It may be possible that some people think that handling electricity is as simple as wearing a rubber glove. After all, myriad “rules” about handling electrical wires or cables have been said and documented, and most of them look pretty self-explanatory. With the assumed knowledge that one has about electrical energy and how it behaves, it is easy for some people to decide to be an instant MacGyver.
What they do not know is that some of the supposed “rules” have fine prints: A more specific piece of information that completes the thought. Without the supplementary fact, the general “rule” may be misinterpreted and, thus, can be erroneous. We have compiled some of the most popular electricity myths and looked to set them straight.
Myth 1: Power lines are insulated.
False. Ninety per cent of power lines may not be insulated, and even the ones that were could have lost insulation from storms.
Myth 2: A line is safe because it is not high voltage.
False. In reality, voltage is not what will kill you, amperage will. According to studies, it takes one amp to cause fatal heart irregularities. An average house has anywhere between 100 and 200 amps running through it.
Myth 3: A fallen wire will shut off.
False. It is not always the case, because if it falls on a poor conductor, like asphalt, the wire will not short circuit.
Myth 4: A live wire will make sparks when it falls.
False. This does not always happen. The line will spark when it does not make firm contact. With firm contact, it will not.
Myth 5: Wood is not a conductor.
False. Wood is just a poor conductor. Wet wood is a much better conductor, so be extra careful.
Myth 6: Rubber gloves and rubber shoes insulate.
False. This is not always true. They only insulate if they are 100% pure rubber. Typical cleaning gloves and shoes are mixed with other materials, and they can be conductors.
The most important rule to follow is let energy professionals handle electricity. During a power outage, be it only in your home or more widespread, do not attempt to resolve the problem by yourself. Trained industry experts will be able to know the root cause of the power interruption and provide the necessary service to restore power. Electricity specialists, like those working in the rental power industry, will be capable of providing temporary power, in case the reestablishment of electrical power needs more time. You are in good hands with these skilled professionals, so it is best to leave the work to them.
End
Robert Bagatsing
Altaaqa Global
Tel: +971 56 1749505
rbagatsing@altaaqaglobal.com
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