A Plumbing Apprentice Sustains an Electric Shock 

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT

A 3rd year plumbing apprentice sustained an electric shock attempting to assist the householder by reducing the temperature in a storage hot water service by adjusting the thermostat on the unit. The plumbing apprentice didn’t isolate the electrical circuit before making the adjustment and accidently touched the live part of the thermostat which resulted in an electric shock.

    POSSIBLE CAUSES

    • The apprentice was not competent to undertake this job
    • He did not carry out a hazard and risk assessment before attempting the task
    • The electrical equipment was not isolated

    ACTIONS

    • Only undertake tasks you are trained in and competent to undertake
    • Always carry out a hazard and risk assessment before attempting any task no matter how small or quick it appears
    • Always isolate, lock and tag out electrical equipment before attempting any task where there is any chance of an electric shock.