Robert M. Rioux & Suprita Jharimune, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
Among the many hazards present in the laboratory, electrical hazards are one of the most common we must be cognizant of since most of the laboratory equipment we use requires electricity for operation. Improper handling or operation of electrical devices might lead to electric shock with the potential risk of injury or even death. Electric sparks can lead to fire or explosion (since many flammable chemicals may be stored nearby to electrified instrumentation). Therefore, knowledge regarding electrical safety and what to do in case of emergency is essential for the laboratory personnel. Precautions can be employed when working in the laboratory to avoid electric shock and electrical fire or explosion.
Precautions should always be taken when working with electrical devices. Make sure all electrical devices and wires are in good condition before powering up. If you are unfamiliar with the proper examination of electrical devices, consult your departmental electronics personnel or seek assistance from a commercial electrician or electronics engineer. Prior to powering up any instrument, regardless of power requirements, make sure the working environment is in proper condition. Ensure the supporting surface is sturdy enough to hold the electrical device and that the surface is free of debris, including any type of standing liquid. Ensure that flammables are kept at a proper distance and stored in an appropriate flammable gas cabinet. After powering up, make sure the electrical devices’ working environment remains free of clutter. Remove water and flammable and explosive chemicals from the area when they are not required for the experiment. Your employer will most likely have a plan of action in case of a fire (electrical or other source); be sure to follow this protocol. However, in case of emergency, dial 911 first. If it is safe enough, remember to shut down the power before any further action.
1. Preparation for Electrical Hazards
2. Avoiding Electric Shock
3. Avoiding Electrical Fire or Explosion
Safe handling of electrical equipment is as important as the handling of chemical materials, however, the hazardous nature of electrical devices is often overlooked.
Improper operation of electrically-powered devices may potentially lead to injury or death by electric shock. Additionally, electrical sparks in the laboratory may lead to fire or explosions, especially when highly flammable or potentially explosive chemicals are placed in close proximity.
Prevention of electrical accidents involves inspection of electrical wiring, keeping power cords at distances safe from water or chemicals, and situational awareness.
This video will illustrate the necessary precautions to take before using electrically-powered devices, and the procedures used to prevent or handle shock-related accidents and electrical fires.
Before powering up any electrical device, make sure the power cord is in good condition. Do not use the device with a frayed cord or exposed wires.
Make sure the device is on a sturdy surface free from clutter or debris to prevent it from falling. Additionally, keep flammable and corrosive chemicals at a safe distance from electrical outlets.
Familiarize yourself with the emergency electrical shut off and the circuit breaker box in the event that a device needs to be shut down. Properly label the circuits to which each electrical outlet is connected.
Inspect all laboratory electrical equipment on a regular basis by checking for the wiring conditions. In case of damaged wire or defective device have the parts replaced by experienced personnel immediately.
To prevent electrical shock, keep plugged-in devices away from any water-filled sinks or tubs, and avoid touching them with wet hands.
Additionally, use only electrically-powered devices equipped with a grounding plug. Avoid forcing a plug into an ill-fitting socket, and replace any damaged sockets or plugs.
Always use surge protectors to protect electrical devices from voltage spikes, and never use extension cords for permanent laboratory equipment.
Electrical fires may be caused by contact with flammable chemicals, but also by overloaded circuits. Use no more than two electrical devices per outlet, or use surge protectors to prevent overload. Additionally, keep electrical devices away from open flames to avoid melting of the wire.
Always know the location of the fire extinguisher. In case of a small electrical fire, use a CO2 extinguisher or sand.
If a fire extinguisher needs to be used follow the PASS rule. Pull the pin first. Then take the nozzle and aim towards the base of the fire and squeeze the trigger. Slowly sweep the nozzle from side to side to cover the burning area.
In case of a large fire, sound the fire alarm, leave the area immediately, and call 911.
If a lab worker has been electrically shocked, ensure that the power is off, and call 911. Do not touch the victim with bare skin to avoid acting as a conduit for the electricity to reach ground. Always use non-conductive materials such as wood, glass or rubber to help the electrically shocked person.
You’ve just watched JoVE’s introduction to electrical safety. You should now understand safeguards against electrical safety hazards, how to be prepared in the event of an accident, what to do to prevent an electric shock and electrical fires. Thanks for watching!
Electrical devices are everywhere in the laboratory. It is essential to follow electrical safety principles to prevent electrical shock, electrical fire, or explosion. Be prepared about what steps should be taken in the case of emergency. Identify and mark the location of fire extinguishers in the laboratory. Be sure to use an extinguisher meant for a Class C fire. Always remember to get to personal safety first and then shut down the power to any malfunctioning electrical devices if it can be done in a safe manner.
Safe handling of electrical equipment is as important as the handling of chemical materials, however, the hazardous nature of electrical devices is often overlooked.
Improper operation of electrically-powered devices may potentially lead to injury or death by electric shock. Additionally, electrical sparks in the laboratory may lead to fire or explosions, especially when highly flammable or potentially explosive chemicals are placed in close proximity.
Prevention of electrical accidents involves inspection of electrical wiring, keeping power cords at distances safe from water or chemicals, and situational awareness.
This video will illustrate the necessary precautions to take before using electrically-powered devices, and the procedures used to prevent or handle shock-related accidents and electrical fires.
Before powering up any electrical device, make sure the power cord is in good condition. Do not use the device with a frayed cord or exposed wires.
Make sure the device is on a sturdy surface free from clutter or debris to prevent it from falling. Additionally, keep flammable and corrosive chemicals at a safe distance from electrical outlets.
Familiarize yourself with the emergency electrical shut off and the circuit breaker box in the event that a device needs to be shut down. Properly label the circuits to which each electrical outlet is connected.
Inspect all laboratory electrical equipment on a regular basis by checking for the wiring conditions. In case of damaged wire or defective device have the parts replaced by experienced personnel immediately.
To prevent electrical shock, keep plugged-in devices away from any water-filled sinks or tubs, and avoid touching them with wet hands.
Additionally, use only electrically-powered devices equipped with a grounding plug. Avoid forcing a plug into an ill-fitting socket, and replace any damaged sockets or plugs.
Always use surge protectors to protect electrical devices from voltage spikes, and never use extension cords for permanent laboratory equipment.
Electrical fires may be caused by contact with flammable chemicals, but also by overloaded circuits. Use no more than two electrical devices per outlet, or use surge protectors to prevent overload. Additionally, keep electrical devices away from open flames to avoid melting of the wire.
Always know the location of the fire extinguisher. In case of a small electrical fire, use a CO2 extinguisher or sand.
If a fire extinguisher needs to be used follow the PASS rule. Pull the pin first. Then take the nozzle and aim towards the base of the fire and squeeze the trigger. Slowly sweep the nozzle from side to side to cover the burning area.
In case of a large fire, sound the fire alarm, leave the area immediately, and call 911.
If a lab worker has been electrically shocked, ensure that the power is off, and call 911. Do not touch the victim with bare skin to avoid acting as a conduit for the electricity to reach ground. Always use non-conductive materials such as wood, glass or rubber to help the electrically shocked person.
You’ve just watched JoVE’s introduction to electrical safety. You should now understand safeguards against electrical safety hazards, how to be prepared in the event of an accident, what to do to prevent an electric shock and electrical fires. Thanks for watching!
