ELECTRICAL SAFETY USAID Sector Reform and Utility Commercialization RED Pilot 7/5/2017 1
Readyboard Electrification Demonstration (RED) Pilot Providing safe access to electricity is a key goal of the Electrification Pilot This presentation will: Help to identify the hazards created through improper household connections and in-home wiring. Demonstrate the safe use of electricity in the community and the home. 2
Dangers of Electricity An understanding of the dangers and respect for electricity is necessary to avoid the hazards. The main hazards are Contact with live (charged) parts causing shock and burns. Faults which could cause fires. 3
Dangers of Electricity SHOCK Electric shock occurs when the human body becomes part of the path through which current flows. The result can be electrocution resulting in death. BURNS Burns can result when a person touches electrical wiring or equipment that is energized. 4
Shock Severity Severity of the shock depends on: Path of current through the body Amount of current flowing through the body (Milliamperes) Duration of the flow of current through the body. All Ready Boards are equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) that will deenergize the circuit and protect people from electrical shock if the current flow to ground exceeds 5 Milliamperes. 5
Burns Burns occur when contact is made with electrical wiring or equipment. Burns typically occur at point of contact, most often hands and feet. With prolonged contact burns can be deep. Persons with electrical burns should seek immediate medical attention. 6
Grounding All electrical components of a properly installed home electrical system are grounded. They are connected to a ground rod located in the soil adjacent to the electricity service mast. It is very important that this equipment not be tampered with or disconnected. The GFCI that protects people from electrocution will not function properly if the ground connection is broken. Never remove the ground prong from plugs. Your Readyboard is already grounded! When you plug your appliances and other electrical equipment into the ready board outlets the equipment is protected from overload and causing fires, and people are protected from shock. 7
Dangers of Electricity FIRES Electricity is one of the most common reasons for fires in the home. Causes Defective or misused electrical equipment. Circuits and appliances that are not protected from overload by breakers. Unprotected wiring and electrical equipment connected to throw-ups. Throw-up wire that is undersized or poorly insulated. 8
Dangers of Electricity What is dangerous here? Consequences Exposed live wiring within the reach of residents. Homemade lightbulb socket is a fire hazard and an electrocution hazard. Wiring is not protected by breakers from short circuit or overload. Wiring is not protected by a GFCI. 9
Electrical Shock Causes Damaged insulation, equipment, or tools can expose you to live electrical parts. Improperly grounded outlets and ceiling lights are especially hazardous in wet conditions. Wet clothing, high humidity, and perspiration increase your chances of being electrocuted if you contact live parts. Consequences If you touch a live wire or other electrical component you will get a shock if you are also touching something grounded or just standing on damp soil. 10
Electrical Shock Causes Throw ups and tampering with electrical equipment Consequences If you throw up illegal connections you risk electrocution, and electrocuting those in your home and community. Damaged appliances that have not been properly repaired Appliance malfunction due to lower quality illegal power. 11
Examples Notice the difference? No loose wiring, all safely contained in Readyboard Breakers protect circuits and appliances from overload. GFCI Outlets protect against electric shock. Light is fitted, cool to touch, and protected from damage. 12
Examples What is dangerous here? Live wiring within the reach of residents Live wires near material that could conduct electricity (zinc siding) Loose wiring, could come undone in a storm and electrify pools of water or person 13
Examples Notice the difference? All wiring is contained and protected Connection is far above and cannot mistakenly be touched Connection is maintained by JPS professionals, and inspected by Government Electrical Inspectorate 14
Dangers of Electricity Always read electrical safety information. An understanding of the dangers and respect for electricity is necessary to avoid the hazards. 15
Proper Wiring and Connectors Use and test GFCI s Just like the one on your Readyboard! Use three prong plugs to allow for grounding of the appliance Use extension cords only when necessary & assure in proper condition 16
Readyboard Safety Rules 1. Inspect portable cord-and-plug connected equipment, extension cords, and electrical fittings for damage or wear before each use. 2. Nails, screws and staples can damage extension cords causing fire and shock hazards. 3. Know where the panel and circuit breakers are located in case of an emergency. 4. Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical accident. Always disconnect the power source first. USE YOUR STICKER FOR HELP! 17
1 ft Service Calls LED Lightbulb What is a Readyboard? A small, versatile, self contained household wiring unit for the provision of basic electricity service. 888-CALL-JPS Safe power access Low-cost wiring Flexible design for all dwellings LED bulbs (1 included) last more than 25 times longer than normal bulbs and consume less energy Circuit Breaker Light Switch Customer Information Unit 4 ft Prepaid Meters 888-CALL-JPS Homeowners must make sure they are using appropriatelysized and safe extension cords. Power Outlets Purchase as much credit as you like and top up whenever you desire!
Thank you! 7/5/2017 20