Working with electricity can be dangerous, as even experienced electricians can make hazardous mistakes. If you’re working alone on a job, basic safety principles can be easy to overlook. Below are a few safety tips every electrical contractor should follow.

How to Stay Safe Working With Electricity

1. Always Disconnect the Power

Whether you’re rewiring a building or working with an electrical device, always treat the component as if it’s life. Not only should you shut off power to the circuit and device, but you should also lock the supply if possible. Many electrical contractors carry small padlocks to secure service panels when they’re working on the wiring.

2. Use the Right Tools

When you’re in the middle of a project, crimping wires or tightening a screw with any tool available might seem like the fastest way to get the job done. However, cutting any corner when working with electricity can cause serious injuries, so always use tools designed for electrical work. 

Hand tools should have rubberized grips, and ladders should be made out of non-conductive materials like wood or fiberglass.

3. Ground Your Equipment

Grounding creates a low-resistance path for electricity to follow into the ground, preventing energy from building up inside the device. Even if you’re just performing a quick repair or double-checking your work, be sure the equipment is properly grounded before reaching inside.

4. Wear Proper Clothing

Loose clothes, ties, and other items can brush up against exposed wiring or surfaces carrying an electrical charge. Wear comfortable clothes, but make sure they aren’t too loose. 

Rubber-soled shoes with non-conductive insoles will also keep electricity from grounding through your body, potentially preventing injuries or even saving your life if you touch a live wire.

For over 40 years, Husker Electric Supply has been providing supplies to electrical contractors throughout the Lincoln, NE, area. They specialize in electrical work and carry a broad assortment of parts and components from the industry’s leading brands. Visit their website for more on their products and services, or call (402) 467-4624 with any questions.