Electrical equipment and devices

Everyone knows electricity can kill. As stated on the Fire and Electrical Safety website Fire Electric  "Every year around 1000 accidents at work involving electric shock or burns are reported to the Health and Safety Executive and around 30 of these are fatal" Although even the non-fatal shocks can cause severe or permanent injury. It is important that only trained and competent individuals undertake work on electrical equipment.

There are risks to be aware of when working with electrical equipment such as photocopiers, printers, computers, label printers, shredders etc.

It is important to understand the operating instructions before using any electrical equipment ensuring you:

• Do not operate electrical equipment unless you have been properly trained 
• Always complete a visual check of equipment prior to use, paying attention to guards or protective devices, any damage to supply cables and that safety devices work (emergency stops and guard switches)
• Keep any ties, jewellery, long hair, long sleeves and hands away from the cutting edges if using a shredding machine
• Do not attempt to repair any equipment; leave to authorised people. Report any suspected or actual defects to the appropriate person or manager
• Ensure multiplug adaptors are fused and not overloaded
• Do not use multi plug adaptors at all for high drain electrical devices e.g., air conditioning units, heaters and kettles
• Many modern electrical devices e.g. phone chargers use USB technology. Ensure all USB cables are of a good standard and not damaged / frayed. Also ensure the USB cables and plugs are built to UK safety specifications and plugs are fused.