As we celebrate our 100th year in business in 2015, we embark on another century of commitment to our policyholders. Our mission is to protect the livelihoods of our policyholders, and, as the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In keeping with that theme, we’ll celebrate our 100th year in business with 100 important tips to help identify, evaluate and prevent dangers that could result in financial loss or injury in a year-long “Safe with Society” blog series.
Working with electricity can be dangerous. Engineers, electricians, maintenance personnel, and others work with electricity directly, including minor electrical repairs to work on cable harnesses and circuit assemblies. Office workers, retail, hospitality, contractor, restaurant, and other employees work with electricity indirectly and may also be exposed to electrical hazards.
Normal wear on extension cords can loosen or expose wires. Cords that are not 3-wire type, are not designed for hard usage, or that have been modified increase your risk of contacting electric current and receiving an electric shock.
Follow these tips when using devices powered by electricity:
- Do not modify electrical cords or use them incorrectly.
- Use factory-assembled, UL-Listed cord sets and only 3-wire extension cords.
- Use extension cords only for light-duty, temporary use (two weeks maximum). Plan to hard-wire items that will be powered on a long-term basis.
- Remove cords from receptacles by pulling on the plugs, not the cords.
- Visually inspect all electrical cords before use.
- Remove from service any cords that are frayed, cut, missing ground prongs, or have exposed wiring.
- Do not run extension cords from one floor level to the next or through doorways where doors can be closed onto cords.
- Use only GFCI outlets in wet areas, near sinks or tubs, or where there is a potential for liquids and electric devices to be used.
Click here for a helpful handout on electrical safety to share with your employees.
Our risk control team is available to help facilitate your safety and health efforts. Learn more about this collaborative and consultative partnership, as well as the exclusive safety resources developed to keep your workplace safe and profitable.
