Electrical Safety
General Safety Tips
- According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, top electrical safety hazards include electrical fires caused by aging wiring and misuse of surge suppressors, and electrocutions from wiring systems and large appliances.
- Electricity causes more than 40,000 fires ever year in the United States, resulting in hundreds of injuries and deaths.
Electrical Safety Tips
- Insulation is a primary protection against electric shock, but it can get worn or cracked. Inspect it regularly.
- Look for frayed cords on power tools.
- Replace damaged electrical equipment or have it repaired at an authorized repair center.
- Plug grounded (3-wire) tools only into grounded outlets.
- Read and obey all signs and posted warnings.
- Leave technical, complicated or confusing tasks involving electricity to electricians and other specialists.
- Make sure that all appliances and equipment are approved by an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using or installing appliances and equipment.
- Do not overload wall sockets, many fires are caused by this action. |
|