Plumber Safety, Are You Responsible?

Dec. 6, 2010 - PRLog -- At first thought, a typical plumbing procedure may be thought of as the twisting of a pipe or removal of a clog. These seemingly simple tasks require skill on the plumber's part to maintain the safety of themselves and their clients. If you are a fledgling plumber, it is a good idea to start now and follow the "best practices" of plumbing safety. Electrical shock and flood damages are just some of the hazards involved in working with water. Some jobs combine several different hazards such as high pressure, electrical shock and scalding water. By following some of these tips you can prepare yourself for entry into this safety-conscious yet rewarding field.

Electrical Risks:

Electricity and water don't mix well together which is why an added premium should be placed on electrical safety when working around water. It is a fact that water draws very near to electrical sources around the home. Electronic devices on counter tops and floors are often just a few steps away from a water source such as a kitchen sink or toilet. For safety, most bathroom and kitchen outlets are GFCI grounded outlets, meaning that they will cut power if an overload is detected. However, not all outlets offer this protection which is why plumbers should never let their guard down. It is best to never assume that the electricity is off even when working in a vacant home. Some circuit breakers could still be online if someone forgot to shut some off.

Before performing service on an electrical device such as a water heater, pull the plug on the device or turn off the breaker at the fuse box (usually located outside on the side of the home). To further protect yourself, place a sticky note next to the outlet or breaker box informing people to not reactivate the electricity while you are working. Some devices are capable of storing a dangerous electric charge even when unplugged. It is important to test the circuit and discharge the device before working on it as added insurance. When working in wet locations with electrical devices present, avoid damp or wet floors and wear rubber soled shoes to prevent the transfer of a charge into your body. If you must elevate yourself, always use a non-conductive fiberglass ladder.

Flooding:

Water that comes out of spigots and faucets is under pressure. In the event of a pipe or seal break, this pressurized water will vent uncontrollably until the water is shut off. for this reason it is important to shut the water off before beginning a repair. This can be done by turning the main water valve to the off position. Plumbers are often faced with emergency repair requests where water is draining uncontrollably, flooding a client's home. It is important to know how to quickly cut the main water line to a home to prevent further damages. Safety is not only important for the plumber, but for the client as well.

Hot Water:

Just like you should always assume that the electricity is on, one should also assume that any water source is heated. Never touch a water source without testing it first. An easy way to do this is to run a metal tool under the water for several seconds and then tap the tool with your hand. If the tool is hot, then the water source is unsafe to touch. Steam is usually a sign that water is hot, although steam can generate on cold days outside even with warm water. When possible, wear thick gloves to further ensure your safety.

Sharp Edges:

Plumbers often find themselves sticking their hands into dark, obscure places like underneath a sink or behind a toilet. It is in these places where sharp metal objects can reside. Whether it is a rusty nail or a piece of sharp scrap metal, plumbers must use proper hand protection and lighting to tread these areas with care.
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