Electrical Safety Guide for New Employees

Electrical Safety for New Employees

This guide covers the essential electrical safety information that every new employee should know. Whether your workplace is an office, a workshop, a care home, or a retail shop, these principles apply. Employers across Greater Manchester and Northwest England can use this as part of their induction process.

Your Responsibilities

As an employee, you have a legal duty to:

• Not use equipment you know or suspect to be faulty
• Report any damage or defects to your manager immediately
• Not attempt to repair electrical equipment unless you are qualified and authorised to do so
• Use equipment only for its intended purpose
• Follow your employer's electrical safety procedures

Daily Visual Checks

Before using any portable electrical appliance, do a quick visual check:

• Cable: Is it damaged, frayed, kinked, or taped up?
• Plug: Is it cracked, scorched, or wobbly?
• Appliance: Is the casing cracked, dented, or showing burn marks?
• PAT label: Does it have a current PAT test label? Is it within date?
• Socket: Is the socket cracked, scorched, or does it feel hot?

If any of these checks raise concerns, do not use the equipment. Report it to your manager.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Pulling plugs out by the cable instead of gripping the plug
• Overloading sockets and extension leads
• Using indoor equipment outdoors
• Running cables under carpets or across walkways without protection
• Using equipment near water without appropriate protection
• Bringing personal appliances from home without them being tested
• Ignoring warning signs like burning smells, sparks, or tingling sensations

What to Do in an Emergency

If someone receives an electric shock:

1. Do not touch the person if they are still in contact with the electrical source
2. Switch off the power at the socket or distribution board if you can do so safely
3. Call 999 if the person is unconscious, not breathing, or has burns
4. If safe to do so, begin first aid

PAT Testing in Your Workplace

Your employer arranges regular PAT testing. If you notice appliances without test labels, or with expired labels, let your manager know. For PAT testing across Greater Manchester and Northwest England, employers can contact Green Tag PAT.