electrical safety

• Why can mains electricity be dangerous?


  Because safety procedures may not be followed
• What voltage can pose a serious risk of electrocution?


  Voltages as low as 50 V can pose a serious risk
• What are common electrical hazards?

  • Damaged insulation
  • Overheating cables
  • Damp conditions
  • Excess current from overloading plugs and sockets
• What happens if the insulation around an electrical cable is damaged?


  The metal part of the wire may become exposed, posing a risk of electric shock
• What can occur if a person touches an exposed wire?


  They could be subjected to a lethal electric shock
• What can happen if current flows between an exposed wire and a piece of metal?


  It can create a dangerous situation, potentially leading to electrocution
• What can cause overheating of cables?


  An excess of current flowing in a wire can lead to overheating
• What can happen if cables overheat?


  It can cause the insulation to melt or even start a fire
• Why are damp conditions dangerous with electricity?


  Because water is an electrical conductor
• What can happen if moisture contacts a live wire?


  It can create a short circuit or a conductive path for current to flow through a person
• What can excessive current from overloading cause?


  It can lead to overheating and potentially cause a fire
• What are the components of a mains circuit?

  • Live wire
  • Neutral wire
  • Earth wire
• What is the color code for the live wire?


  Brown
• What is the color code for the neutral wire?


  Blue
• What is the color code for the earth wire?


  Green and yellow stripes
• What is the purpose of the live wire?


  To carry the alternating current from the mains supply to a circuit
• Why is the live wire considered the most dangerous?


  Because it can cause electrocution if it touches the appliance without the earth wire
• What is the purpose of the neutral wire?


  To complete the circuit by forming the opposite end to the live wire
• Why is the neutral wire less dangerous than the live wire?


  Because it operates at a lower voltage
• What is the purpose of the earth wire?


  To act as a safety wire to prevent the appliance from becoming live