Electrical equipment

Inspecting, testing and tagging by a competent person
Residual current device (RCD)
Control measures

The use of electrical equipment can create serious health and safety risks in the hairdressing, nail and beauty industry, particularly in wet conditions. Damage to equipment increases this risk. Electrical shock can result in electrocution, burns and injuries from falls.

Extension leads and flexible cables must be protected from damage, including from liquid.

Electrical equipment must be either:

inspected, tested and tagged; or
connected to a residual current device (RCD).

Inspecting, testing and tagging by a competent person

A competent person must inspect, test and attach a durable tag to the equipment every 12 months.

If the equipment is safe to use, the tag must show the date by which the equipment must be inspected and tested again;

If the equipment is not safe to use, the tag must warn people not to use the equipment.
The equipment must also be immediately withdrawn from use.

Residual current device (RCD)

If the equipment is to be connected to an RCD, (known as a safety switch), the device may be either portable, or installed at the switchboard.

An RCD must be tested immediately after connection and at least every 3 months.
A competent person must also test the device at least every 2 years.
If a portable RCD is not working properly, it must be tagged to warn people not to use the device and immediately withdrawn from use.

Who is a competent person?

You are encouraged to employ an electrician to perform these tasks to ensure electrical equipment is safely maintained. The advantage of using an electrician is that if the equipment is faulty, the electrician is licensed to repair it.

Control measures

Substitution

Use splash proof or waterproof electrical equipment instead of standard equipment if work must be carried out in wet conditions.
Use power boards instead of double adaptors.

Redesign

Install additional socket outlets to avoid overloading power outlets.

Administrative controls

Make sure workers are trained in the use of equipment and that manufacturer's instructions are followed.
Store and operate equipment away from damp areas when not in use.
Make sure leads do not run across wet surfaces or any place where they may be easily damaged.
Run leads along the edges of corridors to minimise the possibility of trips and falls.
Keep leads away from heat, oil and chemicals to prevent insulation damage.
Clean up liquid spills as soon as possible.
Conduct regular (monthly intervals or more frequently if necessary) visual inspections of equipment to check that the equipment (including accessories, connecting lead and plug) has no obvious external damage or inadequate temporary repairs.
Make a list containing the description, make and serial number of all equipment and the date when tested to assist you in ensuring all electrical items are tested.
When adjusting or cleaning equipment, SWITCH OFF the power and pull out the plug - NOT by the cord.
Do not touch equipment with wet hands or use a wet cloth to clean sockets.
Make sure flexible cords are fully unwound and kept clear of work traffic.
Do not run too many pieces of equipment from one socket.

Personal protective equipment

Wearing rubber soled (insulating) shoes may provide some protection in some cases.

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