May 2021 Newsletter

Equipment from computers to machinery can all be potentially hazardous and can cause electrical shock and burn injuries if improperly used or not maintained.  It’s important to follow electrical safety-related work practices to keep yourself and others safe.

PREVENT ALL POTENTIAL CONTACT WITH LIVE ELECTRIC CIRCUITS-The best way to stay safe is to stay away from electrical hazards. If you encounter a live electrical wire or hazardous electrical equipment; stay away and notify the appropriate electrical safety personnel right away. If you must work in the same area or room as an electrical hazard or equipment, maintain a safe distance. All panel doors should be shut, and there should be no exposed wires around your work area before you begin your operations.

DE-ENERGIZE EQUIPMENT AND USE LOCKOUT/TAGOUT (LOTO)– Exposed, live electrical parts must be de-energized before working on them is permitted. Prevent accidents and isolate electrical energy by locking and tagging out the electrical system or parts of the system according to your company’s LOTO policy. LOTO exists to protect employees from electrical hazards and to prevent accidental startup of a machine while it is in a hazardous state.

ENSURE SAFE USE OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT– Properly using all electrical equipment can go a long way to ensure everyone’s safety in the workplace.  All electrical equipment including cords and plugs in the workplace should be visually inspected for external defects prior to use. Do not use the electrical equipment if there is noticeable damage to it.

BEWARE OF CONDUCTIVE TOOLS AND CLEANING MATERIALS, USE EXTREME CAUTION WITH FLAMMABLE MATERIALS– If you are working in an area where an electrical hazard is present, always assume that electrical parts are live, and act accordingly. Solvent and water-based cleaning materials are electrically conductive, as are steel wool and metalized cloth. Keep these cleaning products, as well as any conductive tools, away from live electrical parts and equipment. Electrical equipment that can cause ignition must not be used where flammable vapors, gases, or dust are present.

Proper employee training plays a crucial role in avoiding electrical injuries at work. To ensure safety in every situation, treat an electrical part as if it is live. You can’t be too careful when it comes to electricity. Fortunately, most electrical hazards can be easily prevented with employee awareness and preventative maintenance. Gray Connective can inspect and provide the needed maintenance for all your electrical equipment.

Gray Connective is a commercial and industrial electrical contractor serving the greater Lehigh Valley and western New Jersey for over three decades. We offer companies the ability to work with confidence and peace of mind through our electrical solutions and competitive prices.

Call Gray Connective for any questions you may have regarding your electrical equipment.

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