Galley electric shock – Uncontrolled portable electrical equipment

  • Safety Flash
  • Published on 4 June 2019
  • Generated on 3 April 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.

A person cleaning the galley got a mains electric shock; during galley cleaning, the chief cook was using a wet cloth to wipe clean the food preparation areas

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.

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