Electrical safety — State

State the hazards of (a) damaged insulation, (b) overheating cables, (c) damp conditions, and (d) excess current from overloading of plugs, extension leads and sockets when using a mains supply.

(a) Damaged insulation can expose live conductors, creating a risk of electric shock or short circuits. (b) Overheating cables can melt their insulation, leading to short circuits, fire, or exposed live wires. (c) Damp conditions reduce the resistance of insulation and of the human body, greatly increasing the risk of a severe or fatal electric shock. (d) Excess current from overloading sockets, plugs or extension leads causes wires to overheat, which can start a fire.