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Get Home Safe Newsletter
September 2026
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Electricity Is Unforgiving. The Basics Matter.
Electricity is in nearly every workplace, so it's easy to overlook the hazards. Many electrical incidents happen during routine tasks because damaged equipment or unsafe work practices go unnoticed. Taking time to identify and correct these hazards before work begins can help prevent serious injuries.
Start with the Basics
Before work begins, inspect extension cords, plugs and power tools for damage. Replace worn or frayed equipment immediately and remember that extension cords are designed for temporary use, not permanent wiring. Verify that ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are available where needed, especially in wet or outdoor work areas
Keep Electrical Hazards in Check
Simple housekeeping can make a big difference. Keep electrical panels clearly labeled and free from storage so they remain accessible during emergencies and inspections. Avoid overloading outlets or power strips, and plug high-energy equipment directly into wall outlets whenever possible. Watch for damaged receptacles, missing outlet covers and electrical equipment used near water.
Protect Your Team
Electrical work requires planning and the right people. Make sure employees understand who is qualified to perform electrical work and when equipment must be de-energized and locked out before maintenance begins. If your employees work around overhead or underground power lines, reinforce safe clearance distances and communication before work starts.
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Why It Matters
Electrical hazards often hide in plain sight. A damaged cord or a shortcut during maintenance can quickly become a serious incident. Building inspections and safe work practices into the workday help protect employees and keep safety top of mind.
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Additional Resources
Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) - Workplace electrical safety training, electrical Safety Month materials, extension cord and power strip safety resources
OSHA Electrical Safety Resources - Electrical standards and training materials, lockout/tagout guidance, arc flash and electrical hazard prevention
NIOSH Electrical Safety - Prevention resources for electrical injuries, electrical safety publications and workplace guidance
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Take a Fresh Look at Workplace Safety, Watch the Latest Get Home Safe Video
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Our featured video this month explores what distracted driving includes and why it's so easy to do. It's a reminder to follow these safe driving practices: always buckle up, focus on your driving and put away the distractions.
Watch the video, then use it as a conversation starter with your team about small ways they can drive safer each day. What is something they may not realize is a distraction?
Looking for more Get Home Safe content? Watch campaign videos on our YouTube channel or explore additional workplace safety materials on our Resources Page.
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Take These Safety Resources With You
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Download the monthly poster
Download the poster pack to receive 3 posters with different header images. Display these posters in break rooms, job sites and common areas to reinforce safety throughout the year.
Download the monthly message
Save time by using this ready-to-send employee message in your workplace communications.
This message is great to:
- Copy into a routine safety email.
- Discuss in safety meetings.
- Post on your intranet.
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Upcoming Events
North Dakota Motor Carriers Association (NDMCA) 81st Annual Convention and Trade Show
Tuesday - Wednesday, September 1-2, 2026
Alerus Center, Grand Forks, ND
Learn more about the NDMCA Annual Convention and Trade Show and register
Northern Occupational Safety and Health Association (NOSHA) Annual Safety Conference
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Alerus Center, Grand Forks, ND
Learn more about the NOSHA Annual Safety Conference and register
Tri-State Safety Association (TSSA) 14th Annual Safety Conference
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
North Dakota State College of Science, Wahpeton, ND
Learn more about the TSSA Annual Safety Conference and register
Northern Region Association of Safety Prfessionals (NRASP) Safety + Health Conference
Thursday, October 29, 2026
Holiday Inn, Fargo, ND
Learn more about the NRASP Safety + Health Conference and register
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Visit our Resource Page for more posters, videos, and other resources. You can also shop our online store and open previous month's toolkits.
If you received this newsletter from a friend, learn more about Get Home Safe North Dakota and sign up to have monthly resources delivered to your inbox.
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