Safety First!
Electricity is so easy to use that we sometimes forget how dangerous it is. Did you know there is enough electrical current in a small, electric Christmas tree light-bulb to stop your heart? Hundreds of electrocutions, thousands of shock and burn injuries, as well as thousands of fires occur each year as a result of electricity-related incidents.
Often, electrical injuries can be avoided by implementing basic safety precautions. Please review the electrical safety tips below to learn how you can protect yourself and others from electrical injuries. Don't be a victim!
Electrical Safety Tips
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Call Before You Dig!
TN-ONE CALL Purpose
Tennessee One-Call System, Inc., is a non-profit Tennessee corporation established in 1983, whose mission is to act as an advance notification service to operators of underground facilities anywhere within the state. Tennessee One-Call is governed by a Board of Directors and an Operating Committee. TN One-Call is the only such service in Tennessee and are recognized as the "official" one-call service for the state.
Click HERE for a direct link to TN ONE-CALL.
NOTICE: BrightRidge will locate its underground electrical facilities on BrightRidge property or its right-of-ways. If there are underground electrical utilities located on the customer properties, it is the customer's responsibility to utilize an underground locating service/contractor to identify and mark accordingly. The hiring and payment for this type of contractor is the customer’s responsibility.
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Generator Safety
If you should lose electric service and you choose to use a portable generator until power is restored, follow these common-sense rules before connecting:
- Report your power outage to BrightRidge by calling (423) 952-5000 or via SmartHub. One call will be sufficient; repeated calls simply overload the automated reporting system.
- Carefully read your generator instruction manual before using.
- All permanent generator installs should be inspected by a certified State Electrical Inspector. You should not use the device prior to inspection.
- NEVER connect your generator directly to house wiring, unless you have a properly installed “double-throw-over open transition switch." These switches disconnect the home's electrical service from BrightRidge's electrical grid. They disconnect the energized wires and the neutral wire from your service entrance cables. These switches must be in place to ensure the safety of our lines and protect linemen from back-feeds from non-utility sources. A lineman could be severely injured or killed if a generator is connected without the proper safety switch in place. Opening the “main” switch or breaker will NOT disconnect the neutral conductor. Power from the generator can flow backwards into the supply system through neutral conductors, through transformers, creating deadly full-line voltages on power lines that utility employees could be repairing. Pulling the meter will NOT disconnect the neutral and WILL be considered “Unauthorized Tampering” with BrightRidge equipment.
- When connecting equipment to generators, always be sure cords are of sufficient size (current carrying capacity) for the load you are connecting. Use a separate cord for each piece of equipment connected. Be sure that all cords are wired correctly.
- Check your cords to ensure that all insulation is in place or in good repair and that no wires are exposed.
- Turn the generator off and allow it time to cool before refueling. Never fuel a hot engine!
- Avoid electrocution! Keep the generator dry. Do not use a generator in rain, snow, or wet conditions. Do not touch the generator with wet hands. If your generator is located in a wet area (outdoors), or cords or equipment are in wet areas, utilize Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection. These work the same way as your bathroom electric receptacles and trip-off when a short circuit is detected.
- Generators are intended for outdoor use. Never use a generator in an enclosed, interior setting as this could create Carbon Monoxide (CO), which could be fatal if such fumes are inhaled. You should install carbon monoxide detectors at ground level.
- Do not overload the generator. If necessary, stagger the operating times, especially for large pieces of equipment, to prevent overload.
- Choose a generator that produces more amps than you need. (Determine the total amps you need by dividing watts by volts.)
- Make sure the generator is properly grounded. Without proper grounding, you could be electrocuted.
- Have alternative heat, light and cooking methods available. Furthermore, know how to use them safely.
- Get as comfortable as possible; try to enjoy the experience of living without modern conveniences.
- Check out the link below for a simplified wiring diagram to accommodate a portable generator or pick up a copy of this diagram in our Engineering Department. Click HERE for a diagram indicating proper generator hook–up.
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Indoor Safety
- Electrical outlets should be routinely checked for loose fitting plugs, which can overheat and become a fire hazard.
- Broken or missing wall plates should be replaced.
- Unused outlets should be covered with safety covers.
- Appliance, lamp, or other electrical cords should be routinely checked for frayed or cracked areas.
- Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis.
- Never unplug an electrical cord by pulling on the cord. To unplug an appliance properly, pull on the plug head.
- Never place electrical cords underneath carpet or nail to a wall or baseboard.
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to detect ground faults at very low levels and interrupt the power supply to prevent electrical shock. GFCI outlets should be used in areas where electricity can come in contact with water (such as bathrooms, garages, kitchens, and swimming pools). For more information on the use of GFCIs, consult a licensed electrician or obtain a copy of the National Electrical Code (NEC).
- When using space heaters, keep them at least 3’ away from combustible materials such as draperies, furniture, bedding, and rugs.
- Do not overload electrical outlets. Check circuit breaker or fuse amperages to ensure they can withstand the load of the appliance.
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Outdoor Safety
- When working outside, such as working from a ladder, pruning trees, or working on the roof, beware of overhead power lines.
- Before you dig, make sure there are no underground power lines in the area. Call TN-One Call at 1-800-351-1111.
- All outdoor electrical outlets should be Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected.
- Inspect all extension cords and power tool cords for cracked or frayed areas before beginning work outside.
- Never use electrically operated power tools in the rain or wet conditions.
- Do not allow children to fly kites around power lines. Electricity can travel through the kites' string. Keep your child safe by flying kites in an open area.
- Never touch a fallen power line. Always assume it is energized and immediately call BrightRidge at (423) 952-5000.
- Teach children to recognize and stay clear of potentially dangerous electrical hazards outside your home, such as utility poles, utility pole guy wires, and transformer enclosures.
- When using lighted holiday decorations, make sure they are suitable for outdoor use and take time to inspect all electrical connections and cords for damage.
- In the event of lightning, seek shelter immediately. Never stand under a tree, tall objects, or go near water. Lightning can strike anywhere.
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Work Safety
- Never overload electrical circuits. Check your breaker/fuse box to determine if the outlets can safely handle the equipment's electrical load.
- Use properly wired 3-prong outlets to ensure proper grounding.
- Make sure your office has sufficient wall outlets to prevent the use of extension cords. If you must use an extension cord, make sure it is rated for the products you are using.
- Use surge suppression devices to protect sensitive electronic equipment from electrical surges.
- Survey the job site for safety hazards before you begin working.
- Read and obey all danger and warning signs.
- Before working on any piece of electrical equipment, turn the power supply off and lock out and tag out the circuit.
- When working around electricity with a ladder, use one made of fiberglass or wood.
- Remove any metal jewelry, rings, or watches before working on electrical equipment. Metal objects are conductors of electricity.
- Make sure clothing fits snugly when working around machinery. Lose clothing can get tangled in moving machinery parts.
Safety Tips - Installing Insulation
A home’s insulation is vital for both comfort and energy efficiency. Properly installed insulation in ceilings, walls and floors helps keep warm and cool air inside your home. It is also important to know how to install insulation safely.
Be mindful of protective gear and clothing such as a work helmet or hard hat, safety glasses, and a dust mask. It is also a good idea to cover yourself with long-sleeve shirts, pants, and gloves to protect your skin. Be sure to wash your hands after handling insulation and wash clothes separately from other clothing. Additional safety concerns are utility knives for cutting insulation. Make sure these are retractable or sheathed so that the blade is not exposed when the knife is not being used. Other required tools may include a tape measure, stapling tool, putty knife, screwdriver, and caulk.
Safety both before and after installation should always be considered. Avoid placing insulation close to heat-producing devices such as furnaces and light fixtures. Also, avoid insulation over attic vents. Moisture control should also be considered. Ensure that the vapor barrier (paper side) is placed toward the living space to prevent moisture from accumulating, which may cause rotting.
If you are unsure about how to properly install insulation, contact a qualified insulation contractor. Make sure you locate a reputable contractor and obtain an estimate from at least three contractors. Research contractors' work through references and contact the BrightRidge Energy Services & Marketing Department at (423) 952-5142 for recommended R-value insulation levels. Carefully examine any contractual agreements with regards to warranties and other details.