–Don’t Get Zapped! Key Safety Precautions When Working with Electricity
Whether you’re doing a DIY construction and remodeling job of your East Bay area
home, or you are simply troubleshooting your heating and air-conditioning, here are
crucial basic safety reminders about working with electricity. Yes, yes, you probably
remember what to do and what not to do. But in case your memory needs a little jog…
Avoid fallen power lines or frayed or damaged power lines. If you see a problem on your
property, don’t “fix it yourself.” It’s better to be safe than sorry. Call a specialist, such as
the general contractors here at B.A. Morrison.
Avoid touching substations and transformers – particularly if you are wet or if there
is any liquid that could conduct the electricity into your body. This should be self-
explanatory.
Do a risk assessment before you engage with the project. Get new equipment or
outside help before you get knee-deep into the project. Homeowners who become
immersed in a project are at a higher risk of being injured in an accident. Don’t let hubris
turn you into this guy:
GUY: “Hmm, looks like there’s a wire down. Ugh. Oh well. Not gonna stop when I’m
having so much fun. I’ll just move that wire myself…. ZAP!!!”
Make sure you are trained to use any equipment. Self explanatory.
If you work around dust, vapors, or anything flammable, be extra cautious. Conduct a
thorough inspection of all equipment. Check fuses, plugs, cables, outer covers, and the
surrounding area.
Cordon the project off. Turn the power off to the work area your in or if your unsure which breaker
that is, turn off the power to the building. Be sure that you and anyone else nearby
(including children or pets) won’t trip over trailing wires or “get into” the construction
job before you’ve finished hiding everything and eliminating all hazards.
For help with your home or business project, connect with the team at B.A.
Morrison. We are a family-owned heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and general
construction company. We’ve served the East Bay Area for over two decades. We are
an A+ BBB accredited business, and we are fully bonded and insured.
Connect with us now at 510-538-9817, or explore resources at www.bamorrison.com.
