Elements of Electricity & Electrical
Safety
Duration: 15 Hours
1. Elementary (basic) electricity and magnetism and its principles.
2. Common terms used and their significance viz. Voltage, current, ampere, impedance,
resistance, etc.
3. Alternating/ Direct current, difference, calculation of electric energy consumption and cost.
4. Single phase and three phase supplies, transformers and generators, uses and applications of
electricity for heat, light and power. Examples – insulators/ conductors, their difference and
examples, earthing-its functions and importance, simple wiring and connections, their diagrams/
sketches/ theoretical representation.
5. Fuse switches, switch boards and basic transmission of electricity.
6. Electrical Measuring Instruments: Ammeter, Voltmeter, etc. their principle, use and
calibration.
7. Introduction to Motors: Working principles of electric motors, types, functions, uses/
applications, etc. Starters, connections etc.( e.g. star- delta, induction )
8. Introduction to Electric Circuits: Locating and rectifying faults in the system. Circuit diagram-
reading and connecting the system according to specifications.
9. Electrical Safety: Care and safety aspect needed while operating machine / tools working on
electricity, electrically operated machines, etc
Lecture 1: Basic Concepts of Electricity and Magnetism
1. What is Electricity?
Electricity is a form of energy resulting from the movement of electrons through a conductor
like copper wire. Electrons are negatively charged particles that revolve around the nucleus of
atoms.
The motion of these electrons creates electric current.
Electric current is the rate of flow of electric charge.
2. Key Concepts in Electricity
- Term - Definition - SI Unit -
- ----------- - -------------------------------------------------------- - ----------- -
- Charge (Q) - The basic property of matter that causes electric force. - Coulomb (C) -
- Current (I) - Flow of electric charge in a circuit. - Ampere (A) -
- Voltage (V) - Electrical pressure that pushes electrons in a circuit. - Volt (V) -
Example: When a battery is connected to a wire, it provides voltage, causing electrons to flow,
creating current.
3. What is Magnetism?
Magnetism is a physical phenomenon produced by the motion of electric charge , resulting in
attractive and repulsive forces between objects.
Magnets have two poles: North and South.
Opposite poles attract; like poles repel.
Magnetism is invisible but can be observed using iron filings around a bar magnet.
4. Magnetic Field
A magnetic field is the region around a magnet where magnetic forces are felt. It is
represented using magnetic field lines :
Lines emerge from the North pole and enter the South pole.
They never intersect .
Denser the lines, stronger the field.
5. Relationship between Electricity and Magnetism
This link is known as Electromagnetism .
When electric current flows through a wire, it produces a magnetic field around it.
Discovered by Hans Christian Oersted in 1820.
This is the principle behind electromagnets, motors, and generators .
Example experiment : Place a magnetic compass near a current-carrying wire — it deflects
due to the magnetic field created by the current.
6. Applications of Electromagnetism
Electric motors
Transformers
Relays
Magnetic locks
MRI machines
Summary:
Electricity involves moving charges (electrons).
Magnetism is caused by moving charges too.
Electricity and magnetism are interlinked : current produces a magnetic field.
Oersted discovered this connection, forming the base for many electrical machines.
Lecture 2: Common Electrical Terms – Voltage, Current, Resistance,
Impedance, Power
1. Electric Current (I)
Definition : The rate of flow of electric charge in a conductor.
Formula :
I = {Q}{t}
Where:
I = current in amperes (A)
Q = charge in coulombs (C)
t = time in seconds (s)
Analogy : Imagine current like water flowing through a pipe. The higher the flow, the more
current.
2. Voltage (V)
Definition : The electrical pressure or potential difference that pushes electrons through a
circuit.
SI Unit : Volt (V)
Formula :
V = IR
(From Ohm’s Law — covered below)
Analogy : Voltage is like water pressure that pushes water through a pipe.
3. Resistance (R)
Definition : The opposition to the flow of current in a conductor.
SI Unit : Ohm (Ω)
Factors affecting resistance :
Material (copper has low resistance)
Length of conductor (longer = more resistance)
Cross-sectional area (thicker wire = less resistance)
Temperature (higher temperature = more resistance in metals)
Analogy : Resistance is like a narrow section of a pipe that slows water flow.
4. Ohm’s Law
Statement : The current through a conductor is directly proportional to the voltage across it
and inversely proportional to resistance.
V = IR
Where:
V = voltage (volts)
I = current (amperes)
R = resistance (ohms)
5. Power (P)
Definition : The rate at which electrical energy is consumed or generated.
SI Unit : Watt (W)
Formulas :
P = VI
P = I^2R
6. Electrical Energy (E)
Definition : The total electrical work done or energy used.
SI Unit : Joule (J)
In practical terms, we use:
kilowatt-hour (kWh)
{Energy} = Power * Time}
1 kWh = 1000 W × 3600 s = 3.6 × 10⁶ J
Used in electricity bills to calculate consumption.
7. Impedance (Z) – Introductory
Definition : The total opposition offered to AC (alternating current), including resistance (R)
and reactance (X) (from capacitors and inductors).
It is a complex quantity:
Z = R + jX
SI Unit : Ohm (Ω)
Impedance is only relevant for AC circuits and is the AC version of resistance .
8. Relationship Summary
- Quantity - Symbol - Unit - Related Formula -
- ---------- - ------ - ------ - ----------------- -
- Voltage -V - Volt - V = IR -
- Current -I - Ampere - I = {Q}/{t} -
- Resistance - R - Ohm - R = {V}/{I} -
- Power -P - Watt - P = VI -
- Energy -E - kWh/J - E = P *t -
- Impedance - Z - Ohm - Z = R + jX (AC) -
Real-Life Example :
If a 1000W geyser runs for 3 hours:
{Energy} = 1000W × 3hr = 3kWh
If electricity costs ₹8/kWh →
{Bill} = 3 × ₹8 = ₹24
Summary:
Current is the flow of electrons.
Voltage pushes current through a circuit.
Resistance slows current down.
Ohm’s Law connects all three.
Power is how fast energy is used.
Energy is the total usage over time.
Impedance is resistance + reactance in AC circuits.
MCQs – Based on Lecture 2
Lecture 3: AC & DC Current, Energy Consumption and Cost Calculation
1. What is Direct Current (DC)?
DC (Direct Current) is a type of electric current where electrons flow in one direction only ,
with constant polarity.
Examples of DC Sources:
Batteries
Solar panels
DC power supplies
Mobile chargers (internally convert AC to DC)
Characteristics:
Constant voltage and current
Used in low-voltage and electronic devices
Represented graphically as a straight line
2. What is Alternating Current (AC)?
AC (Alternating Current) is a type of current that reverses direction periodically , usually in a
sine wave pattern .
Examples of AC Sources:
Electricity from wall sockets
Power stations
Generators
Characteristics:
Changes direction and magnitude with time
Frequency in India = 50 Hz
Voltage = 230V (single phase) / 415V (three-phase)
3. Key Differences between AC and DC
- Feature - AC - DC -
- ----------------- - ----------------------- - ---------------------- -
- Direction - Reverses periodically - Flows in one direction -
- Source - Generators, grid - Batteries, solar cells -
- Frequency - 50 Hz (India) - 0 Hz (constant) -
- Graph - Sine wave - Straight line -
- Transmission loss - Less - More -
- Applications - Homes, motors, industry - Electronics, vehicles -
4. Why AC is used in homes and industry?
Can be transmitted over long distances with minimal loss using transformers.
Easy to step up/down voltage for safe distribution.
Can power large equipment and motors efficiently.
5. Electric Energy Consumption Calculation
Electrical energy used is the product of:
{Energy (kWh)} = {Power (kW)} × {Time (hours)}
Example 1:
If a 1000W heater runs for 5 hours:
{Energy} = {1kW} × 5
6. Electricity Bill Calculation
Once energy in kWh is known:
{Cost} = {Energy (kWh)} × {Rate per unit (₹)}
Example 2:
Geyser: 1.5 kW
Runs: 2 hrs/day × 30 days = 60 hrs
Units consumed: 1.5 × 60 = 90, {kWh}
Cost @ ₹8/kWh = ₹720
7. Common Household Power Ratings
- Appliance - Power Rating -
- ---------- - ------------ -
- Bulb (LED) - 10 W -
- Fan - 60–80 W -
- Fridge - 150–300 W -
- Geyser - 1000–2000 W -
- AC - 1500–2500 W -
- Iron - 750–1200 W -
Summary:
DC = unidirectional, used in batteries & electronics.
AC = alternating, used in grid power and machines.
Energy = Power × Time (in kWh)
Cost = Energy × Unit price
AC is preferred for power distribution due to its flexibility and lower losses.
Lecture 4: Single & Three-Phase Supply, Transformers, Generators,
Applications
1. Single-Phase Supply
Definition :
A single-phase supply uses one alternating voltage .
Common in homes and small buildings .
Characteristics:
Voltage: 230V
Frequency: 50 Hz
Uses two wires :
Phase (Live)
Neutral
Applications:
Lights, fans, TV, refrigerator, geyser, etc.
Analogy:
Think of a single horse pulling a cart — enough for light loads.
2. Three-Phase Supply
Definition :
A three-phase supply uses three alternating voltages , each 120° apart in phase .
Characteristics:
Voltage: 415V (line-to-line) or 230V (line-to-neutral)
Wires:
3 Phase lines (R, Y, B)
1 Neutral
Optional Earth
Applications:
Industrial motors, air compressors, lifts, large HVAC systems
Analogy:
Three horses pulling a cart — more balanced power , more efficient for heavy loads.
3. Single vs Three-Phase Comparison
- Feature - Single-Phase - Three-Phase -
- ------------ - ------------ - ---------------------- -
- Voltage - 230V - 415V (L-L), 230V (L-N) -
- Phases -1 -3 -
- Power Output - Low - High -
- Uses - Homes - Industries, motors -
- Efficiency - Lower - Higher -
- Wiring - 2 wires - 3 or 4 wires -
4. What is a Transformer?
Definition :
A transformer is a static device that changes the voltage level of an AC supply without
changing frequency .
Types:
Step-Up Transformer : Increases voltage
Step-Down Transformer : Decreases voltage
Working Principle:
Electromagnetic induction : a varying magnetic field in the primary coil induces voltage in the
secondary coil.
\frac{V_1}{V_2} = \frac{N_1}{N_2}
Where:
V₁ , V₂ = voltages
N₁ , N₂ = number of turns
5. What is a Generator?
Definition :
A generator is a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy using
Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction .
Types:
AC Generator (Alternator)
DC Generator
Applications
Power stations
Backup power (diesel gensets)
Wind turbines
6. Applications of Electricity
For Heat :
Heaters, geysers, ovens
Electric arc furnaces (industrial heating)
For Light :
Bulbs (incandescent, LED, CFL)
Tube lights, street lighting, flood lights
For Power :
Motors (fans, pumps, compressors)
Industrial machinery
Elevators, cranes
7. Real-Life Insight: Why this Matters for Mechanical Students
Machines & tools are mostly 3-phase powered
Transformers and generators are common in every plant
You will interface with electrical drives , lighting , and safety systems
Summary:
Single-phase : for home/small loads
Three-phase : for industrial/high-power use
Transformer : changes voltage levels in AC
Generator : converts motion to electricity
Electricity is used for heat, light, and power in almost every mechanical system
Lecture 5: Conductors vs Insulators, Earthing, Simple Wiring and
Connections
1. Conductors vs Insulators
Conductors
Definition : Materials that allow easy flow of electric current due to free-moving electrons.
Examples :
Metals : Copper, Aluminum, Silver
Other : Saltwater, Graphite
Used in :
Wiring, switchgear, transformer windings, electrical contacts
Insulators
Definition : Materials that do not allow current to flow easily, due to tightly bound electrons.
Examples :
Non-metals : Plastic, Rubber, Glass, Mica, Wood (dry)
Used in :
Wire insulation, switch casings, protective gloves, cable jackets
Comparison Table
- Property - Conductor - Insulator -
- ------------- - ---------------- - --------------- -
- Electron flow - Easy - Difficult -
- Resistivity - Low - High -
- Examples - Copper, Aluminum - Plastic, Rubber -
- Application - Carry current - Prevent leakage -
2. Earthing (Grounding)
Purpose :
To safely direct leakage current or fault current into the ground and protect human life and
equipment .
Why Earthing is Important :
Prevents electric shock
Protects equipment from over-voltage
Maintains voltage stability
Ensures safe operation of devices
Common Earthing Methods :
Plate Earthing : Copper or GI plate buried in the earth with salt and charcoal
Pipe Earthing : Galvanized pipe inserted into moist soil
Rod Earthing : Copper rod driven into earth
Example: If the body of a washing machine becomes live, proper earthing directs the current
away, avoiding shock when touched.
3. Simple Wiring and Connections
Wiring systems are needed to distribute power safely within homes, buildings, or machines.
Types of Wiring Systems :
Casing & Capping Wiring : Wooden casing used to hold wires
Conduit Wiring : Wires enclosed in plastic or metallic pipes — most common today
Basic Wiring Components :
- Component - Function -
- ---------------- - ----------------------------------- -
- Phase (Live) - Carries current from supply -
- Neutral - Completes the circuit -
- Earth - Provides safety via fault discharge -
- Switch - Opens/closes circuit -
- Load (e.g. bulb) - Consumes electrical power -
Earth wire is connected to metal casing for safety
Always connect load between phase and neutral
Best Practices in Wiring :
Never touch live wires
Always test with a tester before working
Use correct size wire (e.g. 1.5 mm² for lights, 2.5 mm² for sockets)
Use MCBs and ELCBs for protection
Summary:
Conductors = allow current (copper, aluminum); Insulators = block current (rubber, plastic)
Earthing = critical safety feature that diverts fault current into the earth
Wiring systems deliver power safely through phase, neutral, and earth
Safe wiring and grounding practices are vital in all machines and buildings
Lecture 6: Fuses, Switches, Switchboards & Basic Transmission of
Electricity
1. Fuse
What is a Fuse?
A fuse is a safety device designed to protect electrical circuits from overcurrent .
Working Principle :
It contains a thin wire that melts when current exceeds a safe limit.
This breaks the circuit , preventing fire or equipment damage.
Types of Fuses :
- Type - Use Case -
- ----------------------------- - --------------------------- -
- Rewireable - Old homes, basic protection -
- Cartridge - Modern appliances -
- HRC (High Rupturing Capacity) - Industrial use -
Advantages :
Simple
Cheap
Reliable for small circuits
2. Switch
What is a Switch?
A switch is a device that opens or closes an electrical circuit manually or automatically.
Types of Switches :
- Type - Use Case -
- ------------------------------- - --------------------- -
- SPST (Single Pole Single Throw) - Simple on/off (bulbs) -
- DPST (Double Pole Single Throw) - Two-pole control -
- SPDT, DPDT - Change-over circuits -
- Push Button - Machines, bells -
Best Practice :
Always install switches in the phase (live) wire.
Never switch neutral alone — can be dangerous.
3. Switchboards
Definition :
A switchboard is a panel that distributes electrical power to various circuits using protective
devices (fuses, MCBs) and switches.
Components :
MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker)
ELCB (Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker)
RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker)
Bus bars (metal strips to carry current)
Indicators and meters
Functions:
Distributes power safely
Offers centralized control
Includes protective features
4. Basic Transmission of Electricity
What is Transmission?
Transmission is the process of carrying electrical power from power plants to end users.
Stages in Power Supply :
1. Generation – Large power stations generate at 11–25 kV
2. Step-up Transformer – Voltage increased to 132 kV / 220 kV / 400 kV
3. Transmission Lines – Long-distance, high-voltage
4. Substations – Step-down voltage (to 33 kV, 11 kV)
5. Distribution – Reaches homes, factories at 230V/415V
Why High Voltage for Transmission?
P = VI {For same power, higher V means lower I}
Less current → Less loss in wires → More efficiency
Power Transmission Overview
[Power Plant]
↓ Step-up
[400 kV Transmission Line]
↓ Step-down
[Substation (33kV)]
↓ Distribution Transformer
[230V to Homes] [415V to Industries]
Summary:
Fuse protects against overcurrent by melting
switches control flow of electricity
Switchboards distribute and protect multiple circuits
Electricity travels from generation → transmission → distribution → user
Lecture 7: Electrical Measuring Instruments – Ammeter, Voltmeter, Uses,
Calibration
1. What Are Electrical Measuring Instruments?
Definition:
Devices used to measure electrical quantities such as current , voltage , resistance ,
power , etc.
These are critical in:
Designing and testing circuits
Detecting faults
Monitoring performance
Ensuring safety
2. Ammeter
Function:
Measures current in a circuit (in amperes).
Principle:
Uses deflection caused by magnetic field from current to move a pointer.
Usually based on moving coil mechanism .
Key Facts:
Connected in series with the load
Has very low resistance
Range can be changed using shunt resistors
Example:
To measure current through a fan, connect ammeter in series with fan.
---
3. Voltmeter
Measures voltage (potential difference) between two points.
Principle:
Also uses a moving coil with a calibrated scale to measure voltage.
Key Facts:
Connected in parallel across the component
Has high resistance
Range can be extended using multipliers
Example:
To measure voltage across a bulb, connect voltmeter across the two ends of the bulb.
4. Differences Between Ammeter and Voltmeter
- Feature - Ammeter - Voltmeter -
- ---------- - -------------- - -------------- -
- Measures - Current - Voltage -
- Connection - Series - Parallel -
- Resistance - Very low - Very high -
- Deflection - Due to current - Due to voltage -
5. Other Common Instruments
a. Ohmmeter – Measures resistance
Usually part of a multimeter
Unit: Ohm (Ω)
b. Wattmeter – Measures electric power
Used in both AC and DC circuits
Unit: Watt (W)
c. Multimeter – Measures voltage, current, resistance
Portable, digital or analog
Can be used for continuity checks
d. Energy Meter – Measures energy consumed over time
Units: kWh
Found in homes for billing
6. Calibration
What is Calibration?
Calibration is the process of comparing the reading of an instrument with a standard known
value and adjusting it if required.
Why Calibrate?
Ensure accuracy
Prevent errors in readings
Maintain standard measurements in industry
Methods:
Use standard reference instruments
Adjust zero and scale factor
Usually done in certified labs or regularly in industries
Practical Insight for Mechanical Students:
Use ammeters when checking motor current
Use voltmeters to verify voltage before starting a machine
Use multimeters for machine wiring maintenance
Ensure all instruments are calibrated before taking critical readings
Summary:
Ammeter = Measures current, low resistance, series
Voltmeter = Measures voltage, high resistance, parallel
Other tools: Ohmmeter, Wattmeter, Energy meter, Multimeter
Calibration ensures accurate and safe usage
Measuring instruments are essential for maintenance, testing, and safety
Lecture 8: Introduction to Motors – Principles, Types, Applications &
Connections
1. What is an Electric Motor?
An electric motor is a machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy .
Principle:
Based on Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction :
When a current-carrying conductor is placed in a magnetic field, it experiences a force (Lorentz
force), which causes motion.
Formula:
F = B I L sin*
Where:
F = force on conductor
B = magnetic field strength
I = current
L = length of conductor
� 2. Types of Motors
A. AC Motors (run on Alternating Current)
- Type - Description - Applications -
- --------------------- - -------------------------------------------- - --------------------- -
- Induction Motor - Most widely used; simple & robust - Fans, pumps, machines -
- Synchronous Motor - Rotates at constant speed (sync with supply) - High-precision tools -
Subtypes of Induction Motors :
Single-phase – For domestic use (fans, mixer)
Three-phase – For industrial machinery
B. DC Motors (run on Direct Current)
- Type - Features - Applications -
- ------------------ - -------------------- - ------------------------ -
- Shunt Motor - Constant speed - Lathes, conveyors -
- Series Motor - High starting torque - Cranes, hoists -
- Compound Motor - Mix of both - Rolling mills, elevators -
3. Motor Components
- Part - Function -
- ------------ - ------------------------------- -
- Stator - Stationary magnetic part -
- Rotor - Rotating part (induced current) -
- Bearings - Help rotation with low friction -
- Windings - Copper coils that create fields -
- Shaft - Transmits mechanical output -
4. Applications of Electric Motors
Household : Fans, pumps, mixers, washing machines
Industrial : Conveyor belts, lathes, compressors
Automotive : EVs, window motors, starter motors
Agriculture : Water pumps, threshers
5. Motor Starters
Why use a starter?
Motors draw high starting current . Starters limit this current to protect equipment.
A. Direct On Line (DOL) Starter
Connects motor directly to supply
Simple, for small motors (<5 HP)
No current limitation
B. Star-Delta Starter
Used for: 3-phase Induction Motors (large size)
Starts motor in star (low voltage per winding)
Then switches to delta (full voltage)
Reduces starting current by 1/3
Working:
- Start Mode - Voltage per Winding - Current -
- ---------- - ------------------- - ------- -
- Star - 230 V - Low -
- Delta - 400 V - Full -
Summary:
Motors convert electric to mechanical energy
Induction motors are most common (simple and rugged)
DC motors used in special industrial tasks
Starters like DOL and star-delta protect motors from high starting current
Star and Delta are two key wiring configurations in 3-phase motors
Lecture 9: Electric Circuits – Fault Finding, Circuit Diagrams, and Practical
Connections
1. What is an Electric Circuit?
An electric circuit is a closed path through which current flows from a power source,
through a load, and back to the source.
Basic Components :
- Component - Symbol - Function -
- ----------------- - ------- - ------------------------ -
- Voltage Source - - Provides energy -
- Conductor (Wire) - - Carries current -
- Load (e.g., bulb) - - Consumes power -
- Switch - - Opens/closes the circuit -
- Ground/Earth - - Safety path for faults -
2. Types of Circuits
- Type - Description - Example -
- ------------ - -------------------------------------- - --------------------- -
- Series - Components connected end-to-end - Decorative lights -
- Parallel - Components share common voltage points - House wiring, sockets -
- Mixed - Combination of series and parallel - Industrial setups -
Steps:
1. Identify the power source
2. Trace the path of current through the load(s)
3. Locate switches , connectors , and ground
4. Understand symbols used
4. Locating and Rectifying Faults
What is a Fault?
A fault is any condition in which the circuit does not operate as intended.
Examples: short circuits, open circuits, loose connections, blown fuse, etc.
Fault-Finding Process :
- Step - Action -
- ---- - ------------------------------------------------------- -
-1 - Check power supply (voltage source ON?) -
-2 - Inspect visible components (burnt smell, loose wires?) -
-3 - Use a multimeter to test voltage/current/resistance -
-4 - Isolate the faulty section -
-5 - Repair or replace the damaged part -
-6 - Re-test the circuit after fixing -
Common Circuit Faults:
- Fault Type - Symptom - Likely Cause -
- ------------- - ---------------------- - ------------------------------ -
- Open Circuit - No current - Loose wire, broken switch -
- Short Circuit - Fuse blows, sparks - Two live wires touch -
- Overload - Fuse blows, MCB trips - Too many devices on one line -
- Earth Fault - Shock risk, trips ELCB - Live wire touches metal casing -
5. Tools for Fault Detection
- Tool - Use -
- --------------------- - -------------------------------------- -
- Tester - Detects live wire -
- Multimeter - Measures V, A, Ω – universal meter -
- Clamp Meter - Measures current without cutting wires -
- Continuity Tester - Checks if path is complete -
6. Example: Fault in a Home Lighting Circuit
> Problem: Bulb not lighting up.
> Steps:
Check MCB – not tripped
Use tester – live wire present?
Check switch – any click or burn marks?
Use multimeter – is voltage reaching bulb?
Replace bulb if all else is fine
7. Practical Tips for Mechanical Students
When working on machines, always trace power path
Understand control circuits before troubleshooting
Always switch off power and discharge capacitors before fault repair
Be cautious of hidden earth leakage and phase mismatches
Summary:
Electric circuits consist of source, load, wiring, switch
Circuits can be series , parallel , or mixed
Circuit diagrams help plan and understand wiring
Faults can be located using logical steps and testing tools
Always follow safety practices during fault-finding
Lecture 10: Electrical Safety – Care While Operating Machines, Tools &
Equipment
1. Why Electrical Safety Is Critical
Electricity is invisible yet extremely dangerous. It can cause:
Shocks
Burns
Fires
Fatal accidents
Over 50% of industrial accidents involve electricity — mostly preventable with proper care.
2. Types of Electrical Hazards
- Hazard Type - Description - Examples -
- ------------- - ------------------------------------- - ----------------------- -
- Shock - Electric current passing through body - Touching live wire -
- Arc Flash - Sudden release of energy from faults - Sparks from switchgear -
- Fire - Overheated cables or short circuits - Overloaded MCB panel -
- Explosion - Ignition of gases by electric spark - Welding near fuel tanks -
3. Sources of Danger
Damaged insulation
Wet surfaces
Loose connections
Improper earthing
Overloaded sockets
Lack of PPE
4. Safe Operating Practices for Electrically Operated Machines
A. Before Use
Inspect cables for cuts, burns, loose plugs
Ensure machine is earthed
Use correct voltage-rated tools
Avoid using machines with wet hands or on wet floors
B. During Operation
Keep distance from rotating or moving parts
Never bypass protective covers
Use only insulated tools
Don’t overload sockets or motors
C. After Use
Switch OFF power
Disconnect plug if portable
Clean machine as per safety norms
Log/report any abnormal noise, sparks, smell
5. Protection Devices
- Device - Function -
- ------------------------- - ---------------------------------- -
- Fuse - Breaks circuit in overcurrent -
- MCB - Trips in overload or short circuit -
- ELCB/RCCB - Cuts off power in earth leakage -
- Surge Protector (SPD) - Diverts lightning or spikes -
6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- PPE - Purpose -
- ---------------- - -------------------------------- -
- Insulated gloves - Prevent shock from live wires -
- Safety boots - Prevent grounding via body -
- Goggles - Protect eyes from arcs -
- Earplugs - Protect from noise in panels -
- Helmet - Protect head near live equipment -
7. Tools & Accessories for Safety
- Tool - Use -
- ------------------------- - ------------------------------- -
- Neon Tester - Check live wire -
- Insulation Tape - Insulate exposed joints -
- Lockout Tagout (LOTO) - Prevent unauthorized activation -
- Earth tester - Test earthing resistance -
8. Basic Workshop Safety Rules
1. Always turn OFF main supply before working
2. Never touch unknown wires or open panels
3. Use dry and insulated tools
4. Keep water away from panels
5. Always follow proper lockout-tagout procedures before maintenance
6. Use circuit breakers — not makeshift fuses
7. Know the location of emergency switch and fire extinguisher
9. First Aid for Electric Shock
1. Switch off power immediately
2. Do NOT touch the victim directly if still in contact with current
3. Use dry wooden stick or insulated material to push person away
4. Call emergency medical help
5. If no pulse or breathing – begin CPR
6. Keep victim warm and still
10. Important Safety Signs & Colors
- Color - Meaning -
- ------ - ----------------------- -
- Red - Danger / Emergency stop -
- Yellow - Caution / Risk present -
- Green - Safe / First aid -
- Blue - Mandatory safety action -
Summary:
Electrical hazards include shock, fire, arc flash, explosion
Always inspect machines before use
Use protective equipment & follow safe procedures
Understand and use protection devices like MCB, RCCB
Know basic first aid and emergency response for electric shock