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Safety In the Work Place

Every year in the United States, there are approximately 20,000 electricity-related accidents. These accidents result in about 700 deaths. In addition, 150,000 fires are attributed to electrical causes. Electrical accidents are the third leading cause of death in the workplace.

Electricity needs to be respected at all times. It is distributed at 120 volts at most outlets and switches and at 240 volts into homes and offices. A typical overhead distribution line has 7200 volts per wire. Voltage on major transmission lines is as high as 500,000 volts.

Everyone needs to understand three basic physical properties about electricity. These are:

1. Electricity always attempts to travel to the ground.

2. Electricity always follows any path available.

3. Electricity travels at the speed of light. That's about 186,000 miles, or 299,800 kilometers, per second. At that speed, you aren't given any warning; there is no time to react. This is why it is imperative to respect electricity each and every time you use it.

Remember, YOU ARE IN CONTROL. Preventing electrical accidents really boils down to HAZARD RECOGNITION.
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© 2013 Moore Syndication Inc. No reproduction without permission. All rights reserved.