The flow of electricity is the movement of free electrons through a conductor.
Metals and most liquids are good conductors of electricity.
The amount of current flowing through a circuit is measured in amps.
The amount of power used by an appliance is measured in watts.
The pressure which causes the flow of current is known as the electromotive force (emf)
and is measured in volts.
Electrical power is calculated as: volts x amps = watts
Electricity will only flow when it can complete a circuit.
If your body is used to complete the circuit, the electric current will flow through you
and give you an electric shock !
Electric cables contain at least two wires: live (brown) and neutral (blue).
Dangers of Electricity
Electricity and water are a dangerous combination.
Don't overload sockets.
If equipment is faulty or damaged, do not use it. Report it immediately and ensure that
it gets repaired.
Don't attempt any repairs yourself.
Keep leads tidy, where they will not pose a tripping hazard to others.
Safe Use of Equipment
Electricity can be made safer by:
using appropriate rated fuses;
earthing of plugs, circuits and machinery, as well as metal used to shield or cover equipment;
using lower voltages in situations where there is a greater danger of electric shock.
Take extreme care and all necessary precautions when using electricity in wet conditions.
High voltage overhead power cables are a source of danger often overlooked. Remember,
contact is not always necessary, as electricity can arc across to a conductor.
Always consult your local electricity board before starting excavation work.
Electric Shock and First Aid
The nature and severity of injuries from electric shock depend on:
the magnitude of the current;
the duration of the shock;
the path of the current through the body;
the frequency of the electricity supply.
The domestic supply of 240 volts/50 hertz should ALWAYS be considered fatal.
If someone suffers an electric shock, first isolate them from the supply, either by
switching off at the wall socket, or by removing the source of the current with a dry,
non-conducting material.
Summon medical assistance. Be prepared to give emergency first aid in the form of
artificial respiration or cardiac resuscitation.