The law
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989:
require people in control of electrical systems to ensure they are safe to use and maintained in a safe condition.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998:
require that equipment provided for use at work, including machinery, is safe.
Main Dangers of Electricity
- Electric shock by direct or indirect contact. The factors to consider are;
- Magnitude how much current is being transmitted ( its the current that kills not the voltage ).
- Duration How long will the shock last?
- Shock path Entry and exit points to the body may be critical.
- Heart cycle The heart period is about 750 milliseconds.
- Supply frequency Domestic supply frequency is 50 60 Hz.
- Arcing
Electricity, of sufficient pressure ( Voltage ), can jump an air gap causing shock effects to persons not actually in contact with a conductor.
- Fire
Electric flow through a conductor generates heat. If a large flow passes through an unsuitable conductor the excessive heat can lead to fires
- Burns
These can be a product of arcing, where the intense heat of the arc causes burns at the entry and exit points, or from excessive flow of electricity through the body causing tissue damage.
Precautions
* Insulation * Isolation * Earthing * Reduced Voltage * Fuses
* Residual Current Devices ( RCDs ) * Competent Electricians
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