What is one way to prevent electrical hazards in the workplace?

Regularly inspecting equipment and implementing lockout/tagout procedures is vital for preventing electrical hazards in the workplace. Regular inspections help identify potential issues such as frayed wires, damaged insulation, or malfunctioning components before they cause accidents. Detecting and addressing these problems can significantly reduce the risk of electrical shocks, fires, and equipment failures.

Lockout/tagout procedures ensure that equipment is properly shut off and cannot be started up again while maintenance or inspections are being performed. This prevents unexpected energization of electrical systems, which is a common source of accidents. Enforcing these safety measures creates a safer work environment, as workers are protected from the inherent risks of electrical systems by ensuring that they are de-energized when necessary.

The other options do not effectively address electrical safety. Using equipment only at night, for instance, does not mitigate risks associated with malfunctioning equipment regardless of the time of day. Using equipment only when necessary may limit exposure but does not provide an active safety measure. Similarly, while leaving electrical work to professionals is a good practice, it does not prevent hazards related to equipment already present in the workplace without proper inspection and maintenance. Thus, regular inspections and strict adherence to lockout/tagout procedures are foundational practices in enhancing electrical safety.