Electrical Safety in the Workplace

Electrical safety in the workplace is governed by the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, which place absolute duties on employers to ensure electrical systems and equipment are safe. Understanding these requirements is essential for protecting workers from electric shock, burns, and fire.

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (EWR) are the primary legislation governing electrical safety in UK workplaces. They apply to all work activities involving electricity, from offices to construction sites.

Key principles

Systems must be safe All electrical systems must be constructed and maintained to prevent danger. This is an absolute duty.

Work on or near electrical systems No person should work on or near electrical equipment where it's reasonably foreseeable they might be injured, unless suitable precautions are taken.

Competent persons Work on electrical systems must only be done by people with sufficient technical knowledge, experience, and competence.

Proper equipment Equipment and protective systems must be suitable for the use, environment, and conditions in which they're employed.

Who do the regulations apply to?

The Electricity at Work Regulations apply to:

Employers

• Duty to employees and others who may be affected (contractors, visitors, members of the public)
• Responsible for electrical systems under their control
• Must ensure work activities don't create electrical risks

Self-employed

• Same duties as employers for their own safety and others affected by their work
• Must ensure their own electrical equipment and systems are safe

Employees

• Duty to cooperate with their employer's electrical safety measures
• Must not recklessly interfere with electrical systems
• Should report electrical hazards and defects

Those in control of premises

• Duty regarding electrical systems in the premises they control
• Includes landlords, property managers, and building owners for common areas

Employer duties for electrical safety

Duty to ensure safety of systems

Regulation 4(1) — All systems shall be constructed and maintained to prevent danger.

This means:

• Electrical installations must be designed and installed to appropriate standards (typically BS 7671)
• Equipment must be suitable for its purpose and environment
• Regular maintenance and inspection must be carried out
• Defects must be identified and remedied promptly
• Systems must be kept in safe working order

Regulation 4(2) — Protective equipment must be suitable and maintained in good working order.

This covers:

• Circuit breakers and fuses
• Residual current devices (RCDs)
• Insulation
• Earthing and bonding systems
• Enclosures and guards

Duty to prevent danger from work activities

Regulation 4(3) — Every work activity must be carried out to prevent danger.

You must ensure:

• Safe systems of work are in place
• Workers are properly trained and supervised
• Appropriate equipment and tools are provided
• Work is planned to minimize risks
• Emergency procedures are established

Duty regarding adverse environments

Regulation 6 — Equipment must be suitable for the environment.

Consider:

• Wet or damp conditions (outdoor work, washrooms, kitchens)
• Dusty or dirty environments (workshops, construction sites)
• Flammable or explosive atmospheres (chemical storage, paint shops)
• Mechanical damage risk (warehouses, factories)
• Temperature extremes (cold stores, boiler rooms)

Duty to prevent excess current

Regulation 11 — Efficient means must be provided to protect against excess current.

This requires:

• Properly rated circuit breakers and fuses
• Protection against overload (too much current drawn deliberately)
• Protection against short circuits (fault condition causing excessive current)
• Correct cable sizing for the load
• Regular checking that protective devices haven't been bypassed or replaced with incorrect ratings

Duty to cut off and isolate

Regulation 12 — Suitable means must be provided to cut off supply and isolate equipment.

You must ensure:

• Isolators are provided to allow equipment to be safely worked on
• Emergency stop buttons and switches are available where needed
• Isolation points are clearly identified and accessible
• Isolation procedures prevent inadvertent re-energization
• Lock-off devices are available for maintenance work

Common electrical hazards in workplaces

Electric shock

Electric shock occurs when current passes through the body, potentially causing:

• Muscular contraction preventing release of the conductor
• Burns at entry and exit points
• Disruption to heart rhythm (potentially fatal)
• Falls from height or into machinery
• Secondary injuries from involuntary movement

Common causes:

• Contact with live parts due to damaged equipment
• Inadequate or missing earthing
• Work on live electrical systems without precautions
• Use of faulty equipment
• Damaged cables and flexes
• Unsafe DIY electrical work

Electrical fires

Electricity is one of the most common causes of fire in UK workplaces, resulting from:

Overheating of cables and equipment

• Overloaded circuits
• Poor connections creating resistance
• Undersized cables for the load
• Equipment left running unattended

Arcing and sparking

• Loose connections
• Damaged cables
• Faulty switches and sockets
• Equipment operating beyond its design limits

Ignition of flammable materials

• Electrical equipment in areas with flammable atmospheres
• Heat from equipment igniting nearby combustibles
• Static electricity discharge
• Electrical equipment causing sparks near flammable substances

Burns

Electrical burns can be more severe than they initially appear:

Contact burns

• From touching hot equipment or cables
• Burns at points where current enters and exits the body
• Deep tissue damage even with limited surface injury

Arc flash burns

• Extremely high temperatures from electrical arcs
• Can occur when working on or near high-power electrical equipment
• May cause severe burns even without direct contact

Flash burns to eyes

• From arc flash or short circuits
• Can cause temporary or permanent vision damage

Explosions and arcs

In certain environments, electrical equipment can cause explosions:

Explosive atmospheres

• Sparks from electrical equipment igniting flammable gases, vapors, or dusts
• Requirements for ATEX-rated equipment in hazardous areas
• Special precautions for paint spraying, chemical storage, and grain processing

Electrical arcs

• High-energy discharge when working on energized equipment
• Can cause severe burns, hearing damage, and blast injuries
• Particularly dangerous in switchgear and distribution boards

Risk assessment for electrical safety

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require employers to assess risks, including electrical risks.

Step 1: Identify the hazards

Walk through your workplace and identify:

Fixed electrical installations

• Distribution boards and consumer units
• Socket outlets and fixed wiring
• Lighting circuits and emergency lighting
• Building management systems
• Fire alarm and security systems

Portable and transportable equipment

• Office equipment (computers, printers, photocopiers)
• Kitchen appliances (kettles, microwaves, refrigerators)
• Power tools and equipment
• Extension leads and portable RCDs
• Heating and cooling equipment

Work activities involving electricity

• Electrical maintenance and repairs
• Work near overhead or underground cables
• Use of electrical equipment in non-standard environments
• Work on or testing of electrical systems

Environmental factors

• Wet areas (kitchens, washrooms, outdoor locations)
• Dusty or dirty locations (workshops, storage areas)
• Areas with flammable materials
• Confined spaces
• Areas with extreme temperatures

Step 2: Decide who might be harmed

Consider:

• Employees (including maintenance staff, cleaners, contractors)
• Visitors and members of the public
• Young workers or trainees with limited experience
• Lone workers who may not receive immediate help
• Pregnant workers
• Workers with disabilities who may be more vulnerable
• Contractors and temporary workers who may be unfamiliar with your systems

Step 3: Evaluate the risks

For each hazard, consider:

Likelihood of harm

• Condition of equipment (age, maintenance history)
• Frequency of use
• Environment (harsh conditions increase risk)
• User competence and training
• Existing control measures

Severity of harm

• Potential for fatal injury
• Serious injury requiring hospital treatment
• Minor injury requiring first aid
• Damage to property or business interruption

Risk level Combine likelihood and severity to determine if the risk is:

• Trivial (no action needed)
• Low (monitor and maintain controls)
• Medium (implement additional controls within a defined period)
• High (immediate action required, may need to stop the activity)

Step 4: Record your findings

Document:

• Hazards identified
• Who might be harmed and how
• Existing control measures
• Risk rating
• Additional controls needed
• Who is responsible for implementing controls
• Target completion dates
• Review dates

Step 5: Review and update

Review your assessment:

• At least annually
• When there are significant changes to equipment or work activities
• After an electrical incident or near miss
• When introducing new equipment or processes
• When your inspection and testing regime identifies patterns of faults

Control measures and safety precautions

Once you've identified electrical risks, you must implement appropriate controls. Use the hierarchy of control:

1. Elimination

Remove the electrical hazard entirely

• Replace electrical equipment with non-electrical alternatives where possible
• Relocate work activities away from electrical hazards
• Remove redundant electrical equipment

2. Substitution

Replace with something less hazardous

• Use battery-powered equipment instead of mains-powered in hazardous areas
• Replace 230V equipment with 110V or lower voltage systems on construction sites
• Use wireless systems instead of mains-powered where appropriate

3. Engineering controls

Design measures to reduce risk

Fixed wire testing (EICR)

• Periodic inspection and testing of electrical installations
• Typically every 5 years for offices, 3 years for industrial premises
• Identifies deterioration, damage, and non-compliance with standards
• Must be carried out by competent electrician

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

• Regular inspection and testing of portable electrical equipment
• Frequency based on equipment type and environment (3 months to 4 years)
• Includes both visual inspection and electrical testing
• Can be done by trained competent persons

RCD protection

• Residual current devices that disconnect power when they detect current leakage
• Required for socket outlets that may be used for portable equipment outdoors or in wet conditions
• Test regularly (at least quarterly) using the test button
• Consider portable RCDs for additional protection

Proper earthing and bonding

• Ensures protective devices operate in fault conditions
• Provides path for fault current
• Must be tested and verified during periodic inspections
• Critical for safety in wet environments

Appropriate IP ratings

• Equipment with suitable Ingress Protection rating for the environment
• IP44 minimum for outdoor or wet locations
• Higher ratings for dusty or high-pressure water environments

Physical guarding

• Barriers and enclosures preventing contact with live parts
• Locked electrical rooms and cabinets
• Cable protection preventing mechanical damage
• Guards on electrical equipment

4. Administrative controls

Procedures and training to reduce risk

Safe systems of work

• Written procedures for electrical work
• Permit-to-work systems for high-risk activities
• Isolation and lock-off procedures
• Emergency response plans

Training and competence

• Electrical safety awareness training for all staff
• Specific training for those using electrical equipment in higher-risk environments
• Formal electrical qualifications for those doing electrical work
• Regular refresher training

Supervision

• Adequate supervision of inexperienced workers
• Competent person overseeing electrical work
• Monitoring compliance with safe systems of work

Information and signs

• Warning signs on electrical rooms and high-voltage equipment
• Clear labeling of isolators and emergency stops
• Maintenance schedules and inspection records
• Instructions for safe use of electrical equipment

Reporting and maintenance

• System for reporting electrical defects
• Prompt investigation and repair
• Records of maintenance and repairs
• User checks before each use for portable equipment

5. Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Last line of defense when other controls aren't sufficient

For routine work:

• Safety footwear with electrical hazard rating
• Insulated gloves when working near live parts
• Eye protection against arc flash

For specialist electrical work:

• Arc flash rated clothing and face shields
• Insulated tools rated for the voltage
• Electrical safety helmets
• Rubber matting for additional insulation

Inspection and maintenance requirements

The Electricity at Work Regulations require that electrical systems are maintained to prevent danger. This means establishing a planned inspection and maintenance regime.

Visual inspections

Daily/pre-use checks by users Look for:

• Damage to cables, plugs, and equipment casings
• Signs of overheating (burn marks, discoloration, unusual warmth)
• Loose parts or connections
• Equipment used in unsuitable conditions
• Unusual smells or sounds

Periodic formal visual inspections Frequency depends on risk:

• Monthly for high-risk equipment and environments
• Quarterly for medium-risk
• Annually for low-risk office environments

Conducted by competent person, documented, and followed up with repairs where needed.

Electrical testing

PAT testing Frequency based on equipment type and environment:

• Construction equipment: every 3 months
• Equipment moved regularly: 6-12 months
• Office equipment moved occasionally: 12 months
• Fixed-position office equipment: 2-4 years
• After repair or modification: before return to service

Fixed wire testing (EICR) Frequency based on premises type:

• Offices and shops: every 5 years
• Industrial and commercial kitchens: every 3 years
• Leisure centers and similar: every 3 years
• Construction site installations: every 3 months
• Temporary installations: before each use if possible

Testing of RCDs

• Functional test (test button): monthly minimum, ideally quarterly
• Full electrical test as part of PAT or fixed wire testing
• After any electrical incident or suspected fault

Record keeping

Maintain records of:

Electrical installation

• Electrical Installation Certificates for new work
• EICR reports and schedules of test results
• Remedial work certificates
• Distribution board schedules
• As-built drawings where available

Portable equipment

• Inventory of equipment
• PAT testing records (dates, results, next test due)
• Visual inspection logs
• Repair and maintenance records
• Records of equipment disposal

Maintenance activities

• RCD testing logs
• Reported defects and action taken
• Emergency lighting tests
• Planned maintenance schedules
• Contractor work records

Training and competence

• Training records for staff
• Competence assessments
• Contractor qualifications and certifications
• Permit-to-work records

Working safely with electricity

Live working

The law is clear: work on live electrical systems should be avoided wherever possible.

Under Regulation 14, no person shall work on or near a live conductor unless:

• It is unreasonable in all circumstances for it to be dead, AND
• Suitable precautions are taken to prevent injury

When might live working be justified?

• Testing and fault-finding that requires power
• Work on systems that cannot be isolated (e.g., some building management systems)
• Emergency situations where making safe takes longer than the repair

Live working should only ever be carried out by electrically competent persons with:

• Specific training in live working procedures
• Appropriate tools and PPE
• A documented safe system of work
• Adequate supervision

In most workplace situations, equipment can and should be isolated before work.

Isolation and lock-off

Safe electrical work requires proper isolation:

Isolation procedure

1. Identify the source of supply
2. Isolate using the correct isolation point
3. Secure the isolation (lock-off device and warning signs)
4. Test the equipment is dead using a voltage tester
5. Test the voltage tester on a known live source to confirm it's working
6. Begin work
7. After work, remove test equipment and tools
8. Remove lock-off and signs
9. Restore power

Lock-off devices

• Physical locks preventing operation of isolators
• Unique key retained by person doing the work
• Multiple locks if multiple people working on same circuit
• Warning signs explaining isolation is in place

Competence for electrical work

The Electricity at Work Regulations require electrical work to be done by competent persons. Competence means:

Technical knowledge

• Understanding of electrical principles
• Knowledge of hazards and risks
• Awareness of relevant regulations and standards
• Understanding of the specific systems being worked on

Experience

• Practical experience of electrical work
• Supervised experience for those developing competence
• Understanding gained from varied situations
• Track record of safe working

Training and qualifications For basic awareness: HSE electrical safety training For electrical maintenance: relevant electrical qualifications (e.g., NVQ Level 3, City & Guilds) For inspection and testing: City & Guilds 2391 or equivalent For design: appropriate electrical engineering qualifications

Personal qualities

• Attention to detail
• Ability to work safely under pressure
• Willingness to stop work if unsafe
• Clear communication skills

Specific workplace scenarios

Office environments

Lower risk but not risk-free

Common issues:

• Overloaded sockets with multiple extension leads
• Cables creating trip hazards
• Damaged equipment not reported or removed
• Personal electrical equipment brought from home
• Drinks near electrical equipment

Controls:

• Policy on personal electrical equipment
• Adequate socket provision to prevent overloading
• Cable management systems
• User training on electrical safety basics
• Regular visual inspections
• PAT testing every 2-4 years for fixed equipment, annually for frequently moved items

Construction sites

Higher risk due to harsh environment and temporary installations

Hazards:

• Work near underground or overhead cables
• Wet conditions and outdoor work
• Mechanical damage to cables and equipment
• Temporary electrical installations
• Use of high-power tools and equipment

Controls:

• 110V reduced voltage systems (center-tapped to 55V to earth)
• RCD protection on all socket outlets
• Regular inspection of equipment (every 3 months for tools)
• Buried services located before excavation work
• Minimum safe distances from overhead lines
• Robust cable protection
• Permit-to-work for work near live cables

Wet environments (kitchens, washrooms, outdoor work)

Water and electricity together create severe shock risk

Hazards:

• Reduced resistance of wet skin to electric shock
• Conductive water creating paths for current
• Deterioration of equipment in damp conditions
• Condensation in electrical enclosures

Controls:

• Equipment rated IP44 minimum (preferably IP65 for outdoor use)
• 30mA RCD protection as a maximum, ideally 10mA in wet areas
• Equipment designed for wet use (double-insulated or suitable IP rating)
• Sockets positioned to minimize exposure to water
• Regular inspection for water ingress and deterioration
• GFCIs or isolation transformers where appropriate

Work near overhead power lines

Extreme hazard due to high voltages and arcing distances

Risks:

• Direct contact with conductors
• Arcing if equipment approaches too close
• Induced voltage in metallic equipment
• Falling or ejected conductors

Controls:

• Minimum safe distances (depends on voltage):
  • Below 132kV: 6 meters for equipment, 3 meters for people
  • Above 132kV: greater distances required
• Goal posts or barriers to prevent approach
• Clearly marked exclusion zones
• Banksman to guide operations
• De-energization of lines if work must be closer (arranged with network operator)
• Assumption that lines are energized unless proven otherwise

Emergency procedures

Electric shock

If someone receives an electric shock:

1. Do not touch them — they may still be in contact with live electricity and you could be shocked too
2. Break the contact — switch off power at the source if immediately accessible, or push/pull the person away using a non-conductive object (wooden broom handle, rubber mat)
3. Call for help — dial 999 for ambulance immediately
4. Assess the casualty:
   • If breathing and conscious: lay them down, keep warm, monitor until help arrives
   • If unconscious but breathing: recovery position, monitor breathing
   • If not breathing: begin CPR immediately
5. Do not move the casualty unless absolutely necessary (except for CPR)
6. Treat burns with cool water for at least 10 minutes

First aid training Ensure you have first-aiders trained in dealing with electric shock. Standard first aid training covers this, but additional electrical safety training is beneficial for high-risk workplaces.

Electrical fires

For electrical fires:

1. Raise the alarm and evacuate if necessary
2. Cut the power if safe to do so
3. Use appropriate extinguisher:
   • CO2 extinguishers for live electrical equipment
   • Water or foam extinguishers ONLY once power is confirmed off
4. Never use water on live electrical equipment — risk of electrocution
5. If fire cannot be safely controlled, evacuate and call fire brigade

Fire extinguisher selection

• CO2 extinguishers are safe for live electrical fires
• Powder extinguishers can be used but create mess
• Water and foam extinguishers must not be used on energized equipment

Reporting and investigation

Under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013), you must report:

Fatal and specified injuries

• Deaths from electric shock or electrical burns
• Electric shock or burn causing unconsciousness or CPR
• Electric shock causing hospital admission for more than 24 hours

Dangerous occurrences

• Electrical short circuit or overload causing fire or explosion and either:
  • Damage to structure of premises
  • Suspension of normal work for more than 24 hours
  • Plant or equipment damaged that will be out of service for more than 24 hours

Report to HSE within required timescales (immediately for fatal/specified injuries, within 10 days for over-7-day injuries, within 15 days for dangerous occurrences).

Internal investigation For any electrical incident:

• Preserve the scene and equipment (evidence)
• Interview witnesses
• Examine the electrical system and equipment
• Review risk assessments and safe systems of work
• Identify immediate and root causes
• Implement corrective actions
• Update risk assessments and procedures
• Share lessons learned

Frequently asked questions

Next steps

To understand specific testing requirements for portable equipment:

What is PAT Testing? →

For information on testing fixed electrical installations:

What is an EICR? →

Related articles:

• PAT Testing Explained
• What is an EICR?
• Electrical Safety Responsibilities

Useful tools:

• Responsibility Checker
• Electrical Safety Self-Check