Question

As a business owner, Brenda knows the importance of electrical safety. Each evening, she is the last person to leave work. Before she leaves, she makes sure that all electrical appliances are shut off and unplugged. Any that have been left plugged in, she carefully unplugs by pulling on the plug, not the cord. Every morning, Brenda arrives early to work. Before any other employees arrive, she first plugs all of the appliances back in, then carefully cleans them. Finally, she makes sure that all cords to the appliances are tucked away and not left in the middle of the room for customers and employees to trip over. What, if anything, has Brenda done wrong?

Answer 1

Brenda is diligent in practicing electrical safety by unplugging appliances, avoiding tripping hazards, and maintaining a safe work environment. She correctly pulls plugs by the plug, not the cord, and ensures cords are not a hazard. Additionally, knowledge of electrical systems and grounding can aid in diagnosing electrical issues and promoting safety.

Step-by-step explanation:

From the information provided, it does not appear that Brenda has done anything wrong in terms of practicing electrical safety. Brenda's everyday process includes turning off and unplugging electrical appliances each evening, making sure to pull on the plug and not the cord, an important safety measure.

By unplugging the appliances, she is ensuring that they do not pose a fire risk by being left on accidentally or experiencing a power surge. Every morning, Brenda plugs in the appliances before other employees arrive, cleans them, and arranges cords so they are not a tripping hazard, demonstrating diligence in maintaining a safe work environment.

However, if Brenda were to encounter an appliance that didn't work, such as a toaster not toasting bread, she could apply a logical troubleshooting process. If there's something wrong with the electrical outlet indicated by multiple devices not working (e.g., a coffeemaker working when the toaster does not), then the problem lies with the outlet.

Understanding how electrical safety systems and devices such as circuit breakers and fuses work, as well as the significance of the three-wire system that includes an earth/ground wire, is crucial for diagnosing electrical issues and ensuring safety. Grounding of appliances and the use of a three-wire system are designed to prevent electrical shocks and thermal hazards, reinforcing the importance of the proper use of electrical equipment and proper maintenance.