Electrical Safety
The most common physical and fire hazards come from electrically powered devices. Electrically powered equipment is used routinely in offices, laboratories and shops. The majority of injuries associated with electrically powered equipment occur from electrical shock. An electrical shock injury can occur if a person is exposed to a current as low as 10 milliamperes (mA). Exposure at levels of 80 to 100 mA can be fatal. Electrical equipment can also serve as an ignition source for combustible materials and flammable or explosive vapors. Many of the risks can be minimized by following rules for the safe use of electricity and proper maintenance of electrical equipment.
EH&S works with departments to try to prevent injuries involving electricity by offering general electrical safety training for non-electrical workers and safety inspection guidelines for electrical equipment.