Safety Requirements for Maintenance of Electrical & Electronic Equipment

Electrical and electronic equipment require near constant maintenance and attention to ensure that they are functioning properly and in a safe manner. Electrically powered equipment that is not working correctly can cause electric shocks or burns, or create a potential fire hazard. When maintaining or installing electrical equipment, make sure that the equipment is cleaned regularly, located in a safe, cool area away from water or other liquids, and has enough room to maneuver the equipment safely without causing damage to the machine or the surrounding area.
  1. Cleaning

    • Electrical equipment must be kept clean at all times. Any built-up dust, debris or liquid spills can cause a fire hazard or electrocution. Dust build-ups can also lead to overheating which can cause damage to the device. Use compressed air to clean electrical or electronic equipment. Never use water or other moist cleaning products when cleaning electrical equipment. Make sure that all equipment is unplugged from its power source before attempting any cleaning.

    Outlets

    • Electrical outlets come in various sizes to accommodate both large and small electrical appliances. When using something more powerful than a common appliance, such as a large manufacturing machine, you should use a heavy duty outlet that will support the higher voltage. Never overload outlets. Do not plug in machinery that requires more voltage output than your outlet will support or use a ground outlet that is designed for heavy duty use. Plug smaller electronics such as computer chargers, televisions and DVD players into surge protectors. Only plug in one surge protector or outlet strip per electrical outlet to avoid short-circuiting the outlet.

    Inspection

    • Inspect all moving parts of any electronic or electrical devices on a regular basis to make sure that there is no debris jamming the moving parts and that the electronic devices are working properly. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 95% of all damage to electrical equipment can be found during a visual inspection. Check all plugs, wires, and other connections to make sure that they are not damaged and the wires are not frayed. Replace any damaged wires or connectors immediately. Do not use any electrical equipment that is not functioning properly. Make sure that all blown fuses in small electronics are repaired or the electrical device is replaced before use.

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