Galley electric shock – Uncontrolled portable electrical equipment
- Safety Flash
- Published on 4 June 2019
- Generated on 26 August 2025
- IMCA SF 13/19
- 1 minute read
A person cleaning the galley got a mains electric shock.
What happened?
During galley cleaning, the chief cook was using a wet cloth to wipe clean the food preparation areas.
Mounted adjacent to the splash back was an electrical power board/extension socket.
The wet cloth contacted the electrical power board, resulting in the chief cook receiving a mild electric shock, felt as a ‘tingle’ to the arm.
Electrical outlets in the galley should be IP56 rated to protect against water. However, a non-IP-rated electrical power board had been paired with an IP-rated plug to enable the use of personal appliances (powered speakers) in the galley.
What actions were taken? What lessons were learned?
- Removal of the unsuitable power board/extension socket.
- Thorough review of the need for, and use of, power boards/extension sockets.
- Focused inspections of accommodation and working areas to identify unauthorised electrical appliances/power boards.
- Identify safe (authorised) areas outside of work zones for charging/use of personal appliances.
- Reiterate to crew: When working with equipment, NEVER improvise by using non-standard or makeshift equipment.
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 18/18
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IMCA SF 05/10
28 July 2010
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IMCA SF 10/07
20 December 2007
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