The outlet in your conference table looks like the one on your wall. It isn’t. Recently, a group at the Lab used a 13-amp hot plate on a conference table outlet rated for 5 amps, causing the outlet to overheat and melt the internal connections. When they attempted to unplug the device, the entire outlet assembly was pulled out, shorting conductors and generating sparks and smoke. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the incident could easily have brought out the Lab’s fire department.
“Always plug high-current devices directly into wall outlets, and leave the furniture-mounted outlets or extension strips for low-amperage equipment, like laptops or phone chargers. Following simple electrical safety guidelines helps prevent accidental overloads, protects lab equipment, and ensures our shared workspaces remain safe for all.” — Ari Harding, Lab Electrical Safety Officer
Whether you’re using a hot plate or plugging in a space heater during the cooler months, take an extra moment to check that you’re using the correct power source to keep everyone safe in the workplace.
Review the Electrical Safety General Training for more information.
1 Comment
Great article