Electrical safety

The dangers from electricity should never be underestimated. Equipment that is poorly maintained or used unsafely can present a serious risk of harm through electrocution or fire. Around 1000 electrical accidents at work are reported to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) each year and about 25 people die of their injuries. You can help to reduce the chance of this by:

Visually examining the electrical equipment that you use at work:

• Has it been visually inspected within the last year and tested recently?
• Are there signs of damage to the plug or lead such as cracks or splits in the lead, or is the lead not securely connected at either end?
• Are you operating a number of pieces of equipment from extension leads?

If any electrical appliance has a broken or damaged casing or switch do not operate it.

If any of the sockets or switches in your work area are not securely fastened to the wall, or the switches don't click over positively or you can hear the sound of "arcing" as you operate a switch, report it immediately.

Report faults immediately to faults@essex.ac.uk (Colchester Campus) or fmhelp@essex.ac.uk  (Southend and Loughton campus)

Electric fires should only be used if the Director of Estate Management has given permission. If a fire is being used keep it away from flammable materials, such as paper, coats etc.; Ensure that it does not have a long trailing lead.

Do not use electrical equipment that is not provided by the University and has not been tested. If you use personal electrical equipment in your workplace you must ensure that it has first had an inspection and test.

Do not do try to repair equipment or replace fuses. If a piece of electrical equipment fails to work, report it.

Do not leave electrical equipment on at the end of the working day unless you have to. It is a safety risk and environmentally unfriendly.

Electricity is a source of heat and ignition which in some circumstances has the potential to cause a fire. Electrical safety in residences offers advice to those who may choose to bring their own electrical appliances into campus accommodation.

Testing of Portable Electrical Equipment

The University has a legal obligation under the Electricity at Work Regulations to maintain electrical equipment in a safe condition. Regular inspection and, in some cases testing, is necessary to ensure equipment is safe.

Heads of Department / Section must ensure that the portable electrical equipment they are responsible for undergoes regular inspection and testing in accordance with University's Policy on Portable Appliance Testing (.pdf).

If your Department/Section does not have a University approved competent person this testing can be arranged through the Estate Management Section.

If you have any queries would you please contact the Deputy Director of Estate Management (Maintenance).

Safety Alert: Lloytron A134 Travel Adaptor (See Bulletin)