Electrical Safety in the Workplace
Although everyone uses electricity in the workplace , even a relatively small amount in an electrical outlet has enough power to lead to death by electrocution .
Any contact with exposed circuitry or energized appliances can interfere with the normal electrical signals in the body and lead to electric shock and burns . Additionally , if a shock occurs while an employee is on an elevated surface , muscle contractions or a startled reaction can lead to a dangerous fall .
Keep these simple tips in mind to stay safe around electricity in the workplace :
• Check electrical cords for damage before you plug them in . Cords that are even slightly damaged can lead to electrocutions and fires .
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets by only plugging in one high-wattage appliance at a time .
• Never plug in an appliance while it ’ s “ on ” switch is engaged .
• Keep in mind that appliances that are turned off are still connected to electricity until they are unplugged .
• Unplug appliances from outlets by pulling on the plastic plug itself , not the cord .
• Take note if an outlet is unusually warm . This may be a sign that the outlet ’ s wiring is unsafe , and it should not be used until it has been checked by a certified electrician .
• Never touch an appliance after an electrical accident . Instead , disconnect the power at the source first .
• Never use extension cords as permanent wiring . If your workplace doesn ’ t have enough electrical outlets to reach all work areas , consider asking your manager to install more .
• Never use electrical appliances in wet or damp conditions .
• Place appliances that generate light or heat away from any flammable materials .
Real-life Case Study
Jason , an outside sales representative , was traveling for business . During a layover at the airport , he decided to use his work phone to browse the internet . When Jason found that he couldn ’ t access the airport ’ s Wi-Fi for free , he found another open network that he could connect to .
While on the open network , Jason checked his work email and browsed some websites online , including his personal bank account . When Jason returned to his local office the next day , many of his co-workers told him that they had received suspicious emails that claimed to come from Jason himself . Additionally , Jason found that several strange charges had been made to his bank account since he had browsed on the open network at the airport .
Fearing that his work phone had been hacked , Jason decided to approach his manager . After an investigation , it was discovered that a hacker had used the open network at the airport to access Jason ’ s work contacts and bank account . Since then , he has been careful to only use secure Wi- Fi networks and to keep his phone ’ s OS updated .