The Uk Health and Safety Executive states that A voltage as low as 50 volts applied between two parts of the human body causes a current to flow that can block the electrical signals between the brain and the muscles. This may have a number of effects including:
- Stopping the heart beating properly
- Preventing the person from breathing
- Causing muscle spasms
Therefore a Risk Assessment must be carried out before carrying out electrical work, there are a number of risk areas and to reduce them the basic requirements are:-
- Adherence to any company health & safety Policy.
- Use of PPE at all times.
- Adherence to good house keeping practices.
- Ensure training of all staff is carried out.
- All electrical work to be carried out by qualified and certified staff only.
The main risks are:
Electric Shock:-
- Isolation Points are correctly identified.
- Permit to Work System.
- Isolate power at DB board and use of switch-disconnector is advised.
- Full training to be carried out and arranged by management.
Fire:-
- Remove any existing flammable items from the work area.
- Fire Extinguishers to be available at the work area.
- Training all staff in good housekeeping practices.
Slips, Trips and Falls:
- Ensure that general housekeeping is carried out, trailing cables tidied.
- Ensure that the correct foot ware is worn.
- Warning signs set up where required especially on non-removable trip hazards.
- Toolbox talks to be carried out.
Falling From Height: (Scaffolding and Scaffold Towers)
- Inspecting Scaffolding before use.
- Ensuring Handrails are secure.
- Airbags and netting where practicable.
- Continual Toolbox talks to workers telling them NOT to interfere or miss use scaffolding.
Falls from mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPS)
- Tools/materials falling from MEWPS or scaffolding
- Fall arrest systems used where required.
- Workers trained to not over-reach.
- Toe Boards installed on Scaffolding.
- Tools secured by rope to MEWPS
- Good Housekeeping to ensure clear paths and work areas.
Falls from Ladders
- Ladders to be a last resort, and to be used for short durations only.
- Correct ladders used at all times.
- Ensure ladders are secured and at correct angle.
- Continual inspection of ladders before and after use.
(A full 3 page Risk Assessment is available HERE for purchase and instant download)
