With electricity, we are dealing with
something that cannot be seen but can be very destructive if the proper precautions are not taken. The
danger is always there so it is important to know the basics of protection in
order to eliminate the hazards. The rules listed here apply to electrical
installations used on a construction site–both temporary and permanent–but
can easily be applied to home use as well.

• Extension cords used with portable electrical
  tools and appliances shall be of three-wire types. Grounds are never to be
  removed from the extension cords.
• Temporary lights shall be equipped with
  guards to prevent accidental contact with the bulb. Guards are not required
  when the reflector is constructed in such a way that the bulb is deeply
  recessed.
• Temporary lights shall not be suspended by
  their electric cords unless cords and lights are designed for this means of
  suspension.
• Splices shall have insulation equal to that
  of the cable. NO TAPE!
• Electrical and extension cords or cables are
  not to be laid on floors, in walkways, etc., unless it is impractical to do
  otherwise. They should be suspended or secured in such a way as not to block or
  hang in walkways, doorways or work areas.
• Panel boxes shall have a cover on them at all
  times, except when being serviced and when a temporary cover is in place it
  should be marked “HOT” to denote live current.

A GFCI MUST BE USED AT ALL TIMES.

ELECTRICAL OUTLETS

• Before using make a safety check for loose
  cable connections, bare wires, cracked outlets and missing or damaged face
  plates.
• During use, be sure plug fits firmly and
  check for any signs of heating caused by faulty connections.
• When finished, grab the plug to remove. Yanking
  a cord from an outlet can:

• Break cord insulation and wires
• Pull loose wire connections
• Bend plug prongs
• Spread
  clips inside outlets 

THE THIRD PRONG IS THE GROUND. 

WITHOUT IT, ELECTRICITY ONLY HAS
ONE PLACE TO GO – THROUGH YOU!

Rich Reese is a
Regional Safety Manager for Donley’s, Inc. 

Learn more about Donley’s safety program.