What Do I Need To Know About Electricity?
What Do I Need To Know About Electricity?
What Do I Need To Know About Electricity?
All electrical systems have the potential to cause harm. Electricity can be either "static"
or "dynamic." Dynamic electricity is the uniform motion of electrons through a conductor
(this is known as electric current). Conductors are materials that allow the movement of
electricity through it. Most metals are conductors. The human body is also a conductor.
This document is about dynamic electricity.
Note: Static electricity is accumulation of charge on surfaces as a result of contact and
friction with another surface. This contact/friction causes an accumulation of electrons
on one surface, and a deficiency of electrons on the other surface. The OSH Answers
document on How Do I Work Safely with Flammable and Combustible Liquids? (Static
Electricity) has more information.
Electric current cannot exist without an unbroken path to and from the conductor.
Electricity will form a "path" or "loop". When you plug in a device (e.g., a power tool), the
electricity takes the easiest path from the plug-in, to the tool, and back to the power
source. This is also known as creating or completing an electrical circuit.
If you must be close to power lines, you must first call your electrical utility
company and they will assist you.
If your vehicle comes into contact with a power line:
o DO NOT get out of your vehicle.
o Call 911 and your local utility service for help.
o Wait for the electrical utility to come and they will tell you when it is
safe to get out of your vehicle.
o Never try to rescue another person if you are not trained to do so.
o If you must leave the vehicle (e.g., your vehicle catches on fire), exit by
jumping as far as possible - at least 45 to 60 cm (1.5 to 2 feet). Never
touch the vehicle or equipment and the ground at the same time. Keep
your feet, legs, and arms close to your body.
o Keep your feet together (touching), and move away by shuffling your
feet. Never let your feet separate or you may be shocked or
electrocuted.
o Shuffle at least 10 metres away from your vehicle before you take a
normal step. Do not enter an electrical power substation, or other
marked areas.
Do not enter an electrical power substation, or other marked areas.
What are some general safety tips for working with or near
electricity?
Inspect portable cord-and-plug connected equipment, extension cords, power
bars, and electrical fittings for damage or wear before each use. Repair or
replace damaged equipment immediately.
Always tape extension cords to walls or floors when necessary. Nails and
staples can damage extension cords causing fire and shock hazards.
Use extension cords or equipment that is rated for the level of amperage or
wattage that you are using.
Always use the correct size fuse. Replacing a fuse with one of a larger size
can cause excessive currents in the wiring and possibly start a fire.
Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets may be a sign that unsafe wiring
conditions exists. Unplug any cords or extension cords to these outlets and
do not use until a qualified electrician has checked the wiring.
Always use ladders made with non-conductive side rails (e.g., fibreglass)
when working with or near electricity or power lines.
Place halogen lights away from combustible materials such as cloths or
curtains. Halogen lamps can become very hot and may be a fire hazard.
Risk of electric shock is greater in areas that are wet or damp. Install Ground
Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) as they will interrupt the electrical circuit
before a current sufficient to cause death or serious injury occurs.
Use a portable in-line Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) if you are not
certain that the receptacle you are plugging your extension cord into is GFCI
protected.
Make sure that exposed receptacle boxes are made of non-conductive
materials.
Know where the panel and circuit breakers are located in case of an
emergency.
Label all circuit breakers and fuse boxes clearly. Each switch should be
positively identified as to which outlet or appliance it is for.
Do not use outlets or cords that have exposed wiring.
Do not use portable cord-and-plug connected power tools with the guards
removed.
Do not block access to panels and circuit breakers or fuse boxes.
Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical
accident. Always disconnect the power source first.
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Date modified:
2019-08-15
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