EE531
Luisito F. Taripe jr.
SUBMITTED BY:
ENGR. Roland Valencia
SUBMITTED TO:
Assignment 1: For Module 1(EE531)
1. Why is it so important to work safely with or near electricity?
It is important to work safety with or near electricity. Because the voltage of the
electricity and the available electrical current in regular businesses and homes has
enough power to cause death by electrocution. Even changing a light bulb without
unplugging the lamp can be hazardous because coming in contact with the "hot",
"energized" or "live" part of the socket could kill a person.
2. What do I need to know about electricity?
We need to study all electrical systems because they have potential to cause
harm. Electricity can be either "static" or "dynamic." Dynamic electricity is the uniform
motion of electrons through a conductor (this is known as electric current). Conductors
are materials that allow the movement of electricity through it. Most metals are
conductors. The human body is also a conductor. This document is about dynamic
electricity.
Note: Static electricity is accumulation of charge on surfaces as a result of contact and
friction with another surface. This contact/friction causes an accumulation of electrons
on one surface, and a deficiency of electrons on the other surface. Electric current
cannot exist without an unbroken path to and from the conductor. Electricity will form a
"path" or "loop". When you plug in a device (a power tool), the electricity takes the
easiest path from the plug-in, to the tool, and back to the power source. This is action is
also known as creating or completing an electrical circuit.
3. What kinds of injuries result from electrical currents?
The injuries that we can get to electrical current. People are injured when they
become part of the electrical circuit. Humans are more conductive than the earth (the
ground we stand on) which means if there is no other easy path, electricity will try to
flow through our bodies. There are four main types of injuries: electrocution (fatal),
electric shock, burns, and falls. These injuries can happen in various ways: Direct
contact with exposed energized conductors or circuit parts. When electrical current
travels through our bodies, it can interfere with the normal electrical signals between the
brain and our muscles (heart may stop beating properly, breathing may stop, or muscles
may spasm).When the electricity arcs (jumps, or "arcs") from an exposed energized
conductor or circuit part (overhead power lines) through a gas (such as air) to a person
who is grounded (that would provide an alternative route to the ground for the electrical
current).
4. What should I do if I think I am too close to overhead power lines?
We need to distances and do not work close to power lines. Recommended
distances vary by jurisdiction and/or utility companies. Check with both your jurisdiction
and electrical utility company when working, driving, parking, or storing materials closer
than 15 m (49 feet) to overhead power lines.
If you must be close to power lines, you must first call your electrical utility
company and they will assist you.
If your vehicle comes into contact with a power line:
o DO NOT get out of your vehicle.
o Call 911 and your local utility service for help.
o Wait for the electrical utility to come and they will tell you when it is
safe to get out of your vehicle.
o Never try to rescue another person if you are not trained to do so.
o If you must leave the vehicle (e.g., your vehicle catches on fire), exit by
jumping as far as possible – at least 45 to 60 cm (1.5 to 2 feet). Never
touch the vehicle or equipment and the ground at the same time. Keep
your feet, legs, and arms close to your body.
o Keep your feet together (touching), and move away by shuffling your
feet. Never let your feet separate or you may be shocked or
electrocuted.
o Shuffle at least 10 metres away from your vehicle before you take a
normal step.
Do not enter an electrical power substation, or other marked areas.
5. What are some general safety tips for working with or near electricity?
Inspect portable cord-and-plug connected equipment, extension cords, power
bars, and electrical fittings for damage or wear before each use. Repair or
replace damaged equipment immediately.
Always tape extension cords to walls or floors when necessary. Do not use
nails and staples because they can damage extension cords and cause fire
and shocks.
Use extension cords or equipment that is rated for the level of amperage or
wattage that you are using.
Always use the correct size fuse. Replacing a fuse with one of a larger
size can cause excessive currents in the wiring and possibly start a fire.
Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets or cords may be a sign that
unsafe wiring conditions exists. Unplug any cords or extension cords from
these outlets and do not use until a qualified electrician has checked the
wiring.
Always use ladders made with non-conductive side rails (e.g., fibreglass)
when working with or near electricity or power lines.
Place halogen lights away from combustible materials such as cloths or
curtains. Halogen lamps can become very hot and may be a fire
hazard.
Risk of electric shock is greater in areas that are wet or damp. Install Ground
Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) as they will interrupt the electrical circuit
before a current sufficient to cause death or serious injury occurs.
Use a portable in-line Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) if you are not
certain that the receptacle you are plugging your extension cord into is GFCI
protected.
Make sure that exposed receptacle boxes are made of non-conductive
materials.
Know where the panel and circuit breakers are located in case of an
emergency.
Label all circuit breakers and fuse boxes clearly. Each switch should be
positively identified as to which outlet or appliance it is for.
Do not use outlets or cords that have exposed wiring.
Do not use portable cord-and-plug connected power tools if the guards are
removed.
Do not block access to panels and circuit breakers or fuse boxes.
Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical
incident. Always disconnect the power source first.
6. What are some tips for working with power tools?
Switch all tools OFF before connecting them to a power supply.
Disconnect and lockout the power supply before completing any maintenance
work tasks or making adjustments.
Ensure tools are properly grounded or double-insulated. The grounded
equipment must have an approved 3-wire cord with a 3-prong plug. This
plug should be plugged in a properly grounded 3-pole outlet.
Test all tools for effective grounding with a continuity tester or a Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) before use.
Do not bypass the on/off switch and operate the tools by connecting and
disconnecting the power cord.
Do not use electrical equipment in wet conditions or damp locations unless
the equipment is connected to a GFCI.
Do not clean tools with flammable or toxic solvents.
Do not operate tools in an area containing explosive vapours or gases, unless
they are intrinsically safe and only if you follow the manufacturer's guidelines.
7. What are some tips for working with power cords?
Keep power cords clear of tools during use.
Suspend extension cords temporarily during use over aisles or work areas to
eliminate stumbling or tripping hazards.
Replace open front plugs with dead front plugs. Dead front plugs are sealed
and present less danger of shock or short circuit.
Do not use light duty extension cords in a non-residential situation.
Do not carry or lift up electrical equipment by the power cord.
Do not tie cords in tight knots. Knots can cause short circuits and shocks.
Loop the cords or use a twist lock plug.
8. What is a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)?
A Class A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) works by detecting any loss of
electrical current in a circuit (e.g., it will trip at a maximum of 6mA). When a loss is
detected, the GFCI turns the electricity off before severe injuries or electrocution can
occur. A painful non-fatal shock may occur during the time that it takes for the GFCI to
cut off the electricity so it is important to use the GFCI as an extra protective measure
rather than a replacement for safe work practices.
GFCI wall outlets can be installed in place of standard outlets to protect against
electrocution for just that outlet, or a series of outlets in the same branch circuit. A GFCI
Circuit Breaker can be installed on some circuit breaker electrical panels to protect an
entire branch circuit. Portable in-line plug-in GFCIs can be plugged into wall outlets
where appliances will be used.
9. When and how do I test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)?
It is important that you follow the manufacturer's instructions with respect to the
use of a GFCI. Test permanently wired GFCIs monthly and portable devices before
each use. Use a GFCI tester. You may also test by pressing the "test" and "reset"
buttons. Plug a "night light" or lamp into the GFCI-protected wall outlet (the light should
turn on), then press the "TEST" button on the GFCI. If the GFCI is working properly, the
light should go out. If not, have the GFCI repaired or replaced. Press the "RESET"
button on the GFCI to restore power.Contact a qualified electrician if you are unsure or
to correct any wiring errors.
