Electrical Safety
The careless handling of electrical equipment starts many fires in labs and other places. Laboratories have stills, waters baths, and other apparatus that can overheat or cause electrical shocks. Minimize electrical safety hazards with the following:
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Before use, check all electrical apparatus for worn or defective insulation and loose or broken connections. Power cords should be checked closely and replaced if found defective.
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Connect all ground wires to clean metal, avoid painted surfaces. Use three-prong grounded plugs whenever possible.
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Keep electrical wires away from hot surfaces.
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Don’t allow water to leak on electrical wires, switches and outlets.
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Avoid the use of extension cords. The Butte-Silver Bow Fire Marshall only allows extension cords for temporary situations. The cord must be grounded.
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Never touch a switch, outlet or other source of electrical power with wet hands.
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Avoid using homemade or makeshift wiring. Call a qualified electrician for wiring.
- To minimize static electricity and sparks in hazardous areas and in handling flammable solvents and other chemicals, containers and equipment should be properly grounded and bonded, and blanketed with inert gas when needed.
For further information, see the resources below from http://www.nesf.org
Electrical Safety Principles
Electrical Hazard Identification
Preventive Electrical Maintenance
Shock Rescue Procedures
Workplace Electrical Safety Tips
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