Electrical Safety & Electrical Shock on Ships

Electrical equipment systems on ships are extremely hazardous and seafarers must take special care while handling them. Personal safety is of utmost importance while dealing with electrical systems on ships. When we talk about accidents on a ship, an electrical shock is the worst of all kinds. Electrical wires and connections are present everywhere on a ship and it is important to prevent yourself and others from getting a major electrical shock.

Steps to Minimize the Risk of an Electrical Shock

1. Start with the first round of the day; check all electrical motors, wiring, and switches, for abnormal sounds, variation in temperatures and loose connections.
2. Ensure that all electrical connections are inside the panel box so that no one can touch them accidentally.
3. In accommodation area multiple sock t plugs shouldn’t b used.
4. Turn off the breaker before starting any work on an electrical system.
5. Use ply cards and notice board as much as possible to inform others about the ongoing work to avoid accidental start.
6. Double check electrical tools such as portable drills for any loose wires before attempting any job.
7. Always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, rubber kneepads and safety shoes to avoid risk of shock.
8. Use electrically insulated handle tools for working or checking electrical systems.
9. Before working, remove jewelry, wrist bands and other conductive items.
10. When working or removing multiple wires, tape off all but the one wire you are working on.
11. Try as much as possible not to work on live system and even if you do so, be a professional and work carefully, taking all necessary safety precautions and with utmost concentration.
12. During working in group or pair, organize a tool box meeting and discuss the procedure, risk and hazards of the job in hand.
13. If you don’t know bout the system, ask for assistance. Don’t work without knowing the system.
14. Always think first about your personal safety and safety of fellow seafarers while carrying out any electrical work on board ships.