How To Prevent An Electric Shock

How to Prevent an Electric Shock

by

Smith Leroy

Electrical shocks usually happen from human negligence or irresponsibility. In order to reduce risk and prevent electric shocks from happening, here are some important reminders before working with electrical appliances and circuits:

Understand how Electric Shocks Happen

Our bodies are great conductors and electrical currents can pass though us. If our bodies connect the circuit between an electrical power source and grounded source, electricity will flow through our bodies. This is known as an electric shock. The severity of the shock depends on the amount of current and the path through the body that the current takes. Shocks are usually painful, have been known to cause burns, and can even stop the heart from beating, which may result in death. The higher the current or voltage the body comes in contact with, the greater the risk.

Be Safety Conscious

Safety should be your priority if working with electrical circuits, in order to reduce your risk of getting an electric shock. Make sure you are well aware of how to work with electrical circuits, before undertaking any kind of work where electrical currents and risk of shock are involved. Work slowly and methodically, ensuring that you do not skip any safety steps.

These safety steps include shutting off the power, testing the circuits, using tools and ladders which are non-conductive, and avoiding damp or wet conditions and locations. Shutting off the electrical power source will be your first priority, but never assume that the power is off just by flicking the switch, double check with a circuit tester. Use tools that are insulated against shock and avoid materials such as aluminum (such as using aluminum ladders), which is highly conductive. Try to work only in dry conditions, but if damp or wet conditions are unavoidable, reduce risk of shock by wearing appropriate clothing, such as rubber gloves and boots. In case of sparks or fire, take the precautionary measure of having a fire extinguisher close at hand.

Note that even if you are not actually working with electrical circuits directly, you can still be exposed to electrical shocks. Household appliances, extension cables, plugs and light switches, can all result in shocks if there is poor wiring or loose or worn wiring present. Check over your appliances for any exposed wiring which needs repairing, and if you feel any minor shocks from sockets or light switches call in an electrician to carry out a check.

In most cases, shocks from electrical appliances, switches and sockets, will cause the fuses to blow, triggering your main circuit breaker to shut down. Circuit breakers may help prevent any major shocks, but it\’s better to prevent this happening in the first place by having secured wiring in your home and appliances.

Ultimately, the best way to reduce your risk of electric shock is to not undertake any electric maintenance tasks or repairs yourself. Hiring a qualified electrician with experience may come at a cost, but will offer you peace of mind, and ensure your safety. If you live in the Ontario region, you can find electricians in Hamilton, electricians in Burlington Ontario, electric contractors in Burlington, and region-wide. Check in your local directory or online to source a local qualified professional electrician.

Wood Electrical

is fully licensed and insured company that provides the best

electricians in Hamilton

. They pride themselves in their ability to meet demands with an emphasis on quality, efficiency and customer service.

Article Source:

ArticleRich.com