ELECTRICAL SAFETY MONTH: Plug Into Safety
Electrical Safety is of utmost importance in our daily lives, and it is crucial to be aware of the potential electrical hazards to prevent accidents and injuries. Electrical appliances, equipment, and power lines can pose a significant risk if not handled properly.
National Electrical Safety Month is an opportunity to educate people about electrical safety and promote safe electrical practices. One essential electrical safety tip is the use of a safe electrical outlet with the following features:
1. GROUNDING
The outlet should have a grounding wire to protect against electrical shock, this is commonly known as the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter or GFCI outlet. This outlet's built-in sensor monitors the current flowing through the circuit. If it detects a ground fault, it will quickly shut off power to the circuit, preventing electrical shock or electrocution. This can occur within a fraction of a second, reducing the risk of injury. |
2. TAMPER-RESISTANT
A tamper-resistant outlet (also known as a child-proof outlet) is an electrical outlet designed to prevent children from inserting small objects, such as paper clips or keys, into the slots and getting an electrical shock. |
3. CAPACITY
The use of a 15 AMP or 20 AMP circuit depends on the electrical load required by the appliances or equipment connected to the circuit. The maximum power that can be drawn from a 15 AMP circuit is 1800 Watts, therefore these circuits are used for lower-power devices such as lamps, small appliances, and electronic devices, while 20 AMP circuits that can handle up to 2400 Watts are used for higher power devices such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and power tools. |
4. COVER
Covering electrical wiring is an important safety and compliance measure that can help prevent accidents and damage, and ensure that electrical systems are operating safely and efficiently. |
5. COMPATIBILITY
Electrical outlets are designed to be compatible with the electrical systems and devices used in their respective countries or regions. For example, electrical outlets in North America are designed for a voltage of 120 Volts AC and a frequency of 60 Hz, while outlets in Europe are designed for a Voltage of 220-240 Volts AC and a frequency of 50 Hz. Using incompatible devices or appliances can lead to electrical shock, fires, and other safety hazards. To ensure compatibility, it is important to check the electrical specifications of both the device/appliance and the outlet/plug, and to use adapters or transformers as necessary. |
6. QUALITY
The outlet should be of high quality and meet industry standards to ensure durability and safety. There are several industry safety certifications for electrical outlets, including:
These certifications indicate that the outlet has been tested and meets the safety standards established by the certification organization. |
QPlus offers a diverse range of wiring devices, including dimmers, gang plates or covers, and electrical outlets, to enhance your living space. Our products are certified to undergo thorough testing to guarantee their high quality, ensuring a smarter and safer living environment for you.