BLOGS

As the cost of goods stored in warehouses continues to rise, the need to protect the products from damage due to various reasons (lift truck impact, electrical accidents or from water) also increases. Over here we discuss electrical safety - an important aspect of warehouse safety.

• Proper grounding: Grounding is a procedure where an electrical charge is carried to ground through a conductive path. To prevent electrical hazards in your warehouse, it’s important that the entire electrical system is appropriately grounded. When electrical equipment is not grounded, they can cause damage to the goods as well as personnel during incidents of voltage fluctuations or when lightning hits.
• Maintain electrical equipment: Electrical equipment which is not maintained well pose a serious electrical threat. Frayed, worn, or missing insulation on cords and cables can cause electric shocks, ranging from mild discomfort to severe burns and even electrocution. Tools and extension cords should be electrically tested on a monthly basis. The tests that need to be conducted are: Ground continuity test, leakage test, insulation breakdown and operational test - if the tools or equipment fail any of the tests, it should either be replaced or repaired after being checked by a qualified electrician.
• Invest in staff training: Every industrial setting has its own electrical safety procedures. It is important that these safety procedures are followed. In a warehouse, there are different teams --- the one which is responsible for handling the goods and the other for operating equipment. There should be coordination between both to avoid accidents. Designing comprehensive training programs for all employees can go a long way in ensuring electrical safety. Recognize best practices and encourage others to follow safe behaviours.
• Keep electrical appliances away from water sources: Though this may sound obvious, water and electricity are the most dangerous combination and thus must be kept away from each other. Completely power down equipment especially when cleaning is being done. As an added precaution, keep inflammable items away from electrical items. In case of an electrical fire, do not pour water. Keep a fire extinguisher on site. For wet work areas, use only those tools that are rated for wet work. Fully insulated, waterproof cords should be used if they will be exposed to water.
• Plan for severe weather conditions like thunderstorms and cyclones: To protect your electrical appliances, unplug them during extreme weather conditions. If there’s a warning for a severe weather condition, ask an electrician to check the electrical system beforehand.

We hope you find these tips helpful. As one of the best companies for electrical switches, we at RR Switches, understand the importance of electrical safety in the workplace. This is why we ensure that our switches and sockets meet the highest standards of safety and quality.