Electrical Safety Inspection Checklist

Electrical wiring and equipment can pose a danger in any home or workplace. Improper use of electrical appliances can increase the risk of electric shocks or produce a fire hazard. However, taking these simple steps can help reduce the safety risk posed by electrical systems.

Fuses

• Fuses and circuit breakers are essential to the safety of an electrical system. If a circuit becomes overloaded, the fuse will blow, preventing a dangerous buildup of electricity. When fuses do blow, be sure to replace them with the same type of fuse that is rated for the same ampere load. If you replace a home fuse box, install an S-type fuse box that will only allow the correct fuse to be installed, preventing any accidental use of the wrong type of fuses.

Outlets

• Never overload outlets with too many appliances or outlet splitters. Check outlets to ensure that they don't become hot to the touch or discolored over time, as this can indicate a potentially dangerous overload. If there are small children in the household, cover all unused outlets with a protective cover to safeguard against shocks.

Wiring

• Always make sure that appliances are plugged in firmly without any strain or tension on the cord that could cause the plug to come partially loose. An electrical inspector will ensure that the wiring in a building is safe and meets local building codes before the building can be sold. However, it's a good idea to hire an electrician to check the wiring if you notice any irregularities, such as circuits that often trip or blow fuses, or heat coming from outlets or the fuse box.

Lighting

• Be sure to replace light bulbs with new bulbs of the same wattage. In addition, ensure that new light bulbs are always screwed in firmly, as a loose bulb can overheat and pose a fire danger. Keep all lamps and other lighting fixtures away from curtains or beds where flammable fabric can come into contact with the bulb.

Appliances

• Read the owners manual before using any small appliances, including hair dryers, irons, power tools and portable space heaters. Make sure that the ampere requirements do not exceed the capacity of the circuit. Unplug appliances whenever they're not in use and seek professional repair to any damage to appliance cords.