Why must you avoid working with frayed electrical cords?

The reason for avoiding working with frayed electrical cords primarily centers around the electrical shock hazard they present. When a cord is frayed, the insulation that protects the conducting wires becomes compromised. This exposes the wires which can lead to unintended contact with conductive materials or even with a person’s skin. If an individual touches these exposed wires while they are live, there is a significant risk of an electrical shock, which can result in serious injury or even fatality.

Understanding this risk is crucial, as electrical safety is paramount in any environment where tools and equipment are used. While frayed cords can also lead to other problems, such as equipment malfunction or potential fire risks, the immediate and most critical concern is the threat of electrical shock, necessitating their prompt repair or replacement to ensure a safe working environment.