MODULE 15- ELECTRICITY SAFE COMPANY

ELECTRIC RISKS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES

Electricity has its dangers. Leading cause of injuries and death at work. Consequences: direct (electrocution) or indirect (explosion).

• All electrical machinery or tools are dangerous.

• Electrocution occurs when the body comes into contact with an electric current. Disconnect the power supply immediately.

• Key factors: Voltage, resistance and current intensity

• Ohm´s law, current= voltage/resistance). Current intensity increases as the voltage increases, or as the resistance diminishes.

ELECTRIC RISKS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES II

• Different materials have different resistivity levels. Water is a very good conductor (water and electricity don´t mix).

• Low voltage does not mean low hazard.

• Electrical hazards: 4 main groups:

• Fire and explosion hazards. See module 8. • Water hazards • Improper use hazards• Equipment faults

ELECTRIC RISKS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES III

• Direct current less dangerous than alternating current.

• Direct currents tend to create larger arcs (short circuits) than alternating currents.

• An arc may result in fire or explosion. Special measures where flammable gases are used.

• Static electricity: non-conductive substances. Avoid with a good earth or a continuous discharge. The transport of gases and liquids requires additional measures

SAFE USE OF ELECTRICITYThings to consider when using electricity:• Switch-off bottom (checked regularly).

• Equipment tested by a competent person. Special precautions when introducing domestic electrical equipment in a workplace.

• Good lighting and housekeeping (clean work area, no papers).

• Drying hands and not standing in wet areas when working with electrical equipment. Special precautions when working outdoors.

• No drinks near electrical equipment.

SAFE USE OF ELECTRICITY II

• Equipment must be switch-off when finishing the work journey

• Equipment must be isolated

• Always inspect tools before starting a task. Not using damage equipment

• No unauthorized repairs (unless trained and qualified workers)

• Only qualified personnel is allowed to work on electrical installations

SAFE USE OF ELECTRICITY III

• Working isolated from the supply.

• Electrical equipment should be inspected at least once a year. Daily check

• Use appropriate PPE

• Special attention to overhead power lines (minimum work distances) and underground services

EART CONNECTION • Voltage can drain away towards the earth. Avoids electrocution.

• Also scaffolds and containers where electrical equipment is used.

• Residual current device detects very small currents and immediately interrupts current passing through the human body.

• An electrical installation is protected against short circuit by an automatic switch.

SAFE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

• Electrical appliances and equipment : adequate screen, sufficient distance from the live conductors, efficient insulation, double insulation (NEVER be earthed), safety earth or by extra low voltage.

• Extension leads: No overload, avoid using extension cables where possible.

• Reels: unwind completely. Damaged cables and sockets must be replaced immediately.

• Not overloading a power outlet.