Precautions while using electricity

When dealing with electricity, it's important to follow all safety precautions. There must be no compromises in terms of safety, and certain ground rules must be followed first. The following simple instructions for safe electricity handling can assist you when dealing with electricity.

1. When dealing with electricity, stay away from water at all times. Wet hands should never be used to contact or attempt to fix any electrical equipment or circuits. It improves the electrical current's conductivity.

2. Never use equipment with frayed or damaged cables, insulation, or plugs.

3. Always switching off the mains when operating on some receptacle in your house. It's also a smart idea to place a sign on the service panel so that no one accidentally switches on the key switch.

4. When working, always use insulated tools.

5. Exposed energized components and unguarded electrical devices that can become energized accidentally are also electrical hazards. Alert labels such as "Shock Danger" are still present on such equipment. Always be aware of such signs and adhere to the safety regulations set by the country's electrical code.

6. When operating on any branch circuit or other electrical circuit, always wear suitable insulated rubber gloves and goggles.

7. Never attempt to fix energized machinery. Often use a tester to ensure that it is de-energized first. When an electric tester comes into contact with a live or hot wire, the tester's lamp illuminates, indicating that an electrical current is flowing through the wire. Check all the wires, the outer metallic covering of the service panel and any other hanging wires with an electrical tester before proceeding with your work.

8. If you're working on a receptacle at a height in your house, never use an aluminium or steel ladder. You will be grounded when an electrical surge occurs, and the entire electric current will travel through your body. Instead, use a bamboo, wooden, or fiberglass ladder.

9. Understand your country's wire code.

10. Always check all your GFCI’s once a month. A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is a RCD (Residual Current Device). They have become very common in modern homes, especially damp areas like the bathroom and kitchen, as they help avoid electrical shock hazards. It is designed to disconnect quickly enough to avoid any injury caused by over current or short circuit faults.

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