Electrical hazards

It pays to be aware of possible electrical hazards on the farm. These include overhead powerlines, underground cables, internal wiring (home and outbuildings), and electrical equipment and appliances.

Examples of electrical hazards:

• Cracked or damaged electrical outlets and plugs.
• Exposed wires on extension leads and appliance leads.
• Using electrical appliances in wet conditions.
• Working too close to overhead powerlines, e,g. when fencing gullies, felling trees, using a cherry picker.

Some ways you can reduce the risk of hazards from electricity are:

• Regularly check extension leads, tools and appliances for hazards such as exposed terminals, or wiring insulation pulled out of housing.
• If any tool or appliance gives you a 'tingle', stop using it and get it checked by a registered electrician.
• When using tools or appliances outdoors, always use an isolating transformer or residual current device (RCD).
• Keep a safe working distance from overhead power lines - remember electricity can jump across a gap.