Safety in Electricity Installations and Services

Safety in electricity installations and services is a fundamental area of ​​work safety, which aims to protect workers who deal directly or indirectly with electricity. This chapter of our e-book will cover the main guidelines and safe practices for working with electrical installations and related services.

1. Introduction

Working with electricity involves significant risks, including electric shocks, burns, fires and explosions. It is therefore essential that workers are properly trained and equipped to deal with these hazards. Safety in electricity installations and services is regulated by technical standards and government regulations, such as Norma Regulamentadora 10 (NR-10) in Brazil, which establishes the minimum safety conditions for working with electricity.

2. Electrical Hazards

Electrical hazards are hazards that can result in injury or death due to contact with electricity. They can be divided into direct hazards, such as electrical shock and burns, and indirect hazards, such as fires and explosions caused by short circuits or electrical overloads. To minimize these risks, workers should follow safe work practices such as turning off power before working on an electrical installation and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).

3. Protection Measures

Measures to protect against electrical hazards include the use of PPE, such as insulated gloves and boots, and insulated tools. In addition, electrical installations must be designed and maintained in such a way as to minimize the risk of accidents, for example through the use of overcurrent protection devices and adequate insulation. In addition, workers should be trained regularly in safe work practices and emergency procedures.

4. Working Procedures

Safe work procedures are essential to prevent electrical accidents. They include de-energizing the electrical installation before work, checking the absence of voltage, temporarily grounding and protecting against nearby energized elements. In addition, workers should follow the manufacturer's instructions when using electrical equipment and maintain a safe distance from live parts.

5. Training and Qualification

Training and capacity building are essential to ensure safety in electrical installations and services. Workers must receive adequate training on electrical hazards and protective measures, as well as on safe work and emergency procedures. Additionally, they should be regularly refreshed to keep your skills and knowledge up to date.

6. Inspections and Maintenance

Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety of electrical installations. They allow the identification and correction of defects and irregularities that can pose risks, such as damaged insulation, loose connections and faulty protection devices. In addition, they contribute to the proper functioning and longevity of electrical installations.

7. Emergency Response

Despite all preventive measures, electrical accidents can occur. It is therefore crucial that workers are prepared to respond to emergencies. This includes knowing how to turn off the power, administer first aid such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and calling for professional help.

In conclusion, safety in electrical installations and services is a serious issue that requires a comprehensive approach, including risk awareness, use of protective measures, adoption of safe work procedures, training and capacity building services, regular inspections and maintenance, and emergency preparedness.