Hazard Alert - Electric Furnaces and Kilns

A number of areas use electric furnaces and kilns. Some of these have exposed spiral resistive heating elements. Contact with these exposed elements when heating is in progress may lead to an electric shock. The hazard can be increased when metallic or conducting items are heated in the furnace chamber. Equipment containing such systems should be regularly serviced, and systems instituted to ensure that:

• Interlocks are present to ensure elements are deenergised when the chamber is open.
• There is visual indication that the elements are energised.
• Safe systems of work are in place and suitable instruction is given to users.

Older units which have been in service for many years should be appraised by a suitably qualified furnace technician to confirm compliance with current electrical standards.