Electrical Safety Protocols: Hazard Prevention & Protection

Understanding Electrical Safety and Protection

The physiological effects and after-effects of electric current are determined by several critical factors:

• Type of current
• Current magnitude
• Frequency
• Duration of current passing through the body
• Resistance of the human body
• The insulation properties of the skin

Conductor Identification: Notation and Colors

Proper identification of conductors is crucial for electrical safety. Here are the standard notations and colors for insulated conductors:

• Working Conductor: Wire of the current system for power supply and energy transmission. Colors: Black, Brown, and Grey.
• Neutral Conductor: Wire connected to the source node, which contributes to energy transmission. Color: Light Blue.
• Protective Conductor: Wire required as a precaution for protection against electric shock. Colors: Yellow and Green combination.
• PEN Conductor: Used for both protective and neutral wire functions. Colors: Yellow and Green combination.

Classification of Electrical Workspaces

Workspaces are classified based on the potential for electric shock hazards:

• Normal Space: No increased accident hazard from electric shock.
• Dangerous Space: Environment presents either a stable or transient electric shock hazard (e.g., wet conditions, high temperatures).
• Extra Dangerous Space: Permanently escalated accident hazard.

Safe Work Practices for Electrical Personnel

Personnel working with electrical systems must adhere to specific safety guidelines:

• Work only on low voltage systems.
• Maintain a minimum 20 cm distance from live parts.
• Touch only parts specifically intended for attendance or maintenance.
• Do not touch live parts.
• Always follow supervisor instructions.

Key Electrical Component Definitions

Live Parts

Components intended for current conduction or that carry voltage.

Dead Parts

Components that have no voltage and are not intended for current conduction.

Methods for Protecting Against Live Part Contact

Various methods are employed to protect against electric shock from live parts:

• Insulation: Prevents contact; removable only by its destruction.
• Enclosures: Physical barriers surrounding live parts.
• Obstacles: Intended to prevent accidental contact with live parts.
• Placing Live Parts Out of Reach: Prevents accidental contact by positioning.
• Residual Current Protective Device (RCD): Enhances other safety precautions.
• Additional Insulation: For use only by individuals with electrotechnical qualifications.

Automatic Disconnection of Supply for Safety

This function involves the disconnection of defective parts of an electrical arrangement using protective apparatus. All exposed conductive parts must be connected to the supply source's node via a protective conductor.

Emergency First Aid for Electric Shock

In the event of an electric shock, follow these critical first aid steps:

1. Safely move the affected person away from the current source.
2. Check vital functions and provide immediate treatment (e.g., CPR) if necessary.
3. Call for emergency medical assistance (a doctor or paramedics).
4. Notify the appropriate workplace supervisor or chief.