As we step into the vibrant month of May, the weather gets warmer, the days grow longer, and outdoor activities start picking up. It’s also a perfect time to refocus on safety—both at work and at home. May is recognized as National Electrical Safety Month and marks the beginning of the summer season, making it a perfect time to reassess safety practices and get ahead of seasonal hazards.

Electrical Safety Awareness

Electricity powers our lives, but it can also be dangerous when overlooked. National Electrical Safety Month serves as a reminder to be cautious with electrical systems and equipment. Whether you work in an office, at home, or on a job site, here are some key tips to keep in mind:

• Inspect cords and outlets regularly. Frayed wires and damaged plugs are major fire hazards.
• Don’t overload outlets or power strips. It may be tempting to plug in everything at once, especially in a busy workspace, but that can lead to overheating and potential fires.
• Keep water away from electrical sources. Never use electrical appliances near pools, sinks, or wet surfaces.
• Hire professionals for repairs. DIY fixes can be dangerous if you're not trained to handle electrical systems properly.

Warmer Weather = Changing Risks

As temperatures rise, so do certain health and safety risks—especially for those who work outdoors or in non-climate-controlled environments.

• Hydration is key. Dehydration can sneak up fast, especially during physical work. Encourage regular water breaks and recognize early signs of heat exhaustion.
• Sun protection matters. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats aren’t just for beach days—they’re essential PPE for outdoor workers.
• Plan for weather extremes. May can bring everything from heatwaves to spring storms. Make sure your team knows emergency procedures for weather-related threats.

Seasonal Maintenance and Preparation

May is also a good time to conduct safety reviews and maintenance tasks that may have been put off during the winter:

• Check HVAC systems. Before the summer heat sets in, ensure cooling systems are working properly—especially in environments where temperature control is critical for health and productivity.
• Inspect outdoor areas. Walkways, parking lots, and exterior lighting should all be reviewed for safety issues like cracks, debris, or insufficient lighting.
• Review emergency plans. With the potential for severe spring weather, now is the time to refresh staff on evacuation plans and emergency contact info.

A Culture of Year-Round Safety

Safety isn’t seasonal—it’s a year-round commitment. But using calendar months as themed reminders can help reinforce important messages. Take May as an opportunity to engage your team with toolbox talks, brief safety refreshers, or even a safety challenge to keep the momentum going. 

Please reach out to your MEMIC loss control representative for more information and resources around electrical safety. 

Resources:

• MEMIC Blog: Elementary Electrical Safety Awareness
• MEMIC Blog: Sizzling Solutions: Reviewing OSHA’s Proposed Heat Safety Standard
• OSHA eTool : Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution
• National Electrical Safety Month - Electrical Safety Foundation International
• EEI: Don't Be Shocked May is National Electrical Safety Month
  
   

Posted ByJeremiah LaCross, CSP, WCP®