Common Electrical Hazards and Safety Tips
It is hard to imagine living in a world without electricity. Every building or home we go into, we get flooded by lights and other streams of devices that use electricity to function. Even the phones we stare at everyday have to be charged with electricity to serve us with news. Even so, there are still some hazards that come with electricity. Oftentimes, it takes providers of electrical services in Queensland, like Energized Electrical, to fix the problem.
There are multitudes of electrical hazards that you may encounter. In this article, we are going to list down the most common electrical hazards along with some safety tips to avoid them. If you have been wishing to learn more about this topic, you have just bumped into the right source. Read on.
1. Electric wires that are defective or poorly wired.
Safety standards are created to make sure that everything is in line with the given protocols. One of the highlights of the latest electrical safety standards is the importance of good quality wiring. Electrical wiring that is poorly executed or defective can pose serious risk like fires, power surges, arc faults, and other problems.
Safety Tip: As much as possible, avoid doing electrical work by yourself unless you are certified to do so. It is also important to check your electrical wiring for any damage, tears, cracks, and corrosion. Immediately report this to professional workers so they can fix it with the appropriate solutions.
2. Outlets that are exposed or close to water sources.
Water conducts electricity very well. As such, you have to pay close attention when having outlets installed in places like bathrooms, kitchens, pools, and many others. These areas are potential sources of water. Therefore, you should have your electrical wirings and outlets installed in a distance that is far away from any water source.
Safety Tip: Devices like radio, hair dryer, phones, and many others should not be used inside the bath, or anywhere else with a wet floor. If you have an existing outlet near a water source, then contact reliable electrical services in Queensland to conduct some adjustments. Observe these safety measures as much as possible to prevent electric shocks.
3. Handling your electricals with wet hands.
As was previously stated, water conducts electricity and that includes sweat and other fluids. Do not handle electrical appliances if your hands are still wet as this will increase the likelihood of getting an electric shock. This is even worse since it is in very close contact with your skin.
Safety Tip: Check your hands first and if they are still wet from the shower, grab a dry towel and wipe it off. Make sure your hands and clothes are as dry as possible. Again, refrain from keeping devices like hair dryers and such from sinks, bathtubs, showers, and taps.
4. Disorganised extension cords.
Extension cords could cause havoc not only aesthetically but in terms of public safety as well. Not only do you run the risk of tripping over those tangled and messy cords, you could also be in for other kinds of electrical accidents.
Safety Tip: Use organising tabs to keep your extension cords neat and tidy. These tabs are usually sold in hardwares and other related retail stores. If possible, fix your extension cords in place. Most importantly, avoid using extension cords as a permanent substitute for additional power to prevent electrical shortages.
5. Unattended children.
You might have young children and toddlers in the household. These young ones are extremely inquisitive and would not know the difference between a toy and electrical wirings. There have been cases where unattended children were harmed due to misplaced electrical equipment or easily accessible electrical wirings. Take extra precautions when it comes to protecting your children.
Safety Tip: If you are expecting toddlers to be running around your home or building, then take steps to baby-proof the area. Get sockets that are protected, make sure that any electrical outlet is out of reach, and tuck your electrical tools in a secure storage space.
6. Covered electrical wires and cords.
Over-covering your electrical wires can take a toll on the cords. This can lead to overheating which then starts an electrical fire if not dissipated immediately. Even a small fire or an overheated cord may disrupt your power supply.
Safety Tip: Keep in mind that electrical wires do not need heavy covering to function properly. You can also call on electrical services in Queensland that offer uninterruptible power supply service to ensure that your power keeps running even when accidents like these happen. UPS installation services are also relatively safer and more secure. To know more about these services, talk to your electrical services provider.
For more questions, feel free to contact Energized Electrical!
Energized Electrical is Brisbane’s trusted electrical and communications company. We have an amazing team of highly qualified and driven individuals who aim to deliver your needs wherever, whenever. For quality electrical services in Queensland, contact Energized Electrical today.
