May Is National Electrical Safety Month

National Electrical Safety Month is in full swing, so this is a good time for reviewing electrical safety practices. Electrical Safety Month is aimed at raising awareness regarding electrical safety, by following the electrical safety guidelines, and encouraging the use of tools and technology that have been specifically designated for addressing electrical hazards. All the necessary components of a safety program are typically highlighted in the month of May.

The threat from electrical appliances can't be underestimated. It calls for a clear line of action that must be closely followed to avoid injuries and life-threatening complications. According to the latest data from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, each year there are around 400 electrocutions in the US. Of these, about 180 occur due to consumer products. Around 10% are due to large appliances.

The best start to this month can be made by identifying the top electrical hazards. The chief one is the increasing use of electrical power in combination with electrical systems that happen to be decades old.

The wiring hazard is also a major killer as it contributes largely, not only toward electrocutions, but also to home fires. Such incidents are known for killing hundreds each year. Thousands of others are also injured in such incidents. Some other causes of fire and electrocutions are power strips, the misuse of surge suppressors, and extension cords. And hundreds of deaths occur due to contact with power lines.

If these electric hazards are eliminated, they will contribute significantly toward reducing deaths and injuries. The move to eliminate these electric hazards must begin with education and awareness. Awareness needs to be raised along with provision of necessary education. This can be achieved through focus on electrical safety. This focus should be made at both home and the office. Success would mean that hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries could be avoided.

One other practical way of reducing these hazards is by relying more on tools and technology. This will make our reliance on electric power safer. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) can also reduce the risks being incurred.

— Steward Hudson is a researcher/blogger with experience writing for multiple industries including health, energy, finance, and more. He currently writes for electrical engineering company Current Solutions PC of White Plains, N.Y.

Related posts: