Construction Maintenance Electrician

5 Electrical Safety Tips to Follow After Electrician School

August 11, 2022

Electricians encounter potential safety hazards every day. While working with the voltages and currents within electrical systems always involves a risk, it’s important to know how to reduce as much risk as possible. With the right safety practices and protocols in place, electricians are able to stay safe on the job, ensuring long and successful careers. 

At the North American Trade Schools, students in the Construction and Maintenance Electrician Program not only build practical skills in wiring, installation and more, but they also receive comprehensive safety training which they’ll be able to apply in their future careers. Below, get a head start on your electrical safety knowledge by discovering five key electrical safety tips to follow.

1. Wear the Right Protective Equipment 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is key for an electrician. With the right PPE, those with electrician training can avoid the risk of shock or other dangers associated with working with electrical equipment. Typically, proper safety gear includes insulated gloves, long sleeves, hard hats, goggles, line hoses and blankets. Depending on the job, more gear may be required to ensure adequate protection. As an extra precaution, make sure to inspect your gear before starting any job to ensure that it’s not damaged.

After electrician training, make sure to wear proper safety gear at all times.

2. Keep the Electrical Code in Mind

As a student at NATS, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC). The CEC was developed to outline the safety risks involved in the wiring, installation and maintenance of electrical systems. It includes information about the proper safety protocols and best practices to follow while on the job. As an electrician, it’s important to maintain a working knowledge of the CEC, as this will help you to avoid hazardous situations and respond to risks safely. 

3. Know What to Do in Wet Conditions With Electrician Training

Damp or wet areas are a hazard for electricians, as water contact increases the risk of electrocution. After electrician school, it’s important to take the proper steps in preventing electrocution as a result of water. When working in any wet area, it’s crucial to install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) before beginning your project. When cords and equipment are plugged into GFCI-protected receptacles, the risk of electrocution is minimized as the circuit is interrupted before making contact with your body. 

4. Maintain Your Electrical Tools

Damaged tools are an accident waiting to happen. The tools electricians use (trigger locks, power tools, extension cords and more) are designed to maximize safety, but when these tools are in need of repair, they can pose a serious safety hazard. Before beginning any job, make sure to examine your tools for signs of wear and tear, fraying or cracking. If any tools show signs of damage, it’s important to remove them from the site and get them repaired immediately.

Ensure that your tools are not damaged before beginning any project.

5. Remember Lockout and Tagout

Lockout and tagout procedures are critical for any electrical job. During the program at NATS, you’ll receive training in lockout and tagout, which involves de-energizing any equipment before the repair process. All electrical equipment, including hanging wires, metallic covering and other components, must be de-energized in order to avoid electrocution. Lockout and tagout are performed by turning off the current at the switch box and keeping it off by padlocking the switch in place. Before any electrical job, don’t forget to complete this step.

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