As trusted warehouse electricians serving Middlesex County, New Jersey, Ocean Coast Electric understands the importance of electrical safety in the workplace. Whether it’s an office building, a chemical plant, or a grocery store, ensuring everyone’s safety is always a top priority. While there are common culprits and standard protocols that apply to all sorts of facilities, a particular setting has its own unique set of electrical hazards and safety concerns: the warehouse. Check out this infographic for a brief checklist of crucial practices, then continue reading for a more in-depth look into how Ocean Coast Electric can keep you, your co-workers, and your workplace safe.
Appropriate Grounding
One of the essential things to ensure is that all electronic equipment is properly grounded. This practice will decrease the chances of someone electrocuting themselves. Make sure to move power cords that are blocking aisles or are in workers’ ways. Falls are one of the most common workplace injuries, and having wires strewn about will only increase the chances of a fall happening.
Adhere to OSHA Standards
OSHA has clear guidelines that warehouses can use to ensure it is operating as safely as possible. When employees fail to comply with these guidelines, conditions in the warehouse can become hazardous, leading to potential injury and even worse. Sub-standard or alternative wiring configurations can result in electrocution.
Good Working Condition
All of the warehouse’s electrical equipment should be in optimal condition. The outlets and cords should be in a good state, and no exposed frayed wires should be coming out of them. Regularly inspect the electrical tools with preliminary checks and appropriate tests.
Avoid Water
Keep all electrical equipment away from any wetness, and always make sure that power tools are entirely powered down when they are cleaned or repaired. The area surrounding electrical cords and equipment shouldn’t have any potentially hazardous materials or conductors, like water or metal.
Maintain Electrical Equipment
Carry out scheduled preventive maintenance of all electrical equipment and fixed installations. It’s best if you rely on a trusted professional – either in-house or from a third-party organization – inspect and test the equipment. Always be vigilant for signs of damage or faults. Ocular inspection is one of the most basic steps you and your employees can take to ensure electrical safety.
Invest in Training
Electrical safety training should be mandatory for all employees. This training may include teaching the proper use of tools, alerting workers to the possible hazards that come with working with electrical equipment, and showing them where circuit breakers and electrical panels are located. Workers should never handle electrical equipment until they have received training, as inexperienced or untrained individuals may not be aware of the risks associated with using such tools. Employees working around electrical appliances should also receive CPR training in case of an emergency.
Prepare for Inclement Weather
When storm systems are a threat, it’s vital to safeguard your equipment and appliances by unplugging electrical items, like computers and monitors, to prevent surge damage.
Conduct Safety Audits
Conduct regular safety audits, including fire inspections. Make the required modifications in safety practices.
If you require a warehouse electrician near Somerset County, New Jersey, contact Ocean Coast Electric today!