Everyone knows the dangers of high-voltage scenarios, but low-voltage also has the potential to cause severe injuries and substantial equipment damage. Low-voltage systems are used in most commercial settings, so learning a few safety tips and specific hazards associated with low-voltage work can make a significant difference.

Risks of Low-Voltage Electricity

Many contractors downplay the danger of low-voltage currents, which can increase the likelihood of injuries. Low-voltage currents of around 100 volts can cause anything from muscle contractions and slight discomfort to heart arrhythmia and heart attacks.

Another issue to consider is the small clearance associated with most low-voltage work. Low-voltage industrial worksites often have a powerful energy supply for several applications. A fault current releasing a large amount of energy in a small space has the power to:

• Cause arc-flash burns
• Ruin equipment
• Cause severe Injury
• Start fires

Safety Tips for Low-Voltage Work

1. Preparation & Planning

Preparing your team and workspace before beginning work is an essential safety step. You can prepare your team for a safe work experience by doing the following:

• Have a plan before any work begins, and assess the potential risks of every task you will complete. This will also allow you to create a plan of steps to take if an accident does occur. A quick safety meeting before the job begins is an excellent opportunity to discuss planned tasks and associated risks with the entire team.
• Be familiar with the equipment and systems you will be using. Any team member using equipment or systems should thoroughly understand how it works. Accurate and up-to-date information for all equipment and systems should also be available for electrician reference.

2. Minimize Risks

The following steps will help minimize risks and create a safer work environment.

• Expose live parts as little as possible and use insulating barriers, like plexiglass plates, to cover live components.
• Always spend the appropriate amount of time on a task, even if you’re feeling rushed.
• Keep the fault current as low as possible while working. Current-limiting devices are beneficial for limiting arc-flash risks. Setting the load side of the current-protective device to its lowest current rating will minimize the power of any fault currents that do occur.

3. Take Protective Measures

All workers should do the following to keep themselves as safe as possible while working:

• Always use PPE (personal protective equipment), and ensure all tools and equipment reflect the latest regulations and standards.
• Voice your concerns if you see something incorrectly done, even if you’re new to the job. Doing so may save a life and thousands of dollars in equipment.

Contact Us

Call Walker Electric at (859) 252-2892 when you need safe, reliable industrial service work. We’ve been serving the community since 1976 and offer electrical installations, electrical design-build, and 24/7 emergency services. Walker Electric is located in Lexington, KY, and is happy to serve Fayette County, Lexington, Frankfort, Richmond, Georgetown, and the surrounding counties.