Dri-Eaz 01.15.2025

Checklist for Safe Equipment Use

While having the right equipment for water damage jobs is crucial, it's just as important that technicians know how to use it safely.

Without proper safety measures, equipment used during the drying process can pose hazards – from electrical risks to physical injuries. Ensuring restoration team members are aware of these risks helps prevent accidents and mitigate potential liability issues.

Here's a checklist of equipment safety best practices to guide technicians during remediation work:

Electrical hazards

Keep electrical cords and equipment away from standing water to minimize shock risk.
Check power cords to ensure they have a grounded electrical plug and are free of cuts and frays. To keep cords in good condition, always disconnect cords using the plug (don't just pull on the cord!).
Always plug equipment into Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) or a residual current device (RCD).
Do not overload circuits or extension cords, as this can create a fire or shock hazard. The National Electric Code (NEC) recommends using no more than 80% of a circuit's capacity – 12 amps on a 15-amp circuit or 16 on a 20-amp circuit.
Power down equipment fully and properly when it is not in use or during maintenance.

Equipment placement

Position equipment and cords carefully to avoid creating a trip hazard in walkways and thresholds. Use tape or cord covers to minimize accidents.
Make sure to check amp limits of units when plugging using on-board GFCI outlets to connect or daisy-chain units.
Direct outlets on dehumidifiers away from furnishings so that over-drying does not occur.

Maintenance protocols

Review equipment owners’ manuals and follow all indicated safety guidelines and warnings.
Keep equipment well-maintained, clean and in good operating condition.
Follow a proactive, preventative maintenance schedule that includes filter changes, test runs, inspections and usage tracking.
When changing filters used in dehumidifiers or air scrubbers in areas with mold or other contaminants, wear a respirator and bag filters before carrying them through adjacent “clean” areas.
Replace damaged cords, worn hoses, and inlet and outlet grills as needed.
Remove equipment from service while repairs are being made and tag appropriately to prevent usage while in maintenance.

In addition to these standard practices, always ensure that equipment procured is safety certified – such as UL, ETL, CE, CSA, or C-UL Listed – to further guarantee its reliability and adherence to safety regulations.

Finally, after setting up equipment at the job site, always look over the area critically: Is there anything that seems unsafe or violates your organization’s safety standards?

For more restoration-related guidance, search our Tips & Tricks for "dry" or other topics of interest.