Whether you’re starting an electrical project at home or just performing maintenance checks, safety is always the number one priority. You can ask any self-respecting electrician in Fort Worth, and they will all agree that understanding electrical hazards are the key to knowing how to prevent them.
Working in Wet or Damp Spaces
When tackling electrical work in areas with water, have GFCIs installed as a safety measure. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters protect you from electrical shocks by disconnecting the power before it can cause a short circuit that could harm you. GFCIs are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and any other damp places where you need to install electrical wiring systems.
Mind Your Equipment Material
In tackling all types of electrical work, always remember not to wear or use any metal, whether it be steel or aluminum. Even the pencils or rulers you use should never be metal, as these conduct electricity and can be double harmful in threats like electrical surges. Opt for wooden or fiberglass materials instead. Also, make sure that you only use insulated tools and protective equipment during a project.
How to Avoid Short Circuits
A common risk when handling electricity is getting short circuits, but luckily there’s equipment that can protect you from that threat. Circuit breakers are designed to protect you as well as your devices by automatically cutting off the live wire in the event of a short circuit or over-current. Make sure the fuse you select for your home has the right current rating to shield you from electrical harm effectively. A 150% rating is usually a good rating for a standard circuit current.
Safety Precautions When Using Capacitors
When you remove a capacitor from its circuit, you need to discharge it so it won’t cause an electric shock. A quick way to discharge is to stick two insulated screwdrivers to the capacitor terminals. The tips of these screwdrivers can discharge low voltage capacitors. If you’re dealing with capacitors with high voltage, then you can connect a 12-volt light bulb to use up the capacitor’s last remaining energy.
Ensure your safety by observing precaution and following all instructions when you work with electricity. You could always use the help of an electrician in Fort Worth to give you more tips on basic guidelines on the proper handling of cables, circuit breakers, and all things electrical.