1. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS Electricity is an essential of modern life Some work directly with electricity (Engineers, circuit assemblers) Some work indirectly with electricity (Office workers, salespeople) Electricity has become such a familiar part of our surroundings, it often is not treated with the respect it deserves.

2. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS Evaluation and Controls – Electrical fires make up a significant percentage of all fires in commercial and residential buildings – The most frequent hazards are temporary repairs or electrical service (e.g. extension cords) that do not meet electrical codes – Periodic inspections give a constant check of electrical hazards

3. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS Main Circuit Break (Fuse) Panel Clearly mark circuit breakers, disconnect switches, fuses and panel boxes. Indicate the area or equipment it supplies. A clear space of at least 30 inches should be maintained in front of panels. Circuit breakers in electrical panels and conduits should be checked for excessive warmth. A hot circuit breaker and/or conduit is an indication of heavy current flow which may reflect a faulty circuit or an excessive load. The easiest test is to place the back of the fingers against the circuit breakers and conduit. If one or more is uncomfortably hot, the circuit/(s) should be checked by a licensed electrician.

4. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS Main Circuit Break (Fuse) Panel When knock-outs are missing, both an electrical shock hazard and fire hazard exist. Snap-in metal or plastic blanks should be installed to cover the openings. Fuse boxes containing Edison type screw base fuses are still common in older buildings. –the fuse boxes should be replaced by circuit breaker panels and the electrical wiring evaluated for adequacy and condition by an electrician. –As a minimum, the Edison type fuses should be replaced by Type S fuses of the correct amperage for the circuit.

5. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS General Wiring Extension cords should only be used as a temporary solution. Electrical wiring and extension cords should not be –Strung over nails that can damage the insulation or wire –Passed through doors, windows or holes in walls, ceilings or floors, or under carpets and rugs. Extension cords (flexible wiring) with splices or damaged insulation should be cut in half, disposed of and replaced.

6. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS General Wiring A metal conduit provides protection and support for the wiring as well as a safety ground Junction boxes are provided at points where wiring is joined or spliced Plug-in multiple receptacles can overload systems and should be avoided Obsolete or unused wiring creates a fire and safety hazard Maintain proper clearance around fluorescent light ballasts

7. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS General Wiring The odor of tar, smoke or hot insulation should be investigated immediately Shut off the power to the source immediately Have the equipment checked by an electrician Flickering or dim incandescent lights usually indicate a damaged or overloaded circuit. The wiring and service should be checked by an electrician. Electrical receptacles located in weather exposed areas should be protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI).

8. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS Electrical Equipment Shut off or disconnect for each piece of machinery should be clearly marked Dust, lint and oil on electric motors may cause overheating –Motors should be cleaned regularly –Motors should be kept free of rags, sawdust or other combustibles Keep transformers clean and free of stored materials Inspect metal conduit periodically to insure it has not been damaged or pulled from the connector