McDaniel Provides Electrical Safety Tips for the Office

VALPARAISO, IN--(Marketwire - May 3, 2011) - Although household safety tips are widely available and promoted at various times during the year, many people take for granted that their office or workplace environment is without hazards. As the month of May marks National Electrical Safety Month, McDaniel, a leader in full-service fire suppression, fire alarm and security systems for over 75 years, reminds employers and employees alike to be conscious of electrical safety and do their part to help maintain a safe working environment.

"Although statistically electrical accidents in offices occur less frequently than in homes, electrical accidents in offices can occur just as easily when electronic devices and machines are misused or aren't properly maintained," said Eric Wallenius, general manager for McDaniel. "We encourage everyone to take responsibility and do their part to ensure that they practice proper electrical safety techniques as part of their daily routine at work."

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics compiled by the Electrical Safety Foundation International, there were nearly 1,500 deaths caused by on-the-job electrical injuries from 2003 to 2009. During that same time-frame there were more than 18,400 non-fatal electrical injuries.

McDaniel offers the following electrical safety tips to help ensure a safe office environment:

• Don't overload outlets: Using a series of adaptors to connect numerous machines or devices to an electrical outlet may result in an overload, power outage, spark or fire. Do not plug more than two devices into one electrical outlet. If multiple devices must be plugged into one outlet, have a licensed electrician evaluate the demands that can be placed on the power source.

• Take care with extension cords: If an extension cord must be used, be sure to use an-approved (national testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories - UL) and correctly rated extension cord for use with the particular appliance and location. Electrical cords and extension cords should not be laid across walkways and work areas, where someone can trip on the cord or damage it. If you do need to place an extension cord in a walkway, use a floor cable cover to protect the cord and keep people from tripping.

• Practice proper unplugging: When unplugging equipment, do not pull on the cord itself, pull by the plug instead. Pulling on the cord could damage the plug as well as the electrical outlet. If wires are exposed, they may cause shock to a worker that touches them. All electric cords should also be examined on a routine basis for fraying and exposed wiring.

• Keep liquids away from electrical devices and outlets: Keep liquids away from electrical equipment and electronics connected to outlets. Electrically powered machines may conduct electrical currents to the touch after having liquid spilled on them, which could cause serious electrical shock or even electrocution.

• Use caution with space heaters: Although Spring is bringing warmer weather for most of the country, some employees will continue to use their space heaters in air conditioned environments. Be sure to keep wires, shoes, clothes, curtains and other potentially combustible materials at least three feet from all heaters. Additionally, make sure the space heater has been approved by a national testing laboratory and is in compliance with office and building codes.

• Be careful when cleaning: Disconnect electrical devices before cleaning, adjusting or applying cleaning solutions. If a safety panel is removed to clean or repair parts, replace the panel before restoring power, testing the equipment and returning the machine to service. Also be sure that power cords are clear from the path of the vacuum from evening cleaning crews.

• Turn off appliances: Be sure to turn off all appliances at the end of the day such as coffee makers and space heaters. If electrical equipment gives off a strange odor, is unusually warm or malfunctions, promptly disconnect it and call the appropriate maintenance/service personnel.

For additional information on electrical safety tips, please visit the following Web sites:

• U.S. Fire Administration: http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/home_fire_prev/electrical.shtm
• Electrical Safety Foundation International: http://esfi.org/index.cfm/event/workplacesafety/pid/10224

McDaniel has unparalleled real-world knowledge and experience working with companies of all sizes from virtually every industry and offers comprehensive design, fabrication, installation, inspection, testing and service. It has developed custom solutions for commercial office buildings, education institutions, healthcare facilities, hotels, motels, restaurants, residential, retail, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, casinos and heavy industrial facilities such as power plants, utilities, steel mills and refineries.

About McDaniel
McDaniel has been a leader in full-service fire suppression, fire alarm and security systems for over 75 years. From comprehensive design, fabrication and installation, to inspection, testing and service, McDaniel can meet all of your fire protection and security needs. For more information please visit www.mcdanielfire.com or call (219)462-0571. McDaniel is a holding of The Freedom Group, LLC, a private investment firm based in Geneva, Ill.