Common Electrical Safety Mistakes

It’s no secret that dealing with electricity is dangerous. In the US alone, thousands of people die each year as a result of accidental electrocution as well as fire from electrical malfunctions. If you want to avoid accidents, it is best to practice safe electrical practices in the home.

If you’re planning to do DIY electrical, knowing the common mistakes can help you stay safe. Not only will this ensure a smooth project, but it will also save you from the possible cost of medical bills, repairs and damages to your home appliances and electrical systems.

So what are some of the most common electrical mistakes? Let’s dive right in!

Failing to Wear PPE when Troubleshooting

PPE is a kind of personal protective equipment that is used to protect you from the risk of electrical shock. It can include things like rubber gloves and shoes, as well as insulated tools or covers for plug points. It’s important to wear this gear any time you’re working with electricity, even if it just seems like a minor repair or task. Failing to do so can put you at risk of serious injuries and even death.

Ignoring Electrical Codes

Electrical codes are put in place for a reason – to keep your home or workplace safe from electrical hazards and accidents. If you’re planning any type of electrical work, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local building codes and ensure you’re following all safety guidelines. Ignoring these codes will not only put you at risk, but it could also lead to costly repairs or fines from the local government if something goes wrong.

Not Testing Appliances before Installing

Before installing any new electrical appliances in your home, it’s crucial to test them first. This is especially important for major appliances like stoves, microwaves, and air conditioning units. It’s easy to incorrectly connect a new appliance to your current wiring, which can lead to power surges or even fires. Always test your appliances before installing them in order to avoid any dangerous electrical issues.

Forgetting to Turn Off the Main Breaker

One common mistake that many homeowners make when working with electricity is forgetting to turn off the main breaker. Before doing any type of electrical work, it’s important to ensure that all circuits and power sources are turned off first. If you accidentally connect your project to the main power source, this can lead to serious injuries that might even require hospitalization. The main breaker is usually found near the electrical panel in your home, so always double-check that it’s turned off before starting any project.

Using Outdated Electrical Equipment

You might be trying to save some cash by using outdated electrical equipment, but this can actually be very dangerous and lead to more problems. For example, you might end up failing to detect potential fire hazards or cause major damage to your appliances. It’s best to use up-to-date equipment that is designed specifically for electrical work in order to avoid these issues and keep yourself safe. While it might cost you more upfront, the long-term benefits of using proper electrical equipment far outweigh the costs.

Conclusion

If you want to stay safe from electrical hazards and accidents, it’s important to be aware of these common mistakes. By following basic safety guidelines and taking precautions when working with electricity, you can keep yourself and your family out of harms way.

In a situation where you’re faced with an electrical emergency, it’s always best to call in the experts. Never try to fix an electrical issue on your own, as this can put you at risk of serious injuries or even death. We hope that this information has helped shine the light on the importance of electrical safety and how to avoid common mistakes.