Risks Assessment of Electrical Installation High Voltage and Low Voltage for Power Generation/Distribution Operation

Abstract

Electrical hazard is major concern for all sectors in Nigeria and even in residential areas. This makes it essential to evaluate the risk levels to which the population is exposed. This study assessed the risk of electrical installations for power generation/distribution operation in residential areas. The survey approach was employed in the risk assessment of electrical installations within the residential area where a detailed checklist was implemented in risk evaluation study on electrical installations. Result from inspection of low voltage installation such as switchboard and circuit breakers as well as schematic diagram display showed that there are possible damages which may alter safety. Inspection of main cables showed an acceptable level and only recorded a minor visible damage. While, visible damages were observed on the meter boards due to time of installation and low housekeeping level. Assessment of high voltage installations showed that transformers and earth system are also satisfactory and acceptable with proper ventilation to transformers, adequate maintenance test and insulating plate for live parts. High voltage installations were also observed to be electrically earthed and present a low — medium risk level. It can therefore be concluded that low and high voltage installations showed that only low voltage installation showed a high risk level due to absence of caution signs.

Keywords: Hazard, Electrical Installation, Risk Assessment, Safety Management