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Electrical
Shock Kills!
We rely on electrical
power to keep our workplaces and our homes operating day and night.
Electricity provides heat, light and energy to do many kinds of
work.
As useful as electricity is, we must never forget it is also dangerous.
Electrical shock kills. Electricity can also cause fires and explosions.
Here are some
reminders about electrical safety at work and at home:
Keep electricity
and moisture away from each other. Never touch electrical equipment
with wet hands or when standing on a damp surface. Do not work
around electricity when your tools or clothing are wet.
Report any
indications of electrical malfunction. Watch for these signs:
flickering lights, radio or television interference when another
electrical device is in operation, buzzing sounds in electrical
panels, switches or outlets hot to the touch, damaged or worn
insulation, loose switches, and electrical equipment which works
sometimes and doesn't work the next time.
Never attempt
electrical repairs unless you are qualified and authorized to
do so. Do not use electrical equipment altered with makeshift
repairs.
Do not alter
plugs by removing the third prong so it can fit into a two-prong
outlet. This defeats the safety feature of a ground wire.
Only use
extension cords temporarily. Have wiring upgraded to accommodate
new equipment.
Use a Ground
Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) whenever you use electrical tools
and appliances around moisture or outdoors. These devices can
detect leakage of electricity from a circuit before you are harmed
by electrical shock.
Wear the
correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when working around
electrical hazards. This may include leather gloves covered by
rubber gloves, non-conductive footwear, and safety eyewear. Do
not wear metal jewelry that can accidentally contact the electrical
circuit, causing shock.
Heed all
warning signs about electrical hazards. Stay away from high voltage
installations and other posted areas.
Beware of
overhead electrical hazards. Watch for power lines and ceiling
fixtures when moving items such as ladders or pipes, or operating
equipment such as cranes or lifting devices.
Use your
electrical safety sense off the job too. Inspect your home for
possible electrical hazards, including overloaded circuits, and
defective electrical equipment. Have a qualified electrician repair
or improve wiring as necessary. Have GFCIs installed in bathrooms,
basements, kitchens, and areas outdoors where you use electrical
equipment.
Obtain training
in what to do in case of an accident involving electricity.
Before you
attempt to rescue a victim of electric shock, make sure you are
not putting yourself in similar danger. Do not touch the person
and do not use a tool to reach the person unless you are sure
the power has been disconnected. Check for a heartbeat and if
necessary start CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) if you are
trained to do so. Get medical help immediately.
If fire occurs
in energized electrical equipment, use only a "C" fire
extinguisher, or a combination "ABC" or "BC"
extinguisher. Never put water on an electrical fire; the result
can be a deadly shock.
Caution must
be used around all electrical circuits and equipment. Never underestimate
the potential for electrical shock.
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