SAFETY
& EDUCATION
Staying Safe at Home
What size extension cords should you use?
How can you tell if an extension cord is appropriate for the
intended use?
Before purchasing an extension cord, you should consider
how the cord will be used. Make sure the rating on the cord
is the same as or higher than the number of watts needed by
the product that will be plugged into the cord. Extension
cords should never be used as a substitute for permanent wiring.
How can you protect yourself from electricity-related
injuries?
You should check for problems in your home electrical
systems.
- Check outlets and extension cords to make sure they aren't
overloaded.
- Examine electrical cords to make sure they aren't frayed,
damaged or placed under rugs or carpets.
- Make sure that the proper wattage light bulbs are being
used in light fixtures and lamps.
- Consider installing ground fault circuit interrupters
(GFCIs).
- One of the most important precautions you can take
is to test your smoke detectors and to replace smoke detector
batteries annually.
- you should always follow appropriate safety precautions
and manufacturer's instructions.
Preventive Electrical Maintenance
An important way to reduce electrical shock accidents is
to institute and follow established procedures for preventive
maintenance. This is the responsibility of the employer, employee
and owner - establishing a close working relationship to reduce
and eliminate electrical accidents.
- Inspect work area for electrical hazards daily, such as:
- flickering lights
- warm switches or receptacles
- burning odors
- loose connections
- frayed, cracked or broken wires
- Never ignore electrical problems.
- Choose proper cords and connectors for the job.
- Make sure any portable cord used to power any type of
light and/or heavy-duty industrial equipment is suitable
for the equipment - not only gauge size but also flexibility,
strength and ability to withstand any chemicals that may
be present.
- All testing equipment should be properly calibrated.
- Make sure the extension cord thickness is at least as
big as the electrical cord for the tool.
- Read and follow all equipment operating instructions for
proper use.
- Leave equipment repairs and adjustment to authorized personnel.
- Sticking switches on electrical saws should be replaced
at once. After the switch is released, always maintain control
of the saw until the blade has stopped.
- Never operate an electric saw while wearing loose clothing
such as an unbuttoned jacket or long, floppy sleeves.
- Follow required lock-out/tag-out procedures.
- Turn off equipment when finished with job.
- Disconnect energy sources.
- Tag out the disconnected power.
- Release stored energy to make sure no power is getting
to the equipment.
- Always clean up spills on the floors.
- When portable cords are made up, take special care to
make certain that the circuit and grounding conductors are
not interchanged.
- Keep work areas clean and dry. Cluttered work areas and
benches invite accidents and injuries.
- Good housekeeping and a well-planned layout of temporary
wiring will reduce the dangers of fire and shock hazard.
Provided by the Electrical
Safety Foundation International
