Electrical Safety: Recognizing And Controlling Hazards

1.

A typical 15 amp electrical outlet does not have enough current to cause electrocution, such as would be the case with a 20 amp outlet.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
B. False

Explanation
A typical 15 amp electrical outlet does have enough current to cause electrocution. Electrocution can occur when a person comes into contact with an electrical current that is strong enough to disrupt the normal functioning of the heart. The amount of current required to cause electrocution can vary depending on various factors such as the path the current takes through the body and the duration of the exposure. However, it is generally accepted that a current as low as 100 milliamps (0.1 amp) can be lethal if it passes through the heart. Therefore, a 15 amp outlet can potentially cause electrocution if the conditions are right.

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2.

Ground fault circuit interrupters are for residential settings and have no role in healthcare workplaces.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
B. False

Explanation
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are devices designed to protect against electrical shock by quickly shutting off power when a ground fault is detected. While GFCIs are commonly used in residential settings to protect outlets in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces, they also have an important role in healthcare workplaces. In healthcare settings, GFCIs are used to protect electrical equipment and outlets in patient rooms, operating rooms, and other areas where electrical safety is crucial. Therefore, the statement that GFCIs have no role in healthcare workplaces is false.

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3.

An extension cord that feels _________ may indicate too much current is flowing for the wire size of the cord.

Correct Answer
warm
hot

Explanation
If an extension cord feels warm or hot, it may indicate that too much current is flowing through the cord for its wire size. When excessive current flows through a wire, it causes resistance, which in turn generates heat. This heat can cause the cord to feel warm or hot to the touch. It is important to use the appropriate wire size for the amount of current being carried to prevent overheating and potential hazards.

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4.

GFCIs are particularly recommended in bathrooms, garages, outdoor areas, crawl spaces, unfinished basements, kitchens, and near wet bars.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
GFCIs, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, are electrical devices designed to protect against electrical shocks. They are especially important in areas where there is a higher risk of electrical accidents, such as bathrooms, garages, outdoor areas, crawl spaces, unfinished basements, kitchens, and near wet bars. These areas often have a higher likelihood of exposure to water or moisture, which can increase the risk of electrical shock. Therefore, it is recommended to have GFCIs installed in these locations to ensure the safety of individuals using electrical appliances or outlets in these areas.

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5.

The grounding prong on an extension cord’s plug should never be removed.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
The grounding prong on an extension cord should never be removed because it serves an important safety function. The grounding prong is designed to redirect any excess electrical current to the ground, preventing the risk of electric shock or fire. Removing the grounding prong can increase the chances of electrical accidents, especially in situations where there is a fault in the electrical system. Therefore, it is crucial to always keep the grounding prong intact to ensure the safe operation of the extension cord.

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6.

An extension cord may be used as a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
B. False

Explanation
An extension cord is designed for temporary use and is not meant to replace the fixed wiring of a structure. It is not built to handle the same electrical load as the fixed wiring and can pose safety hazards if used as a permanent substitute. It is important to use extension cords only for their intended purpose and ensure that the fixed wiring of a structure is properly installed and maintained.

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7.

Work on electrical service panels is reserved only for _______________________ persons.

Correct Answer
qualified
certified

Explanation
The correct answer for this question is "qualified, certified". This means that only individuals who are both qualified and certified are allowed to work on electrical service panels. Being qualified means having the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to safely and effectively perform the required tasks. Being certified means having obtained official recognition or a license from a relevant authority or professional organization, indicating that the individual has met certain standards and requirements in their field. Therefore, to ensure the safety and quality of the work, only qualified and certified persons should be allowed to work on electrical service panels.

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4

8.

The most common OSHA electrical violation is improper grounding.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
Improper grounding is the most common OSHA electrical violation because it poses a significant safety risk. Grounding helps to prevent electrical shocks and fires by providing a safe path for electrical currents to flow into the ground. When grounding is not done properly, it can lead to electrical equipment becoming energized and causing harm to workers. OSHA regulations require that electrical systems and equipment be grounded to ensure the safety of workers and prevent accidents. Therefore, it is crucial for employers and workers to adhere to proper grounding practices to avoid OSHA violations and maintain a safe working environment.

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9.

Replacing metal plumbing with ________ pipes in some situations can interrupt the path fault current would take and thus result in fire and/or electrocution.

Correct Answer
plastic

Explanation
Replacing metal plumbing with plastic pipes in some situations can interrupt the path of fault current. Fault current refers to the flow of electricity that occurs in the event of a short circuit or electrical fault. Metal plumbing pipes conduct electricity, so if a fault occurs, the current can travel through the pipes and potentially cause a fire or electrocution. Plastic pipes, on the other hand, do not conduct electricity, so they can help to prevent the spread of fault current and reduce the risk of fire and electrocution.

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4

10.

The metal parts of electrical equipment that we touch (switch plates, ceiling light fixtures, conduits, etc.,) should be _______________ and at 0 volts.

Correct Answer
grounded

Explanation
Electrical equipment that we touch, such as switch plates, ceiling light fixtures, and conduits, should be grounded to ensure safety. Grounding means connecting the metal parts of the equipment to the ground, which helps to prevent electric shocks. This is important because if there is a fault in the electrical system, such as a short circuit, the excess electrical current will flow through the grounding wire instead of through a person touching the equipment. Grounding also helps to stabilize the voltage and protect against electrical surges. Therefore, it is necessary for these metal parts to be grounded and at 0 volts.

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4