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Electrical Hazards That Electricians Need To Eliminate
Commercial electricians Sydney should avoid doing repairs in wet conditions. If you are doing DIY projects, have a qualified electrician inspect the equipment that had gotten wet before turning it on.
Professional commercial electricians Sydney identify and control electrical hazards when working around electricity. However, lack of experience, inadequate training, and failure to recognise potential electrical hazards can result in an electric shock or even death. In the construction industry, a large number of worksite injuries result from electrical accidents. Most of the injuries are caused by direct worker contact with power lines and contact with tools and machines, and hand-carried metallic objects.
Who is at risk?
Electricians, engineers, overhead line workers are at risk of being exposed to electrical hazards. Some of the common tasks that put these professionals at risk include electrical installations, testing of fixtures, electrical repairs, inspection, and maintenance tasks. However, professionals who are indirectly working with electricity such as office workers can also be exposed to electrical hazards. Here are some of the common electrical hazards you need to know.
Overhead power lines
Energised electrical and overhead powered lines have high voltages. They can cause electrocution and major burns to workers. It is always good to remember to maintain a minimum distance of ten feet from the overhead power lines. Conduct site surveys to ensure that nothing is kept under overhead power lines. Safety signs and barriers must be installed to warn non-electrical workers of electrical hazards present in the area.
Overloaded circuits and inadequate wiring
Using wires with inappropriate size for electrical current can cause overheating. This can eventually result in fires. If you are a commercial electrician in Sydney Australia you should use the correct extension electrical cord designed for heavy-duty use. You should also avoid overloading an outlet. Make use of proper circuit breakers. Do regular fire risk assessments to identify places at risk of bad circuits and wiring.
Damaged tools and equipment
Being exposed to damaged equipment and tools can be very dangerous. You should avoid fixing anything unless you are trained and qualified to do so. Check for cuts, cracks or abrasions on wires, cables and cords. In case of defects, have them replaced or repaired.
Exposed electrical parts
Exposed electrical parts may include open power distribution units, temporary lighting, detached insulation parts on electrical cords and more. These electrical hazards can cause burns and electrical shocks. Make sure you secure these items with the right guarding mechanisms and always check for exposed parts and have them repaired.
Improper grounding
Proper grounding can get rid of unwanted voltage hence reducing the risk of electrocution. You should avoid removing the metallic ground pin because it returns the unwanted voltage to the ground. Before working with electricity make sure there is proper grounding.
Damaged insulation
Inadequate or defective insulation is a hazard. You should be aware of the damaged insulation when dealing with electricity. Turn off power sources before you replace any damaged insulation. Never attempt to cover them using electrical tape.
Working in wet conditions
Commercial electricians Sydney should avoid doing repairs in wet conditions. It is also important to avoid operating electrical appliances in wet locations. If you are doing DIY projects, have a qualified electrician inspect the equipment that had gotten wet before turning it on.
