Like everyone else, electricians think of many things before they head off to work —but unfortunately, safety isn’t always at the top of the list. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost 4400 workers died from on-the-job injuries in 2015. Falls, object strikes, and entrapment are all common causes of death, but there’s another notable cause: electrocution. To stay safe at work, electricians should recognize the hazards they face and take steps to minimize the risk.
The Dangers of Being an Electrician: What Can Be Done to Prevent an Injury?
Being an Electrician is Physically Demanding
Some electrical jobs are simple. For instance, replacing lighting fixtures and installing outlets is easy. That’s not always the case, though, and electricians often push themselves to the limit on the job. An electrician may have to climb a tall ladder or get into a small crawl space to do the job.
When a person is in their 20s or 30s, such tasks aren’t that difficult. However, as one age, they often find that they can’t do the same things they used to do. Electrical work can take a severe toll on a worker’s knees, feet, shoulders, and back. It’s important to be prepared for the rigours of the job and to take precautions when possible.
Common Dangers for Electricians
As most people know, local electricians often run wires under floors, above ceilings, and through walls. Sometimes, that involves them cutting through the drywall in existing buildings or crawling through dusty attics and mouldy basements to wire areas properly. The nature of the job puts an electrician at risk of exposure to asbestos, lead, and other hazardous materials.
Exposure to toxins isn’t the only thing threatening an electrician’s health. Here are some of the other dangers these workers face daily.
· Severe electrical shocks
· Burns
· Fires
· Exposure to UV radiation
· Extreme cold and heat
· Electrocution
· Repetitive stress injuries
· Exposure to bacteria, fungi, and mould
· Object strikes
· Infections caused by insects, rodents, and bird droppings
· Falls from scaffolding and ladders
· Equipment failures
· Slip-and-fall accidents
These are just some of the hazards electricians face. If you’ve been hurt through no fault of your own, call the personal injury attorneys at OnderLaw LLC.
Suggested Safety Precautions
While an electrician faces numerous safety threats when working on new and existing buildings, they can take certain precautions to keep themselves safe on the job. These steps include those listed below.
- Maintain equipment and tools so they work as intended, and don’t use anything that’s been compromised or damaged.
- Use ISO approved signage to instruct others and clearly mark out any potential hazards.
- Wear personal protective equipment, including safety footwear and eyewear, especially when working with hazardous materials or sharing the workspace with others.
- Keep the work area clean and clutter-free. This allows an electrician to see trip hazards and other dangers.
- Don’t work in positions that place excessive strain on the body.
- Take frequent breaks when jobs involve repetitive tasks.
- Use proper lifting methods when carrying heavy items.
- Walk around the Jobsite before starting to learn where potential hazards are located.
Even a skilled electrician who’s seen it all should be careful on the job because, while they may have done a certain task before, every worksite is different. Each location has unique hazards which might lead to unexpected dangers when performing familiar tasks. By being cautious and careful, electricians can protect their health and stay safe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, working as an electrician comes with its own set of unique dangers and risks that must be taken seriously. The physically demanding nature of the job, coupled with the potential for electrical shock and other hazards, means that it is crucial for electricians to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from harm.
By following suggested safety precautions such as wearing protective gear, properly maintaining tools and equipment, and undergoing regular safety training, electricians can greatly reduce the risk of injury on the job. It is important for both employers and employees to prioritize safety in the workplace to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for all.
By staying informed and taking proactive measures to prevent injuries, electricians can continue to provide essential services while staying safe on the job.
