Top Electrical Safety Tips for the Workplace | Voltage Ventures
Whether you’re working in an office or on a construction site, everyone is at risk of electrical hazards.
As unlikely as it seems to have an electrical accident, they can happen and when you least expect them.
Studies show that 74% of electrical fatalities occurred in non-electrical occupations.
This highlights the importance of awareness and proper electrical safety measures in all workplaces.
Taking proper safety measures not only protects employees, but also reduces downtime, prevents costly repairs, avoids lawsuits and fines, and improves overall workplace efficiency.
Here are essential electrical safety tips to keep your workplace safe, along with guidance on what to do in case of an electrical incident.
Common Electrical Hazards in Workplaces
Overloaded Circuits and Power Strips
A circuit can only handle so much power, so when you overload it by plugging in too many appliances, your circuit breaker trips.
However, if the breaker doesn’t fail, it can overheat, increasing the risk of an electrical fire.
Outdated or Faulty Wiring
Your electrical wires may be out of sight, but they shouldn't be out of mind. Make sure to check for damaged or faulty wiring in your workplace.
A few signs your workplace needs rewiring include:
Frequent circuit breaker trips
Dimming or flickering lights
A burning smell from outlets or switches
Electrical shocks when touching switches or outlets
Improper Extension Cord Use
Using extension cords improperly can lead to overheating, fire, or electrocution.
Here are some reminders:
Avoid daisy-chaining (plugging one extension cord into another)
Do not overload power strips
Keep cords away from water
Do not run cords under carpets, rugs, or furniture
Use extension cords rated for the wattage of the appliance
Unplug cords when not in use
Keep cords away from walkways to prevent tripping hazards
Workplace Electrical Safety Tips
1. Extension Cords and Damaged Cords
Hazards of Daisy-Chaining
Did you know plugging one extension cord into another - also known as daisy-chaining- can be a serious fire hazard?
Daisy-chaining can overload a circuit, causing the circuit to overheat and potentially break out into a fire if the circuit breaker does not trip.
Instead, make sure to use a properly rated surge protector or ask a licensed electrician to install additional wall outlets.
How to Identify Damaged Electrical Cords
Don’t forget to check on your electrical cords once in a while, because they do wear out over time.
A few signs to tell if your cord is damaged is to look for fraying, cracks, or exposed wires.
If you notice the cord is damaged, make sure to replace it immediately to prevent electrical shocks or short circuits.
2. Schedule Routine Electrical Inspections
Getting a yearly electrical inspection done with a licensed electrician is important to maintain a safe and efficient workplace.
These inspections are sure to benefit you in the long run because not only are you preventing potential hazards, but also catching issues before they get worse and become costly repairs.
One of the first places to check is your electrical panel.
If you notice:
Frequent circuit breaker trips
Flickering lights
Or overloaded outlets
You may need a panel upgrade.
A modern electrical panel improves efficiency and supports greater power demands for your business.
Get a licensed electrician to conduct an electrical inspection and check your electrical panel today!
3. Fire Prevention & Emergency Preparedness
Fire extinguishers
Your workplace should be equipped with Class C fire extinguishers, designed specifically for electrical fires because they use carbon dioxide (CO2) or dry chemical powders to put out flames.
Fire extinguishers should always be ready and easy to access, and your employees should be trained on how to use them properly.
Emergency Lighting
In the case of an emergency where there is a power outage, emergency lighting guides employees to the nearest exit.
Regularly inspect smoke detectors and emergency lighting to make sure the batteries are working and are ready for any emergency.
By inspecting, you are also complying with safety regulations and avoid fines and legal issues.
It is recommended to do a visual and functional inspection once a month.
Electrical Fire Safety Plan
Create a clear workplace evacuation plan that includes fire escape routes, designated meeting points and employee training on fire prevention.
Depending on your workplace, you should conduct fire drills anywhere from once a year to once a month, so all employees will have a safe and organized exit in case of emergency.
4. Employee Training and Safety Awareness
Train your employees to recognize electrical hazards such as exposed wires, overloaded outlets, and malfunctioning equipment.
Provide your employees with:
Hands-on safety demonstrations
Electrical safety checklists
A reporting system for flickering lights, overheating equipment, or damaged cords
Employees should also know how to safely use power strips, unplug devices, and respond to electrical emergencies.
Lastly, create a safety committee where employees can discuss concerns and be a part of preventing accidents from happening.
5. Compliance with Electrical Safety Standards
Be sure to adhere to government regulations and industry standards:
Follow Canada’s Electrical Safety regulations to avoid workplace violations
Comply with NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace)
Keep in mind that all electrical installations and repairs should be done by certified electricians.
Emergency Response for Electrical Accidents
Even if you take all the correct safety measures, accidents happen. Here’s what to do in case of an electrical emergency:
If someone gets electrocuted:
Do not touch the person directly.
Shut off the power source if possible.
Call 911 immediately
Provide first aid only if trained to do so
In case of an electrical fire:
Use a Class C fire extinguisher.
Never use water on an electrical fire.
Evacuate the area and call emergency services.
If there is a power outage or short circuit:
Identify and shut down non-essential equipment.
Contact a professional electrician for inspections and repairs
Prioritize Electrical Safety in Your Workplace
Keeping your workplace safe is a team effort.
By doing regular inspections, training employees, and following safety guidelines, businesses can greatly reduce the risk of electrical accidents, and it creates a comfortable efficient environment for everyone.
For professional electrical safety inspections, contact our licensed electricians at Voltage Venture today to make sure your workplace remains compliant and hazard-free!
