Electricity is a powerful force that can be both beneficial and hazardous. Electrical safety hazards can cause serious injuries, burns and death which can have a devastating effect on your venue and individuals. These hazards can impact your staff, contractors, and your patrons or guests.
Common Electrical Hazards in the Workplace
Here are some common electrical safety hazards and preventable steps:
- Equipment not used in manner prescribed: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for using electrical equipment to prevent electrical shock.
- Improper use of extension and flexible cords: Use extension and flexible cords properly and avoid overloading them to prevent electrical shock.
- Lack of safe working procedures and communication: Establish clear procedures and effective communication to prevent electrical hazards.
- Electrical equipment not properly maintained: Failing to properly maintain electrical equipment can lead to electrical hazards.
- Improper use of electrical equipment: Improper use of electrical equipment can lead to electrical hazards.
Equipment that is most vulnerable are tools that are used regularly such as extension leads, vacuum cleaners, bain maries and fridges.
WHS requirements to notify
In event you have an electrical related incident (electric shock, electrical fire, electrocution) the PCBU is required to notify SafeWorkNSW as soon as reasonably practicable.
Preventive measures - What can you do?
- Testing and Tagging: Must be completed by a qualified technician to test and ensure the integrity of the electrical equipment is safe to use. The frequency of testing and tagging is determined by whether the equipment is operating in a "hostile environment" (as defined under Section 164 of the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017). The most common hostile environments found in venues are kitchens, bars, and maintenance or greens keeper areas.
WHS TIP: If you are unsure whether an area is a hostile environment or how frequently you should be testing your equipment, please consult with a qualified technician or electrician.
- Use of Residual Current Devices (RCDs) or "Safety Switches": The use of an RCD helps protect workers when using electrical equipment. This occurs by shutting off the power supply to the tool in the event of an overload or malfunction leading to a potential electric shock is pending. The WHS Regulations 2017 set out RCDs should be prioritised when using electrical tools, particularly portable tools in hostile areas.
While RCDs are very useful, testing and tagging of these devices is just as significant as testing and tagging of the tool itself. - Regular maintenance and inspections: Regularly inspect and maintain electrical equipment and systems to identify and address potential hazards.
- Employee awareness and training: Educate employees on electrical safety hazards and provide training on safe working procedures and protocols.
Need more information
For more information, please refer to:
SafeWork NSW - Code of Practice Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace
SafeWork NSW - Electrical Risks at the Workplace: Fact Sheet
We're here to help
As always, our people are here to help. For more information on resources and training courses available to all members, or any other questions you are welcome to contact the WHS Team.
E: info@hii.au
T: 02 8251 9069