The risk of electrocution is one of the biggest, yet least talked about dangers that we face. Coming into contact with an exposed live wire, getting shocked while working on machinery or a getting hit by lightning are a few examples of ways that we can become seriously injured or killed in a matter of seconds. Let’s examine the basic principles behind grounding along with a few ideas to consider in order to minimize risk of becoming injured or killed.
Grounding
The purpose of grounding is to add a level of safety to protect individuals as well as electronic components from shock or overload. The earth neutralizes the power of an electrical current and thereby represents the fastest and safest way to carry energy away from an overloaded circuit. Power surges, lightning strikes, static discharge and faulty electrical wiring can all contribute a hazard that would not be mitigated if a ground was not in place.
In most homes, ground wires from the main electrical box are either attached to a post or stake that is placed into the ground. It is also not uncommon for electrical wires to be attached to underground metal water pipes as a way to carry any unwanted currents away from an electrical circuit. Grounding is not usually necessary for an electrical current to work, but it is essential for safety. This is why it is common to see electricians wearing rubber boots, special gloves and attaching themselves or their equipment to a ground.
It’s also important to consider grounding when working on appliances, computers, televisions and other devices. Always turn off the power, unplug them and discharge any residual electricity before starting work. You can do this by attaching a small wire to a ground source or another common option is to wear a ground wristband. Some tools also come with ground attachments as well.
Water
Water promotes electrical conductivity and enhances the risk of becoming shocked, even if safety measures are in place. This is why you should never perform electrical repairs or any kind of wiring work in the rain, where water is present or in very humid or moist conditions without disconnecting the power first. On the other hand, the lack of water reduces conductivity and many materials that would be unsafe when wet, such as our bodies, wood, plastic or glass tend to have better insulating properties.
Insulation
Insulation does not prevent an electrical current from being discharged from a wire or circuit, especially if there is a hole, tear or area of exposure. Electrical tape can be used to help mask some of the electrical discharge. However, keep in mind that insulation on wires and electrical components will need to be thicker or more dense as the power generated increases. This is why small, thin wires, tend to have just a little bit of insulation whereas thicker wires have are encased in a heavy sheath of protective material. Therefore, use electrical tape sparingly, such as on cords on small appliances or standard extension cords. Remember that any gaps or weaknesses in the insulation or the tape will produce a risk of electrical discharge.
Discard and replace old, frayed wires and power cords, don’t make repairs on items that are still plugged in to the power source and make sure that you always have a ground available to divert any wayward electricity. Finally, use common sense and avoid taking risks. Don’t step in pools of water or puddles if live wires are exposed and on the ground, and avoid working on machinery in wet conditions as well. Don’t try to fix power live power lines yourself and avoid being outdoors or holding electronic devices during thunderstorms.
Getting electrocuted is avoidable under most conditions, and many people get injured or killed because they did not follow simple precautions. Make sure to exercise an abundance of caution and avoid becoming an unintended victim, and always remember that no job is worth risking your life over.
