Electricity rules the world. It is all around us. Electricity powers most modern conveniences that help us live a more comfortable life and makes our job easier. It is all-powerful that it can be as harmful as much as it can be beneficial. A mismanaged electrical set-up can cause fires, damage to property, injury, and even fatalities. This is why proper electrical safety maintenance is a must in every home and workplace.

Being an electrician is a dangerous profession. For this reason, only trained and qualified technicians are allowed to oversee electrical maintenance. A responsible technician would know the importance of following electrical safety practices as mandated by the law.

It is also crucial that your technicians and/or electricians are properly trained by a Registered Training Organisation like ATTA Training. An RTO would equip them with comprehensive knowledge on electrical safety standards. They will provide skills and training on how to protect themselves while on the job, and exercise due caution with all electrical operations. This approach can not only help avoid accidents but also save lives.

HERE ARE SOME BEST PRACTICES ON ELECTRICAL SAFETY IN THE WORKPLACE:

1.Stay informed and updated on Australia’s electrical safety codes

The Electrical Safety Act 2002 is a law that enforces electrical safety. Its purpose is to prevent deaths, injuries or property damage caused by electrical accidents. It imposes duty, standards, systems, legal consequences and structure on improving electrical safety. There are also other national and local electrical standards and regulations that electricians must comply with. It is gets changed quite often as the profession evolves.

2.Improve their risk assessment and emergency response skills

Every electrician must know First aid training in CPR followed by a low voltage rescue procedure. It is an advanced first aid technique in responding to an electrically hazardous situation. They must have an improved skill on how to rescue and resuscitate someone who is hooked up to power safely and with the minimum risk to themselves.

3.Always work in pairs

Try to work with a partner when completing dangerous projects. Not only can this help get the work completed faster, but it also ensures the safety of the one working on the field. This way, at least the other person can either administer first aid or seek help in case of an accident.

4.Wear compliant clothing and PPE (Personal protective equipment)

Electricians should use face shields, gloves, insulating mats, hats, and other compliant clothing while on the job. Not wearing the right kind of clothing may cause risks of catching fire or electrical shock.

5.Avoid Water when handling electricity

Water is a conductor; every electrician knows not to mix electricity with water. Exposing electricity to even the tiniest amount of water can cause an increase in the chance of an accident. Under no circumstance should you touch a live electric wire if your hands are wet, or when standing on a wet floor.

6.Exercise due caution and common sense

All electricians are trained to err on the side of caution and always assume all wires are live. They should know to report any electrical damage immediately. They are trained to clean up as they go especially on their work site. Through these simple steps, they can reduce, if not prevent the risks of electrical shock and accidents in their workplace.

It may seem like a lot to take in for an ordinary person. However, the above tips should come as second nature to a responsible electrician. By adhering to the rules and regulations, they can keep themselves and others safe. After all, electricity is a powerful force that should be taken very seriously.