Electrical Safety in Bathrooms
Electricity is probably one of the most useful things today. We have so many things at our command, with just a flick of a switch. However, it can be dangerous if not handled properly, especially in wet areas such as the bathroom. As the rainy season has approached, here are some tips on how to keep you bathroom shock-safe.
Generally, electricity and water are a disastrous combination. Water and electricity do not go together, so avoid wet hands at all costs while operating any electrical appliance or switch.
Do not work in a damp or moist area nor store all electrical appliances in a dump area. In case your appliance gives a shock, do not use it until the fault has been rectified.
If you touch an energized bare wire of faulty appliance while you are grounded, electricity will instantly pass through to the ground causing a harmful or fatal shock. Remember not to let the cord lie over wet or hot surfaces or concealed under carpets and mats. This can damage their insulation, which can lead to short circuits and shocks.
Tips to keep your bathroom a safe place
- Keep all electrical appliances out of the bathroom if your child is less than a year old.
- Never use space heater in bathroom.
- Avoid using portable electrical appliances (e.g. hairdryers, electric heaters, etc.) in bathrooms, except those designed to operate from shaver supply units (e.g. electric shavers and electric toothbrushes).
- Avoid touching any electrical appliances, socket outlets or switches if hands are wet.
- Avoid placing extension units in a wet or humid environment (e.g. inside the bathroom or kitchen).
- Avoid using adaptors and extension units together.
Special tips for the water heater
- Employ only registered electrical contractors/licensed plumbers for the installation and alteration of electric water heaters including associated pipe work and control valves.
- Ensure that unvested thermal storage type electric water heaters are installed with safety devices such as thermostat, thermal cutout, and temperature and pressure relief valves.
- Switch off electric water heaters after use.
- Arrange to have electric water heaters inspected and maintained regularly by qualified persons.
- Switch off an electric water heater immediately if steam is emitting abnormally from the shower or any vent outlets.
- Arrange for repairs by qualified persons.
Special tips for the washer/dryer
- Do not connect other appliances to the socket outlet supplying a washer/dryer.
- Avoid placing a washer/dryer next to a shower, a water basin or an open window to prevent the machine from being exposed to water.
- Allow sufficient space for heat dissipation.
- Do not place any vessel containing water on a washer/dryer.
- Do not exceed the maximum capacity and adhere to the temperature setting and drying time as instructed in the user manual.
- Do not tumble dry clothes containing downs, latex, rubber or wax, etc. to minimise the risk of fire. Do not obstruct the outlet vent of a dryer, and clean its air filter regularly.
- Stop using a washer/dryer if abnormal operating conditions occur, such as being too noisy, having strong vibration or signs of overheating.
- Arrange for repairs by qualified persons.
- Arrange for regular inspection and maintenance of washers/dryers by qualified persons.
Making the Bathroom a Safe Place for Your Child
- Bath time is not playtime
- Water temperature: no more than 120 degrees.
- Do not leave the child alone.
- Run cold water first for tub, then warm.
- Check with thermometer/wrist, prior to letting the kid into the tub.
- Face child away from faucet.
- Have clearly marked Hot/Cold faucets.
- Keep chemicals (cleaners, hair dyes, etc.) in original containers and out of reach.
- Install slide-bolt latches on upper, outside bathroom door, to keep toddlers out and safe.
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