Basic Electrical Safety Module 1
Basic Electrical Safety Module 1
Basic Electrical Safety Module 1
Purpose
The purpose worker safety Raising your awareness of electrical hazards Instructing you on how to recognize electrical hazards Providing ways to eliminate, remove and prevent electrical hazards in the workplace Emphasizing the extreme importance of observing all electrical safety requirements and practices Instructing you on what to do during an electrical accident
Introduction
An average of one worker is electrocuted on the job every day An average of one person is electrocuted in the home every 36 hours Electrical incidents are far more likely to be fatal than other types There are four main types of electrical injuries:
Electrical Terminology
Current the movement of electrical charge Resistance opposition to current flow Voltage a measure of electrical force Conductors substances, such as metals, that have little resistance to electricity Insulators substances, such as wood, rubber, glass, and bakelite, that have high resistance to electricity Grounding a conductive connection to the earth which acts as a protective measure
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Electrical Shock
Received when current passes through the body Severity of the shock depends on: Path of current through the body Amount of current flowing through the body Length of time the body is in the circuit
Defibrillator in use
If you are in contact with an energized wire or any energized electrical component, and also with any grounded object, YOU WILL RECEIVE A SHOCK You can even receive a shock when you are not in contact with a ground If you contact both wires of a 240-volt cable, YOU WILL RECEIVE A SHOCK and possibly be electrocuted
Electrical Burns
Most common shock-related, nonfatal injury Occurs when you touch electrical wiring or equipment that is improperly used or maintained Typically occurs on the hands Very serious injury that needs immediate attention
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Both are NEC violations and present a safety hazard, based on inaccessible circuit control devices
Do not block the working space around electrical equipment (600 volts, nominal, or less). This space provides and maintains sufficient access and working space to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment
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Not OK
OK
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Not permitted and should be taken out of service! Electrical boxes with knockouts are designed to be installed in or on walls, not used as multioutlet extension cords.
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Handle portable electrical equipment carefully, in accordance with manufacturers instructions, and in a manner that will not cause damage
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Understand they are for temporary use only Tool cords Keep track of them, to assure they do not become damaged Do not plug or unplug electrical cords with wet hands or while standing in water
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Electrical Emergencies
Do you know what dangers could be encountered? Attempts to rescue an accident victim may pose as great a hazard for the rescuer as it does for the victim A victim of an electrical accident is often unable to move or release the electrical conductor, because of muscle clamping Caution should be a primary consideration during any electrical accident or emergency
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Electrical Emergencies
Do you know the proper actions to take if you see someone receiving a shock or locked onto an energized electrical line? Approaching the accident: Never rush into an accident situation-Assess your own safety Call 911 as soon as possible Unplug portable electrical equipment to remove power (1st choice) Open a disconnecting device or circuit breaker to de-energize fixed electrical equipment Use a dry wood broom, leather belt, plastic rope, or something similar that is non-conductive such as wood or plastic cane with hook on the end to free the person from the energy source
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What Now?
Inspect your work areas Existing unsafe conditions - Bare wires - Open enclosures containing exposed wires - Loose or missing covers or fasteners - Use good electrical safe practices - No daisy-chaining - No overloading outlets - Pull on plug, not cord
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What Now?
What do I do if I identify a hazardous condition? When unsafe electrical conditions are found, correct them if possible, or take steps to warn other employees Report unsafe electrical conditions verbally and/or in writing to supervision so corrective actions can be taken immediately Barricade the area, if an immediate hazard exists Notify supervision for correction and documentation
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