Welcome to our continuing blog series: This Month in Electrical Safety, where we round up the latest news, regulatory updates, and trends shaping the electrical safety landscape.

Greetings from Lewis Bass! As we transition from May into June, it’s imperative to reflect on recent developments in electrical infrastructure and safety. This time we are going around the world to highlight electrical safety topics outside of just the United States.

Tragic Incidents Highlighting Electrical Hazards

In late May, Pune, India, witnessed a heartbreaking incident where an eight-year-old girl lost her life due to electrocution from an illegally powered direction board. This tragedy underscores the dire consequences of unauthorized electrical connections and the pressing need for stringent safety measures in public spaces.

Similarly, in Magnolia, Texas, a third-party tree trimmer tragically died after making contact with electrical equipment. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers present in our electrical infrastructure and the importance of adhering to safety protocols.

Proactive Measures in Electrical Safety

In response to the Pune incident, the Pune Municipal Corporation initiated the application of electricity-insulating Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) paint to streetlight poles, especially in flood-prone areas. This measure aims to prevent similar electrocution incidents by enhancing the safety of the city’s electrical infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) celebrated its 20th anniversary by launching an “Electrical Safety Week” from June 1 to 6. The week featured activities like the “Run for Safety” marathon, public awareness drives, and educational competitions, all aimed at promoting electrical safety and preventing accidents.

Updates in Electrical Standards

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is in the final stages of approving the 2026 edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC), with a Technical Committee ballot scheduled for June 2025. These updates aim to enhance the safety of both firefighters and the public by addressing evolving challenges in our electrical infrastructure.

Additionally, the 2025 Electrical Code Updates introduce significant changes designed to enhance safety, energy efficiency, and adaptability in modern electrical systems. These updates reflect the ongoing evolution of our electrical infrastructure to meet contemporary demands.

Top Picks for Electrical Safety:

• Fluke VoltAlert 1AC II Voltage Detector: An essential tool for quickly identifying the presence of voltage without contact.

• Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Digital Multimeter: Provides accurate readings for various electrical parameters, ensuring precise diagnostics.

• Klein Tools Electrical Construction Safety Bundle: Offers a comprehensive set of protective gear, including hard hats, safety glasses, and knee pads, crucial for on-site safety.

Equipping yourself with these tools and gear can significantly enhance safety and efficiency when working with electrical systems.

Wrapping Up

As we move deeper into June, the theme is clear: attention to electrical infrastructure isn’t just optional, it’s essential. Whether it’s municipalities improving public safety, updates to the National Electrical Code, or the unfortunate reminders of what can go wrong when corners are cut, staying informed is key.

At Lewis Bass, we stay ahead of these developments so you don’t have to. If your facility needs guidance navigating evolving standards, preparing for inspections, or simply staying compliant, we’re here to help.

Until next time…stay safe, stay grounded, and keep those panels labeled!