Top 10 Electrical Safety Rules Every Business Should Know

Top 10 Electrical Safety Rules Every Business Should Know

Last Updated on August 23, 2022 by Ossian Muscad

Did you know that electrical fires are one of the leading causes in the United States? Business establishments, in particular, are at a higher risk for electrical fires due to the increased use of electrical equipment and wiring. However, many of these fires could be prevented by following some simple electrical safety tips. To help keep your business safe, we’ve compiled ten important electrical safety rules that every business should know and follow. That way, you can avoid electrical hazards and keep your workplace safe for everyone.

 

What is Electrical Safety?

Before we get into the electrical safety rules, we must first understand what electrical safety is. Electrical safety refers to the precautions that should be taken to avoid electrical hazards. These hazards include electrical shock, electrocution, fires, and even explosions.

Some common electrical hazards include:

  • Faulty electrical wiring
  • Overloaded electrical circuits
  • Damaged or frayed electrical cords
  • Improper use of electrical extension cords
  • Electrical equipment that is not properly grounded
  • Wet or damp electrical equipment

 

Why is Electrical Safety Important?

Electrical safety is important because it can help prevent electrical hazards that can lead to electrical shock, electrocution, fires, and even explosions. In addition, following electrical safety rules can help keep yourself and others safe from electrical hazards.

Now that we’ve covered electrical safety and its importance, let’s get into the electrical safety rules.

 

Top 10 Electrical Safety Rules for Businesses

Businesses should follow many electrical safety rules to help prevent electrical hazards. Here are the top ten electrical safety rules that every business should know:

 

Prevent Electrical Equipment from Contacting Wet Areas

Electricity alone is already dangerous, but when electrical equipment comes into contact with water, it becomes even more dangerous. Water can conduct electricity and cause electrical shock or electrocution. To prevent electrical equipment from coming into contact with water, always keep electrical equipment dry and away from wet areas.

 

Inspect Electrical Equipment Regularly

Electrical equipment should be inspected regularly for signs of damage or wear. If electrical equipment is damaged, it should be repaired or replaced immediately. In addition, electrical cords should be inspected regularly for signs of damage, such as fraying or cracks. Again, if electrical cords are damaged, they should be replaced immediately.

 

Do Not Use Damaged Electrical Cords

If electrical cords are damaged, they should not be used. Damaged electrical cords can cause electrical shock or fires. If electrical cords are damaged, they should be replaced or repaired immediately. It’s also important not to use electrical cords that are not rated for your electrical equipment. For example, if you’re using a power strip with electrical cords that are not rated for the power strip, it can cause electrical shock or fires.

 

Do Not Overload Electrical Outlets

Overloading electrical outlets can cause electrical shock or fires. Only plug in as many electrical devices as the outlet can handle to avoid overloading electrical outlets. In addition, electrical cords should not be plugged into each other. For example, if you have two electrical cords, each with a three-pronged plug, do not plug them into each other.

 

Install Electrical Equipment Properly

Proper installation of electrical equipment is important for electrical safety. Electrical equipment should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re unsure how to properly install electrical equipment, hire a professional.

 

Use the Correct Electrical Equipment for the Job

Using the wrong electrical equipment for the job can cause electrical hazards. For example, using electrical equipment not rated for outdoor use in an outdoor area can be dangerous. Make sure always to use the correct electrical equipment for the job.

 

Get Familiar with Your Switchboard

The switchboard is the main electrical panel for your business. It is important to know where your business’s switchboard is located and how to use it properly. The switchboard controls the electrical power for your business. If there is an electrical problem, such as a power outage, you will need to know how to use the switchboard to turn off the power.

 

Conduct Regular Inspections of Electrical Equipment

It’s important to conduct regular inspections of electrical equipment. During an inspection, you should check for signs of damage, such as fraying or cracks. You should also check electrical cords to make sure they are not damaged. If you find any damage, you should immediately repair or replace the electrical equipment.

 

Tidy and Organize Electric Cords

Electric cords should be kept tidy and organized. This will help prevent electrical hazards, such as electrical shock or fires. Electric cords should be wrapped around electrical equipment when not in use. In addition, electrical cords should not be plugged into each other.

 

Hire a Licensed Electrician for Repairs

Finally, if electrical equipment is damaged, it should be repaired or replaced by a licensed electrician. Do not try to repair any electrical equipment yourself. Hiring a licensed electrician will ensure the repairs are done properly and safely. At the same time, they can also check for any other electrical hazards in your business.

 

Create An Electrical Safety Plan Using DATAMYTE

You need the right tools to implement an electrical safety plan in your workplace. DATAMYTE offers tools that can help you conduct electrical safety audits and identify electrical hazards in your workplace. 

The DataMyte Digital Clipboard is a workflow automation software that can help you create a comprehensive electrical safety plan. The software includes electrical safety audit forms, which can be used to identify electrical hazards in your workplace. In addition, the software can also help you create electrical safety procedures, which can be used to prevent electrical accidents in your workplace.

Get started with electrical safety today by using the DataMyte Digital Clipboard. Book a demo with us to learn more about what this amazing software can do for you.

 

Conclusion

Following these electrical safety tips can help prevent electrical hazards in your business. So remember, if you’re ever unsure about the safety of an electrical outlet or appliance, always ask a professional. Then they’ll know what to do and can help keep your business safe.

 

 

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