Electrical Fittings in Wet Areas

19. (1997):

An electrical shock incident occurred recently within a laboratory containing light banks placed near a wet area. The experimental set-up was poorly designed with inadequate separation between the tanks, containing litre amounts of aqueous solution, and mains light fittings. The light fittings were originally designed to be used in a suspended horizontal position and were not protected against liquid spills or other incidents. The shock occurred as a result of cleaning up a spill after topping up one of the tanks. There were no residual current devices fitted in the laboratory.

The result of this dangerous occurrence, has highlighted the need to remind Areas about compliance with the ANU's Code of Practice for Electrical Safety, 1996. Appendix A, Section 4, relates to this particular incident.

'Do not use general purpose electrical appliances when wet or in wet areas without suitable residual current device protection. Always push-button test the residual current device before each use'.

Please ensure that all wet areas have adequate water-proof electrical fittings and residual current device protection is installed.

For further information contact:
OHS Officer, e-mail: OHS.Officer@anu.edu.au