Electrical Safety
Check out these simple tips to ensure you and your loved ones are safe and prevent electrical injury.
- Replace missing or broken cover plates immediately. Outlet covers create a barrier between people and exposed wires.
- Never overload an electrical outlet. Use an approved power bar that has surge protection instead.
- Water and Electricity don’t mix. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) on all bathroom and outdoor outlets.
- Always remove a cord from the outlet by grasping the plug. Do not pull on the cord, this can damage the cord, appliance, and outlet.
- If you need electrical work done in your home, only hire a licensed Electrical Contractor.
- Unplug or switch off electrical appliances when not in use or while cleaning, repairing, or servicing.
- Refrain from running electrical cords across doorways, under the carpets, or in the areas that witness regular activities.
- Maintain a clearance of at least 3 feet from all electrical panels.
- Use only equipment that is CSA approved.
- Regularly check for defects in cords and equipment. Report immediately if any.
- Identify potential electrical hazards, such as electrical panels, with appropriate safety signs.
Call before you dig by contacting Ontario One Call. Phone: 1-800-400-2255 or visit www.ontarioonecall.ca
Although you can’t see them, there are just as many, if not more, electrical cables and gas lines running below ground level, as there are above.
Hitting a cable with a power shovel, excavator or auger can result in serious damage, liability, severe injury, or even death. As the contractor doing the digging, you are responsible for getting a cable and/or gas locate for your job.
Make sure workers on the site are trained properly and are aware of these potential hazards.