News & Events
December 17, 2021
Is Being an Electrician Dangerous?
5 Dangers Faced When You Become an Electrician
Are you someone who is looking to become an electrician? Like any other line of work, electrician work has its dangers, but no more so than other professions, including firefighters, construction workers, and loggers.
Throughout your career as an electrician, you should expect to work in tight spaces with multiple hand tools and face exposure to electric voltage, lead, and other substances. Here is a brief overview of potential on-job hazards.
As with any job, these risks can be minimized if you are safety-conscious and follow proper safety guidelines at your job sites.
Electricians face many challenges. Working alone, climbing tall heights, dealing with mold and asbestos, and chasing deadlines is part of an electrician’s routine. Here are five ways electrical work can be dangerous and how to stay safe.
1. Falls and Trips
Falls, slips, and trips are the most prevalent dangers for electrical workers. Some jobs require working on a rooftop, ceiling, or attic, reaching overhead power lines, and maneuvering tight spaces. The electrician also uses hand tools in such challenging environments.
Working in high and tight places increases the risk of slipping and falling. Professional electricians assess every job site, finish all necessary preparation and use the right gear.
2. Electric Shock
Electric shocks can cause skin, tissue, and nerve burns, trouble breathing, cardiac arrest, muscle contractions, unconsciousness, and seizures. A shock occurs when electricity runs through your body, and severe cases of electric shock (electrocution) can result in death.
Professional electricians are trained throughout their apprenticeship and beyond in the best practices and precautions to prevent electric shocks, burns, and electrocution.
3. Toxic Substance Exposure
Exposure to toxic chemicals, lead, solvents, mold, asbestos, bird and rodent droppings, and frying particles are significant concerns for electricians. Some units go many years without a service, allowing for the buildup of harmful toxins and microbes.
Electricians also face UV radiation when welding, extreme temperatures, fire, and explosions. Experienced electricians use the proper face masks and gear to complete their tasks. They have the training required to navigate and avoid exposure when working in toxic environments.
4. Cuts and Abrasions
Electricians handle knives, pliers, clippers, screwdrivers, and other equipment with sharp or pointed edges. They also work in stressful outdoor conditions with poor lighting and little space to maneuver. Cuts and abrasions are almost inevitable in an electrician’s line of duty.
Qualified electricians know what’s required to avoid basic mistakes and injuries, but every field worker will suffer bruises from time to time. Some jobs, such as working with old systems, have a greater risk of an injury and must be approached with utmost care and preparation.
Proper preparation always goes a long way towards preventing injuries
5. Excess Strain and Stress
Electricians may find themselves working in the same position for extended periods. Poor posture can result in muscle and joint pain. Electrician work also may lead to fatigue and physical and mental strain.
An active lifestyle can build strength and endurance and relieve physical strain. Some tasks don’t require physical strength, but most technicians may need to stand/hold in awkward positions for several minutes.
Become a Qualified Electrician in Cincinnati
Electrician work is dangerous if you are untrained, but the professionals have enough training to prevent accidents and deal with different situations.
Aspiring electricians should seek training and guidelines from credible trade associations, such as the IEC – Independent Electrical Contractors. We provide professional training and electrical jobs in the Greater Cincinnati Area.