any observed deficiencies against the national safety standards for electrical installations. Furthermore, the electrician will make recommendations for any remedial work that may be required.

An EICR is sometimes referred to as a 'landlord's safety certificate', 'periodic inspection report' or 'electrical installation certificate'.

Why is an EICR important?

EICR is important because it provides evidence that an electrical installation has been inspected by a qualified electrician. It also confirms that any observed deficiencies have been noted and reported. It is a legal requirement in England and Wales that all landlords must ensure that the electrical installations in their properties are safe. An EICR is one way of providing this evidence.

An EICR is also important because it can help to identify potential hazards before they result in an accident or injury. By carrying out regular inspections and taking remedial action where necessary, the risks associated with electrical installations can be effectively managed.

Are you a property owner or a business owner looking for advice on electrical equipment safety? If so, you're in the right place. Electricity can be highly dangerous, so it's important that you know what you're dealing with when it comes to working with electronic devices.

Regardless of whether you're changing a light bulb or rewiring a plug. The dangers of electricity can be fatal. Naturally, this leads to a high level of concern when working with electricity, but when it comes to electrical safety there's a lot of misinformation floating around. So, to help keep you safe and confident, we've put together some tips on how you can tell if your electrical equipment is safe.

Keeping electrical equipment safe

Property owners seeking advice on electrical equipment safety should make sure to do the following:

1. Establish that it's safe before use (visual check for any signs of damage).
2. Know how to safely use it. Follow these steps: -Read the instructions and warnings from the manufacturer, as well as any labels present on or near the product, and follow them explicitly.
3. Keep away from water sources such as sinks, bathtubs, pools, etc. Do not expose your appliance to rain or snow either. If a power cord is wet from contact with water or moisture in general, unplug it immediately and allow it time to dry out before using again.
4. Do not overload outlets by plugging too many appliances into one outlet at once; this can lead to overheating.
5. Keep your device in an open area, away from flammable materials such as paper, wood, and fabrics.
6. Only use electrical devices that are worth the trouble of using. If you aren’t sure how to use it or if you only need it once or twice look for alternatives.

Electrical Risk Assessments

What is a risk assessment?

A risk assessment is an evaluation of potential risks (hazards) that could lead to injury in the workplace. The idea is to identify and prioritise these risks (or hazards) and decide if they should be addressed with mitigation measures. As per the HSE guidelines and the ‘Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999’The minimum requirement for employers is to identify the following:

• What could lead to injury or illness in your business
• What are the chances that an individual could be harmed and the severity
• Take action to remove the hazard or to control & manage the risk

Why carry out a risk assessment?

Risk assessments are important tools for planning, managing, and monitoring the risks within a business. In addition, they also provide a clear understanding of the potential risks involved in a project. Taking mitigation measures to minimize environmental impacts should be prioritised accordingly. These measures will need to consider that different sites may have different issues to be addressed. Risk assessments are generally required by law before a project can get started.

Who carries out a risk assessment?

Risk assessments are carried out by environmental managers or consultants. These individuals are trained to establish the potential impacts of an activity and how to reduce the risks through mitigation measures. These professionals will need to identify applicable data for assessing a particular set of conditions and develop the risk assessment methodology.

Arrange regular PAT Testing

What is a PAT Test?

A portable Appliance Test is an electrical inspection conducted by a qualified electrician. The purpose of the test is to verify the safety of your portable appliances. A PAT Test can also be referred to as a ‘Service Inspection and Electrical Equipment Testing’. An electrician will examine electrical devices for signs of damage, quality of insulation, and confirm if the earthing conductors are able to protect against electric shocks.

For more information regarding PAT Testing. Click here 

Install a Residual Current Device (RCD)

An RCD is a good measure to take to reduce the impact of an electric shock.

Short circuits, earth faults and overloading are some of the most common causes for electrical accidents.

RCDs can quickly disconnect the circuit if any of these faults are detected.

Residual Current Devices are so effective they have the ability to reduce the effect of an electric shock.

Before purchasing an RCD, homeowners should seek advice from a professional electrician who will be able to determine whether installation is necessary. If so, which device would best suit their electrical system.

Inspecting Electrical Equipment

As a business owner or Property owner it's your responsibility to carry out regular inspections to ensure all electrical equipment is safe.

Visual Checks are Vital for ensuring that electrical equipment is Safe to Use. Even if you’ve completed a highly thorough risk assessment, a visual check is still vital. Therefore, make sure that you check the condition of plugs, extension sockets and electrical fittings for any visible signs of wear and tear. Furthermore, anything which is slightly suspect should be investigated further.

These checks must be strictly adhered to in order to reduce the risk of any electrical hazards developing.

Regular safety tests should be carried out before any equipment is used for the first time.