subject: Electrical Matting: The low-down on electrical matting [print this page] Electrical Matting: The low-down on electrical matting
Everyone knows that health and safety is of paramount importance, whatever environment you work in. However if you are an employee operating in industrial surroundings, it's even more so.
That's why it's important you understand what electrical rubber matting is, when you should use it and why it can help you, as an employee.
Electrical matting is a piece of equipment made by insulative rubber, of a specific grade designed to use alongside high-voltage machinery or switchboards. The rubber used should be of BS921 standard; the British grade that certifies the rubber as being suitable for using alongside electrical appliances.
The standard relates to the creation of the rubber, its finish, its requirements in terms of performance, its composition, and its overall appearance - primarily width and thickness. If it meets this standard, then it should work effectively - protecting any users against the risk of electrical shock.
So when should it be used? Well there are a range of situations in which electrical safety matting can and should be utilised - when working with switchboards, gear controls and rooms, and plant rooms. It should be placed on any areas in which employees will be working, and they should stand on it whilst operating the electrical machinery.
There are some other factors employees should take into consideration when working with or on electrical machinery. Firstly, their activities should be fully planned, so that you know the step-by-step process you must take to get the job done. Furthermore, you should ensure that your adaption or repair of any machinery will not affect its safety; as soon machines operate within an explosive atmosphere, and if something goes wrong, the whole place could go up in flames.
Workers should also ensure they are fully competent in the work required; with the appropriate training, skills and experience to work with such a machine. Employees who are only adequate or average in their performance should not be allowed to undertake the work until fully trained.
Electrical Safety Matting is specifically designed for use in front of switchboards or high-voltage equipment. It can provide safety for operators or maintenance staff against electrical shock, and should be specified in any area where Health & Safety risk assessments show a possibility of high-voltage shock.
