The power of hazard identification with test and tag
Broadly speaking, electrical safety is about minimising the risks associated with the use of electrical equipment. Hazard identification is the first – and arguably, most important – step in this process.
A great example of why identifying unsafe appliances can prevent dangerous events from occuring.
What is hazard identification?
A hazard is something that has the potential to cause damage to people and property. Generally speaking, hazards arise from the physical work environment, the equipment and materials used, the way work is designed and managed, and how tasks are completed. In any given workplace, there are many hazards that must be managed to keep employees safe.
Hazard identification is the process of formally finding and documenting these potentially harmful situations. It involves inspecting the workplace (including any materials and equipment used), reviewing operating procedures, and working with team members to predict how and when things might go wrong – and how this can be avoided.
Once you have identified the potential hazards in your workplace, you can assess the risk they pose to your people and property, and plan strategies to minimise those risks.
How can testing and tagging help?
There are many hazards associated with working with electrical equipment, the most common being the potential for people to come in contact with electricity – either directly (by making contact with live parts) or indirectly (via conductive materials). While most electrical equipment is designed to prevent this, if it is damaged, it may not work correctly, increasing the risk to people and property. This is where testing and tagging comes in…
One of the main reasons we test and tag regularly is to monitor the performance – and safety – of our equipment. This allows us to better identify any faults or deterioration in the equipment, and to remove it from service and have it repaired before it causes any injuries or other damage.
Also, if you use a professional test and tag service provider, they should provide you with detailed testing results. These can help you to identify hazards even earlier and actively manage the ageing of your equipment.
Want more information?
A1 Testing & Tagging is one of the largest suppliers of test and tag services in Melbourne and across Australia. Give us a call on 1300 303 759 to discuss your electrical safety risk management needs and how our professional testing and tagging service can help.