Electrical Safety

According to statistics from the Health & Safety Executive there are around 1000 accidents at work each year that involve electrical shocks. Some of these result in fatalities.

General safety in the workplace, including the safety of electrical systems and appliances, is required under the Health and Safety at Work, etc Act 1974. Specific electrical safety duties are required under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (EAW), which applies to all non-domestic premises.

This topic covers the identification of electrical hazards, applying methods of protection, the safety of portable electrical equipment, performing regular inspections and testing, and safe systems of electrical work.

The inspection and testing of electrical installations and equipment is covered in Electrical Inspection and Testing.