What you need to do to manage Electrical Risk in the Workplace

Managing electrical equipment and installations

A business needs to ensure that:

• power circuits are protected by appropriately rated fuses or circuit breakers
• electrical leads are not arranged so that they are easily damaged, run across floors or doorways, or over sharp edges
• only leads and tools designed for wet or damp conditions are used in those conditions
• circuits where portable equipment may be connected are protected by RCDs
• if any current protective device (RCD or circuit breaker) is triggered, the system is not re-energised until the reason has been identified by a competent person
• equipment identified as unsafe is disconnected or isolated and labelled as unsafe and not reconnected until it is repaired and tested as being safe
• regular visual inspections and testing of electrical equipment, including RCDs, occurs. The nature and frequency of inspection and testing will vary depending on the electrical risks.

For further Important and detailed info go to:  http://www.safework.sa.gov.au/uploaded_files/CoPManagingElectricalRisksWorkplace.pdf

 

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WE can give you advice on choosing an UPS or Surge Power board to suit your Requirements…. and At Tested and True …we come 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 recommendations 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 UEENEEP026 in test & tag operations , 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 Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760:2010 ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price. Call Now Mobile 040 7605568

Visit us at http://www.testedandtrue.com.au located in Lonsdale, South Australia

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ test & tag Manager SA 0407605568 May 2016

National Coverage through the Safety Services Network (SA State Member)

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ | test & tag | Lonsdale | South Australia |

Understanding the Danger of Electrical shock

The 2  Major hazards attributed to electrical equipment and wiring are electrical shock and fire. Electrical shock occurs when the body becomes part of the electric circuit, either when a part of your body comes in contact with both of the active component (Active/Neutral)wires of an electrical circuit, or one wire of an energized circuit and the Earth wire (or grounded wire)…., or a foreign conductive object that has become energized by contact with an electrical conductor.

The severity and effects of an electrical shock depend on a number of factors, such as the pathway through the body, the amount of current, the length of time of the exposure, and whether the skin is wet or dry (ie sweat). Water is a great conductor of electricity, allowing current to flow more easily in wet conditions and through wet skin.

The effect of the shock may range from a slight tingle to severe burns to cardiac arrest. The chart below shows the general relationship between the degree of injury and amount of current for a 50-cycle hand-to-foot path of one second’s duration of shock. While reading this chart, keep in mind that most electrical circuits can provide, under normal conditions, up to 20,000 milliamperes of current flow. So only a very small percentage of current leaking to earth can cause harm if touched by your body… as little as 30 milliamperes of current can KILL !!!

Current	Reaction
1 Milliampere	Perception level
1-5 Milliamperes	Slight shock felt; not painful but disturbing
6-29 Milliamperes	Painful shock; “let-go” range
30-150 Milliamperes	Extreme pain, respiratory arrest
151-4,300 Milliamperes	Ventricular fibrillation
4,300+ Milliamperes	Cardiac arrest, severe burns & even death

In addition to the electrical shock hazards, sparks from electrical equipment can serve as an ignition source for flammable or explosive vapors.

Even loss of electrical power can result in extremely hazardous situations. Flammable or toxic vapors may be released as a chemical warms when a refrigerator or freezer fails. Fume hoods may cease to operate, allowing vapors to be released into the work area.  So take care with your electrical equipment and consider all contingencies in the operation of that equipment.

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Of course the best way is to ensure that your appliances are not hazardous in the first place by ensuring that not dangerous electrical currents are present on the external parts of the appliance. We at Tested & True ~ test & tag come 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 recommendations 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 Australian Standards ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price.

Call Now Mobile 040 7605568

Visit us at

www.testedandtrue.com.au

or our Newsletter http://testedtruenewsletter.blogspot.com/

Peter Hill Manager , Tested & True ~ test & tag Lonsdale SA October 2015

What does a Testing and Tagging Technician Actually do?

Many of our clients organise regular test and tagging services simply because it is easier and safer.

A regular program of testing and tagging comprises of: (standard 10/15Amp 3 wire cabled appliance and plugged multi phase equipment)

A visual check to ensure the integrity of the Electrical cord and Appliance construction

• The Technician looks for Cuts and breaks in appliance and power cables may present as an  electrical hazard.
• An inspection of the integrity of the appliance housing looking for cracks and holes which may expose personnel to an electrical hazard.

A series of electrical tests are then conducted to detect the unobservable faults not found by the visual inspection process, and forms an integral part of the inspection/testing process.

The equipment is turned off to allow the technician access to the appliance plug. All tests are performed by disconnecting the appliance from the building power and connecting the plug to an insulation tester or a Portable Appliance Test-set built for the purpose of performing the tests automatically and uniformly. These Tests are:

1. Earthing continuity test: (specifically for metal shrouded appliances) to ensure there is adequate connection between the earth pin on the plug of the appliance and the metal cover shrouding the appliance.
2. Insulation resistance test: to ensure that no path exists with the appliance/lead for electrical current to transit from the active wires to earth.
3. Continuity Loop test: to make the sure that the active circuit which powers the appliance has a good solid connection and in no way presents as an electrical hazard.
4. Polarity Test: (only for items which distribute power: leads, power-boards, adapters etc) to ensure that the wires of an extension cord/power board appear the same order of connection at the plug as the do at the socket

Other Equipment Tests Include:

 RCD test to test the tripping time of a RCD to ensure your safety switch or RCD does work properly and switches off in a fault situation quick enough to save personnel from Harm.

3Phase Test: usually high powered workshop and building site equipment with multiple active wire connections (tests performed on 3phase test are similar to that of standard appliance tests outlined above)

Emergency Exit sign test: Tests the ability for an emergency exit sign to stay on when power is off 30 minutes is the expected time, if it fails to reach the expected time then the circuitry/ battery will be in need repair or replacement .

That is it, in a very basic overview if you need to know more please either contact us or contact Safe-Work SA (South Australia) http://www.safework.sa.gov.au/  1300 365 255 or The Workplace Safety Authority in your local area.

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At Tested and True …we come 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 recommendations 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 UEENEEPOO8 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 Standard AS/NZS 3760:2010 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 Manager SA 0407605568 January 2014

Your Electrical Switchboard the First line of Defence in Safety

Fuses,Circuit Breakers and Safety Switches

These devices are found in your Switch board understanding these devices and how to use and maintain them will help  your management and understanding of Electrical Safety in the Workplace.

Primary Overload response devices (Fuses & Circuit Breakers)

Fuses and circuit breakers are built to fail in conditions of excess current which can overload the electrical wires in your home. These overloads are often caused by faulty appliances. When an overload occurs, the fuse melts before the wires can overheat, which reduces the risk of fire. Circuit breakers will often trip quicker and more importantly they can be reset to help diagnose and remove faults

1. Always replace a blown fuse with the correct fuse wire. Never use fuse wire that is heavier than the recommended gauge.
2. Never use any other type metal or wire.
3. If fuses keeps blowing, or a circuit breaker keeps tripping, check that your appliances are not faulty.
4. If fuses continue to blow, or circuit breakers continue to trip after appliances are unplugged, there could be a problem with your wiring. Contact a licensed electrician immediately.

Safety switches

Safety switches look similar to circuit breakers, but they provide extra protection from electric shock. Safety switches monitor the flow of electricity and if any irregularity is detected, the electricity supply is immediately cut off.
Homes with children or backyard workshops should consider installing safety switches to reduce the risk of electrical accidents. New homes are required to have safety switches installed. Licensed electrical contractors can install safety switches in older homes at a reasonable cost. You can also purchase portable safety switches for appliances and extension cords. Useful particularly when using power tools outside ie Electric Lawnmowers, Hedge trimmers, Drills, circular Saws etc

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Of course the best way is to ensure that your appliances are not hazardous in the first place. 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 recommendations to clear up current Hazards and how to prevent future risks. Call and ask for a quote. 040 7605568..

Note: We also do emergency and preventative maintenance of Switchboards and Mains Wiring

Tested & True ~ test & tag  Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC ProLogger 2 it can perform static testing class 1,2 & M RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection, 3 phase run testing and logs results as you test. 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 Australian Standards ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price.

Call Now Mobile 040 7605568

Visit us at

www.testedandtrue.com.au

or our Newsletter http://testedtruenewsletter.blogspot.com/

Peter Hill Manager , Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide August 2013

Workplace Power Tool Safety Update:

Workplace Power Tool Safety Tips

Introduction:

Power Tools are time saving convenient devices that assist us in building and maintaining our World. However it also contributes to large amount of injuries recorded in Australia every year. Many of these injuries are often easily avoidable and attributed to carelessness, a lack of proper tool maintenance or simply not reading the operating instructions.

Power Tool safety 101

•          Wear safety gear

Always wear the appropriate safety gear, particularly safety eye wear. Flying shards and debris create unpredictable trajectories and a sudden occurrence can not only cause damage to your eyes but force you to loose control of the powered tool you’re operating.

In addition to eye wear, workplace noise is also often overlooked. However the cumulative time of exposure to above normal decibel levels in the workplace can do irreversible damage to your hearing.

Other safety gear such as gloves and appropriate clothing/ safety footwear are just as important, and should be part of formal personnel safety plans.

•          Read the operating instructions

Being unfamiliar with the safe operation of the power is often the cause of power tool injuries. Before using anew power tool ensure you read the operation, safety and maintenance instructions of the particular tool. The key here is to familiarize both yourself and your team with new equipment when it is introduced to the fleet or job. In particular, built in safety devices and kill switches should be highlighted. Remember to also use a RCD power breaker/power board when working with high powered tools.

•          Electrical Safety and Power Tool operation

When workers use portable power tools and electrical leads that are electrically faulty or damaged they may suffer electrical shock, which could result in death, heart problems, internal organ damage or burns. To reduce risk of injury or death, electrical leads and power tools should be visually inspected prior to use, and avoided if equipment appears to have been modified or damaged. Tools should only be plugged into socket outlets that are protected by a residual current device (RCD) or a portable RCD is used.

Cut Lead Exposed wires found on Circular Saw at Warehouse

Workers should ensure power circuits are protected by the appropriate rated fuse or circuit breaker to prevent overloading and potential overheating. Electrical leads should be arranged so they do not run across the floor or ground, through doorways and over sharp edges. Where the lead arrangement is dangerous, lead stands or insulated cable hangers should be used to keep leads off the ground. Leads and tools should never be used in damp conditions unless they are specially designed for use in those conditions. Ensure your Tools are Tested and Tagged regularly to pick up electrical faults and potential hazards.

•          Report all accidents

It’s important to report all accidents and injuries in the workplace. This not only creates a culture of continuous learning, but also helps to future proof against lengthy compensation claims.

In South Australia, It is a legal obligation to notify Safe-Work SA of any work-related injury that requires treatment as an inpatient in a hospital immediately after a workplace  injury (disregarding any time taken for emergency treatment or to get the person to hospital).If you are reporting work-related injuries or incidents to Safe-Work SA the 24 hour Emergency, Dial 1800 777 209.

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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 2013

Why have your Power Tools professionally tested & tagged?

The trend these days is to do it yourself, sure you can attend a TAFE course and learn how to use an Appliance Tester!… But are you sure and certain that you can test an appliance or power tool effectively or even repair one; that would pass retesting and be compliant. It is a question you must explore , I have been Testing & Tagging electrical equipment for nearly 30 years , this began in the RAN when all personal items had to be tested and tagged before coming on board. I have also seen other people testing their own gear and the results of that.

When a business does it own testing I have noted the following attitudes and factors around their testing & tagging routine …  here are the top five..

1. A tendency to be complacent.. eg I have to use it tomorrow and I have no time to fix it. I will just a beware of those exposed wires. ..or I don’t want upset my fellow coworker by failing his/her favorite appliance it seems to be ok,  so I won’t fail it!
2. Finding the time…eg “I don’t have time I’m flat doing my own job plus  other company duties eg OH&S committee meetings, Quality Improvement team meetings etc… It tends to go down to the bottom of the list.”
3. Not keeping up to date with current legislation and Australian Standards… eg “I did my test and tag training 6 years ago, yeah I know all about it, just plug in here press the button and all is sweet! I think you do your tools every 2-3 years just the same time I do the office equipment I reckon that must be right!” (wrong!!)
4. Lack of electrical knowledge and construction of electrical appliances… this leads to making wrong decisions about the class of the equipment and how a piece of equipment operates and will impact the way its tested and may give a false pass or false fail. Either way not an effective way to test electrical equipment and possibly dangerous if the false pass item is returned to service.
5. Its a chore or its not important…eg  “No-one has looked at our test & Tag spreadsheet for the last 8 years, No-one has had an accident its all commonsense just do something as you use it.. Its a waste of time” ..etc.

We at Tested & True ... Are trained as Technicians we know the construction of electrical equipment, we understand the need for Electrical testing and are up to date with the latest Legislation and Australian Standards. On top of all this,we will repair plugs and leads and will even open up equipment  to repair it  on-site!..ensuring that your workplace is safe and that you stay compliant to Safe-Work_SA requirements.

Call and ask for a quote. 040 7605568   Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC Pro-Logger 2 it can perform RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection and Run Testing all in one neat piece of equipment. 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 January 2013

Safety Switch: Your Best Investment in Electrical safety

Safety Switch 101

The best single safety investment you can make for your Workplace or dwelling is to buy a Safety Switch. Installing a Safety switch is the most effective method of preventing injury or death caused by electric shock. A safety switch works by detecting tiny differences in current through electrical wiring, and it can detect a potential path to earth. Take the example of a person holding a faulty appliance that has an electric charge thereby providing a path to earth. A truly effective Safety Switch will detect that leaking electrical path and shut all the power down in mere milliseconds, quite often before the sensation of electrocution is felt, thereby preventing a harmful or potentially fatal electric shock.  Safety switches are Electro-mechanical devices and over time can be subject to failure. They should be tested regularly to make sure they are in working order.

Safety Switches can be prone to trip under certain conditions… There are a number reasons why a safety switch will trip. The Top 5 reasons are:

An Appliance Fault

When an appliance becomes damaged or develops a fault, it may start to leak excess electrical current. This excess current will be detected by the safety switch and cause it to trip. The easiest way to determine if this is the problem is by unplugging all electrical appliances at the power point, resetting the safety switch and then reconnecting the appliances one by one until the faulty appliance can be identified. Always use caution when dealing with possible faulty appliances and if in doubt contact an electrician.

Intermittent or Nuisance Tripping

As the amount of electrical appliances we have in our home increases, so does the likelihood of Nuisance Tripping. If there are a large number of appliances plugged in to the home at one time and a small amount of current leaks from each, the current adds up to become more substantial. This may mean that the safety switch is continuously on the verge of tripping. If there is the tiniest change in electrical current from the electricity company this can push the switch to its limit causing it to trip. This can become more of a problem in older homes where the electrical wiring is not in good condition. Limiting the amount of appliances plugged in at one time can help minimize this type of tripping.

House Wiring Fault

Faulty wiring poses the most threat to our safety and presents the worst fire risk. Fortunately, a safety switch dramatically reduces these risks. All wiring deteriorates over time and can become dangerous, so older houses are obviously more at risk. A safety switch will detect any fluctuation in electrical current caused by damaged wiring and trip, cutting off electricity immediately and stopping the wiring from burning out. A qualified electrician can assess your electrical wiring and may suggest repair or replacement.

Faulty Safety Switch

Sometimes the cause of a safety switch tripping can be the switch itself. As with any electrical appliance, a safety switch can become defective with age or mistreatment. Safety switches should be checked every six months to ensure they are working effectively. A qualified electrician can offer advice on how to do this, or do it for you if you are unsure.

Electrical Storm

An Electrical Storm can also be the cause of a safety switch going off. When lightning strikes your home, power lines or a power station it may cause a power surge which can cause a safety switch to trip. If this occurs, it is best to wait until the storm passes before resetting the switch. If in doubt always consult an electrician.

Without the right safety equipment and safety precautions, electricity can be deadly. Always check with an electrician if you are unsure why your safety switch has gone off.

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At Tested and True …We test Safety Switches as well as other electrical testing services. We come 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 Standard AS/NZS 3760:2010 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 August 2012

Keeping up with the Standards

As I go about my work I notice that many other workplaces and hence businesses have gone about their Safety Provisions, much the way they always have. Most notably the Construction Industry where outdated and sometimes dangerous practices still exist!

Having quizzed some Builders and Contractors in the Industry I found that they were simply unaware that  their was  updated version of AS/NZS 3012 (the Standard for Electrical installations—Construction and demolition sites), and that had been released in 2010. Though they were still complying with 2003  standard, they were not aware of the superseded AS/NZS 3012:2010

The main differences between the 2010 version and the 2003 version include:

• new maximum allowable lengths apply for flexible extension leads used with equipment where safety is dependant on reliable starting of motors such as motors that may draw high starting currents;
• the use of domestic-type double adaptors and multi-plug adaptors is clearly prohibited;
• the inspection and tests on construction wiring and some of the tests on isolated winding generators must now be carried out by a person authorised to carry out the electrical installation work required, e.g., a licensed electrician;
• a requirement to protect temporary construction wiring against mechanical damage by use of insulating conduit, flexible electrical hose, armoured cable or equivalent means;

a requirement for energized permanent wiring to be identified and assessed for risk of damage from construction activities.

At about the same time, the  standard AS/NZS 3760:2010.(in service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment) …has also changed and that there are revised and in some cases new requirements for  testing portable electrical appliances and cord assemblies and their frequency of testing.

Copies of these standard are available from the SAI Global website:

http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store/default.aspx

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All this can be awfully confusing let us help you with your electrical compliance and needs. We come 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 Standard AS/NZS 3760:2010 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 June 2012

The SAfer Approach to Managing Electrical Hazards

One method of  reducing Electrical hazards is to use a practical approach which in turn engenders a culture of  electrical safety in your Workplace. One such approach is called the

S A f e r approach

See it (hazard identification) Record the Hazard , its location and briefly/accurately describe the reasons why it is a hazard !

Assess it (risk assessment) Assess the likelihood that a person will be hurt,
how badly they will be hurt, how they could be hurt, how much, how long
and how often a person is exposed to the hazard.

Fix it (risk control) How are the hazards going to be controlled?
If elimination of the hazard is not possible, other controls should be
implemented to reduce potential risks.  These controls may include the use
of Residual Current Devices (RCDs). Other controls that should be considered are: safety switches, regular monitoring, record keeping, the testing of electrical equipment and fixed wiring, safe systems of work and personal protective equipment.

Evaluate once the most appropriate fix has been selected and implemented.
It is important to evaluate whether the fix has been successful in controlling
the hazard. Simply re-assessing the risk again will establish if the hazard has
been eliminated or reduced.

Review after a period of time and if the work environment or work practices change. A review of this process is needed to continually control the hazard.

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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 April 2012

ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY

Much is made of Personal Electrical Safety, yes it is of prime importance, however often Personal Safety takes precedence over concerns of fire safety and it gets left out of the Risk Assessment. As a result, little consideration is taken to reduce fire hazards in particular fire hazards concerning power boards and extension Leads. Over the years there has been an increase in the number of fires caused by electrical power-boards and leads. The origin of these fires has been identified as the improper use of electrical leads, and incorrect placement of power-boards.

By and large the most prevalent electrical fire faults have been attributed to the overloading of multiple outlet power-boards by electrical appliances which exceed the maximum rated output of the boards. This can cause the power-board to overheat, melt and catch fire. Included is the practice of placing double adaptors on power-boards to increase the number of power outlets, and the piggybacking of double adaptors on power points. These are extremely dangerous practices.

Most common Power-boards are designed with a 10 amp maximum rating and may incorporate up to eight power outlets. However, some electrical appliances such as Urns, Heaters, Toaster Ovens etc, can draw up to 4 amps for each item plugged in , making it relatively easy to exceed the power-board rating if all the outlets were in operation.

It is important that all your electrical appliances are used strictly according to manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure that any electrical appliances used individually or as a group do not exceed the power-boards maximum rating.

So What Can I do about it? (Prevention is the only way, cure is too late!)

• Ensure power-board rating is not exceeded by the appliances attached to the power-board.
• Do not use double adaptors in the Workplace (power boards cost just a little bit more and offer overload protection and more outlets)
• Never Chain from one power board to another to increase the number of power points.
• Conduct regular inspections of power-boards for visual damage or discolouring.
• If you suspect that a power-board is faulty, immediately take it out of service or replace it.
• Turn off powerboards at the power point when not in use.
• Ensure adequate ventilation around the power-board to prevent overheating.
• Use RCD protected Power Boards where fixed RCD protection is not available.

And don’t forget your Electrical Appliances.

• Provide adequate ventilation space around electrical appliances to allow heat to vent freely.
• Never operate electrical appliances in damp or wet areas.
• Not only turn electrical appliances off at their switch, but also to turn off the power point
• By taking these simple precautions the risk of fire starting from the use of electrical equipment can be minimised. Remember, above all, the best protection for you and your co-workers/employees is to have a properly installed and operating Smoke Alarm.

Update your Fire Emergency Plan and ensure that all staff know where to evacuate and assemble

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Preparing your workplace for reducing fire hazards is important is important, however it is best that your appliances and electrical wiring are not hazardous in the first place. 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 February 2012