Electrical safety is an extremely important topic, both inside and outside the home. From installation to use and maintenance of electrical equipment, attention to proper standards and practices can prevent serious accidents, such as electric shock, fire, and damage.

Below are some true or false about electrical safety, covering common everyday situations, constructions and repairs, parties, and periods of rain:

Civil construction is the activity in which accidents involving the electrical grid occur the most in Brazil

True. According to the Brazilian Association of Electric Power Distributors (Abradee), civil construction is the activity in which most accidents involving the electrical grid occur in Brazil. In most cases, due to lack of basic care such as maintaining a safe distance from the network, redouble attention with iron bars, battens and other types of metallic materials.

Turning off the circuit breaker completely eliminates the risk during electrical repairs

False. Turning off the circuit breaker or power panel is an important step in ensuring safety, but it's not always enough. It is essential to verify that the power has actually been cut off in the area where the work will be carried out, using a voltage tester. In addition, the repair must be done only by qualified professionals, who use appropriate tools and follow technical standards.

On rainy days, avoid using electrical equipment, even if it is inside the house

True. Even indoors, the use of electrical equipment during storms must be cautious, especially in areas with poor infrastructure. Lightning can cause electrical surges that damage appliances and pose a risk of shock. Always unplug electronics from the outlet during heavy rain and avoid contact with wires or wet outlets.

Using electrical tape is sufficient to fix exposed wires

False. Insulating tape can be used provisionally, but it's not a substitute for a definitive solution. Exposed wires must be repaired or replaced properly to avoid risks of short circuit, shock, or fire. It is essential to seek a professional to carry out adequate and safe repairs.

The electrical installation at outdoor parties must follow the same safety standards as in residential facilities.

True. Every electrical installation, whether temporary or permanent, must follow safety regulations. At outdoor parties, such as Carnival and Festa Junina, it is essential to use cables and extensions suitable for outdoor environments, protected against humidity and with adequate insulation. Sockets and connections should be kept away from damp and covered areas, especially if rain is forecast. The same goes for ornaments at indoor parties, such as Christmas.

During floods, choose to use elevators

False. Don't use elevators during floods, as they may get stuck between floors or flood. The ideal is that they have the power turned off and that there is no access to the box, as it may contain electrified water.

Agricultural tractors and machines must be used carefully close to electrical networks

True. Always be careful when handling agricultural machinery in the field. Branches, water from sprinklers, and parts of large equipment can damage the electrical grid and cause rural accidents.

Whenever possible, prune trees that are close to the electrical grid on the street

False. You should never prune trees that are close to the electrical grid on your own. The recommendation is to contact the city hall and request the service, which should only be done by trained and qualified professionals.

All types of wires pose a risk of shock

True. Any wire or electrical equipment can cause shock, regardless of voltage, if there is direct contact or if the insulation is damaged. Inside the house, poorly maintained outlets, extensions, and appliances can be just as dangerous as the external electrical grid. Preventive maintenance and conscious use of equipment are essential.

Sockets with Benjamin, also known as “T”, are safe to connect multiple devices at the same time

False. Adapters and benjamins (“T”) increase the risk of overloading the electrical grid, which can cause overheating and fire. Always choose the outlet strip and check that the total connected load is within the circuit capacity.

Throwing water on a fire can result in electric shock or explosion

True. Although the initial instinct is to try to put out the fire with water, this action can aggravate the situation, especially if the individual is not properly equipped and trained. Throwing water into an electrical fire can result in an electric shock or explosion, while in an oil fire, water can cause the flames to spread even more quickly.

In case of wires dropped after thunderstorms, the energy is not transmitted through the ground.

False. Fallen wires can energize the surrounding ground, creating a dangerous electric field. It is essential to keep a distance from broken cables and to immediately call the electric utility to carry out repairs. Never attempt to touch or move wires.

The domestic environment may pose some risks in the use of electrical energy

True. Especially during school holidays, where children spend most of their time indoors, care must be redoubled. The domestic environment may pose some risks in the use of electrical energy.

Is it safe to install electrical equipment outside without specific protection

False. Installing electrical equipment in outdoor areas requires special attention, using waterproof protective boxes and materials suitable for exposure to the weather. Unprotected equipment can rust, lose efficiency, and pose risks of shock or short circuit.

 

Learn more:

• Safety on the street
• Safety at home
• Safety during school holidays
• Fire safety
• Safety in the event of floods
• Safety in renovations and buildings