Republic of the Philippines

Department of Education
Region VII - Central Visayas
Division of Cebu Province
St. James Technical Skills College, Inc.

"SAFETY MEASURES TO REDUCE ELECTRICAL HAZARDS AND ENSURE

RESIDENTIAL AREAS ARE SAFE"

Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for Practical Research to the

Faculty of Senior High School Department

Bentulan, Bethuel
Bentulan, Robert James
Cuevas, Liam Joseph
Donor, Sian
Gonzaga, Cristine Joy
Goopio, Richel Dave
Nunez, Mark
(Researchers)

Research Adviser:
Mrs. Melba M. Arong

2023

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ABSTRACT
This qualitative research aims to explore safety measures that can effectively reduce electrical

hazards and ensure the safety and residential areas. This study will investigate the

perceptions, experiences, and practices of homeowners, electricians, and safety experts

regarding electrical safety in residential settings Through in-depth interviews and thematic

analysis, the research seeks to provide valuable insights into the current safety measures

being employed, identify potential gaps, and propose recommendations for enhancing

electrical safety in residential areas.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, praises and thanks to god, the almighty, for his showers of blessings

throughout our research:

We would also like to express our deep and sincere gratitude to our research teacher Mrs.

Melba Arong, who guided us throughout this research.

We would also like to thanks to our friends, and classmates, and also to our dearest family

who supported us and offered a deep insight into the study

Our thanks and gratitude also extends to our school principal Dr. Eugene S. Ynclino IV, for

allowing us the opportunity to conduct our research, also to the senior high teachers who gave

their consent for the full participation.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE…………………………………………………………………...……….…1

ABSTRACT………………………...…………………………………………..……….….2

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT……………………………………………………………...….3

TABLE OF CONTENTS…………………………………………...…...……………...…4

CHAPTER PAGE

1. THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction…………………….……………….…………………………….…5-6

Statement of the Problem………….……………..………………………………..6

Scope and Delimitation……………………………………………………….…....6

Significance of the Study…………………………………………………..…...….7

Definition of Terms……………………………………………….…………..……8

2. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Related Literature...….………...………………………………………..…..…9-26

Related Studies…..…………………………………………...…….……….…27-33

Conceptual Framework……………………………………………........………..34

3. METHODOLOGY

Research Design……………………..……………………………………...….....35

Respondents of the Study………………………………………………………...35

Research Instrument……………………………………………………………..36

Data Gathering procedure……………………………..…………………….......36

References……………………………………………………………………...37-38

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 CHAPTER 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction
The safety measures to reduce electrical hazards and ensure residential areas are

safe has a great impact on residential areas. Electrical hazards in residential areas represent a

serious threat to the safety of people and property. Electrocution, electric fires, and equipment

damage can occur as result of improper electrical installations, a lack of maintenance, and

wrong use of electrical products. It is crucial to install safety measures to eliminate these

threats and protect the safety of people in residential areas.

The goal of this study is to identify the most prevalent electrical dangers in

residential areas, analyze the risks associated with these hazards, and suggest effective

solutions to reduce the participation of a variety of stakeholders, including homeowners,

electricians, building constructions, and regulatory bodies in charge of enforcing safety

requirements.

The study will shed light on best practices and recommendations for protecting the

safety of people and property in residential areas. The study intends to create and implement

a complete safety strategy that assures the safety of people and property in residential areas.

Home is where we should feel safest, but it's also where we are most likely to be

exposed to electrical hazards. Electricity makes our lives easier. However we need to be

cautious and keep safety in mind. Electrical safety measures are important because hazards

such as arc flash and electrical shock can result in death if you are exposed to them.

Fortunately, the likelihood of this occurring is relatively low. However the control measures

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that prevent these hazards require careful management, attention to detail and technical

competence.

This research aims to explore the existing safety measures, Challenges faced, and

potential solutions to enhance electrical safety in residential settings.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The objective of this study is to determine the safety measures to reduce electrical

hazards and ensure residential areas are safe.

1. What are the possible problems in terms of electrical hazards in residential areas?

2. How do these safety measures help the residence?

3. What are the basic electrical safety measures that should be followed in residential

areas?

SCOPE AND DELIMITATION

The scope of the study titled “Safety Measures to reduce electrical Hazards and Ensure

Residential Areas are Safe” focuses on examining and evaluating the various safety measures

that can be implemented to minimize electrical hazards in residential areas.

The researchers limit the study to 30 residents in Liloan. Each resident is given a

paper-based survey questionnaire to answer.

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SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Every research has significance to the people, the society, the country and the

world. The generalization of this study would be a great contribution to the vast knowledge in

residential areas.

The study is to expect to be beneficial of the following:

To the residents in Liloan,

This will help them to gain knowledge about electrical safety.

To the students who are taking electrical related courses,

It will be a great help to the students for them to keep safe when installing

electrical.

To the researchers,

They will be able to use the concepts and ideas they have learnt while conducting

research, which will eventually prepare them for more complicated tasks in their

chosen sector and profession, as well as develop their skills.

To the Future Researchers,

Those who need to deal with a study similar to this one can use this as a resource

material, and by reading the study, they will be directed and informed about the

electrical safety standard.

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DEFINITION OF TERMS

Safety Measure - An action, procedure or contrivance designed to lower the occurrence or

risk of injury, loss and danger to persons, property or the environment

Residential area - A land used as a permanent residence or domicile, such as a house,

apartment, nursing home, school, child care facility Or prison, land zoned for such uses, or

land where no zoning. is in place. A district where people live; occupied primarily the by

private residences

Electrical Hazard - A dangerous condition such as contact or equipment. failure can result

in electric shock, are-flash burn, thermal burn, or blast.

Electrical - Operated by electricity and providing electricity.

Electrician - Is a tradesperson specializing in electrical wiring of building Stationary

machines, and related equipment.

Stakeholder - A person, group or organization with a vested interest, or Stake in the

decision-making and activities of a business, Organization or project.

Electrical Installation - Is the complete system of wiring and apparatus, which is used to

feed electrical energy from the position at Which it is made available in the building.

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Homeowners - A person who owns their own home.

CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURES AND STUDIES

This chapter contained a variety of literature reviews, articles, books, journals, theses, ideas,

and existing research that the researchers wanted to study and expand on. It would be a guide

for the researchers as they worked on the project. Researchers would benefit from the

commonalities between the literature, studies, and research in order to perform more precise

and useful study.

Related Literature

Electrical Hazards:

Gautam, K. K. (2016) stated that electrical hazard is potential to cause harm due to the

exposure of a situation in which a person comes into contact with an energized part of an

apparatus or conductor and feels the shock, encounters injuries, burns, and so on. It is also

defined as such an accidental condition that leads to an arc flash and an arc blast with fire.

Electrical risks are classified into three major hazardous circumstances.

1. Electrical Shock

2. Burn and Fire

3. Arc blast with pressure impact

1. Electrical shock: Electric shock occurs when the body becomes part of an electrical

circuit. It is described as the sudden and accidental activation of the nervous system of the

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body when the body becomes part of an electric circuit. A current of 3 mA or more begins as

a light sensation and, with modest variations, transforms into a painful shock that can result

in death.

2. Burns and fires: Electrical burns are classified into three types: electric burns, arc burns,

and thermal contact burns. Electrical burns induce tissue damage (whether superficial or

severe) because the body is unable to disperse the heat produced by the current flow.

Typically, electrical burns heal slowly. Arc burns are caused by an electrical arc and are

comparable to heat burn at a high temperature. The arc's temperature melted neighboring

material, evaporated nearby material, and burned flesh and ignited clothing at a distance of

several meters, depending on the energy placed on the arc. Thermal contact burns occur when

the skin comes into touch with a hot conductor that has become overheated.

Generally, we hear of fires and explosions caused by a short circuit of current, the arc or

spark causing the fire to spread to neighboring flammable material. The most hazardous

condition is fire. Because it has the potential to convert everything to ash, fire and burn

protection is essential.

3. Electrical arc blast: electrical blast is most dangerous condition it is destructive in bulk,

electrical blast involve three main step or effect:

a. Arc flashes: result in intense heat (causing burns), intense light (can cause blindness), or

ignition of other materials.

b. Arc blasts: cause the same conditions as an arc flash, but are more intense and can also

include a strong pressure wave. These pressure waves can damage machinery, throw a

person, collapse a lung or rupture eardrums.

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c. Releasing of toxic gases, pollutants

Causes and Prevention of Electrical Hazards

According to Gautam, K. K. (2016), electrical hazard analysis is crucial for hazard control.

Various levels of protection Organizations have spent the last decade analyzing and

mitigating risks. OSHA has done an outstanding job in this area. According to several

studies, the fundamental cause of hazards is often characterized as:

(1) Use of defaulted equipment and bad installation

(2) Fault by person due to careless attitude and accidental incident

(3) Hazardous working environment

So, by avoiding these causes, we may greatly reduce the hazards. A summary of these

principles is offered here, which is also documented directly and indirectly in the work of

numerous organizations, and these general safety standards are easily followed by any

sensible person.

• Consider de-energizing all equipment prior to inspection, as well as lock-out and tag-out for

maintenance, repair, or inspections. Avoid using defective or improperly insulated tools.

• Adjust operating distance and elevation for online work with adequate personal protective

equipment, and constantly check the power status (not just on and off as well as static

discharge state).

• Using a 3-wire cord with a 2-wire plug. Removing the third prong (ground pin) to make a 3-

prong plug fit a 2 prong outlet.

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• Avoid overloading, unsecured connections, inadequate insulation, faulty equipment, bare

terminals, extension cords, and inappropriate grounding.

• Use of circuit protection devices like Fuse, Circuit Breakers , M.C.B. , R.C.C.B. and proper

grounding may save equipment and life

• In a hazardous environment, preventative measures should also be taken.

Working conditions such as explosive locations with flammable gases and combustible dust,

as well as water-electricity combinations, can be hazardous.

• Lastly, first aid and electrical emergency rescue expertise are critical safety considerations.

As previously stated, these rules are easily observable by any sensible person, even after

these hazards can occur as a result of a casual attitude, a lack of training and practice in these

rules, and legal enforcement of regulations.

As we mentioned, these rules are easily observable by any sensible person even after these

hazards can happen due to careless attitude, lack of training and practicing these rules, and

legal enforcement of rules.

Electrical Maintenance and Testing

Gill, P. (2008) stated that electrical equipment deterioration is common, and it begins as soon

as it is installed. Electrical failures and malfunctions might occur if deterioration is not

checked. Furthermore, load adjustments or circuit revisions may be undertaken without

overall design coordination, resulting in incorrect equipment selection, protective device

settings, or incorrect trip devices installed in the circuits. The goal of an electrical preventive

maintenance (EPM) and testing program should be to identify these causes and give ways for

correcting them. Potential dangers that can cause equipment failure or interruption of

electrical service can be identified and corrected using an EPM and testing program. Also, the

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EPM program will reduce the threats to life and equipment that might occur from equipment

failure when it is not adequately maintained. Properly maintained equipment lowers

downtime by reducing catastrophic breakdowns. It is critical to have an effective

maintenance and testing program in order to successfully operate electrical equipment and

apparatus. This program can be implemented by establishing a maintenance department or

contracting the job to a private company that specializes in this field. The EPM program

should include routine inspections, tests, repairs, and service of electrical power system

apparatus such as transformers, cables, circuit breakers, switchgear assemblies, and the like,

as well as associated equipment such as control wiring, protective devices and relays,

supervisory equipment, and indicating and metering instruments.

Much of the essence of effective electrical equipment preventive maintenance (PM) can be

summarized by four rules:

• Keep it dry.

• Keep it clean.

• Keep it cool.

• Keep it tight.

More specifically, most electrical power and control equipment is subject to a small number

of degradation mechanisms, and the goal of most EPM efforts is to prevent, delay, or mitigate

their impacts. Traditional philosophical approaches to electrical maintenance, such as run-to-

failure (RTF), maintain as needed, perform maintenance on defined time schedules, and

predictive maintenance, are briefly summarized in the following sections. The reliability-

centered maintenance (RCM) program is gaining popularity because it incorporates the

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strengths of reactive, preventive, predictive, and proactive maintenance strategies. The RCM

approach to electrical equipment is covered in greater depth than other maintenance

techniques because it is rapidly becoming the maintenance program of choice. However,

most electricity utilities, manufacturing companies, and plant facility owners use a

combination of these programs. The choice of strategy is largely determined by the extent of

the system and equipment, as well as how management sees the cost and advantages of

maintenance.

A well-organized and implemented program avoids accidents, decreases unscheduled

shutdowns, and increases the mean time between failures (MTBF) of electrical equipment.

EPM benefits are classified as direct or indirect. Direct benefits include lower repair costs,

less equipment downtime, and increased people and property safety. Indirect benefits include

enhanced employee morale, better workmanship, increased productivity, and the discovery of

faults in the system that were either designed into the original system or created by later

system changes.

Common Electrical Safety Devices and their Effectiveness in Preventing Electrical

Hazards:

According to the (Control Measures of Electrical Hazards: An Analysis of Construction

Industry, 2015), electrical safety devices are critical in the prevention of electrical risks. The

following are some examples of common electrical safety devices and their effectiveness:

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 1. Fuses: Fuses are meant to stop current flow when it exceeds a safe level. When the

current becomes too high, a wire within the fuse melts, breaking the circuit and

stopping the flow of power.

Helpful household tips for homes with a fuse box.

● Never replace a fuse with a larger fuse, as this will let too much current through and

be a fire hazard.

● Replacing a fuse with a smaller-sized fuse is also a problem because this will prevent

normal operation.

● Never use something other than a fuse to replace a fuse; this will quite likely cause a

fire.

● Keep extra fuses around the house to quickly replace blown fuses.

● Know where your fuse box is.

● Turn off or unplug items in use before replacing a blown fuse; otherwise, the

replacement fuse will be immediately destroyed as well.

Types of fuses:

● Cartridge - Contains a thin conductor designed to melt at a low temperature. Once

the current reaches a level that can generate enough heat to match or surpass the

designed melting point, the connection will break.

● Blade - Contains two electrical connectors that plug into a circuit and a wire inside

that will melt at a certain current.

● Plug - Screwed directly into a standard fuse socket. To learn more about this type of

fuse please see EPB.

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 ● Adapter - Referred to as a rejection base (also called type-S), it requires an adapter to

fit into a standard fuse socket. Once it is installed it cannot be removed. Fuses with

different current ratings will have different threads; therefore, they cannot be replaced

with a fuse of a different current rating. To learn more about this type of fuse please

see EPB.

Fuses are designed to let current through the circuit, but if the current reaches some

maximum amount, the wire burns out, and the circuit is no longer functional. The current

rating is the amount of current that will cause a fuse to blow. Fuses also have a voltage rating,

which indicates the highest voltage differential that the fuse can tolerate. When a circuit is

open (broken), an applied voltage exists at the fuse's ends; if this voltage exceeds the fuse's

voltage rating, the air in the fuse may ionize and begin conducting again, leaving the circuit

without a safety system.

2. Circuit breakers: Circuit breakers, like fuses, interrupt the flow of current when it

exceeds a safe threshold. Circuit breakers, on the other hand, can be reset once they

trip, whereas fuses must be replaced.

There are three main types of circuit breakers:

1. Thermal

Will respond to excessive heat created during overload current circumstances.

2. Magnetic

Will respond to the magnetic field produced by overload current circumstances.

3. Thermo-magnetic

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 Will react to both the heat and the magnetic field produced by overload current

situations. This is the comparable circuit breaker to a slow blow fuse.

A circuit breaker will open the circuit during overload conditions to prevent overload and

potential harm, such as fires. Circuit breakers have a switch that allows them to return to the

closed state after being flipped.

3. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs): GFCIs are intended to safeguard

individuals from potentially dangerous ground faults caused by actions such as

plugging in faulty appliances or corded power equipment. They operate by measuring

the passage of current between a circuit's hot and neutral wires. If there is an

imbalance in current flow, suggesting that some current is going through a person's

body rather than back to the source, the GFCI will instantly cut power to the circuit.

A ground fault circuit interrupter, often known as a GFCI or simply a GFI, is an electrical

safety device that is required in areas of the home where water can come into contact with a

wall outlet. Bathrooms and kitchens are included. Only one GFCI outlet is required in a

kitchen or bathroom.

Electric shock can occur at currents that are far too low for a fuse or circuit breaker to detect.

GFCIs ensure that all electric current leaving an electrical outlet returns to the wall socket

rather than passing through a person and creating a path to (electrocution). Water and

plumbing fittings provide an excellent path to ground, necessitating the added safety feature

of a GFCI.

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The GFCI measures the electric current in the hot and neutral lines. When these two currents

are equivalent, the operation is normal and no ground fault exists. When these two values

become unequal by as little as 4-5 mA, another path to ground (ground fault) may exist; in

this instance, the GFCI will open (with a response time of 1/30th of a second), preventing an

electric shock to a person. A GFCI features a reset button to return it to its previous state after

it has opened the circuit, as well as a test button to check correct operation.

Using electrical equipment near sinks and tubs is risky, thus utilize caution at all times.

Although GFCIs are a critical safety feature in many bathrooms and kitchens, they should

only be used as a last option. The first line of defense is to avoid using electronic gadgets

near water. It's also a good idea to test the GFCI every month or so by pushing the 'test'

button to ensure that it switches off the electricity. This can be accomplished by connecting a

device such as a nightlight or mobile phone charger and pushing the test button; if the

electricity to the item goes out, the GFCI remains operational. Otherwise, it should be

replaced. GFCIs do not have the same lifespan as houses.

4. Arc fault circuit breakers: Arc fault circuit breakers are intended to detect

dangerous electrical sparks caused by broken or frayed wires. They operate by

detecting arcs in the electrical waveform and shutting down the circuit if one is

detected.

According to (Sinatra, L. 2020), AFCIs are intended to identify arcing electrical problems in

your electrical system that would otherwise go undetected and cause a fire. Arc-faults can be

triggered by seemingly innocuous behaviors such as nailing a picture to the wall or plugging

in an appliance with a faulty electrical cord. Arcing can occur when a nail comes into contact

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with an electrical wire or when a cord has a flaw, which can result in high temperatures and

sparking. An AFCI device, on the other hand, continuously monitors the electrical current in

a circuit and shuts it off if unexpected arcing occurs.

5. Surge protectors: Surge protectors are intended to safeguard electrical devices

against voltage spikes and surges caused by lightning strikes or power outages.

Excess voltage is diverted away from sensitive equipment and into a grounding wire.

As the name implies, these electrical safety devices protect your home and appliances from

surges in electrical current. Although they resemble extension cords and power strips in

appearance, they vary in that they provide far more protection against unexpected surges in

current flow. Some manufacturers will even provide guarantees on appliances connected to

their product if they are broken. Surge protectors (or surge suppressors) are more expensive

than extension cords/power strips, but if you want to protect high-end electrical gadgets,

surge protectors are highly recommended.

Electricity has become such an integral part of our daily lives that we sometimes overlook the

dangers and concerns it can represent if not managed properly. Installing and maintaining

these five electrical safety devices in your home can safeguard your family's safety (Mike, M.

2023).

Electrical Safety Practices and Training for Homeowners and Residents:

Electricity is ubiquitous in modern society. People use it for a variety of purposes, both

directly and indirectly. Some of the accidents may be unavoidable due to truly random and

unforeseeable events (e.g., a tree falling across a power line), while others may be avoidable

19
if the individuals involved were better informed about the nature of electricity and some of

the specific hazards associated with it. The dangers of electricity are not readily evident, and

rust-hand experience is certainly undesirable. Electricity's qualities and dangers must be

learned through schooling and other means.

Unfortunately, most people do not know anything about electricity or physics, which would

have prepared them to comprehend how electrical items work. Most people, however, have

some general, and often elementary, knowledge of electricity.

Safety tips to practice at home:

Do:

● Read and follow electrical equipment instruction manuals prior to use.

● Use safety signs, barricades and tags to identify and protect electrical equipment.

● Only use extension cords as a last resort.

● Use waterproof cords in an outdoor application.

● Contact a certified electrician when electrical repairs are needed.

● Move flammable items, like clothing or stationery, away from lamps or exposed

bulbs.

● Keep curtains away from lightbulbs. They can get hot and start a fire.

● Store cords away from walking surfaces. When repeatedly stepped on, they can wear

out and cause a fire.

● Use bulbs with the correct wattage.

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 ● Heat-producing appliances, such as toasters, coffeemakers, irons or microwave ovens,

draw a lot of electricity. Plug in only one heat-producing appliance per outlet to

prevent wiring from overheating.

● Pull the plug, not the cord.

● Inspect your home for hidden electrical hazards.

● Ensure receptacle outlets and switches have wall plates/faceplates.

● Call a certified electrician or your landlord if you have:

● Frequent problem

● A tingling feeling when you touch an electrical appliance.

● Discolored or warm wall outlets.

● A burning or rubbery smell coming from an appliance.

● Flickering or dimming lights.

● Sparks from an outlet.

Don't:

● Overload outlets by using splitters.

● Touch electrical equipment, including power cords, with wet or damp hands.

● Allow dirt, grease or dust to accumulate on electrical equipment.

● Implement temporary wiring in place of permanent wiring.

● Use cords or equipment that are not properly grounded.

● Climb the fence around an electrical substation. Ever.

● Yank an electrical cord from the wall.

● Keep electrical items near water.

● Place heavy items on top of a cord. The weight can wear out the cord and possibly

cause a fire.

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Strategies for promoting and enforcing electrical safety in residential areas:

According to Lhardit, L., Dome, B., Tissot, O., & De Keulenaer, H. (2020). Electricity has

become the major energy source in our daily lives over the last 120 years. Its uses have

increased our comfort and safety while also increasing our entertainment and communication

options.

Domestic electricity, on the other hand, can be hazardous. Given the low pace of

refurbishment of buildings and their electrical installations, the safety of older electrical

installations is a particular problem in European Union countries. Simultaneously, the

applications of domestic energy continue to diversify and increase, posing more significant

quality and safety problems.

The safety deficiencies of outmoded electrical installations are typically caused by

component aging, a lack of maintenance, and inappropriate use. They also plainly reflect the

threats they pose. The risks of electrification and electrocution are widely known and have

been decreased in recent decades, but electrical source fires and their effects are the most

concerning nowadays.

Despite the fact that Europe and European countries have established standards to assure the

safety of household electrical installations, their use is mainly limited to new electrical

installations. So far, the solutions seen to improve the safety of old electrical installations

have been to produce reference guides and procedures for safety, as well as to conduct

awareness campaigns and periodic inspections educating inhabitants about the risks of their

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ancient electrical installations. Rarely have countries chosen legislation that directly empower

homeowners in terms of the safety of their electrical installation.

As a result, European Union countries confront a serious issue in terms of residential

electrical safety, especially since the number of hazardous installations is anticipated to climb

further if nothing is done. In response, some countries have developed cooperative models.

The efficiency of the ensuing solutions is still dependent on a crucial preceding step:

improving statistical knowledge about the state of ancient household electrical infrastructure

and their implications, particularly in terms of fires. Suitable solutions can then be designed

based on this knowledge.

With its updated Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (July 2018), the European

Commission has issued a strong signal to Member States. It argues for the creation of

national policies for safety inspections and the upgrade of home electrical installations as part

of larger plans to restore existing structures.

Here are several concepts for promoting and enforcing electrical safety in the home:

Develop reference manuals and procedures for enhancing the safety of aging electrical

infrastructure.

1. Educate homeowners and residents on electrical safety precautions such as

unplugging equipment when not in use, inspecting electrical cords for damage on a

regular basis, and utilizing the correct wattage for lamps/lighting.

2. To identify and protect electrical equipment, use safety signs, barricades, and tags.

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 3. Encourage the use of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) to interrupt an

electrical circuit before a current large enough to kill or seriously injure someone

occurs.

4. Before each usage, inspect portable cord-and-plug linked equipment, extension cords,

power bars, and electrical fittings for damage or wear.

5. Repair or replace damaged equipment immediately.

6. Install tamper-resistant receptacles in homes to prevent young people from placing

things into sockets.

7. When you require electrical repairs, call a licensed electrician.

8. Remove combustible things from close proximity to lamps or other heat sources.

9. To avoid weather damage, keep electric tools indoors.

10. By implementing these strategies, homeowners and residents can ensure that their

homes are safe from electrical hazards.

In all EU countries, the campaign against dangerous household electrical installations is far

from over. Particularly given the trend toward amplification of the situation as residential

electricity demands continue to expand and diversify.

Most EU countries have failed to adequately address the huge issue of residential electrical

fires. This predicament is explained in part by a lack of accurate statistical tools.

In any event, the first good results about the improvement in rate of renovation or safety of

existing electrical infrastructure arise in nations where the issue has been statistically

quantified. Measures have been implemented in those nations to generalize the condition

evaluation of historic electrical infrastructure and to educate their owners about this status.

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Where governmental measures in that direction have been subjected to a cost-benefit

analysis, they have been shown beneficial, both to the parties involved and to the community

as a whole.

With the updated Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (July 2018), the European

Commission has issued a strong signal to EU Member States. It argues for the creation of

national policies for safety inspections and the upgrade of home electrical installations as part

of larger plans to restore existing structures.

Technological innovations and advancements in electrical safety for residential areas:

All electrical systems have the potential to cause harm. Electricity can be either "static" or

"dynamic." Dynamic electricity is the uniform motion of electrons through a conductor (this

is known as electric current). Conductors are materials that allow the movement of electricity

through it. Most metals are conductors. The human body is also a conductor. This document

is about dynamic electricity.

Static electricity is accumulation of charge on surfaces as a result of contact and friction with

another surface. This contact/friction causes an accumulation of electrons on one surface, and

a deficiency of electrons on the other surface. The OSH Answers document on How Do I

Work Safely - Static Electricity has more information.

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Electric current cannot exist without an unbroken path to and from the conductor. Electricity

will form a "path" or "loop". When you plug in a device (e.g., a power tool), the electricity

takes the easiest path from the plug-in, to the tool, and back to the power source. This action

is also known as creating or completing an electrical circuit.

The voltage of the electricity and the available electrical current in regular businesses and

homes has enough power to cause death by electrocution. Even changing a light bulb without

unplugging the lamp can be hazardous because coming in contact with the "hot", "energized"

or "live" part of the socket could kill a person.

Here are some technological innovations and advancements in electrical safety for

residential areas:

1. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) can interrupt the electrical circuit before a

current sufficient to cause death or serious injury occurs.

2. Tamper-resistant receptacles can prevent children from inserting objects into outlets.

3. Smart home technology can monitor electrical usage and detect potential hazards.

4. Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) can detect and prevent electrical fires caused

by arcing faults.

5. Electrical safety apps can provide homeowners and residents with safety tips and

information.

6. Electrical safety sensors can detect electrical hazards and alert homeowners and

residents.

By utilizing these technological innovations and advancements, homeowners and residents

can ensure that their homes are safe from electrical hazards.

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Related Studies

Electricity is critical in delivering basic services and addressing fundamental human

requirements such as jobs, food, running water, sanitation, education, and health care.

Addressing these challenges will eventually necessitate an increase in the level of electrical

service. The electricity infrastructure is thus critical to modern life. This electricity is

transmitted for consumption via electrical transmission and distribution (T and D) lines. The

nominal voltage in bulk transmission lines can reach 750 kV, resulting in instant death if

contact is made (Short, 2004). Workers who construct and maintain these electrical T and D

lines are very vulnerable to electrocution.

27
Kennedy (2008) states that constant power supply is a sign of a mature economy, and any

country with unstable power supply is delaying its progress. Electricity is in scarce supply in

developing countries. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is currently

experiencing a power crisis, prompting the Southern African Power Pool, for example, to

devise mitigating measures. (SAPP, 2012). Two methods for improving energy efficiency

and utilization, as well as the search for new energy sources to replace fossil fuels, have been

identified. As a result, energy efficiency and renewable energy have been investigated as

potential replacements for fossil fuels, giving rise to the notion of sustainable energy.

One of the most difficult challenges that power utilities and other organizations face today is

operating in an economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable manner. As a result,

methods such as completing environmental impact assessments and risk assessments play an

important role in industry in order to achieve sustainable energy management. According to

Harrald et al., (2006), environmental risk assessment is one example of a management

strategy. When used appropriately as a tool, it can help achieve sustainable development.

Many firms from many industries recognize the growing relevance of risk management and

have established risk management departments to control the hazards to which they are

exposed or may be exposed. Akintoye and Mc Leod (1995) for instance, due to the nature of

construction business operations, methods, environment, and organization, the construction

sector and its clients are typically associated with a high degree of risk. These building risks

do not exclude the electrical business.

28
According to Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (2007), a hazard is defined

as a source or act that has the potential to cause harm in the form of human injury, illness, or

a combination of these. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) (2004), a hazard is defined as any

cause of possible damage, harm, or bad health consequences on something or someone under

specific working conditions. A hazard, according to this definition, could be a material, an

item such as machinery, a work method, components of the work organization, a scenario, an

event, or an activity that has the potential to cause injury. In general, a hazard is often related

to a condition or behavior that, if left uncontrolled, can result in injury or sickness. In this

study, hazard refers to any activity or scenario that has the potential to cause harm to people,

the environment, or property.

(Neitzel, D. 2016) states that current standards and regulations impose the minimum required

on electrical system designers, installers, and manufacturers, resulting in merely functional,

reasonably safe electrical installations. Understanding about electrical dangers will help you

go above and beyond the minimum standards to provide a safe and dependable electrical

power system and equipment.

Effective electrical preventive maintenance begins with proper design. When developing a

new facility, care should be taken to guarantee that the installed systems and equipment are

easily maintained. The design and installation of duplicate or redundant circuits, tie circuits,

supplementary power sources, and drawout protection devices makes it easier to schedule

maintenance activities and complete essential maintenance work with minimal interruption to

production. Other useful design strategies to consider include, but are not limited to,

equipment rooms for environmental protection, grouping of equipment for greater

convenience and accessibility, and standardization of equipment and components.

29
To fully understand the electrical safety issues associated with design, installation, and

maintenance, one must first understand the hazards associated with electricity, which can be

identified by completing the electrical hazard risk assessments required by OSHA 29 CFR

1910.132(d)(1) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA 70E.

Part 130.3. One very important point to make here is that the physics of electricity are the

same for everyone who has any kind of interaction with electricity, even something as

simple as plugging in an electrical appliance or portable tool; the physics are the same and do

not change from the installer to the maintenance employee, or for that matter to anyone else.

The three main electrical hazards are electrical shock, electrical arc flash, and electrical arc

blast, as well as the physiological effects on the human body, must be understood by

everyone who designs, installs, maintains, operates, or

otherwise works with, around, or on electrical circuits and equipment. Designers must also

understand these risks in order to better assist their clients. When it comes to designing

hazards out and safety in, understand what needs to be done and why.

Designing, installing, and maintaining electrical equipment and systems in accordance with

applicable standards, as well as the manufacturer's instruction manuals, will provide the

minimum requirements for safety by design. These standards include, but are not limited to,

the National Equipment Manufacturers Association (NEMA); the National Electrical Code

(NEC); the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC); the IEEE Color Book series, or

associated new "dot" standards, for industrial and commercial power systems; and, where

applicable, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA); the International Electrotechnical

30
Commission (IEC); or other national or international standards used for the design. Meeting

these requirements for

Electrical shock and/or arc flash hazards can be significantly reduced by proper design and

installation, as well as maintaining electrical equipment in its original condition.

Adhering to safe work practices for employees, as well as following OSHA and NFPA

recommendations for electrical equipment maintenance, is essential. Workplace and NFPA

70B Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance, InterNational Electrical

Testing Association (NETA) Standard for Maintenance Testing Specifications for Electric

Power Distribution

Equipment and Systems (MTS) and the NESC, in conjunction with the manufacturer's

instructions, can significantly reduce the risk of a worker coming into contact with energized

conductors or circuit parts, as well as the risk of an arc flash event occurring, while also

significantly increasing the reliability of the electrical equipment and system.

Although electrical systems are typically designed and installed according to the NEC or

other applicable standards, the real safety emphasis was placed on the design and installation

of electrical equipment and systems when OSHA issued the Final Rule of 29 CFR 1910

Subpart S, Electrical Standards 1910.302-.308 Design Safety Standards for Electric

Utilization Systems, on January 16, 1981. This regulation was revised and updated on

February 14, 2007. This provided a Federal mandate on minimum design and installation

issues that related to the safety of employees working on, near, or interacting with the

electrical systems and equipment.

31
When OSHA published the Final Rule of 29 CFR 1910.147, The Hazardous Energy Control

(Lockout Tagout) on September 1, 1989, which required that machines and equipment should

be built with energy isolating devices (lockout tagout). Effective energy isolation is a crucial

to electrical safety because it provides a mechanism to de energize the equipment so that it

can be worked on in an electrically safe operating condition. This regulatory requirement is

quoted below:

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 requires that all electrical equipment be lockable. OSHA states:

"After January 2, 1990, whenever replacement or major repair, renovation or whenever a

machine or piece of equipment is modified, and whenever new machines or equipment are

installed, energy isolating devices must be designed to accept a lockout device." With the

publication of OSHA 29 CFR, there has been a greater emphasis placed on electrical safety,

which will have a significant impact on the design, production, and installation of electrical

equipment and systems. 1910.331-.335, Electrical Safety-Related Work Practices on August

6, 1990; OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269, Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and

Distribution on January 31, 1994, which was revised on April 11, 2014; and NFPA 70E,

Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace over the past twenty-three years, all of which

are dedicated to electrical safety."

NFPA 70E, Informative Annex 0, Safety-Related Design Requirements, contains some

general design considerations for electrical systems, which include:

● Owners, managers, and employers are responsible for conducting an electrical hazard

risk assessment during the design of electrical systems and installations in order to

32
 more effectively choose design options that reduce or eliminate employee exposure to

electrical hazard risks and improve the effectiveness of electrical safety.

● Factors that have an impact on safety-related work practices to protect employees

must be considered.

● The results of the NFPA 70E 130.3(8)(1) Electrical Hazards Risk Assessments should

be used to compare design options and choices in order to facilitate decisions in the

design of electrical equipment and systems, and they should help to:

o Eliminate electrical hazards and risk o Reduce frequency of exposure to electrical

hazards

o Reduce the magnitude and severity of hazard exposure

o Enable the ability to achieve an electrically safe work condition as specified in

NFPA 70E Article 120, Establishing an Electrically Safe Work Condition; OSHA 29

CFR 1910.147, The Control of Hazardous Energy (Iockoutltagout); and OSHA 29

CFR 1910.333(b), Working on or near exposed deenergized parts, for performing an

electrical lockout/tagout:

o Improve the effectiveness of the electrical safety program and electrical safety-

related work practices.

● Arc energy reduction is another consideration through the use of:

o Zone-selective interlocking

o Differential relaying

o Energy-reducing maintenance switching with local status indicator

● This feature configures the circuit breaker trip unit to operate at a faster rate, lowering

incident energy if an arc flash occurs while the worker is working within the arc flash

boundary.

o High speed microprocessor based protective relaying

33
 o High speed optic sensors

Keep in mind that no matter how fast the sensors or relays are, the end device is still an

electro-mechanical circuit breaker that can fail to open in the time specified. Mechanical

devices, such as circuit breakers, must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's

specifications. Even though this is not a 100% guarantee, it is the best we can do to reduce

the risk of an unintentional time delay or total device failure. More information is available in

the section labeled Electrical Equipment Maintenance.

Conceptual Framework

34
 Figure 1.

Figure 1. The conceptual framework consists of two main components: the demographic

profile of the residents in Purok Camanchiles, Poblacion, Liloan, Cebu, and the safety

measures implemented in the residential areas of the same location. The demographic profile

includes two aspects: age and gender. The safety measures implemented include physical

security measures, community engagement initiatives, and emergency preparedness

measures. This framework provides a foundation for further analysis, planning, or decision-

making related to the well-being and security of the community.

CHAPTER 3

35
 METHODOLOGY

This chapter provides the research methodology of the study. This will describe the subject of

the study, specifically, the research design (then includes the sampling methods), respondents

of the study, research instrument and data gathering procedure.

Research Design

This study utilized a qualitative research approach. The researchers will employ a random

sampling method to collect data. The survey questionnaire will be distributed to the residents

in Liloan. The researchers use phenomenological research design to understand a

phenomenon’s universal safety measures and practices related to electrical hazards in

residential areas by exploring the view of those who have experienced it.

Respondents of the Study

The respondents of the study are the selected 30 residents in Liloan. Resident's evaluators are

notified of their confidentiality and anonymity right via a letter. Their written consent is also

enabled, as are acknowledgement showing their willingness to participate in the study. The

residents in Liloan are required to answer the paper-based survey questionnaire in the study.

36
Research Instrument

The primary data will be collected through questionnaires belonging to open-ended.

Participants will be selected through a random sampling method. to ensure diverse

perspectives. The questionnaire is a collection of orderly- arranged questions carefully

prepared for random people to respond in order to gather facts and information.

Data Gathering Procedures

In collecting the data, the researcher's data will be gathered through a paper-based survey

questionnaire. The researchers will handle the paper-based survey questionnaire, which will

then be presented to the respondents in order for them to fill out information and answer the

questions provided.

37
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