Don't die for DIY
DIY errors cause half of all serious electric shocks in UK homes, and almost 50% of men admit they feel they should try and tackle household maintenance and repair jobs themselves, or ask a mate, before calling in a professional.
A survey we carried out in 2013 discovered almost half of all severe electric shocks are caused by mistakes while doing DIY, such as cutting through power leads, drilling into wiring, or repairing electrical items while still switched on.
And another survey we did in 2016 of 1,000 registered electricians revealed one-third had seen or been involved with fixing electrical DIY mishaps that had resulted in fires, serious electric shock, or significant repair costs.
Beware using online advice for DIY
Although Google and YouTube are popular ways to search for DIY tips, make sure your guidance is from a reputable source. You can’t always rely on DIY advice you find online, especially where it may involve electrics.
Top five tips for electrical safety when doing DIY
- Locate cables in your wall. A common DIY error is accidentally drilling, nailing, or screwing into cables hidden inside your walls. A quality cable detector can help track buried cables before you start work and reduce the risk of an electric shock.
- Use an RCD (residual current device). An RCD can save your life by cutting off the power in the event of an electrical fault caused by a DIY blunder. Make sure you have an RCD fitted in your fusebox (consumer unit) and, where necessary, use a plug-in RCD.
- Shut off the power. If you're doing any work near electrical wiring or power supplies, it is recommended to shut off the power in your fusebox (if you can) and only use battery-powered tools. To be sure that power is off before beginning DIY, plug an appliance into sockets or try switching on the lights.
- Before using power tools, check the lead and plug. If you see signs of damage (for example, frayed wires) get the equipment professionally repaired before using it, or get it replaced. Watch out for the power lead at all times so you don't accidentally cut through or trip over it.
- Get advice from a registered electrician. The best way to avoid electrical accidents in the home is to seek the advice of a professional. And, if you’re not sure, don't DIY.
Use an electrician
If you need any electrical work done in your home, don't do it yourself. The best option is always to get a competent person to do the job.
Don't fall foul of the law on home renovations
Part P of the Building Regulations is the legal framework that covers householders who are having work done in their homes.
It states that work which is deemed more dangerous – such as in the bathroom, or the installation of a new circuit – must be undertaken or reviewed and signed off by a registered electrician.
A lot of electrical work in the home is "notifiable" meaning that by law the local authority has to be informed of it and it has to be certified by a registered electrician.