Before Doing An Electricity Inspection, Take These Precautions
Every electrical system, whether in the home or office, has the potential to cause significant harm. The voltage and electrical current running through the wires can be deadly to those making electrical inspections.
The human body is a natural electricity conductor and is vulnerable to burns and electrical shocks without adequate precautions. Thermal burns can affect the external skin as well as internal skin tissues. Direct contact with energized circuit parts or conductors can cause damage to the brain, stop the heart or make breathing difficult.
A diverse array of things can go awry if the necessary safety precautions for electricity are not taken before the inspection. If you are an electrician in training or about to begin an apprenticeship following are eight vital safety measures to take before conducting an electrical inspection or you can also avail commercial electrical contractors Kalamazoo services.
Maintain Distance From Someone Who’s Been Electrocuted
When you see someone being electrocuted, it is natural to reach out to them or assist them. However, you must not forget that our body is a natural conductor. If you touch someone being electrocuted, the current will flow into your body, which will be troublesome for you.
In such a scenario, the first thing to do is shut off the central power source and call the emergency line for assistance. If you can’t turn off the power source, try pushing the person away with the help of a non-conducting material.
Use GFCIS In Wet Or Damp Work Areas
If you are required to work in a wet or damp area, then you run the risk of an electric shock. In such a scenario, you must install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) before beginning work.
The purpose of the GFCIs is to interrupt the circuit before it can enter and harm your body. When working in wet conditions, you must ground or plug all tools and cords into a GFCI-protected receptacle.
Know Your Electrical Code
You will learn about the electrical code wherever you take your electrician training. The purpose of the code is to make electrical systems and gear safer and to safeguard electrical workers.
To stay safe and secure when conducting an electrical inspection, you should know the electrical code and keep updated with the latest best practices and rules for electrical wiring, installation, and maintenance.
Maintain Your Electrical Tools
You should routinely scrutinize your electrical tools and instantly stop using them if they need mending. Check your tools for exposed wires, frayed cords, and loose prongs. Another important thing to check is the insulation covering the extension cords, as it can be vulnerable to damage.
Inspect the handles or body casings of tools for cracks, faulty trigger locks, and damaged switches. Always invest in high-quality maintenance, and don’t risk your life by thinking you can use it once more before you repair it.
Wear the Right Safety Gear
At whatever stage you are in your electrical career, you must always wear the appropriate and recommended safety gear when making an electrical inspection. The standard safety gear for electricians includes insulated gloves, hoods, goggles, sleeves, line hoses, blankets, and non-conducting hard hats. You should also regularly inspect your safety gear for any signs of damage that require servicing, repair, or replacement.
Follow Proper Lockout/Tagout Procedures
When you begin an electrical inspection, the first thing to do is turn the current off from the switch box and padlock it in the off position. This rule also applies to any machines or equipment you are servicing.
Lockout and tagout training is a key component of the electrician program. It ensures that the equipment does not have any energy before repair begins. This minimizes the chances of electrocution and shock.
If you cannot ascertain with surety that a piece of equipment is electrified, then you must use a tester to check the wires to be safe. You can also check any hanging wires or outer metallic covering of the service panel before beginning inspection or repair.
Avoid Power Lines
Power lines pose a serious threat to electricians and are often present around construction sites. Power lines may look safe, but even the briefest of contacts can result in the current passing through your body. Electrocution from a power line can cause fourth-degree internal and external burns, require limb amputation or make your heart stop. Therefore, it is essential to safeguard yourself and know the local power line rules.
Choose the Right Ladder
As an electrician, you should choose the right ladder when conducting an electrical inspection if you want to avoid any problems. The wrong type of ladder can catch current and cause damage. Ladders are usually available in wood, aluminum, and fiberglass.
The best ladder options for electricians are wood and fiberglass. However, over time wood may rot as it comes into contact with wet surfaces or the environment. This leaves fiberglass ladder as the best choice. They do tend to cost more, but they also tend to last for a longer period of time.
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Conclusion
As an electrician, you must undertake these precautions while conducting an electrical inspection on-site. It will keep you protected, and you will be in a better position to help your colleague in case of any problem.
Electricians are given proper training through apprenticeship, and you must undergo an electrician program or on-the-job training before working at a residential electrical contractors organization specializing in residential and commercial electrical services.
As you have the theoretical knowledge, the hands-on application will help you retain the theory and become better at electrical inspections. You can gain relevant insights and experience at a professional organization if you want to progress as a professional electrician.
The right team and exposure will help you develop your skills. Skilled technicians are rare and in demand when it comes to professional residential and commercial electrical services. An established organization will give you a career roadmap and help you progress through the scope of work opportunities and the learning tools and necessary training required to develop yourself.
