How to Stay Safe When Working With Electricity

Working with electricity is not an easy or safe job. As an electrician, you face a substantial amount of danger at work on a regular basis.  Burns, collapsed lungs from arc blasts, and involuntary muscle contractions are just a few threats that are posed by electricity and give you, not to mention civilians, reason to be extremely cautious when working with electricity and electrical components.

Some electrical accidents could even be deadly. Safety precautions must not be compromised and some ground rules need to be followed to ensure you stay out of harm’s way.

The Do’s

When working with electricity, keep these best practices in mind:

• Working on any receptacle requires you to turn off the mains. It is smart to put up a sign on the service panel so no one turns the main switch on by accident.
• Always use insulated tools to provide full user protection against electrical shock.  
• Always be observant of warning signs and follow the safety rules established by New Mexico electrical code.     
• Always use appropriate insulated rubber gloves and goggles while working on any branch circuit or any other electrical circuit.
• Know the wire code of New Mexico or your state of operation.
• Encourage consumers to check their Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters once a month. They have become very common in modern homes, especially damp areas like the bathroom and kitchen. They help avoid electrical shock hazards and are designed to disconnect quickly enough to avoid injury caused by over current or short circuit faults.
• Ensure that your New Mexico business insurance program is designed specifically to address the exposures that electricians face.

The Dont’s

On the other hand, electricians should avoid the following:

• Never use equipment with any frayed cords, damaged insulation, or broken plugs.
• As you probably know, it is absolutely detrimental to work by water at any time when working with electricity. Never touch any electrical equipment or circuits with wet hands because it increases the conductivity of electric current.
• Never try repairing energized equipment. Check that it is de-energized first by using a tester. Check all the wires, the outer metallic covering of the service panel and any other hanging wires with an electrical tester before proceeding with your work.
• Never use an aluminium or steel ladder if you are working on any high receptacle. An electrical surge would have an electrical current pass through your body. Use a bamboo, wooden or a fibreglass ladder instead.

About Daniels Insurance, Inc.

At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that businesses like yours face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.