If you encounter a lock and tag

Following proper safety practices when working with electricity at work is imperative. Shocks, burns and fires can occur resulting in the destruction of property, serious injury or even death. Here are some common guidelines for working with electricity at work.

Faulty wiring causes many accidents at work. Follow the proper use of all equipment - many times mishandling of equipment damages the wires. Never pick up a tool by its power cord and make sure you inspect tools regularly for cracks and other defects. Immediately replace or fix any damaged wires!

Try to limit the pieces of equipment running on the same circuit. This will heat up the wiring and increase the chances of a fire.

When using extension cords, make sure you use cords that are rated for the power you are using. Extension cords are only for temporary use.

Never Alter 3-pronged plugs to fit into 2-prong outlets. This renders the grounding wire unusable and leaves you unprotected from stray electricity. If absolutely necessary use an adapter but make sure to attach the ground wire to the outlet and make sure the outlet is grounded as well.

Use double insulated tools whenever possible. They provide extra protection by shielding electricity away from the user.

If you have any reservations about whether a machine is broken - don't use it! Call you supervisor and get maintenance. When machines are getting serviced the power sources should be cut off and that the machine is truly de-energized. Lock-Out/Tag-Out procedures should be followed along with warning signs.

If you encounter a lock and tag, realize that they are there for a reason. Never try to restore power before the repairs have been made and the tags and lock have been removed by the person who put them there.

There are many important guidelines when working with electricity. The guidelines we have outlined in this article are just a start and proper training on all aspects of electricity is needed. Make sure that you are completely trained on all aspects of electrical safety before you attempt to use a machine.