Shocking truths: tips for lab technicians to handle electrical hazards

Dozens of electrical deaths occur in Australia every year, and while anyone can be a victim of an electrical accident, those who work in laboratories and are regularly exposed to electrical currents are especially vulnerable. This article discusses some of the most well-known electrical hazards lab technicians face, as well as how they can handle electrical accidents safely and responsibly.

Types of electrical risks

According to Safe Work Australia, several health risks are associated with electrical issues in laboratories (and other settings), including the following:

• Electric shocks that cause injury or death, which can be received by direct or indirect contact, arcing or tracking through/across a medium.
• Burns caused by electrical fires, arcing or explosions.
• Illness or death caused by toxic gases produced via burning or arcing.

Potential electrical hazards in lab environments

Many electrical hazards increase the chances that one will experience injuries like those listed above. These are some of the most common ones:

• Electrical overloading (occurs when too much power is drawn from a circuit).
• Poor electrical maintenance.
• A lack of regular inspections.
• Leaving equipment switched on for extended periods (even when not in use).
• Using equipment that was not explicitly designed for a laboratory environment.
• Open flames.
• Deteriorated gas tubing.
• Not handling and storing flammable or explosive materials properly.
• Not segregating incompatible chemicals properly.
• Sparking equipment near flammable substances/vapours.
• A lack of ventilation.
   

The effect of a shock can range from a slight tingling sensation to severe burns to cardiac arrest and death.

The severity of an electrical shock, as well as its long-term effects, depends on various factors, including the current’s pathway through the body, the strength of the current, the length of time one is exposed and if the skin is wet or dry (water is a powerful conductor of electricity).

What to do in the event of an electrical accident in the lab

Some of the most common electricity-related incidents that may occur are fires, burns and electric shocks. Below are examples of safety protocols to follow in each of these situations.

Fire

If a minor fire occurs, lab technicians should respond as follows:

• Alert those in the area.
• Activate the fire alarm.
• Smother the fire or use a fire extinguisher, aiming it at the base of the fire.
• Ensure the pathway to the exit is unobstructed at all times.
   

In the event of a major fire, technicians should take these steps:

• Alert those in the area and instruct them to evacuate.
• Activate the fire alarm or call the lab’s security number.
• Contain the fire by closing the lab’s doors.
• Evacuate to a safe area (exit through the stairwell instead of using the lift).

Burns

If someone gets burned by a fire, arc or explosion, they must receive first aid promptly. The proper first aid for burns includes the following:

• Cool the burnt area with cool water for up to 20 minutes.
• Remove clothing and jewellery from the affected area (unless it is stuck to the burn).
• Cover the burnt area with a light, non-stick dressing (or any clean, dry and non-fluffy material).
• Check the victim for signs of shock (pale, clammy skin, shallow breathing, anxiety, disorientation, etc).
• Call Triple Zero (000) if any of these apply:
  • Burns involve the airway, hands, feet, face or genitals.
  • The burn is larger than a 20-cent piece.
     

If there is any doubt about how to respond, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and call 000.

Electric shocks

In the event of an electric shock, call 000 if the injured person is experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Cardiac arrest
• Severe burns
• Difficulty breathing
• Muscle pain and contractions
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness.
   

While waiting for emergency services to arrive, these steps will help to treat the victim and reduce the risk of additional damage:

• Switch off the power source (if possible).
• If you can’t turn off the source, use a dry, non-conducting object (one made of cardboard, plastic or wood) and move the source away from yourself and the victim.
• Perform CPR or use a defibrillator if the person does not show signs of circulation (for example, they’re not breathing, coughing, or moving).
• Cover the injured person to protect them from becoming chilled.
• Apply a clean gauze bandage to burnt areas (don’t use blankets or towels, as their loose fibres could stick to the burns).

Preventing electrical accidents in laboratories

It is almost always easier to prevent an electrical accident than to manage one. The following are some of the most effective strategies for avoiding electrical accidents in lab settings:

• Always turn off the equipment’s power before inspecting it.
• Only‌ use tools with non-conducting handles.
• Keep workspaces clear of books, papers, clothes, etc.
• Never change wiring with a circuit plugged into a power source.
• Avoid contact with circuits with wet hands or materials.
• Check that circuits are properly grounded.
• Avoid storing or using highly flammable solvents around electrical equipment.
• Make sure the path to electrical panels and disconnect switches is clear and unobstructed.
   

Providing proper safety training (and regular refresher courses) is also critical for preventing electrical accidents and other types of accidents in the lab. Displaying safety rules and reminders throughout the lab can also help technicians know how to respond in the event of an accident.

Essential electrical safety equipment every lab technician should have

It’s also critical for all lab technicians to have access to the proper safety equipment. Here are some essential pieces for them to have on hand:

• The proper clothing to protect technicians from burns and other injuries (coats, aprons, gloves, face shields, goggles, closed-toe shoes, etc).
• Chemical storage cabinets and spill control kits to keep chemicals away from electrical currents.
• Fire extinguishers.
• Fume hoods to remove harmful substances from the air, including toxic or flammable gases.

Cultivating a culture of electrical safety

By providing easy access to electrical safety equipment and providing sufficient training on how to respond if an electrical accident occurs, lab managers and other professionals can keep technicians safe and prevent injuries and fatalities while also maintaining productivity.

Medshop is a leading medical supplier, servicing the Australasian region with a wide range of medical supplies and a drive to exceed consumer needs.

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