If the insulating cover is missing or damaged, replace the whole unit. Any plug or cord with evidence of burning, melting or other visible damage, should not be used. The National Fire Protection Association say electrical cords and plugs are responsible for the leading number of electrical deaths each year. Wall-mounted light switches in the bathroom are pre-60s.A wooden-backed fuse box or cast iron switches would be pre-60s.Cables coated in lead or fabric were installed pre-60s.Cables coated in black rubber were phased out in the 60s.If you have any concerns over the safety of your home’s electrics, don’t hesitate to contact an electrician registered to a competent persons scheme. Old wiring can be dangerous and in particular, faulty wiring will lead to electric fires or shocks.

From electrical fires to fatal incidents, there are plenty of potential dangers to safeguard against.īut what are the most common reasons for an electrical mishap? Old wiring There are still a huge number of accidents every year in the UK and around 2.5 million Brits receive an electric shock annually. Most common electrical mishaps & accidents In this resource, we’ll discuss the safety concerns surrounding electricity in the home and provide useful tips and advice on how to approach common situations. The power generated is strong enough to instantly kill and when mishandled, electricity poses a grave threat. It was only 150 years ago when domestic electricity wasn’t even a concept, let alone available at the flick of a switch.ĭespite electricity being something of a fifth limb, dangers remain ever present. To some degree, we all take electricity for granted.

Electrician handbook for homeowners