Workplace safety should always be a much higher priority than most of us give it in practice. When we work somewhere, or with the same equipment, on a daily basis, it is easy to fall into routines and make assumptions that can end up causing injury, especially when working in hazardous environments, or with powered equipment.
Here are a couple things to keep in mind to keep yourself and your workspace as safe as they should be.
Check that equipment is safe
It is easy to assume that the tools and equipment you use on a daily basis are safe and functioning properly, but once something goes wrong, it is often too late to do anything about it.
Check cables for breaks or any discolouration on the shielding that could indicate overheating. Examine your tools for any scorching or discolouration that could be caused by an electrical fault or overheating, and discontinue use of any rechargeable batteries with physical damage or discolouration
Use equipment appropriate for the environment
You should be aware of potential hazards in your work environment and choose or alter the tools you use appropriately.
Hazards to be particularly aware of include working in a damp or cramped environment, or in an environment with a potentially combustible atmosphere. For all of these, you should take every necessary precaution, but in general, use low or reduced voltage tools, and use battery or, preferably, air powered tools to reduce risk.
Use a suitable power supply
In addition to your personal equipment, you should ensure the power supply you are working from is safe, suitable, and of decently high quality.
Ensure your power supplies come from reputable manufacturers. Low quality power supplies will be more likely to cause issues, even when there are no noticeable defects. Rubber is known for being a big part of electrical safety, and manufacturers like this rubber moulding UK based company www.meadex.co.uk/rubber-moulding create parts and components to use in this way.
Ensure that the power supply has suitable current and is providing the correct voltage for the equipment to avoid damage to both the electrical supply and your tools. Also, before using a power supply, you should check that there is no damage to the supply housing or wiring, and regular checks should be made to ensure the electrical supply is working correctly.
