Water heater electrocution cases
- In August, an 18-year-old named Gregory Ng tragically died from electrocution while showering in his home. Investigations revealed that the water heater, installed by a technician, may have been the cause. The coroner confirmed electrocution as the cause of death and ruled out foul play. The technician, Mr. Bai Jin Yi, who installed the water heater, is not licensed by the Energy Market Authority (EMA). This lack of certification raises concerns about his competence in ensuring safety during installations. To prevent similar incidents, the public is advised to verify technicians’ credentials through the EMA’s authorized list.
- During the Home Improvement Programme (HIP) works, Yao Bin’s mother requested the installation of a new water heater. Precise Development was the main contractor for the HIP project, and JL Engineering Construction was the electrical subcontractor. Ooi Kah Heong, an employee from JL Engineering Construction, installed the water heater under the supervision of Ooi. Despite being experienced in electrical work, Ooi was not a licensed electric worker. He wired the water heater to a three-pin plug, which is not recommended due to current limitations, as part of his task to reinstate the previous wiring configuration.
- In December 2020, an elderly couple and their son in Jurong were tragically electrocuted due to fused water heater plug cables. The water heater was powered by a three-pin plug connected to an extension outlet, which was further connected to a power outlet in the kitchen. Typically, a three-pin plug comprises a live cable for current entry, an earth cable for fault current flow to the ground, and a neutral cable for circuit completion. Mr. Goh, testifying on the incident, noted severe damage to the cables inside the plug, indicating significant burning. Particularly concerning was the fusion of the earth and neutral cables. Under normal circumstances, electrical current flows through the live cable and heating element in the water tank, returning through the neutral cable. However, with the earth and neutral cables fused, current redirected through the copper housing of the water heater, energizing the metallic water hose and leading to the fatal outcome.
Causes
The incidents of electrocution related to water heaters primarily stem from two factors: faulty electrical installations and fused water heater plug cables. Faulty installations create hazardous conditions characterized by improper grounding or wiring, consequently increasing the likelihood of electrical shock. Similarly, fused plug cables suggest underlying issues with the water heater’s electrical components, which can potentially result in short circuits or exposed wiring, further elevating the risk of accidents.
Water Heater Safety Measures
To ensure the prevention of water heater-related electrocution incidents and safeguard the safety of occupants, several crucial measures must be undertaken. Firstly, it is essential to engage the expertise of a licensed electrician for the installation of water heaters. Licensed electricians possess the necessary knowledge and skills to correctly and safely install electrical systems, significantly reducing the risk of potential hazards such as faulty wiring or improper grounding that could lead to electrocution.
Furthermore, regular maintenance checks are vital in identifying and addressing any underlying electrical issues promptly. These checks help to ensure that the water heater and its associated electrical components remain in optimal condition, minimizing the likelihood of malfunctions or failures that could result in electrocution accidents. Prompt repairs of any detected electrical issues further contribute to mitigating accident risks, as they prevent potential hazards from escalating and posing a threat to the safety of individuals using the water heater.
In summary, prioritizing proper installation procedures by hiring a licensed electrician, coupled with regular maintenance checks and prompt repairs of electrical issues, is paramount in preventing water heater-related electrocution incidents. These measures underscore a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding against electrical hazards.
