Electrical Safety Do's and Don'ts Checklist
Electrical accidents can happen at any time in the house if the members are not careful or don’t pay attention to how electric items or components are used. In most cases, the accidents that occur in homes are minor, but it is wise to be proactive and aware to prevent electrical mishaps from happening altogether. One of the best ways to avoid getting hurt from an electric shock/short circuits or increase the chances of a fire hazard is to take the assistance of the best electricians in Australia to perform electrical work at your residence.
You can ask them to proof your property by earthing/grounding the electric supply, installing the main power switch, and ensuring wires or outlets have protective covers. In addition, every household member can remain safe by following this electrical safety do’s and don’ts checklist by expert electricians in Australia.
Do’s of Electrical Safety
While using electrical outlets, appliances, equipment, or any associated item, being cautious and following this checklist of do’s for electrical safety is essential.
- While inserting plugs in outlets ensure they match. For example, two-pronged plugs should be plugged in outlets with two openings, and the size should fit to avoid bending or damage to the prongs.
- Inspect the wires to see they are insulated and suitable for the purpose. Some pieces of equipment require high-voltage to function, and the cables used for powering them should be of high quality to conduct electricity without heating or frying.
- Always read the manufacturer’s manual for usage instructions before operating any electrical product or equipment
- Make sure the electrical connections are tight for avoiding heating issues. Loose connections can cause burning of the plug/ outlet/ equipment and be a fire hazard
- Clean electrical equipment and products to prevent moisture, dirt, dust, or other debris from entering them
- Wear rubber gloves and other protective gear while working with high-voltage equipment, products, or tools
- Store oils, papers, and other flammable products away from electrical devices, tools, and equipment
- Charge electrical devices with the correct charger and for the required amount of time only
- Check electrical items and equipment before every use to know if there are any exposed wires, the plug is broken, or there is any other problem
- Always securely hold the plug to take it out instead of pulling the cord
- While not in use electrical products and equipment should be unplugged. When leaving the house always check all electronics are unplugged
- Keep hot utensils and tools always from wires to prevent their protective coating from melting
- When having a problem with any electrical device, tool, equipment or product, contact a reliable and experienced electrician in Australia for inspection rather than risking electrocution trying to operate the faulty item
- If your home has grounding or earthing issue then immediately seek the assistance of professionals offering handyman services in Australia who can fix such problems.
Don’ts of Electrical Safety
According to the best electrician in Australia to prevent accidental electrocution, short circuit, or a fire hazard, there are activities to refrain from while working with electrical equipment, tools, products, and devices. Here are the don’ts of electrical safety.
- Don’t touch live wires that are exposed
- While using any outlet, circuit, or motor don’t overload it because it can cause unnecessary heating and frying
- Don’t insert anything other than the prongs of a plug into an electrical outlet
- Don’t leave cords on the floors uncovered
- Electrical items and outlets should not be touched or operated with wet hands or while staying in contact with water
- Wires and cords should not tangle or get twisted
- Don’t leave appliances, devices, or any electrical equipment plugged into the power supply when not in use
- Don’t use extension cords for a prolonged time
- Don’t let children, elderly or pets near electrical items or outlets that they don’t know how to operate or not to touch
- While inserting a two-pronged plug into an outlet with five inlets, don’t try to force the prongs into the wrong sized inlet. Also, don’t insert plugs diagonally even if they fit.
- When operating high-voltage equipment or products don’t let them heat with overuse, and in case the product or equipment is heating excessively then have it inspected by one of the best electricians in Australia.
- Don’t search for electrical items in a storage room or area in the dark. Always be attentive in surroundings with electric things.
- Don’t use heavy electrical devices, products, or equipment when there is voltage fluctuations or low power supply
- Don’t try to operate an electrical item that is fried, smoking, shocks, sparks, or heats-up easily
- Never have the cords in your house installed under carpet flooring where there is increased risk of wear, electrocution, and a fire hazard
- Don’t use electrical products or equipment bare feet and always wear the required safety gears
- Don’t leave switches or outlets on when not in use and only turn them on when they are plugged and ready for use
- Don’t touch an item that has passing current and can cause electrocution. Instead, turn off the main power switch and then remove the item’s plug
- If there is spillage of any liquid on an electrical item, then don’t continue using it without cutting the power supply first and removing the moisture.
- Avoid using electrically operated items in spaces where there the environment is too cold, damp, or poorly lit.
Endnote
Usually, the topic of electrical safety is not discussed regularly in a household, but it is something everyone should be aware of to lead safe and healthy lives. Therefore, referring this electrical safety do’s, and don’ts checklist is crucial for people who want to keep using devices, equipment, tools, and appliances running on electricity securely. Short circuits, fire hazards, electrocution, and other electrical accidents can happen any time if there is a lack of attention to correct usage and safety measures, which is why being aware and proactive is required.