Electricity represents a constant hazard in the workplace, and one that needs to be managed in line with federal workplace health and safety laws. Despite this, there are many businesses and companies who do not fully carry out or understand their duty of care when it comes to electrical safety. Not only does this create unnecessary risk, the consequences could cause injury or even prove to be fatal.
Bevan Robinson Electrical can provide a full assessment and audit of the electrical safety of your workplace, from testing and tagging equipment, inspecting wiring and providing recommendations to reduce electrical risk to your business.
We give some recommendations that your business can put into place right now to improve the electrical safety, and the safety of your staff, customers and clients.
1. All cords and electrical leads should be secured to avoid any tripping hazards. No trailing cords should be left on the ground. This includes not running leads across the ground, through doorways or over sharp edges.
2. Use surge protectors to prevent damage to expensive and complex electrical appliances and equipment.
3. Do not have any unlicensed electricians or contractors carry out electrical work in the business.
4. Restrict access to areas of the business where there is an increased electrical risk including plant equipment. Use safety signage to alert of live wires and high voltage areas.
5. Provide enough power outlets and avoid overusing adaptors. Overloading of power outlets can cause fires.
6. Inspect leads for any damage, fraying or deterioration of outer insulation and replace if necessary.
7. Don’t use leads or tools in damp conditions, unless they are especially designed for those conditions.
8. Use residual current devices (also known as safety switches) for workers who are operating portable equipment. Ensure these are installed/included on all switchboards and power boards that are used throughout the business.
9. Carrying out regular scheduled maintenance of electrical equipment. This should be done in line with the maintenance requirements of the machinery, equipment or appliance and be performed by a licensed electrician.
10. Limit the conditions of the workplace that could contribute to electrical equipment being exposed to a ‘hostile environment.’ This could include conditions that expose the equipment to heat, vibrations, moisture, wet or dusty areas and corrosive chemicals.
11. Only hire electrical equipment that has been verified as safe to use with test and tag documentation. It should be retested every three months if hired for periods longer than 3 months.
By implementing these tips you can dramatically improve the electrical safety of your workplace and reduce the risk of injury or harm to people in the business.
Call Bevan Robinson Electrical in Brisbane on (07) 3893 2792 for more advice on how we can help improve electrical safety in your business including test and tagging, safety switch installs, and all other measures to improve the way your business works with electricity.