Working Safely with Electricity

How To Work With Electricity

Electrical safety should be a concern for all construction businesses. Whether erecting a brand new building or renovating existing premises, electricity will be required to power the site and it is important for contractors to be aware of the risks.

There are four main areas construction companies need to consider. As well as the more obvious electrical systems in buildings, they also need to think about:

• overhead power lines
• underground cables, which can cause a great deal of harm if they are not properly managed
• Power tools, tool batteries, and other appliances.

Why Is Electricity Dangerous?

In any environment, electricity can cause several issues:

• electrical shock and burns from contact with live wires and parts
• fires and smoke from faulty wiring and appliances, or tools
• explosions from unsuitable electrical equipment
• falls as a secondary result of an electric shock (such as from a ladder)

Legal Duties Under UK Law

Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, all employers and duty holders must ensure that electrical systems are safe to use and maintained properly. This includes making sure that:

• Systems are constructed and maintained to prevent danger.
• Work on or near electrical systems is carried out by competent persons.
• Equipment is suitable for its environment and intended use.

What Has To Be Done When Electricity Is On Site?

As with all hazards and risks, such as chemicals and asbestos, a risk assessment needs to be carried out when dealing with electricity.

You need to work out what electrics are on site, how people could come into contact with electrics, who would be harmed, and what precautions are being taken to eliminate or reduce the risks.

Think about the proximity of overhead or underground power lines, as well as those behind walls or under flooring if renovating. Consider environmental factors like rain, mud, or confined spaces.

Any electricals, such as tools or appliances, must be suitable for their intended use and only used for their intended purpose. Don't try and cut corners and reduce the tools you need to hire or use tools which aren't up to the job.

All supporting equipment must also be correct. GRP ladders are essential when there is risk of electricity as they are non-conductive, for example.

You should also think about who may be at risk. This doesn't necessarily just mean those working directly in the area, but also subcontractors and site visitors.

Equipment Checks

Before use, all equipment should be checked to ensure it is in good working order. Attachments should be properly fitted before turning the tools on, and all the correct PPE should be worn by anyone in the area and the tool user.

Only 110V equipment should be used for hand tools and lighting where possible, supplied through a centre-tapped transformer. Cables should be routed to avoid trip hazards and mechanical damage, and inspected regularly for wear, cuts, or exposed wires.

Anything deemed not suitable or safe for use should be unplugged, stored, and marked 'Do Not Use' until it is repaired. Repairs must only be carried out by a qualified individual.

If you hire equipment from Speedy, it is checked before every hire, and repaired and cleaned if needed. Call us if there are any issues during your hire period.

Cable Maintenance

Cables must be properly protected on site, and everyone on site must be aware that cables are a hazard. Ground mats can cover permanent cables, and barriers can protect work areas where cables are trailing through the site.

This is where generators or battery-powered tools can really come in handy, as it eliminates a lot of the risks of running cabled electrical tools.

If a power cable is broken or damaged, do not use the product. The cable needs to be completely replaced by a professional, not repaired with electrical tape or similar. Unplug from the mains and do not use the equipment until it is repaired.

Planning Electrical Work

• Ensure people who use tools are qualified, trained and experienced
• All electrical hazards must be identified (including power lines, tools and appliances)
• Use the correct tools for the job
• Qualified electricians should check all electrical sources over before work begins
• Inform people on site of the risks, and try to minimise the hazards

All workers should be trained in emergency procedures, including:

• How to raise the alarm in the event of an electrical incident.
• Administering basic first aid, including CPR.
• Evacuation protocols if fire or injury occurs.

Residual Current Devices

A Residual Current Device (RCD) can detect some (but not all) faults in the electrical system. It then quickly breaks the electrical supply. RCDs are essential for reducing the risk of fatal electric shock.

In permanent sites, it is best to build an RCD directly into electrical mains sockets. On temporary sites, however, you can hire portable RCD units which can detect faults with electrical equipment in use. Regularly test to ensure the RCD is in working order.