Basics of Electrical Safety: Preventing Shocks and Fires

Electrical hazards account for 53.4% of all accidental fires in UK homes, equating to more than 19,300 domestic fires every year, and it is not just UK homes that need to improve their electrical safety. Approximately 1,000 accidents involving electric shocks or burns in the workplace are reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) every year, 30 of which result in death. 

Electrical safety is of paramount importance, as it directly impacts our well-being and the safety of our homes and workplaces. Electricity powers our homes, workplaces and countless devices that we rely on. However, it also poses significant risks when not handled correctly. Understanding and adhering to electrical safety practices can prevent serious injuries, fatalities and extensive property damage.

Electrical systems, while essential, come with inherent risks that can lead to dangerous incidents. Common risks include:

• Electrical shocks: Shocks occur when a person comes into contact with live electrical parts, potentially resulting in severe injury or death.
• Electrical fires: Fires are often caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits or misuse of electrical devices; these fires can spread rapidly and cause significant harm.
• Faulty wiring and outlets: Poorly installed or ageing electrical systems can deteriorate, leading to potential hazards such as shorts or sparks.
• Overloaded circuits: Plugging too many devices into a single outlet can cause overheating and increase the risk of fires.
• Improper use of electrical equipment: Misuse or lack of maintenance of electrical appliances can lead to dangerous situations.

Understanding Electrical Hazards

Electrical hazards pose significant risks in both residential and commercial settings. Understanding these hazards is essential for ensuring safety and preventing accidents. Exposure to electrical hazards can result in electrical injuries. Electrical injuries can include:

Electrical shocks

Electric shock occurs when an electric voltage is applied to the human body and causes an electrical current to flow through the body that blocks the signals between the brain and the muscles. The injury from an electrical shock can range from minor, short-lived discomfort to severe injury or death.

Common causes of electrical shock are:

• Faulty wiring or appliances
  Damaged or poorly installed wiring and malfunctioning appliances can expose live electrical components.
• Damaged cords or plugs
  Frayed or broken cords and plugs can expose wires, creating a shock hazard.
• Improper use of electrical devices
  Using electrical devices in ways they were not designed for, such as using indoor devices outdoors or using electrical equipment near water, increases the risk of shock.
• Contact with water
  Water is a strong conductor of electricity. Using electrical appliances near water sources or with wet hands increases the risk of shock.
• Lack of grounding
  Electrical systems and devices that are not properly grounded can lead to shock hazards.

Electric shock can have a variety of symptoms, which can vary depending on the severity of the shock. Mild shocks can cause tingling, numbness or minor burns, moderate shocks can cause muscle contractions, pain, difficulty breathing and burns, and severe shocks can cause a loss of consciousness, cardiac arrest, severe burns or even death. Cardiac arrest or death can occur if the electric shock prevents the heart from beating properly or stops the heart.  Muscle spasms can also break a person’s bones or dislocate their joints. Electrical shocks can be made worse if the person is holding the object that is giving them the shock, as the muscle spasms can prevent them from letting go.

Electrical burns

An electrical burn occurs when an electrical current passes through the body, heating the tissue along where the electrical current is flowing. This can cause superficial or deep burns that are classified as either external, where the skin is damaged, or internal, where deeper tissues, muscles, nerves and even organs can be affected. Electrical burns may require surgery and months of rehabilitation and can be permanently disabling and disfiguring. Electrical burns can vary based on the source and intensity of the electrical exposure. 

Symptoms of external burns include redness, swelling, blisters, charred skin and pain at the burn site. Symptoms of internal burns include muscle pain and contractions, numbness or tingling, damage to internal organs and tissues, difficulty breathing or cardiac arrest. 

There are several different types of electrical burns:

• Flash burns are superficial and the least severe type of electrical burns. These are typically caused by an electrical arc that flashes over the skin.
• Flame burns occur when clothing or other materials catch fire due to electrical exposure.
• Thermal burns can occur when electrical equipment overheats or explodes. This most commonly occurs if electrical equipment is faulty, poorly maintained or overloaded.

True electrical burns occur when an electric current passes through the body, potentially causing deep tissue burns and internal damage.

Electrical fires

Electrical fires are a serious hazard and can be extremely dangerous. They can occur for a number of reasons, including:

• Faulty wiring
  Ageing, damaged or poorly installed wiring is a common cause of electrical fires. Faulty wiring can lead to short circuits and overheating.
• Overloaded circuits
  Plugging too many devices into a single outlet or circuit can cause overheating and potentially ignite a fire.
• Improper use of extension cords
  Overloading extension cords or using them as permanent wiring solutions can lead to overheating and fires.
• Defective electrical appliances
  Malfunctioning or poorly maintained appliances can create sparks or overheat, leading to fires.
• Outdated electrical systems
  Older electrical systems may not handle modern electrical loads, increasing the risk of fire.

In some cases, there may be some warning signs to look out for that can help prevent electrical fires. Early detection of potential electrical fires is essential and can help to protect property and save lives: 

• Flickering or dimming lights and a burning smell can indicate there is a problem with the electrical circuit.
• Discoloured plug sockets (for example, scorch marks around the outlets and switches) and plug sockets or switches that are hot to touch can signal overheating or excessive current flow and an impending fire.
• Circuit breakers that frequently trip can indicate an overloaded or short-circuiting system.
• Sparks coming from an electrical object, a switch or a plug socket can indicate electrical problems that could lead to a fire.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of electrical shocks and the common causes and warning signs of electrical fires is essential for preventing electrical hazards. By recognising these dangers and responding appropriately, individuals can protect themselves, their loved ones and their property from electrical accidents.

Basic Electrical Safety Practices

Electrical safety is a critical aspect of maintaining a safe home or workplace environment. Proper handling, maintenance and use of electrical systems and devices can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, injuries and property damage. Electrical safety is essential for several reasons:

Preventing injuries and fatalities

• Electric shocks: Electrical shocks can cause severe injuries, including burns, muscle contractions, nerve damage and cardiac arrest. In extreme cases, they can be fatal.
• Fire hazards: Faulty electrical systems are a leading cause of fires in homes and workplaces. These fires can result in significant injuries, loss of life and extensive property damage.

Protecting property

• Fire prevention: Electrical fires can lead to the destruction of buildings and valuable assets. Ensuring electrical safety reduces the risk of such fires, thereby protecting property and investments.
• Minimising damage: Electrical faults can damage appliances and electronic devices, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. Proper safety practices help in maintaining the integrity of electrical equipment.

Compliance with legal standards

• Regulations and codes: The UK has strict electrical safety regulations and building codes that must be followed. Adhering to these standards is not only a legal requirement but also a critical step in ensuring safety.
• Insurance compliance: Proper electrical safety measures can also impact insurance policies. Non-compliance with safety standards can lead to denied claims or higher premiums.

Ensuring operational continuity

• Business continuity: For businesses, electrical safety is essential to avoid a loss of work and income. Electrical failures can disrupt operations, leading to financial losses and affecting productivity.
• Reliability: Safe electrical systems are more reliable and less prone to unexpected failures, which helps to ensure consistent operation of critical infrastructure and services.

Improving quality of life

• Peace of mind: Knowing that electrical systems are safe provides peace of mind to homeowners, tenants and employees. It reduces anxiety about potential hazards and contributes to a safer living and working environment.
• Sustainability: Safe electrical practices often go hand-in-hand with energy efficiency. Proper maintenance and usage can lead to more efficient energy consumption, benefiting the environment.

Some basic electrical safety practices that can help to protect people and property are:

Inspection and maintenance

Regular inspections are essential for identifying potential electrical hazards before they become serious problems. Inspections can include:

• Visual inspections: Routinely check for visible signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires, cracked or broken plugs and discoloured outlets.
• Functionality tests: Ensure that all electrical devices and systems are functioning correctly. This includes testing switches, outlets and circuit breakers.
• Environmental checks: Verify that electrical components are not exposed to moisture, excessive heat or other harmful conditions.

While regular self-inspections are essential, professional inspections provide a more thorough evaluation. It is recommended that you hire qualified electricians to conduct detailed inspections, especially for complex systems or if you suspect issues. Professional inspections ensure that your electrical systems comply with local safety codes and regulations. A qualified electrical can also detect issues that might not be visible during routine checks which can prevent potential hazards.

Safe use of electrical appliances

Safe use of electrical appliances involves understanding their capabilities and limitations. Following the manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage and maintenance is essential to prevent electrical issues. Additionally, avoid overloading plug sockets by not plugging too many high-wattage appliances into a single outlet. If multiple electricals are plugged in, use power strips with surge protectors to distribute the electrical load evenly. It can also be beneficial to unplug appliances when not in use to save energy and reduce the risk of electrical faults.

Maintaining appliances and ensuring they are in good working order can also help to prevent electrical hazards. This can include:

• Regular cleaning: Keep appliances clean to prevent dust buildup, which can cause overheating.
• Timely repairs: Repair or replace malfunctioning appliances promptly to avoid the risk of electrical shock or fire.
• Storage and handling: Store appliances in a dry, safe place and handle them carefully to avoid damage.

Cable management

Damaged cords and improper cable management are significant safety hazards. To manage cords safely, you should:

• Inspect regularly: Check cords for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or cracking.
• Replace damaged cords: Immediately replace any cords that show signs of damage to prevent electrical shocks and fires.
• Avoid pinching: Ensure cords are not pinched by furniture or run over by heavy objects, which can cause internal damage.
• Organise cables: Use cable organisers, ties or conduits to keep cables neat and prevent tangling.
• Avoid trip hazards: Route cables away from high-traffic areas to prevent tripping.
• Secure cables: Use clips or hooks to secure cables to walls or other surfaces, keeping them out of the way.

Proper cable management can significantly reduce electrical hazards.

Water and electricity

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. It is therefore essential to keep electrical appliances and devices away from water sources, such as taps, sinks, bathtubs and swimming pools. Additionally, always ensure your hands are dry when you are handling electrical devices or touching plug sockets. It can also be beneficial to install waterproof covers on outdoor outlets and any plug sockets exposed to moisture and use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in areas where water and electricity are likely to come into contact, such as bathrooms, kitchens and outdoors.

Implementing basic electrical safety practices is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe environment. Regular inspections and maintenance, safe use of electrical appliances, effective cable management and careful handling of electricity near water all contribute to reducing the risk of electrical hazards. By following these guidelines, individuals can protect themselves and their properties from the dangers associated with electricity.

Preventing Electrical Shocks

Whether you work directly with electrical equipment or just have electrical equipment in your home, knowing how to prevent electrical shocks is essential. Preventing electrical shocks involves a comprehensive approach, and by implementing these strategies you can significantly reduce the risk of electrical shocks and create a safer environment for yourself and others.

Use of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs)

GFCIs are devices designed to protect people from electrical shocks by monitoring the flow of electricity in a circuit. They detect any imbalance between the hot and neutral wires and immediately shut off power if a ground fault is detected. Key benefits include:

• Shock prevention: GFCIs protect against electrical shocks by cutting off power quickly when a fault occurs.
• Fire prevention: By detecting faults early, GFCIs can help prevent electrical fires caused by short circuits or overheating.
• Improved safety: They are particularly beneficial in areas where water is present, such as bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor settings.

Proper installation and regular testing ensure that GFCIs function correctly. GFCIs should be installed by a qualified electrician to ensure they are correctly wired and grounded. They are commonly installed in outlets, circuit breakers or integrated into extension cords. GFCIs should be tested monthly. To test, press the ‘test’ button on the GFCI outlet or device. If the power cuts off, the GFCI is working correctly. Press the ‘reset’ button to restore power. If the GFCI does not respond, it needs to be replaced.

Proper use of electrical outlets

Using damaged outlets can lead to electrical shocks and fires. Regularly inspect outlets for signs of damage, such as cracks, discolouration or burn marks, and replace any damaged outlets immediately. Avoid using outlets that are loose or do not hold plugs securely. It is also important not to overload electrical outlets as this can cause overheating and increase the risk of fires. Distribute electrical loads evenly across multiple outlets. Avoid plugging too many high-wattage appliances into a single power strip or extension cord and use power strips with built-in circuit breakers and surge protectors to prevent overloads and protect devices from power surges.

Personal safety measures

There are multiple personal safety measures you can implement at home and in the workplace, including:

• Wear insulated gloves
  Insulated gloves provide a protective barrier against electrical shocks and should be worn when working with electrical equipment, especially in situations where there is a risk of coming into contact with live wires or components. Use high-quality, certified insulated gloves that are rated for the voltage level you will be working with.
• Use tools with insulated handles
  Insulated tools protect against accidental electrical contact. Choose tools with insulated handles that are specifically designed for electrical work. These tools are marked with voltage ratings indicating their protective capabilities. You should also regularly inspect insulated tools for wear and tear. Replace tools if the insulation shows signs of damage, such as cracks or cuts.
• Wear appropriate PPE
  Personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended for electricians and other people handling electrical equipment. Safety gear, such as rubber-soled shoes, safety goggles and insulated gloves should be worn when working with or near electrical equipment. Additionally, avoid wearing metal jewellery or conductive clothing when handling electrical devices.

Ensuring proper grounding

Proper grounding provides a safe path for electricity to follow in case of a fault, helping to prevent electrical shocks. Ensure that all electrical systems in your home or workplace are properly grounded. This includes grounding outlets, appliances and electrical panels. Additionally, always use electrical appliances and tools with three-pronged plugs, which include a grounding prong. Some techniques that can help to ensure proper grounding are:

• Ground rods: Install ground rods to provide a physical connection between the electrical system and the earth.
• Bonding: Bond metal parts of electrical equipment to the grounding system to ensure they are at the same electrical potential.

Educating about electrical safety

Providing education and training on electrical safety can significantly reduce the risk of electrical shocks. Attend or organise electrical safety workshops and courses to stay informed about the latest safety practices. It is also important to read and follow instruction manuals for all electrical appliances and tools. Workplaces must also use clear, visible signage to indicate high-voltage areas and potential electrical hazards.

Maintaining electrical systems and devices

Regular maintenance of electrical systems and devices ensures they operate safely and efficiently. Schedule regular inspections by licensed electricians to identify and address potential issues before they become hazardous. You should also follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintaining electrical appliances, including cleaning and servicing appliances regularly to prevent malfunctioning. Address any electrical issues promptly and do not use faulty equipment or systems until they have been repaired.

Using residual current devices (RCDs)

RCDs are safety devices that quickly cut off the power supply if they detect an imbalance in the electrical current. It is recommended to install RCDs in your electrical system, especially in high-risk areas like bathrooms, kitchens and outdoors. Regularly test RCDs to ensure they are functioning correctly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing procedures.

Preventing Electrical Fires

Preventing electrical fires is essential and implementing electrical safety and fire protection measures can reduce the risk of electrical fires and ensure a safer environment. Some strategies you can implement include:

Electrical wiring safety

Using certified materials ensures compliance with local electrical codes and regulations, reducing the risk of electrical fires due to substandard materials. Certified components are also more durable and reliable, which reduces the need for frequent replacements and repairs. It is also recommended to avoid DIY electrical work unless qualified. 

Electrical work should only be performed by qualified individuals to prevent fires, for the following reasons:

• Professional expertise: Licensed electricians have the necessary training and experience to install and repair electrical systems safely.
• Risk of mistakes: DIY electrical work can lead to improper installations, loose connections and overloading, all of which can cause fires.
• Insurance and liability: Improper electrical work can void insurance policies and result in liability issues if a fire occurs due to faulty DIY work.

Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers

• Smoke alarms: Smoke alarms are vital for early detection of fires, providing critical time to evacuate and take action. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. In commercial settings, ensure smoke alarms are installed in all key areas. Test smoke alarms monthly to ensure they are working correctly and replace batteries at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms every 10 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Using fire extinguishers for electrical fires: Having the right type of fire extinguisher and knowing how to use it can help control electrical fires. Use a Class C fire extinguisher, which is specifically designed for electrical fires, and place fire extinguishers in accessible locations, such as kitchens, workshops and near electrical panels. Ensure that employees know how to use fire extinguishers.

Emergency response

Immediate and appropriate actions can prevent an electrical fire from spreading, including:

• Cut off power: If safe to do so, turn off the power at the electrical panel to stop the flow of electricity to the affected area.
• Use an extinguisher: Use a Class C fire extinguisher to put out the fire. Do not use water, as it can conduct electricity and increase the risk of shock.
• Evacuate: If the fire cannot be controlled, evacuate the area immediately and call emergency services.

Knowing the location of electrical panels and shut-off switches is essential for quick response in an emergency. Ensure that electrical panels and shut-off switches are easily accessible and not obstructed by furniture or other objects. Clearly label each circuit in the electrical panel to facilitate quick identification and shut-off in an emergency. Make sure all household members or employees know the location of these panels and how to operate them.

Regulations and Standards

Complying with electrical safety standards and regulations is essential when installing and maintaining electrical equipment.

UK Wiring Regulations

The British Standard BS 7671, Requirements for Electrical Installations, IET Wiring Regulations, also known as ‘The Regs’, provide comprehensive guidelines for the installation and maintenance of electrical systems in the UK. These regulations are essential for ensuring the safety, reliability and efficiency of electrical installations.

BS 7671 is the 18th edition and came into effect in March 2022. It covers the design, selection, erection and verification of electrical installations, including guidelines for safety and installation of electrical equipment. The regulations are periodically updated to reflect new technologies, safety practices and research. The latest edition must be adhered to for all new installations and major modifications.

BS 7671 covers residential, commercial, industrial and public installations, including special locations such as medical facilities and hazardous environments. It covers circuits up to and including 1000V AC or 1500V DC.

The Building Regulations 2010: Electrical Safety – Dwellings Approved Document P

Document P covers the design and installation of electrical installations in dwellings, including houses, flats and associated outdoor dwellings. Document P applies to new electrical installations, as well as modifications, repairs and maintenance in domestic properties. It specifies that reasonable provisions should be made when designing and installing electrical installations to protect people from fire and electric shocks.

Electricians carrying out work in dwellings must be registered with a Part P Competent Person Scheme or have their work inspected by a building control body. Upon completing electrical work, the electrician must provide an Electrical Installation Certificate or Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate, ensuring that the work complies with BS 7671.

The Electricity at Work Regulations (1989)

The Electricity at Work Regulations applies to all relevant work activities and work premises. It particularly applies to the design, construction, operation and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment. The regulations aim to prevent death or injury from electricity at work. The regulations cover:

• Duties of employers and employees
  The regulations place a duty on employers to ensure that electrical systems are safe to use and that employees are provided with appropriate training and equipment.
• Inspection and maintenance
  Regular inspection, testing and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment are required to ensure ongoing safety.
• Safe working practices
  Employers must implement safe working practices, including the use of protective equipment and adherence to procedures for working on or near live electrical systems.

Compliance with electrical safety regulations and standards is essential for ensuring the safety of individuals and properties. Adhering to regulations helps prevent electrical shocks, fires and other accidents caused by faulty electrical installations or equipment. Additionally, compliance with regulations is a legal requirement. Failure to comply can result in legal action, fines and even imprisonment in severe cases.

Following established standards also improves the reliability and efficiency of electrical systems. Using certified components and following best practices ensure that electrical installations are of high quality and less likely to fail, and properly designed and installed electrical systems operate more efficiently, which reduces energy consumption and costs. 

Showing your compliance with regulations and standards enhances the credibility and reputation of electricians and contractors. Clients and customers typically have greater trust in professionals who adhere to recognised standards and regulations. Registration with schemes like the Part P Competent Person Scheme also demonstrates a commitment to competency and ongoing professional development. 

As well as enhancing your credibility, adhering to electrical safety standards can impact insurance coverage and liability. Many insurance policies require compliance with electrical safety regulations and non-compliance can lead to denied claims. Properly installed and maintained electrical systems reduce the risk of accidents, thereby reducing potential liability for property owners and employers.

Educational Resources

Continuing education and certification in electrical safety are essential for professionals in the field to stay current with regulations and best practices. Training and resources ensure that individuals and businesses can maintain high standards of electrical safety, compliance and professionalism.

• NVQ Level 3 Electrical Installation
  The NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation is a vocational qualification that demonstrates competence in electrical installation work. This qualification covers the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required for electrical installation work. Assessment is carried out through on-site observation and portfolio evidence, ensuring candidates have the necessary experience and competence.
• Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Training
  The HSE offers various training courses and resources focused on health and safety in the workplace, including electrical safety courses as well as more specialised training for specific roles and industries. HSE provides numerous guides, tools and publications to support ongoing education and compliance and comprehensive information on workplace safety, including electrical safety regulations and best practices.
• City & Guilds
  City & Guilds offers a range of courses for electricians, including those focused on the inspection and testing of electrical installations. They offer 19 different qualifications in Electrical Installation, including:
  -Electrical Inspection and Testing training
  -Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings
  -Building Regulations for Electrical Installations in Dwellings
  -Level 3 Electrical Installation
  -Electrical Equipment Maintenance and Testing
• CPD Online College
  On our website, we offer a variety of online courses including:
  -Electrical Safety Awareness
  -PAT Testing Awareness
  -PUWER Awareness
  There are also a variety of online resources, including a Knowledge Base with educational blogs.
• Electrical Safety First
  Electrical Safety First is dedicated to reducing the number of injuries and deaths related to electricity. They offer safety guides, tips and campaigns aimed at both consumers and professionals, an option to register your electrical appliances so the manufacturer can contact you if there are any faults, professional resources and contact information for registered electricians in the UK.
• National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC)
  NICEIC is a leading certification body for electricians in the UK and supports safe installation and maintenance in the electrical and building sectors. NICEIC offers resources and certification for electrical safety. They provide information on certification, standards and industry news for householders, tradespeople and businesses.

Case Studies and Real-Life Examples

Case Study 1: Office fire due to overloaded circuits

In an office building in Birmingham, a fire broke out late one evening. The source of the fire was traced back to an overloaded power strip that had multiple high-wattage devices plugged into it, including a space heater, a computer and a microwave. The power strip overheated, causing it to catch fire and spread to nearby papers and office equipment. Fortunately, the fire occurred after working hours, so no one was injured, but the office suffered significant damage, resulting in a week-long closure for repairs and substantial financial losses. An investigation from the fire department and the building owners found that not only was the power strip overloaded with multiple high-wattage devices but there were also insufficient circuit breakers and surge protectors. There was also a lack of awareness among employees about the dangers of overloading electrical outlets.

Following the investigation, the following changes were made:

• Employee training
  The company conducted a training session with regular updates to educate employees on the proper use of electrical outlets and the dangers of overloading power strips.
• Use of certified equipment
  The company now ensures that all electrical equipment and power strips used in the office are certified and have built-in surge protection and overload prevention.
• Regular inspections
  Senior management has implemented a schedule for regular inspections of all electrical equipment and outlets to identify and rectify any potential hazards. Weekly inspections are conducted by a member of management to make a visual inspection of all electrical equipment, switches and plug sockets and bi-annual inspections are conducted by a registered electrician.
• Proper equipment distribution
  The company now ensures they distribute high-wattage devices across different circuits to prevent any single circuit from becoming overloaded.

After implementing these measures, the office management reported a significant improvement in electrical safety. Regular training helped employees become more cautious about their use of electrical outlets and the installation of certified equipment with surge protection reduced the risk of overheating. Subsequent inspections found no further instances of overloaded circuits and the office has not experienced any electrical incidents since.

Case Study 2: Electrical shock in a warehouse

In a warehouse located in Manchester, an employee received a severe electrical shock while operating a faulty forklift charger. The charger had exposed wires and a damaged plug, which had gone unnoticed during routine checks. The shock caused the employee to lose consciousness and emergency medical services were called. The employee recovered but was unable to return to work for several months. The incident raised serious concerns about electrical safety in the warehouse.

An investigation by Human Resources and the warehouse management found several potential causes of the accident:

• Use of damaged and poorly maintained electrical equipment
• Inadequate routine checks and maintenance procedures
• Lack of proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for employees handling electrical equipment

To prevent further accidents in the warehouse, the following changes were made:

• Routine equipment maintenance
  The warehouse established a rigorous maintenance schedule to inspect and repair all electrical equipment regularly. This schedule was recorded in writing and was the responsibility of a member of staff who underwent the necessary training.
• Proper PPE
  All employees were provided with appropriate PPE, including insulated gloves and footwear when handling electrical equipment.
• Safety training
  The warehouse conducted comprehensive safety training programmes to ensure employees are aware of the risks and proper procedures for dealing with electrical equipment.
• Reporting system
  They also implemented a system for employees to report any damaged or faulty equipment immediately and ensured all employees knew how to make a report and felt comfortable doing so.

Since these measures were put in place, the warehouse has not experienced any further electrical shocks or related incidents and the overall safety culture within the workplace has greatly improved.