Electricity is critical to the development and survival of our society. Unfortunately the severity of the injuries it can cause when not used correctly is often taken for granted, especially on a job site. Electrical accidents are so serious that in 2011, OSHA reported 9% of deaths on construction site were because of electrocutions. Workers and employers need to understand what causes such accidents and take steps to avoid them in the future.

Top Causes of Electrical Accidents:

• Using unsafe or defective power tools
• Failure to de-energize
• Failure to have a lockout/tagout system in place
• Failure to repair or routinely inspect electrical systems
• Attaching too many appliances to an outlet, causing an overload
• Contacting overhead lines when working in an elevated position
• Using homemade extension cords
• Improper grounding
• Cords and equipment in contact with wet areas
• Putting a 3-prong plug into a 2-prong outlet by removing one prong
• Not verifying the power is off when fixing a line
• Failure to drain capacitors of stored energy
• Using tools too close to parts that are energized
• Static discharge in when working near flammable vapors, gasses and liquids
• Working in an explosive environment
• Lack of hazard signs
• Blocking electrical boxes
• Using an attached electrical cord to raise and lower equipment
• Using damaged cords and plugs

If you or a loved one has sustained an injury due to an unsafe electrical situation, contact an experienced NY personal injury attorney today.