With many Americans working from home during this COVID-19 crisis, it may be necessary for a lot of them to use more devices in the home than they normally do. Plugging computers, printers, copiers, and chargers into extension cords; while setting up at kitchen tables, on couches, or even in bedrooms to accomplish the same tasks they usually do in the office can be very hectic, and also very dangerous. We all know that using extension cords at the office is a no-no, but do we keep all that in mind as we try to keep up with productivity from our makeshift home offices during this time of pubic health crisis?
The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) celebrates the National Electrical Safety Month each May, and this year is no different. The 2020 campaign features a comprehensive collection of new and updated resources to help facilitate an effective electrical safety awareness campaign, useful fact sheets and related safety tips, templates and tools you can use to promote electrical safety and National Electrical Safety Month in your home or workplace.
So, if you are working from home during this crisis, follow these electrical safety tips to keep you and your home safe from electrical hazards.
- Avoid overloading outlets with multiple devices or extension cords.
- Unplug appliances when not in use to save energy and minimize the risk of shock or fire.
- Regularly inspect electrical cords and extension cords for damage.
- Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis.
- Never plug a space heater or fan into an extension cord or power strip.
- Never run cords under rugs / carpets, doors, or windows.
- Plug in smartly! Make sure cords do not become tripping hazards.
- Keep papers and other potential combustibles at least three feet away from space heaters or other heat sources
- Make sure to use proper wattage for lamps / lighting.
- Make sure your home has smoke alarms. Test them monthly, change batteries yearly, and replace the unit every 10 years.
Wherever you work, it’s always important to be safe!
Electrical Safety Self-Assessment
Are you confident that your company’s electrical safety program is up-to-date and comprehensive?
This Electrical Safety Self-Assessment is an electrical safety evaluation tool. You’ll be guided through a series of questions that will help you assess the effectiveness of your electrical safety program, and identify areas that may require further examination. Think of it as a checklist for your electrical safety program.
Even if your company has a good, solid electrical safety program in place, you will likely uncover a few areas that could use some improvement. That’s exactly what the Self-Assessment is designed to help you do.