Safety Rules When Working With Electricity

When working with electricity, following the appropriate safety rules is critical to preventing serious injury. Electricity is extremely dangerous and circumventing health and safety guidelines presents a danger to others, too.

Hazards

• The human body has a low tolerance for electricity and is a very good conductor. Exposure to electrical shock can results in an interruption of normal heart activity, thermal burns, severe muscle contractions and even death.

Grounding

• Ensure that your powered hand tools are appropriately grounded or double-insulated by the manufacturer. Improper grounding or insulation can cause electrocution. Check your tools for damage or defects and perform regular maintenance to ensure proper function.

Grounding System

• Ensure that the grounding system is complete with a ground testing unit. Unless your powered hand tool is double-insulated, it must be attached to a grounded circuit. If there is any doubt about your grounding system, test it.

Extension Cords

• Always use heavy-duty extension cords, which have two layers of insulation and reinforcement between the layers. Heavy-duty extension cords are less susceptible to damage.

Water and Electricity

• The area in which you're working should be free of water and other liquids. Keep cords, tools and even yourself dry when working with electricity.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter

• If you work in close proximity to water, connect to a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter). These units shut down the current during an abnormal flow of electricity.