Before you consider any type of do-it-yourself electrical work, remember this sobering fact. The Health and Safety Executive, which governs safety regulations in the workplace, receive on average over a thousand reports of workplace electrical accidents a year. Of these, an average of 25 people die from electrical accidents on the job.
With this in mind, electrical safety is particularly critical to keep in mind before you attempt a DIY electrical repair. The following recommendations for electrical safety are appropriate at both the home and workplace atmosphere. These recommendations are related for both homeowners and professional electricians.
Tip #1 Do Not Attempt to Pull a Cable to Release a Plug from the Wall
We have all done this. Instead of bending down or reaching to grab the plug, we instead pull on the cable. However, you should always hold the plug as you pull it out of the wall. Turn off the socket beforehand if there are issues with either the plug, cable and/or socket.
Tip #2 Always Unplug Electrical Appliances Before Cleaning
This one seems clear, but again some folks do not connect cleaning with electrical hazards. Before you attempt to clean any small appliance (coffee maker, mixer, blender, etc.) be sure to unplug it from the wall.
Tip #3 Use Signs to Label Potentially Faulty Items
Before you put away an item that you believe is faulty, place a "Do Not Use" sign on item where anyone can see it. You never know who will try to use the item before a trained professional can fix it.
Tip #4 Use Portable Equipment Close to a Plug
Just in case of an emergency, you really should always be close to the socket that portable equipment is plugged into.
Tip #5 Know Where the Power Switches are in Fixed Machinery
Do not wait for disaster to strike! Before something can happen, be sure to label where the power switch is on all fixed machinery. You do not want to have to look for it in an emergency situation.
Though these tips seem obvious and they are, the fact is that they don't mean a thing unless they are followed. Do not be the one who suffers an electrical accident because they ignored simple safety procedures when performing an electrical repair. Set an example, be vigilant and make sure your next experience with electricity is safe.
Practice these simple electrical safety tips, add them to your routine, and you will decrease your chances of becoming a statistic. Need a professional electrician? Visit professional electrician