How to Record an Electrical Safety Video for Your Health and Safety System

Why Record an Electrical Safety Video?

Electricity can kill or severely injure people and cause damage to property. Your organisation has a duty to take precautions when working with or near electricity and electrical equipment to significantly reduce the risk of injury to employees and others who may be harmed by working practices.

A video recording supports effective management of electrical safety in several important ways. It allows you to demonstrate what proper equipment checks look like. It shows staff exactly what warning signs to look for before using electrical appliances. It reinforces the message that damaged equipment must be removed from service immediately. And it ensures consistent training across your entire team.

By recording an electrical safety video, you help employees understand the seriousness of electrical hazards, recognise problems before accidents happen, follow proper checking procedures, and know how to report issues effectively. Prevention through awareness is always better than dealing with the consequences of an electrical incident.

Step 1: Set the Scene and Context

Opening Your Video

Begin by establishing why electrical safety requires specific attention and the potential consequences of getting it wrong. The tone should be serious but practical—electrical incidents are preventable through consistent good practice.

Sample opening script:

"Welcome to our electrical safety training. In this video, we'll explain why electrical safety is critical, what we do to manage electrical risks, and what role you play in keeping everyone safe.

Electricity can kill or severely injure people and cause significant damage to property. We have a duty to take precautions when working with or near electricity and electrical equipment to significantly reduce the risk of injury to you and others.

This isn't about creating unnecessary rules—it's about ensuring everyone goes home safely at the end of each day. Electrical incidents can happen quickly and without warning, but they're almost always preventable when proper procedures are followed.

In this video, we'll cover how we assess electrical risks, what makes equipment suitable for use, how to check appliances before using them, our testing and maintenance arrangements, and what to do if you spot a problem."

Explaining Why This Matters

Help employees understand the real impact of electrical hazards. Statistics and consequences make the issue tangible.

Talking points:

• Electrical incidents can result in fatal or life-changing injuries
• Burns, electric shock, and fires can all result from electrical faults
• Even low-voltage equipment can cause serious harm in the wrong conditions
• Damaged cables and faulty plugs are common causes of electrical incidents
• Most electrical accidents are preventable through proper checks and maintenance
• Everyone has a role to play in spotting and reporting hazards

The Organisation's Commitment

Explain that the organisation aims to reduce risk associated with the use of electricity and electrical equipment by following specific safety arrangements.

Sample script:

"We aim to reduce the risk associated with the use of electricity and electrical equipment by following specific safety arrangements. These aren't optional guidelines—they're our formal approach to preventing electrical incidents.

Responsible Persons conduct risk assessments of electrical hazards. We ensure all electrical equipment is suitable for its intended use. Staff receive training on the risks associated with electrical appliances and how to check equipment before use. We have testing protocols in place. And we ensure all electrical work is carried out by competent, qualified engineers.

Your role is essential. By checking equipment before use and reporting any problems immediately, you help maintain electrical safety for everyone."

Step 2: Plan What to Record vs Write

Content That Works Best on Video

Electrical safety benefits from visual demonstration. Showing what a damaged cable looks like, demonstrating the pre-use check process, or walking through what warning signs to look for—these are far more effective on video than in writing. Prioritise these elements:

Record on video:

• What to check on a plug before use (pins, casing, cable grip)
• What damaged cables look like (tape repairs, exposed wires, fraying)
• Signs of overheating (burn marks, discolouration, staining)
• How to conduct a proper visual inspection before use
• What "remove from service" means in practice
• Examples of good versus problematic extension lead use
• Where to report electrical hazards

Document in writing:

• Specific testing frequencies based on equipment type
• Detailed technical requirements for electrical installations
• Records of periodic inspections and test results
• Contact details for reporting electrical faults
• Electrical Condition Report requirements and filing procedures
• Competent person qualifications and accreditation requirements

Structuring Your Recording

Plan your video to flow from understanding the risks through to practical prevention measures. A logical structure might be:

1. Why electrical safety matters
2. Risk assessment approach
3. Equipment suitability requirements
4. Pre-use visual checks
5. Testing and maintenance protocols
6. Reporting hazards and removing faulty equipment
7. Everyone's responsibilities

Step 3: Explain the Core Rules and Requirements

Risk Assessment

Explain that Responsible Persons conduct risk assessments of electrical hazards.

Sample script:

"Responsible Persons will conduct a risk assessment of any electrical hazards. This assessment covers who could be harmed by them, how the level of risk has been established, and the precautions taken to control that risk.

This systematic approach ensures we identify where electrical risks exist in our workplace, consider who might be affected—whether employees, contractors, or visitors—and put appropriate controls in place.

The risk assessment informs everything else we do around electrical safety. It tells us what equipment needs testing, how often, and what specific precautions are needed in different areas of our operation."

Equipment Suitability

Explain the requirements for electrical installations and equipment.

Sample script:

"We ensure that the electrical installation and the electrical equipment is suitable for its intended use, the conditions in which it is operated, and is only used for its intended purpose.

This means the right equipment for the right job. Equipment designed for indoor use shouldn't be used outdoors. Equipment rated for light domestic use shouldn't be used in demanding commercial environments. Using equipment beyond its design specifications creates risks.

If you're ever unsure whether a piece of equipment is suitable for what you need it for, ask before using it. It's always better to check than to risk an incident."

Staff Training

Explain that staff receive training on electrical risks and checking procedures.

Talking points:

• Staff receive training to make them aware of the risk associated with use of electrical appliances
• Training covers instruction on how to check appliances prior to use
• Staff learn what warning signs to look for
• Training explains what to do when problems are found
• This video is part of that training programme
• Refresher training ensures continued awareness

Pre-Use Equipment Checks

Explain the requirement for checking electrical appliances before use and what to look for.

Sample script:

"All electrical appliances must be checked prior to use. This isn't a lengthy process—it's a quick visual inspection that takes just moments but could prevent a serious incident.

You need to remove equipment from service where:

The plug or connector is damaged—this includes cracked casings, bent pins, or loose connections.

The cable has been repaired with tape, is not secure, or internal wires are visible. Tape repairs are never acceptable. If a cable needs repair, it needs proper repair by a competent person or replacement.

Burn marks or stains are present, suggesting the equipment has been overheating. Discolouration around plugs or along cables is a warning sign that should never be ignored.

If you find any of these problems, do not use the equipment. Remove it from service immediately and report it so it can be properly repaired or replaced."

Testing Protocols

Explain the testing requirements for electrical equipment.

Sample script:

"Beyond visual checks, electrical equipment must be formally tested at appropriate intervals. We identify a suitable frequency for electrical appliances to be tested based on equipment in use and HSE guidance on maintaining portable electrical equipment in low-risk environments. We put protocols in place to ensure equipment is tested at the designated frequency.

The testing frequency depends on the type of equipment and how it's used. Equipment that's moved frequently or used in more demanding conditions needs more frequent testing than static equipment in low-risk environments.

Electrical equipment must be tested by a competent person. A competent person is someone who has the suitable training, skill, and knowledge for the task to be undertaken to prevent injury to themselves and others. This isn't something just anyone can do—it requires specific expertise."

Reducing Extension Lead Use

Explain why extension leads should be minimised.

Talking points:

• We provide an adequate amount of plug points to reduce the requirement for extension leads
• Extension leads pose a danger of overheating if overloaded
• They can become a trip hazard within the venue
• Daisy-chaining extension leads multiplies risks
• If extension leads must be used, they should be appropriate for the load
• Permanent extension lead use suggests more socket outlets are needed

Installation and Maintenance Work

Explain requirements for electrical work.

Sample script:

"All electrical installation work, including repairs, must be undertaken by a competent, qualified Electrical Engineer. This isn't work for well-meaning amateurs—improper electrical work can create hidden dangers that may not become apparent until someone is injured.

We arrange for a periodic inspection of the fixed hard wiring at the frequency identified by an Electrical Engineer—usually every five years. This work must be undertaken by an Electrical Engineer accredited to NICEIC.

Following periodic inspection, we receive an Electrical Condition Report. This document is reviewed to ensure any issues identified are addressed, and it's filed in our safety documentation. This provides evidence that our electrical installation is properly maintained and that we're meeting our legal obligations."

Monitoring and Reporting

Explain how electrical safety is monitored.

Sample script:

"We monitor the use of electrical equipment and address any reported hazards where electrical safety is compromised.

This monitoring relies partly on formal checks and inspections, but also on everyone being alert to problems. If you notice anything that concerns you about electrical equipment or installations—even if you're not certain it's a problem—report it.

It's far better to report something that turns out to be fine than to ignore something that causes an incident. Your observations are a vital part of our electrical safety arrangements."

Step 4: Demonstrate or Walk Through the Process

Conducting a Pre-Use Visual Check

Walk through exactly how to check equipment before use.

Sample script:

"Let me show you how to conduct a pre-use visual check. This should happen every time before you use electrical equipment.

Start with the plug. Check that the casing isn't cracked or damaged. Look at the pins—they should be straight and secure. Check that the cable grip where the cable enters the plug is secure and hasn't pulled loose.

Move along the cable. Look for any damage—cuts, fraying, kinks, or signs of wear. Check particularly where the cable joins the plug and where it joins the equipment, as these are stress points where damage often occurs. Never use equipment where tape has been used to repair a cable.

Check the equipment itself. Look for any damage to the casing. Check for burn marks or discolouration that might suggest overheating. If the equipment has a switch, check it operates properly.

This entire check takes just seconds but provides genuine protection. Make it a habit every time you use electrical equipment."

What Damaged Equipment Looks Like

Show examples of the problems staff should look for.

Sample script:

"Let me show you what problems look like so you can recognise them.

This is a damaged plug—you can see the casing is cracked. Even small cracks can allow moisture to enter and create a shock risk. This plug shouldn't be used until it's replaced.

This cable shows signs of wear where it's been repeatedly bent. You can see the outer sheath is damaged and the inner insulation is visible. This creates a risk of short circuit and potential fire or shock.

This is a cable that's been repaired with tape. This is never acceptable. Tape repairs don't provide proper insulation and can come loose. If a cable needs repair, it needs proper repair or the equipment needs replacing.

This plug shows burn marks around the pins. This suggests the connection has been overheating, possibly due to a loose connection or overloading. This equipment needs to be checked by a competent person before use."

Removing Equipment from Service

Explain what to do when problems are found.

Talking points:

• "Remove from service" means the equipment cannot be used
• Label the equipment clearly so others know not to use it
• Physically remove it from the area if possible, or make it impossible to use
• Report the fault through the proper channels
• Don't attempt repairs yourself unless you're competent to do so
• Document what you found and when

Reporting Electrical Hazards

Walk through the reporting process.

Sample script:

"When you find an electrical hazard, report it immediately. Don't assume someone else has already reported it, and don't wait until it's more convenient.

Report what you found, where you found it, and when. Be specific—'the kettle in the break room has a cracked plug' is more useful than 'there's a problem with some equipment.'

If the hazard is serious—exposed wires, burning smell, sparking—alert others in the immediate area and ensure no one uses the equipment or approaches the hazard until it's been dealt with by a competent person.

Your report triggers the action needed to address the hazard. Without your report, the problem might not be discovered until after an incident."

Step 5: Highlight Common Mistakes

Mistake 1: Skipping Pre-Use Checks

Signs this is happening:

• Equipment is used immediately without any visual inspection
• Staff don't know what they should be checking for
• Damaged equipment continues to be used
• "We've always used it like that" responses to concerns
• Checks are seen as unnecessary bureaucracy

How to avoid it:

Establish pre-use checks as a non-negotiable habit. Make clear what staff should look for and why. Reinforce that these checks protect the person using the equipment. Lead by example—if managers skip checks, staff will too. Address any attitude that checks are a waste of time.

Mistake 2: Using Tape-Repaired Cables

Signs this is happening:

• Electrical tape visible on cables around the workplace
• Staff believe tape repairs are acceptable temporary fixes
• Damaged cables are "patched up" rather than properly repaired
• Budget concerns lead to delayed proper repairs
• "It's only a small bit of tape" justifications

How to avoid it:

Make absolutely clear that tape repairs are never acceptable. Remove any tape-repaired equipment from service immediately. Ensure proper repair or replacement happens promptly. Address the root cause if budget constraints are leading to improper repairs—the cost of a proper repair is nothing compared to the cost of an incident.

Mistake 3: Overloading Extension Leads

Signs this is happening:

• Multiple high-power appliances connected to single extension leads
• Extension leads feel warm to touch during use
• "Daisy chains" of extension leads connected together
• Extension leads used as permanent solutions rather than temporary
• Staff don't know the load rating of extension leads

How to avoid it:

Provide adequate socket outlets to reduce reliance on extension leads. Where extension leads are necessary, ensure they're appropriate for the load. Never allow daisy-chaining. Train staff to understand load limits. If extension leads are in permanent use, arrange for additional socket installation.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Warning Signs

Signs this is happening:

• Equipment continues to be used despite showing signs of problems
• Intermittent faults are dismissed as "just a glitch"
• Unusual smells or sounds from equipment are ignored
• Staff report problems but nothing happens
• "It's probably fine" responses to concerns

How to avoid it:

Create a culture where every warning sign is taken seriously. Respond promptly to reports—if staff see their reports lead to action, they'll continue reporting. Train staff to recognise warning signs beyond obvious damage. Make clear that early intervention prevents serious incidents.

Mistake 5: Not Reporting Hazards

Signs this is happening:

• Staff work around known hazards rather than reporting them
• Problems are mentioned informally but not formally reported
• Staff assume someone else has already reported issues
• Reporting is seen as "getting someone in trouble"
• Hazards persist because no one has documented them

How to avoid it:

Make reporting easy and ensure it's seen positively. Follow up on reports so staff see the value in reporting. Make clear that reporting protects everyone—including the reporter. Address any perception that reporting causes problems for colleagues. Thank staff for reporting hazards.

Mistake 6: Using Equipment Beyond Its Design

Signs this is happening:

• Indoor equipment used outdoors
• Domestic equipment used for commercial intensity
• Equipment modified to fit different uses
• Equipment used in conditions it wasn't designed for
• "It works fine" responses to suitability concerns

How to avoid it:

Ensure staff understand equipment limitations. Check equipment specifications before purchasing for particular uses. Address misuse promptly and explain why it matters. Provide appropriate equipment for the tasks required rather than making do with unsuitable alternatives.

Mistake 7: Unqualified Electrical Work

Signs this is happening:

• Staff attempt electrical repairs themselves
• Well-meaning but unqualified people "help" with electrical issues
• Cost savings lead to using unqualified workers
• "Simple" electrical work is done in-house without competence
• Proper qualifications aren't checked when using contractors

How to avoid it:

Make absolutely clear that electrical work must be done by competent, qualified engineers. Verify qualifications before engaging contractors. Address any culture of "having a go" at electrical problems. Ensure the budget and processes exist to get proper repairs done promptly.

Mistake 8: Missing Periodic Inspections

Signs this is happening:

• Fixed wiring inspection is overdue
• There's no record of when the last inspection occurred
• Electrical Condition Reports aren't reviewed or filed
• Inspection recommendations aren't actioned
• "It's expensive" delays inspection scheduling

How to avoid it:

Schedule periodic inspections in advance and treat them as non-negotiable. Review Electrical Condition Reports and action any findings. File documentation properly. Understand that the cost of inspection is minimal compared to the cost of an incident or enforcement action.

Mistake 9: Inadequate Socket Provision

Signs this is happening:

• Extension leads are everywhere
• Staff create impromptu electrical setups
• Equipment is unplugged to plug other things in
• Cable routes are hazardous because of limited socket positions
• "We've always managed" responses to inadequate provision

How to avoid it:

Assess whether socket provision is adequate for current needs. Arrange additional socket installation where needed. Recognise that using extension leads as a permanent solution to inadequate sockets creates ongoing risk. Plan socket provision when workspaces are set up or modified.

Mistake 10: Poor Documentation

Signs this is happening:

• Test records are incomplete or missing
• It's unclear when equipment was last tested
• Electrical Condition Reports can't be found
• No record of who is responsible for electrical safety
• Documentation is completed but never reviewed

How to avoid it:

Establish clear documentation requirements and responsibilities. Review documentation regularly to ensure it's being maintained. File Electrical Condition Reports and other key documents accessibly. Use documentation proactively to inform decisions about testing and maintenance.

Step 6: Summarise the Key Takeaways

Closing Your Video

End with a clear summary that reinforces the key messages and everyone's role in electrical safety.

Sample closing script:

"Let's summarise the key points from this training.

Electricity can kill or severely injure people. We have a duty to take precautions to significantly reduce the risk of injury.

Responsible Persons conduct risk assessments of electrical hazards, identifying who could be harmed and what controls are needed.

Our electrical installation and equipment must be suitable for their intended use and the conditions they operate in. Equipment should only be used for its intended purpose.

All staff receive training on electrical risks and how to check equipment before use. That's what this video provides.

Check all electrical appliances before use. Remove equipment from service if the plug or connector is damaged, if the cable has been repaired with tape or shows visible damage, or if there are burn marks suggesting overheating.

Electrical equipment is tested at appropriate intervals by competent persons. Adequate socket provision reduces the need for extension leads. All electrical work is done by qualified engineers. Periodic inspections of fixed wiring are carried out and documented.

Your role is essential. Check equipment before you use it. Report any problems immediately. Never use damaged equipment. Never attempt electrical repairs unless you're qualified to do so.

Electrical safety depends on everyone following these arrangements consistently. Thank you for your attention to this important topic."

Final Checklist

Before finalising your video, confirm you have covered:

• The duty to protect against electrical hazards
• Risk assessment by Responsible Persons
• Equipment suitability requirements
• Staff training on risks and checks
• Pre-use visual inspection process
• What problems to look for (damaged plugs, tape repairs, burn marks)
• Testing by competent persons at appropriate frequencies
• Reducing reliance on extension leads
• Electrical work by qualified engineers only
• Periodic inspection of fixed wiring
• Documentation requirements (Electrical Condition Reports)
• Monitoring and reporting arrangements
• Practical demonstrations of what to check
• What to do when problems are found

Additional Recording Tips

Using Your Actual Workplace

The most effective electrical safety training shows your actual equipment and workplace. Walk through your premises pointing out specific equipment and potential hazards. This makes the training immediately relevant rather than abstract.

Showing Real Examples

If you have examples of damaged equipment that has been removed from service (kept specifically for training purposes), showing these is powerful. Real examples of cracked plugs, frayed cables, or burn marks make the message concrete.

Demonstrating the Check Process

Consider having someone demonstrate the complete pre-use check process on camera. Showing exactly where to look and what to check is far more effective than describing it verbally.

Keeping It Practical

Focus on what staff actually need to do. Most employees need to know how to check equipment, recognise problems, and report hazards. They don't need detailed technical knowledge of electrical systems—that's for the competent persons who conduct testing and repairs.

Conclusion

A well-produced electrical safety video helps communicate your organisation's commitment to managing electrical risks and ensures everyone understands their role in maintaining safety. By covering risk assessment, equipment suitability, pre-use checks, testing protocols, and maintenance requirements, you create a comprehensive training resource that prevents incidents.

Remember that the video is part of a broader approach. It should be supported by genuine risk assessment, appropriate testing schedules, competent persons conducting testing and repairs, proper documentation, and ongoing monitoring. Electrical safety requires sustained attention—it's not something you set up once and forget.

Your electrical safety video demonstrates that you take these risks seriously and that every member of staff has a role in prevention. When checking equipment before use becomes everyone's habit, incidents become rare rather than routine.