HHSRS Hazard 23 - Electrical Hazards

Hazard 23 - Electrical Hazards

This hazard covers hazards from shock and burns resulting from exposure to electricity, including from lightning strikes. (It does not include risks associated with fire caused by deficiencies to the electrical installations, such as ignition of material by a short-circuit.)

By touching metal or other conducting material which is 'live' a person may receive an electric shock. The risk is dependent on a number of factors, the main one being the voltage across the body. An electric shock is experienced when current passes through the body to earth.

Vulnerable Group: Children under 5 years

Defects & Justifications

• Electrical installation out-of-date - non-compliance with current requirements.
• Number and siting of outlets - inadequate number of, and/or badly sited electrical socket outlets.
• Fuses and meters - inappropriately sited fuses and meters.
• Earthing - lack of or inadequately earthed electrical system.
• Disrepair of installation - including to supply, meters, fuses, wiring, sockets, light fittings or switches.
• Presence of water - electrical installations in close proximity to water, including areas of damp.

Lightning protection system - lack of, or defective system to buildings at significant risk of lightning.

Index of HHSRS Hazards