What should electricians do to minimize risks when working near water?

Elect electricians should use extra grounding protection when working near water to minimize risks. Grounding provides a safety path for electrical current, which helps to prevent electric shock, especially in environments where moisture can increase the conductivity of materials and surfaces. Water is a highly effective conductor of electricity, so any electrical fault or accidental contact with electrical parts can result in severe injury or fatality.

By implementing additional grounding measures, electricians create a safer work environment, reducing the likelihood of electric shock. This is particularly important in wet conditions or when using equipment near bodies of water, as the risk of electrical accidents increases significantly. Grounding devices, such as ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), are specifically designed to trip a circuit if a fault occurs, providing further protection in wet areas.

In contrast, other options may not provide adequate safety. For example, working quickly may lead to mistakes or oversight of safety protocols, while ensuring tools are non-conductive is important but not comprehensive enough to address all hazards associated with water. Similarly, wearing waterproof clothing offers some protection, but without proper grounding, the risk of electrical shock remains high.