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OUTLETS:

• Check for outlets with loose fitting plugs, which can overheat and lead to fire.
• Make sure there are safety covers on all unused outlets that are accessible to  children.
• Replace any missing or broken wall plates.
• Avoid overloading outlets with too many appliances.

CORDS:

• Make sure cords are in good condition -  not frayed or cracked.
• Make sure they are placed out of traffic areas.
• Cords should never be nailed or stapled to the wall, baseboard, or to another object.
• Do not place cords under carpets, rugs, or rest any furniture on them.

EXTENSION CORDS:

• Check to see that cords are not overloaded.
• Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis; they are not intended as permanent household wiring.
• Make sure extension cords have safety closures to prevent young children from shock hazards and other injuries.

PLUGS:

• Make sure your plugs fit your outlet.
• Never remove the ground pin (the third prong) to make a three prong fit a two conductor outlet; this could lead to an electrical shock.
• Never force a plug into an outlet if it doesn’t fit.

LIGHT BULBS:

• Check the wattage of all bulbs in light fixtures to make sure they are the correct wattage for the size of the fixture.
• Replace bulbs that have light wattage than recommended.
• Make sure bulbs are screwed in securely.

GROUND FAULT CURCUIT INTERRUPTORS (GFCIs):

• GFCIs should be used in any area where water and electricity may come in contact.
• Test GFCIs according to the manufacturer’s instructions monthly and after major electrical storms to make sure they are working properly.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS/FUSES:

• Circuit breakers and fuses should be the correct size current rating for their circuit.  If you do not know the correct size, have an electrician identify and label the size to be used.
• Always replace a fuse with the same size fuse.

ENTERTAINMENT/COMPUTER EQUIPMENT:

• Check to see that the equipment is in good condition and working properly.
• Look for cracks or damage in wiring, plugs, and connectors.
• Use a Surge protector bearing the seal of nationally recognized certification agency.

APPLIANCES:

• If an appliance repeatedly blows a fuse, trips a circuit breaker or if it has given you a shock, unplug it and have it repaired or replaced.
• Turn off electrical appliances and lights before unplugging and unplug all items by firmly grasping the plug itself, never yank on the cord.

National Electric Safety Code (NESC)
http://standards.ieee.org/nesc/

Federal Occupational Safety and Health Adminstartion (OSHA)
http://www.osha.gov/

Guam OSHA Act
Guam Public Law Number 19-19 mandated the creation of the Guam Occupational Safety and Health Act (“GOSHA”) to assure every employee of the government of Guama safe workplace environment and healthy working conditions, free from recognized hazards that cause, or are likely to cause, death or serious physical harm.