Electrical Safety

Electricity can be and is a lethal killer if not treated with the utmost respect so please read this section before touchin it . UK wiring regulation require you to adhere to ceartain rules.


More advice can be obtained here








•Always use a Residual Current Device RCD when using electricity outside or around damp areas


•Avoid having too many tools or appliances running on the same extension as there could be a danger of overloading.


•Check the appliance leads and cords for damage or fatigue replace or repair as recommended


•Take extreme care when working near overhead or undergroung wiring/cables


•Always use a fuse tester and socket tester to ensue all power is off before you touch any electrical fitting,always test you equipment before and after working with them


•Always use insulated electrical equipment,these are designed to withstand a safe amount of voltage should anything occur-your ordinary screwdriver will not do at all


•NEVER Touch any electrical appliance or socket if your hands are wet or damp-you must dry them thoroughly before even switcging on a light switch


•Do not allow cables or extensions to become tangled,and also wind it out fully


•Before you start any work with a power tool make sure the correct fuse is in the appliance




Residual Current Devices
An RCD monitors the electric current flowing along a circuitThey have an inbuilt isolating transformer. If someone were to cut through say a garden trimmer cable,then the RCD would quickly sense the loss of current and quickly shut off the electricity to reduce the chance of serious injury. Always test your RCD before and after you have used itAnd remember they are not always 100% reliable

· Always follow manufacturers' instructions for fuses, or seek expert advice.
· Check older appliances such as electric blankets and Christmas tree lights.
· If a fuse blows for no apparent reason or an appliance is not working properly, switch off the appliance at the socket and unplug it before investigating why.
· The same principles applies to fuse boxes or circuit breakers - always switch off at the mains before you investigate and remember to replace the cover before switching back on.
· If you need to change a mains fuse, check the correct rating for that circuit - the blown fuse mayt have been incorrect in the first place. Using a thicker fuse wire than the correct rating is dangerous.· If In doubt, call a qualified electrician.

Fuses
New appliances have to be supplied with a plug that is fused in accordance with manufacturers' instructions