Electricity and electrical appliances are a boon for mankind. Both industries and households benefit a lot from their application.It has drastically reduced physical labor and provides extra leisure for everyone. But at the same time, electrical systems are sophisticated and hazardous. Only a trained local electrician Moffat will be capable of installing and maintaining these systems.
Only a trained electrician will be capable of installing and maintaining these systems.
From basic household wiring to large-scale appliance installations, electricians are in great demand in Australia. Most of them earn on an average AU$40 /hour, making it a very lucrative career option. On the other hand, it is also a risky occupation that can even be lethal at times. Apart from the use of protective gear, every electrician should be well aware of public liability insurance coverage. This can help them in any damage to property or life during the work. Let us understand some common risks for electricians.
Risks for Electricians
Every work has its own risks and hazards. In the case of an electrician, there is always a high risk in their work environment. Inadequate safety precautions may even lead to death. It can also create physical damage to buildings and equipment as a result of fire or overload. The major risks for electricians are as follows.
Occupational Risks
The major occupational hazards for electricians are as follows,
- Electric Shock: electric shock is the most common hazard for any electrician. The high voltage passing through the electric lines and wiring are the main reason for this. At times improper grounding (earthing) of equipment can cause shocks. In minor cases, it can cause burns and damage to body parts. In the case of high voltage settings and lack of immediate rescue, it can lead to loss of life.
- Equipment Handling Hazards: installation and regular maintenance of electrical systems require different types of equipment. Shocks and burns can also occur while using equipment and accessories. Especially the use of welding equipment can lead to burns and related issues. They are also prone to exposure to UV radiation during that time.
- Exposed Wires and Improper Insulation: electricians often deal with complex wiring systems. These wires are the carriers of electricity. Inadequate insulation and exposed wiring can is a huge risk for electricians.
- Overhead Installations: apart from household equipment, electricians also work on industrial systems. This may be located on high rising buildings or industrial towers. Many overhead types of equipment are also located at considerable heights from the ground. In this situation, there is a high risk of losing balance and falling from heights. This can cause serious injury or even loss of life.
- Fire Risk: short circuits and other faults often lead to fire risk. Electricians working in confined spaces such as factories or electrical equipment rooms are more prone to fire risks. The burns due to these fires can damage body parts and sometimes can cause death.
- Exposure to Hazardous Gases/Materials: the work environment of an electrician varies from place to place. They deal with confined spaces, heights, and industrial areas. This exposes them to materials such as asbestos, allergens, and poisonous gases. Exposure to these materials holds the risk of long-term ailments.
Damage to Client’s Property
Apart from personal risks, electricians sometimes face the liability of any damage to the client’s property during the work. While working with wiring and electrical circuits, there is always a risk of fire and damage. During maintenance or repair work, agencies often hold an electrician or the contractor responsible for the same. In this situation, the electrician will have to pay the compensation in an individual capacity. This may go up to a large amount and is a huge financial risk for the electrician.
Public Liability Insurance for Electricians
An electrician’s work is both rewarding and at the same time risky. Any unexpected occurrence during work can seriously affect the person’s ability to work in the future. Sometimes a fatal accident can lead to death also. In this situation, financial stability is a key factor for the family. Public liability insurance is a major instrument that can secure the finances and family of an electrician. It covers the expenses in case of any injury or property damage during the work. In many states of Australia, it is mandatory to have public liability insurance for obtaining or renewing electrical contractor licenses. A public liability insurance coverage can be started with a very low annual premium and is very helpful in case of any unforeseen incident.
Conclusion
Should I be taking public liability insurance? Wouldn’t that be costly? The answer is a yes. Being an electrician, your work environment poses a lot of risks. Damages to third-party property can also become a financial burden for you. In the case of such court settlements, you may end up spending a lot of money out of your pocket. Above all your health and family well-being is of prime importance. Public liability insurance is surely a protective shield against all workplace mishaps. Public Liability -Australia is a leading insurance firm that offers attractive public liability insurance schemes for electricians. So don’t wait, get yourself covered today itself.
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