Men without hats, a group of musicians from the United States, topped the charts in 1912 with “Safety Dance.” The song’s line reads: “And I could act like an idiot.” You can certainly act like a fool when you dance. If you do not follow safety rules while working with electricity you may lose more than just your hat.

Here are some safety tips for electricians, whether you want to do the job yourself or hire an expert.

Do Not Touch Electrical Circuits

It’s obvious. This is like telling a climber “don’t fall” but the truth is that touching a live cable can kill you. Remember this safety tip as it may save your life.

Assume That all Electrical Devices are Live

Always, always, disconnect the power before servicing or repairing any electrical equipment. This means unplugging your appliance, removing a fuse or flipping a switch on the electrical panel.

Electrician Safety Gear

Handles of tools and equipment shouldn’t conduct electricity. When working with electrical devices, you should avoid using anything that conducts electric current. Avoid using metallic pencils, rulers, or wearing metal watches or rings.

Follow these steps when you need to work with equipment that is plugged in:

  • Dry your hands
  • Wear non-conductive, electrician safety gloves
  • Wear safety clothing for electricians
  • Wear shoes with insulated soles for electrician safety

When working with electrical equipment you should never wear loose clothing.

Use Safe Work Practices

Keep your other hand far away from any electrical conductors. When you have both hands near electricity, there is a greater chance that a “loop’ will form and current could pass through your chest.

Avoid placing electrical equipment in rooms where condensation may occur, such as cold rooms. Mount your equipment vertically in such rooms to prevent condensation. Do not clean up liquids that spill onto your equipment until after you have turned off the power and unplugged the equipment.

  • Do not handle electrical equipment while you are wet, perspiring, or standing on wet floors.
  • Disconnect the equipment if you feel it tingling.
  • Be sure to cover all electrical contacts and conductors so that no one accidentally touches them.
  • Use the back of your hands to touch electrical equipment. You will feel your muscles contract if you are shocked. However, you won’t have to hold the electrical equipment.

Never Leave Flammable Liquids Near Electrical Equipment

We all know this obvious tip. You should be extra vigilant about any fire hazards around your electrical devices, circuits and outlets.

Electrician Safety Clothes – Do’s and Don’ts

Wear Flame-Resistant Clothing

Clothing that is Flame Resistant can protect you from sparks, electrical fire hazards and other dangers. This clothing is not something you will buy or wear unless your job requires it. You should still be careful if you decide to buy FR clothing. It is important to use it correctly.

  • You are not protected if you wear FR clothing and cover it up with a non-FR coat.
  • Invest in FR outerwear if you are often exposed to cold temperatures.

Do Not Wear Polyester Or Synthetic T-shirts Under Fr Clothing

They are not flame-resistant, although they do help to keep your skin moist. They can melt on your skin if there is a fire.

Tuck The Tail Of Your Shirt

If you are wearing FR clothing and your shirt is not properly tucked, heat and fire can spread under it, causing more serious injuries. To prevent this, they have FR clothes with long shirttails.

Don’t Roll Up Your Sleeves

It doesn’t seem sensible to cover your arms with FR clothing, but leave them exposed. Protect your arms!

Safety for Electricians

These rules are followed by professional electricians to avoid accidents, fires, and shocks while on the job. These tips are not only for professionals. If you are working with electrical appliances, it is important to know these tips to avoid any potential hazards.

It’s always better to consult a professional before starting any electrical project.

A certified electrical can evaluate the problem and offer you the best solution at a reasonable price. A professional electrician in Christchurch NZ can help you find the root cause of your electrical problem and fix it permanently. This will prevent it from causing other issues or getting worse over time.

Contact today to schedule an appointment or receive an estimate. Our team is ready to assist you with any repair or emergency.