WINTER IS NEARLY HERE!
Time to pull on the Uggies and put those warm Trackie Dacks on (Tracksuit/Sweat suit) and get out you favorite electrical heating appliance… aah Cosy, Warm …and Safe !?! (well you’d hope)
Statistics show that sales of electrical appliances increase during May. The first winter like chill and we are down at the shops looking for the easiest and sometimes the cheapest way to warm ourselves… Then at that point; it is a Good time to review safety tips on buying and using electrical appliances.
Large electrical appliances are a major cause of electrocutions. Make sure appliances are purchased
from reputable dealers and have been certified by Australian standards. The introduction of cheap/counterfeit electrical appliances products into the marketplace is on the rise. Appliances must comply with the minimum safety requirements contained in Australian Standard AS/NZS 3820:1998. Here below is a tick mark to look for on all approved equipment.
For portable heaters used frequently during colder months. Following manufacturers’
instructions is the first step in avoiding electrical hazards.
Power boards and extension cords do not provide more power, but increase access to electrical outlets. As we try to meet 21st century power needs in homes and buildings with too few outlets to meet needs, our use of power boards and extension cords increases. Use of improperly rated extension cords and power boards is among the causes of many electrical fires each year.
APPLIANCES, ELECTRONICS AND LIGHTING
If an appliance repeatedly blows a fuse, trips Safety Switch / breaker or has given you an electrical shock, immediately unplug it and have it repaired or replaced. Look for cracks or damage in wiring, plugs and connectors.
Use surge protectors to protect expensive electronics.
Check the wattage of bulbs in lamps and light fixtures to make sure they are the correct wattage. Replace bulbs that have a higher than recommended wattage;
they are a fire hazard. Make sure bulbs are screwed in securely because loose bulbs can overheat.
Halogen lamps operate at high temperatures. Make sure halogen bulbs do not come into contact with curtains, clothing or other flammable materials.
ELECTRIC BLANKETS and SAFETY
Electric blankets should be rolled when stored away. Folding an electric blanket can damage element wires within the blanket.
When using a blanket for the first time after storage, lay it flat on the bed and check for hot spots as it heats up. Only add sheets once you are sure the blanket will operate safely at a maximum temperature.
Electric blankets that are not properly maintained can cause fires.
Avoid using double adaptors or power boards wherever possible.
Older electric blankets might be damaged and may not have the safety features of modern blankets, so consider replacing them.
To avoid disaster, children need to be aware of improper uses of electric items and the consequences of unsafe behavior. Practicing safe electrical habits early in life will be valuable through out adulthood.
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Tested & True ~ test & tag comes to your work place at a time convenient to you. We can do an assessment of your Electrical Hazards it can be conducted at the same time as we test and tag your Electrical Equipment. We provide a Full Report with recommedations to clear up current Hazards and how to prevent future risks. Call and ask for a quote. 040 7605568 Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC ProLogger 2 it can perform RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection and Run Testing all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEP008 in test & tag operations by Intertag in Sydney NSW, all our Equipment is in good repair and in Calibration. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australiand Standards ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price. Call Now Mobile 040 7605568
Visit us at http://www.testedandtrue.com.au or our Newsletter http://testedtruenewsletter.blogspot.com/
Peter Hill Manager , Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide May 2012
Test & Tag Fact Sheet for Customers 