Electrical Safety

Electricity can kill. Each year about 1000 accidents at work involving electrical shock or burns are reported to the HSE in the UK and of these around 30 are fatal (HSE). Although most of these fatalities arise from contact with overhead or underground power cables, caution is required when dealing with any source of electrical energy.

In addition, shocks from faulty equipment may lead to falls from ladders, scaffolds or other work platforms. Users of electrical equipment may not be the only ones at risk; poor electrical installations and faulty electrical equipment can lead to fires or explosion.

The Electricity at Work Regulations, 1989 are a legal framework specific to electrical safety, which applies to all work activities with electricity, irrespective of voltage. The Regulations impose a range of duties on individuals, some of which are "absolute" and some of which are to be carried out "as far as reasonably practicable" (a carefully considered balance of the level of risk set against the cost of reducing the risk, which is only applicable if the costs are disproportionately large when set against the level of risk). Therefore, it is important not only to have knowledge of the Regulations but to understand the level of duty imposed by them.

A Memorandum of Guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and a supplement Electricity at Work - Safe Working Practices have also been produced by the HSE.

As a general principle, compliance with BS 7671: 2001, known as the Institution of Electrical Engineers (IEE) Wiring Regulations 16th edition, is likely to also achieve compliance with relevant aspects of the statutory Electricity at Work Regulations, 1989.

Anyone involved in the design, construction, operation and maintenance of electrical systems, (including purpose-built research equipment and rigs) must fully comply with the requirements of all related legislation and standards to ensure that safe systems are established and maintained.

See the Safety Office, publications website for the guidance document.

See EM information: Fixed Electrical Installations Periodic Inspection & Review.