At Foley and Baugh, we work with businesses across East Anglia to help them understand and manage the risks associated with working with electricity.
Electricity is essential to almost every modern workplace, yet it presents serious hazards if not managed correctly. Ensuring employees are protected and operations remain compliant with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 requires both awareness of potential dangers and a commitment to robust safety practices.
The main risks of working with electricity include electric shock, burns, fires, explosions and equipment failure. Contact with live electrical parts can result in severe injury or even death, and even low-voltage systems can be hazardous, causing burns, muscle spasms or cardiac arrest. Electrical faults or accidental contact with live components can also lead to thermal or flash burns, while faulty wiring, overloaded circuits or damaged equipment can ignite fires or trigger explosions, particularly in areas where flammable materials are present. Poor maintenance or incorrect use of electrical equipment can further increase the likelihood of malfunctions and accidents.
To prevent these incidents, businesses should adopt a thorough and proactive approach to electrical safety. Regular risk assessments are vital to identify and control potential hazards, ensuring compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Only trained and competent individuals should be permitted to work on electrical systems, and staff should receive ongoing training to stay informed about safe working practices and current regulations.
A well-maintained inspection and maintenance schedule is equally important. Routine checks and Portable Appliance Testing (PAT testing) can help identify faults before they become dangerous. Safe systems of work should always be followed, including lockout-tagout procedures when isolating electrical systems for maintenance. Proper earthing and the use of Residual Current Devices (RCDs) can significantly reduce the risk of electric shock.
Personal protective equipment also plays a key role. Providing insulated gloves, flame-resistant clothing and other protective gear can help safeguard those directly involved in electrical tasks. Finally, all staff should be trained to respond effectively in emergencies, from safely disconnecting power to administering first aid for electrical injuries.
By taking these precautions, businesses can greatly reduce the risks associated with electricity and create a safer working environment for everyone. At Foley and Baugh, we offer tailored health and safety advice and training to help businesses across East Anglia to maintain high standards of electrical safety and regulatory compliance.
Contact us today on 01493 659026 or email hello@foleyandbaugh.co.uk
