We all spend a good amount of time in the bathroom bathing, showering, grooming, and getting ready for the day. But did you know the bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in your home?
The Dangers In Your Bathroom
According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), “Pure water is a poor conductor. But small amounts of impurities in water like salt, acid, solvents, or other materials can turn water itself and substances that generally act as insulators into conductors or better conductors.” OSHA goes on to state that dry skin can have a resistance to electric current, but that wet skin acts as a conductor.
5 Electrical Safety Tips for the Bathroom
Between the toilet, sink, and shower, most facilities in our bathrooms exist to send water for various uses. Between the ample amounts of water mixed with the ever so threatening presence of electricity, it’s important that you and your family know how to stay safe.
- Check light switches and outlets regularly. If they ever feel warm to the touch, this indicates a wiring problem.
- Schedule electrical inspections to solve recurring issues. If you have flickering lights or frequently blown fuses, you probably have a wiring problem.
- Check cords. Frayed or cracked wires are fire hazards.
- Keep all electronics away from the sink. If this is tricky, think of hiring an electrical contractor to install another outlet.
- Unplug electronics when not in use. Plugged-in appliances are a shock hazard, especially if they come into contact with water; for example, if they fall into a sink filled with water. When you’re not using a bathroom appliance, such as a hairdryer, straightening iron, or electric toothbrush, turn it off and unplug it.
- Limit electronics. Each new plug-in appliance in the bathroom increases the chances of an electric shock.
Keeping your family safe in and around the bathroom can be simple. Keep electronics away from the sink and other areas by installing more outlets in other spaces in the home. For electrical services in Atlanta, contact Lightning Bug Electric today! (404) 471-3847