Working with electricity comes with a lot of unforeseen risks. It can prove to be highly lethal if safety precautions are not followed carefully. As an electrical trainee, you should familiarise yourself with the associated risks and ensure you adhere to all the safety guidelines.
There are always certain practices to be followed while executing any electrical task. Here are some pro tips to make this journey easier for every Canadian electrician trainee. So, without any further ado, let’s delve a little deeper into it.
Don’t Touch Someone Who’s Been Electrocuted
One of the first things you get to hear from your trainer during your early days. Don’t be impulsive. Follow the key steps in such situations, never make the mistake of touching the electrocuted person. The first step should be to find the source of electricity and cut the supply as soon as possible. If there is no way to turn off the power source, then push the person away from the contact using a non-conducting material such as wood, rubber, or plastic.
Know Your Canadian Electrical Code (CEC)
Awareness and knowledge are key in this field. Try to learn as much as possible about the local codes and standards to help you make your mark. Make sure you are fully aware of the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) as it acts as a bible for all electrical engineers. The main purpose of CEC is to protect all electrical workers and make electrical installations and equipment standards safer. It helps you understand new rules and best practices for all sorts of wiring, maintenance, and installation work.
Follow Proper Lockout/Tagout Procedures
Ensure you are aware of the Lockout and Tagout procedures. Always follow the proper lockout as it is one of the fundamentals of every Canadian electrician program. It is a mandatory step that ensures the equipment is thoroughly de-energized before starting the electrical work. It significantly minimizes shock and electrocution. Use the tester to find out about the power supply and check the wires whenever you are in doubt.
Always Use GFCIS In Damp or Wet Work Areas
GFCIS stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters and should always be used while doing your job. GFCIs main role is to interrupt the circuit before it can pass onto the body and do some serious harm. It keeps you safe, especially if you are working in wet conditions. All your tools should be grounded or connected with GFCI for effective and safe use.
Wear The Right Safety Gear
Make sure to put on your safety gear all the time at work. A Canadian electrician should never enter the job site without the correct safety gear. All clothing should be designed in such a way that it keeps you safer and make your job as secure and safe as possible. You are required to have your safety equipment and present it during the inspection. All of your gear should meet standards and must be approved for on-site use.
Inspect & Maintain Your Electrical Tools
Always check your tools and accessories and keep them in optimal condition. Look for any exposed or damaged wires in tools and get them repaired as soon as possible. Make sure it has proper insulation and a protective layer on them. Inspect everything in the toolbox thoroughly, such as the body casings, cords, switches and more. Always invest in quality parts. And maintain them for smooth and flawless functioning.
Avoid Power Lines
Power lines can pose a serious threat to not only your life but also the life of others. Always stay away from the power line. Only when you have enough experience and are aware of the Know-Hows, you should work on power lines. Till then, work only under proper guidance, support and supervision of experts.
Choose The Right Ladder
Wood and fibreglass ladders are two main options that you can choose. These are the best ladders for electricians because they are the bad conductors of electricity that means you are always protected. It is quite helpful, particularly under wet conditions. It also lasts longer than other standard ladders.
Electricity is common, but it can be hazardous while training too. Only those who are qualified with electrical components should do. Otherwise, it is always in your best interest to know things first and then start any electrical work. You can contact an expert electrician at Salter Electric for any electrical rewiring. We understand your electrical necessities and won’t disappoint you.
