IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

Which type of harm can result from electrical hazards?

1. Increased tripping hazards

2. Respiratory disease

3. Fires

4. Poor lighting

The correct answer is: Fires

The selection of fires as a type of harm resulting from electrical hazards is sound because electrical issues are among the leading causes of fires in both residential and commercial settings. Electrical fires may occur due to overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, or malfunctioning electrical equipment. When there is a failure in these systems, heat is generated, which can ignite surrounding materials and lead to extensive damage or even loss of life. Understanding this risk highlights the importance of proper electrical safety measures, such as regularly inspecting electrical installations, using equipment within its rated capacity, and being aware of signs of electrical malfunction, like flickering lights or unusual heat at outlets. The other choices, while they may indicate general safety concerns, do not directly correlate with electric hazards as fires do. For example, respiratory diseases typically arise from environmental factors like contaminants in the air, not directly from electrical issues. Increased tripping hazards generally refer to physical obstacles on walkways rather than electrical risks. Poor lighting is more related to inadequate illumination and can be a safety concern, but it is not classified specifically under electrical harm without involving faulty electrical fixtures.