Fire/Explosion
Electrical fires may be caused by excessive resistance that generates heat from any of the following:- Too much current running through wiring where overcurrent protection fails or does not exist
- Faulty electrical outlets resulting in poor contact or arcing
- Poor wiring connections and old wiring that is damaged and cannot support the load
An explosion can occur when electricity ignites a flammable gas or combustible dust mixture in the air. Ignition from a short circuit or static charge is possible.
Electrical safety tips
- Don't work with exposed conductors carrying 50 volts or more.
- Make sure electrical equipment is properly connected, grounded and in good working order.
- Extension cords may not be used as permanent wiring and should be removed after temporary use for an activity or event.
- Surge suppressors with built-in circuit breakers may be used long-term and are available with three, six and 15 foot-long cords.
- High amperage equipment such as space heaters, portable air conditioners and other equipment must be plugged directly into permanent wall receptacles.
- Do not access, use or alter any building’s electrical service, including circuit breaker panels, unless you are specifically qualified and authorized to do so.
- Wet environments can increase the risk of an electrical shock.
Housekeeping and maintenance
- Maintain at least 30 inches of clearance in front of electrical panels to ensure a safe environment for facilities workers.
- Make sure that all junction boxes are covered.
- What you can do to stay safe
- Avoid activities that require training
- Working with exposed conductors carrying 50 volts or more
- Making repairs or alterations to any electrical equipment
- Opening up the case, or removing barrier guards, of any equipment that utilizes electricity
- Using any tools or a meter to measure for the presence of electricity
- Reseting a tripped circuit breaker, or replace a blown fuse
- Ask a qualified person to perform these tasks.
Grounding
To prevent electrical hazards, always make sure equipment is properly grounded. Electrical grounding provides an alternate path for electricity to follow, rather than going through a person. Equipment with a grounding prong must be plugged into an extension cord with a ground; the grounding plug should not be removed from the equipment.
Wet locations
When using electricity in a wet or damp location, including outdoor locations, a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) must be used. The GFCI ensures that any electrical shock is brief. Although painful, it wouldn’t be fatal because the GFCI creates a ground fault or leak in the current.
Lockout/Tagout
When servicing and maintenance tasks involve electricity and electrical equipment, you must prevent the unexpected startup of equipment.
Source: University of Washington