How to Keep Your Office Electrically Safe – Part 2
As discussed in Part 1, typical offices are thought to be low-risk areas, but existing hazards still remain. Safety measures must still be carried out by staff members, and regular electrical inspections must be performed by licensed electricians.
Part 2 will discuss Employee Awareness and Safety Tips.
Employee Awareness
Below are the electrical hazards that employees should be trained to detect and report for the prevention of injuries and fires:
- Buzzing electrical outlets
- Electrical equipment emanating an odd or burning smell
- Frayed electrical cords with exposed wires
- Improperly working equipment
- Overheated electrical cords or equipment
- Overloaded outlets, extension cords, or power strips
Supervisors should be advised of defective electrical equipment and accessories, which should be quickly taken off the premises as soon as possible.
Overloaded outlets can be addressed by hiring a licensed electrician to install more outlets in the areas where needed.
Safety Tips
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International non-profit (ESFI), overloaded electrical circuits are both fire and electrocution hazards. Many of the ESFI safety tips below will help keep a workplace safe from the related electrical hazards.
- Avoid folding or knotting electrical cords.
- Electrical cords should not be placed in heavy foot traffic areas or beneath a carpet.
- Keep a 3-foot minimum of clearance area in front of an electrical panel.
- Never force a three-prong electrical plug into a two-slot outlet.
- Nonessential electrical items should remain unplugged until needed.
- Power strips should be placed in areas with proper ventilation.
- Run electrical cords next to walls to avoid people tripping on them.
- Turn off and unplug electrical equipment or appliances before cleaning or maintenance.
An office electrical safety inspection should be performed by a licensed electrician as required by state and local regulations to ensure the safety of employees. The home offices of entrepreneurs should also get a regular inspection to keep residents safe.
Electrical Peace of Mind
Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs. For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.