Electricity is the lifeblood of modern society, it enhances our quality of life and we are becoming increasingly reliant on it to power tools and devices we use for work and entertainment. However, although electricity has many benefits it can also be a hidden killer as it can’t be seen, felt, smelled or heard until someone comes into contact with it.

This course will start by covering the many benefits electricity brings to society, as well as its key components voltage, current and resistance. It will explain the two main types of electricity, cover UK accident and death statistics, and describe a simple way of remembering the electrical hazards. It then goes on to provide basic instructions about how you could safely help someone you suspect has received an electric shock.

Towards the end of the course it includes an overview of the main standards, guidance and legislation that control the use of electricity in the workplace, and finish off by looking at simple maintenance plans and portable appliance testing including who within an organisation would be best to carry out the various checks.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain what electricity is, its benefits and define the terms used with regard to electricity.
• State how it causes harm to the body, how to be safe around it and be able to assist if someone is hurt.
• Understand the legislation, refer to further guidance and understand the standards introduced to reduce its potential harm.
• Recognise the importance of safety management of electrical equipment.