ELE/Cable Work/TBT-ELE-019
Electrical Safety Awareness on Site
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Electrical Safety Awareness on Site
Electricity can kill or cause severe burns. On construction sites, temporary supplies, damaged cables, and wet conditions increase the risk significantly. Contact with live conductors at mains voltage causes cardiac arrest. Every operative must understand the basic dangers and know how to work safely around electrical equipment and installations.
Key Hazards
Electrocution from contact with live conductors or damaged cables
Severe electrical burns to hands, arms, and body
Fires caused by overloaded circuits or faulty connections
Secondary injuries from electric shock causing falls from height
Control Measures
- Use 110-volt reduced voltage equipment on site wherever possible to limit shock risk.
- Inspect all cables, plugs, and equipment before use and reject any with visible damage.
- Ensure all portable electrical tools are tested and display a current PAT label.
- Use residual current devices on all 230-volt supplies as an additional safety measure.
- Keep cables off the ground where possible, route them overhead or protect with cable covers.
- Never attempt electrical work unless you are a qualified and authorised electrician.
- Report any exposed wiring, damaged sockets, or overheating equipment to your supervisor immediately.
- Isolate and lock off electrical supplies before working on or near electrical installations.
- Keep electrical equipment away from water and never use it in wet conditions without protection.
Emergency / Rescue
If someone receives an electric shock, do not touch them. Isolate the supply first, then call 999. Begin CPR if they are not breathing. Use a defibrillator if available on site.
Remember
- Electricity can kill instantly and you cannot see it in a cable or conductor.
- Always use 110-volt tools on site unless a specific risk assessment allows otherwise.
- Never carry out electrical work unless you are trained, qualified, and authorised.
- Check your tools and cables every single day before you start any task.
- Water and electricity are a lethal combination — keep them apart at all times.
Applicable Legislation: Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · PUWER 1998 · BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations)
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