Electrical Safety around the Home and farm Jesse Morris \ Spring 2002 Virginia Tech This presentation has not been edited by the Georgia Curriculum Office.

Objectives Performance objectives – Students will be able to describe electrical safety issues Enabling objectives – Given the instruction in class and laboratory demonstrations students will be able to describe and explain the following safety hazards with 100% accuracy: –Electrical short circuit –Electrical water damage –Tool Purchasing –Power Line Entanglement –Electrical wiring safety

Electrical Safety "Shocking Statistics“ There are approximately 290 accidental electrocutions each year. An additional 800 people die in fires caused by faulty electrical systems every year. Thousands are shocked and burned as the result of accidental contact with electricity every year. An estimated $1.2 billion in property damage occurs each year due to faulty use of electricity.

Electrical Safety Electrical Wire Identification  Black = Hot wire  Red = Hot wire  White = Neutral wire  Bare or Green = Ground wire *Never touch any of these wires together unless you are instructed to do so.

Electrical Panel Box Safety All electricity flows into panel box from meter If breaker or fuse periodically throws or blows, you are in danger of an electrical short Always use the correct size fuse or breaker for the proper application If unsure of any electrical problem contact an electrician

Electricity and Water The likelihood of being shock is greatly multiplied in damp locations People are excellent conductors Never use electrical equipment in damp or wet areas Do Not spray water around any electrical source

Electrical Safety Proper use of extension cords – Stay away from wet areas, sharp objects heat & oil – Check cords periodically for nicks and cuts – Always use the correct wire gauge and cord length for its intended use: Up to 35’ use # 14 gauge wire 36’ to 75’ use # 12 gauge wire 76’ to 100’ use #10 gauge wire (All cords are on volt )

Electrical Safety Power Tools – If possible always buy grounded, 3-prong power tools (ground included) – If tools are not available purchase double-insulated power tools, (2 layers of insulation to protect against shock) – Always make sure tool are UL listed for safety – Handle tools and their electrical cords with care

Wire Protection Always follow National Electrical Code with the local building code Encase in outdoor wire in conduit Use conduit & ground- fault circuit interrupters (GCFI) in damp locations Keep any unprotected wire away from livestock, sharp objects high use areas

Electrical Safety Power line Entanglement – Bury wires if possible – Always call and check before digging – Keep all implements lowered while moving (dump trucks, augers, front end loaders)

In Case of Electrical Accident Always use fire extinguisher in case of fire Immediately turn off electrical power source Apply CPR if necessary Find help as quickly as possible

Reducing Electrical Hazards Have a certified electrician install electrical circuits if unsure. Avoid using grounding prong adapters Use GCFI in damp or wet areas Always refer to the NEC and local building code Purchase only UL approved tools

Key Points Service Entrance Panel Safety (SEP) Electrical Shock: Water damage, power line entanglement, improper use of extension cords, electrical wire protection Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GCFI) Proper Electrical Tool Purchase Electrical Accident(s)