Correct unsafe

conditions

Unsafe conditions

result from faulty equipment or hazards in the

environment. Equipment with defective insulation

or parts, improper grounding, loose connections

or unguarded energized parts is common and just

plain dangerous.

Replacing

receptacle covers that have been removed for

maintenance is a good practice. Environments

containing flammable vapors, liquids or gasses;

corrosive chemicals; and wet or damp locations

can also be dangerous when electrical equipment

is in use. Take action to correct these hazards.

* Always check

equipment, cords and attachments before each use.

* Make sure all

equipment is properly grounded and plugged into

grounded circuits.

* Never modify or

remove a guard; guards protect you from energized

equipment parts.

* Replace missing

knock-outs on breaker panels with blanks.

* Be aware of

flammable or corrosive chemicals, such as nail

polish remover, adhesives, furniture polish,

disinfectants, oil-based paints, pesticides,

fertilizers, lighting liquids, gasoline, and

propane gas cylinders.

Prevent unsafe acts

The most common

unsafe acts include using tools or equipment too

close to energized parts, intentionally using

tools that are obviously defective or unsafe, and

failing to shut off electrical equipment for

repairs, servicing or inspections. Don't be a

victim of unsafe acts.

Sensible tips for

preventing unsafe acts when working with

electricity

* Keep clear of

energized parts. Be aware of the conductive

materials and tools around you, and keep them far

from sources of electricity. Remember, steel

wool, metallic cleaning cloths and some chemical

solutions are conductive.

* If you must work

with energized parts and lockout/tagout is not

possible, always use protective equipment such as

rubber gloves, sleeves, blankets and mats, or

non-conducting tools rated for the voltage of the

parts. Make sure this equipment is maintained so

that it does its job.

* Make sure all

electrical equipment is properly grounded, and

plug power tools into grounded outlets installed

with ground fault circuit interrupters. Grounding

is one of the most important safety measures you

can take whenever you work with electricity. If

faulty circuits or equipment allow current

leakage, electricity will flow to the ground

along the path of least resistance. Grounding

ensures you don't become that path by providing

an alternate route to the ground. Check ground

connections regularly for tightness.

* Before use,

inspect all electrical equipment and electrical

outlets. Check cords, plugs and outlets for

defects. Use only equipment that is in good

condition. Never use equipment that you know is

damaged, because no shortcut is worth an

electrical shock.

* When operating

electrical equipment, start and end from

"off." Make sure the power switch is

off before plugging in equipment. When you are

finished, turn the equipment off before

unplugging it to protect yourself and the next

user.

* Don't kink, cut

or crush any electrical cord. Never carry

equipment by its cord.

* If equipment has

a three-prong plug, use a three-slot outlet or

extension cord. Never modify three prongs to fit

two slots by removing the third prong. Use an

adapter instead, making sure that the metal

grounding piece on the adapter is connected to a

grounded object, such as the screw on the

receptacle cover plate.

* Don't strain

equipment. Service equipment regularly and repair

or replace as needed. Disconnect power for

inspections, servicing or changing accessories.

* Don't use

electrical equipment when your hands are wet or

any part of you is touching water. If you must

work in damp areas, use a GFCI. Remember, it's

best to keep water and electricity far apart.

International

Building Safety week will be commemorated around

the world April 2-8. Join hundreds of

individuals across the globe by safeguarding your

home and practicing these sound electrical safety

tips. You'll not only make your contribution to

International Building Safety Week, you'll also

guarantee peace of mind and promote public

health, safety and welfare.