Basic HSE information about Electrical hazards and set of tools to be used at work
Electrical hazards
- Workplace Information
- Toolbox Information
- Check Your Knowledge
- Action Focus Campaign
IMPORTANT INFO
- Ensure electrical equipment is switched off.
- Have an authorized person check that the equipment is isolated.
- Know what a safe workplace means; only then can you start working.
- Make sure temporary power sources are known and have been checked by a qualified electrician.
- The power supply must be reconnected by an authorized person.
WHAT IS IT?
An electrical hazard is a dangerous condition where you can or do make electrical contact with energized equipment or a conductor. Working on live electrical systems and equipment is strictly prohibited. You can only work on an electrical system if you are appointed in writing. Ask your company for further details relating to their particular policies.
Incidents involving electricity can have disastrous consequences. You need to be aware of the risks posed by dangerous electrical situations because you can’t see it, smell it or hear it. If you feel it, it may already be too late.
HAZARDS
- electrocution
- serious burns
- shock-induced falls
- fire
- explosion; ask your company about explosion risk zones
- damage to tools and materials
PREVENTION
BEFORE YOU START WORK
- discuss the risks
- inspect your workplace
- know what to do in the event of an emergency; ask your company about this
- together with an authorized person, check that the equipment you are going to be working on has been made safe in the way your company has prescribed; ask your company for details relating to their particular policies.
- electrically driven equipment must be electrically locked and secured if necessary; so be present when an authorized person takes measurements to check that the equipment you are going to be working on is electrically dead.
DURING WORK
- remember that circumstances can change, so reassess your work situation regularly in order to work safely
- report any changes in your work situation to your HSE Manager
- if anything is unclear, stop work immediately
- never improvise
- report any defects or damage immediately to your HSE Manager
PROTECTION
Most electrical accidents result from one of the following three factors:
- unsafe equipment or installation
- unsafe environment
- unsafe work practices
Some ways to prevent these accidents are through the use of
- insulation
- guarding
- grounding
- electrical protective devices
- safe work practices
Always use the correct equipment and tools. Ask your company for clarification. It is important to always use the correct equipment and tools; and if necessary, take additional precautions. Ask your company about their specific requirements.
IN CASE OF...
SOMEONE RECEIVING AN ELECTRIC SHOCK:
- switch off the power
- ensure that you are not exposed to electricity when approaching or touching the affected person
- make the affected person safe
- immediately notify the person responsible for first aid in your company
Start your daily work with safety!
Onscreen presentation is very useful to use during work preparation or toolbox meetings. It provides short and concrete information. Five questions and answers at the end of presentation can be used to make the meeting more interactive and to give conversation a boost.
Be always prepared for the work!
It is of utmost importance to be well prepared before you start the work.
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