Electrical Toolbox Talks
Electricity poses many health and safety risks. It can shock, burn, and harm people if it’s not controlled or managed properly. This electrical toolbox talk covers many hazards when working with electricity in various settings to help you manage it. You can also view and download 60+ toolbox talks covering other topics with our online toolbox talks kit.
Free toolbox talks on electrical safety
Introduction
Electricity is silent, invisible, and potentially fatal, so it deserves the utmost respect. Never take electricity for granted, and never assume a circuit is dead.
Main points
- The lowest practical voltage should be used on construction sites, which should not exceed 110v.
- Only suitable and authorised electrical supplies and equipment should be used, which should be installed and maintained by trained electricians.
- Suitable protection such as circuit breakers, fuses, and residual current devices, must always be used, along with the correct load ratings.
Discussion points
- Electrical cables should be suspended where practicable to avoid damage and dampness (which also reduces a trip hazard).
- Carry out visual checks of plugs, sockets, and cables – if any damage is identified then remove them from service and report it immediately.
- Any cable joins must utilise proper connector blocks, not just insulating tape.
- Never use lighting sockets to power equipment.
- Ensure cables are long enough for the task – they should not be pulled taut.
- The inner insulation of cables should never be visible – the outer insulation should extend into plugs and equipment and fully utilise cable grips.
- Blown fuses should be replaced immediately – never make do with a “bodge” (note: if a replaced fuse immediately blows again then it is indicative of a problem requiring the attention of an electrician).
- For electrical maintenance work ensure the mains supply is disconnected.
- Never overload electrical sockets – one plug per socket!
- Where “emergency stop” switches are present ensure they are tested regularly.
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