When you put a plug into a socket at work, or pick up a piece of electric-powered equipment, one probably doesn't give a second thought to potential injuries that could happen. However, electricity is a hazard that can cause serious harm and danger of death and should always be treated with care.
Between 2015 and 2020, over 1,100 workers experienced non-fatal injuries as a result of coming into contact with electricity, and between 2019 and 2020 there were over 3,800 electrical fires in the workplace.
Employers and employees should take Electrical Hazard Risks seriously. Here we go into more detail about legal requirements, types of injuries you can sustain and what can be done to minimise Electrical Hazard Risks.
What are the legal requirements for employers?
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (PDF) is guidance issued by the Health & Safety Executive. It includes UK Guidelines employers must ensure are being followed in the workplace.
Some of the main parts of the regulation state that:
- Electrical systems and equipment should be in good condition and well-maintained
- Protective measures, such as earthing, are made available.
- Electrical equipment capabilities should not be exceeded.
- Workers should be able to isolate and cut-off electrical systems if required.
- Only experienced or supervised people should use electrical equipment and systems.
- Protection should be available when used in hazardous environments (explosive/wet conditions)
What kind of injuries are caused by electrical hazards?
The most common kind of injuries caused by electrical hazards are:
Electric shock
The type of electric shock someone can experience depends on the voltage and current, although it only takes 50 volts AC to stop a heart from pumping. The amount of exposure the person had to the shock and whether it travels through vital organs, also affects the injuries received.
Burns
Electric current heats up tissue as it flows through the body, which is what causes burns and internal tissue damage. Burns can occur at 230 volts if the person is exposed to the current for a long time, although they usually happen at higher voltages with shorter exposure times.
Fires and explosions
Even if there is no direct contact with the source of the electrical hazard, if it leads to a fire or explosion it will still pose and extreme risk. Much depends on the level of fire or explosion and the amount of exposure to it during and after it happens.
Common electrical hazards in the workplace
Electric cables
If the cable on a piece of electrical equipment becomes frayed, loose or cracked it could lead to the live wires being exposed. Should it come into contact with a person it could cause an electric shock or in certain conditions even start a fire. So if you notice a damaged lead or cable, make sure it is repaired by a qualified electrician as soon as possible.
Liquid coming into contact with electrical equipment
Anyone using electrical equipment should ensure it does not come into contact with water. This means avoiding use close to any source of water or operating it with wet hands. A qualified electrician should also inspect any equipment that has recently come into contact with water before it is turned on or used again.
Overloaded sockets
A common accident that can occur in any work environment is the overloading of electrical sockets. It often occurs when there are a lot of wires and adapters set up to take too much electricity from a single source. Block adapters should be avoided wherever possible and instead multi-bar extension sockets plugged in to manage the use of several pieces of equipment at any one time.
Bad replacement fuses
When replacing a fuse always check that the new fuse is of the right voltage for the appliance. This will ensure it doesn’t overheat, but if you are unsure, refer to the appliance manual or label for confirmation. A fuse that is too powerful for the appliance can overload it, which can spark an electrical fire.
Smoke and smells
If you notice sparks, smoke or the smell of hot burning plastic coming from a plug, appliance or socket, this is usually a sign of an electrical hazard. Keep clear and call in a qualified electrician who will be able to advise on the next best steps.
How to reduce electrical risks
As with any other risk in the workplace, the first thing to do is to carry out a thorough risk assessment. This will enable you to identify the electrical hazards, the risk they pose and what measures you can introduce to make things safer. Also make sure records are kept of your findings and any changes made.
Following a simple, 5-step hazard control process will help create a guideline to work from:
Elimination
Removing the hazard completely is the best option, if possible. For example, it could mean using non-electrical equipment instead of electrical tools.
Substitution
Switching to something less hazardous is the next best option. Here you could use lower voltage equipment to reduce the danger of large shocks or burns.
Engineering controls
If you can isolate or enclose the electrical systems or equipment this could be another option. For example, placing them in areas away from workers to reduce potential harm.
Administrative controls
Introducing permits, training, safety signs or restricted access to electrical hazards could lower the risks faced by workers.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
This focusses more on the individual than the entire staff. Ideally, it should be used in conjunction with other controls such as training to reduce electrical hazards.
Visual Identification of Electrical Risks
Providing visual Instructions and Reminders( such as the use of Electrical Safety Signs ) is a low-cost preventative measure that can help reduce accidents and save lives.
Common Electrical Safety Signs include:
Danger High Voltage Sign
Danger of Death Electricity Sign
Danger Electrical Shock Risk Sign
Voltage Electricity Safety Sign
Danger Overhead Live Wires Sign
Danger Electricity Warning Sign
Conclusion
Injuries caused by electrical hazards happen on a frequent basis throughout the workplace. The majority are relatively minor and non-fatal but there are instances where death does occur.
Employers have a legal responsibility to keep their staff safe, and should look to have measures in place that help reduce the risk of even the smallest of shocks or burns happening. Employees also have to take care of themselves and the people around them by following correct procedures (hopefully provided). The more vigilant one can be about electrical hazards in the workplace, the safer place it will be.
