Running a business has several aspects, and workplace safety is one of them. As an employer, you are responsible for the well-being of your workers. Ensuring safety should be a priority, so you should not skimp on the necessary measures and implementations. Although the electrical installations at your workplace deserve the maximum attention, most business owners overlook them. Electrical equipment, from machinery to fixtures and computers, can be potentially hazardous. Malfunctions can lead to shock, burn injuries, and electrocution. Countless such incidents are reported across the UK every year, making electrical safety concern for business owners. Ensuring it is easy provided you are committed to fulfilling your responsibility. Here are a few tips you can rely on.
De-energize equipment and use lockout
Not all installations should run continuously, but leaving them on can be hazardous. De-energizing the live electrical parts after work is the best way to secure your workers. You can also prevent electrocution accidents by implementing a Lockout/Tagout policy for your company. It safeguards employees from hazards during servicing and maintenance activities. Many businesses in the UK already have such a policy, and others are following suit.
Place physical barriers around hazardous installations
A simple measure to ensure safety is placing physical barriers around hazardous installations. Cabinet doors on electrical panels and exposed wires prevent accidental contact. You can also use shields and insulating materials to cover the areas where doors cannot be installed. Placing warning signs for employees is also an effective measure to prevent mishaps.
Implement an inspection and testing schedule
Periodic inspection and testing of your electrical installations is another step to keep your workers and workplace safe at all times. You can start with a visual inspection to detect the signs of wear or exposure, but do not try to address these problems yourself. Schedule fixed wire testing and PAT testing to check electrical installations and appliances and ensure legal compliance. You can collaborate with experts for PAT Testing Sussex if operating in the Sussex area. These specialists test the portable appliances in the workplace to assess their safety.
Invest in safety training
Safety goes beyond ensuring the proper functioning of the equipment. It also requires training for your employees to ensure they use the appliances correctly. They should take relevant precautions such as unplugging cords from the plug head, not overstretching electrical cords, and steering clear of direct contact with wires. Educate them to follow these rules and practice precautions at all times.
Beware of conductive tools and hazardous cleaning materials
As a rule, you should not permit the use of conductive tools and hazardous cleaning materials around the electrical installations. These tools and materials can lead to accidents on coming into contact with appliances and wires. For example, solvent and water-based cleaning materials are dangerous as they can cause electrocution. Assume that electrical parts are always live and follow precautions accordingly.
Electrical installations are integral to workplaces, but they entail massive risks. Luckily, these risks are avoidable if you take a precautionary approach. Follow these steps to keep your workers and workplace shock-proof.