Electrical safety

Keep water containers away from electrical appliances

Never place cups, vases, basins, or wet items on or beside appliances, and keep appliances away from windows, balconies, and splash areas.

High-priority reminder

Last reviewed: 2026-10-12

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A cup and wet cloth beside a powered appliance on the left and the same dry appliance area with the cup far away on the right

Why it matters

Water entering an energised appliance can cause electric shock, short circuit, or fire; internal moisture may remain even when the case looks dry.

Wrong action

Putting a drink on a TV, extension unit, or appliance, or washing and keeping a basin beside powered equipment.

Correct action

Give drinks and cleaning water a fixed place away from appliances and keep the appliance area dry before use.

What to do

Remove every water container from above and beside appliances.
Keep appliances away from windows, balconies, sinks, and splash areas.
After a splash, do not touch or start the appliance; tell the employer and arrange a safe check.

If something happens

For smoke, fire, or electric shock, keep clear, isolate power only if safe, and call 999. Do not touch a casualty while they may still be connected to electricity. Once power is safely isolated, follow dispatcher first aid; if unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin CPR as instructed.