Being an electrician carries notable safety risks, but with proper training, procedures, and equipment these risks can be managed effectively. Here’s a concise overview to help you gauge the dangers and how to mitigate them. Core dangers

• Electric shock and burns: Working with live or potentially live electrical systems can cause severe shocks or burns, which can be fatal if lines are energized or insulation is damaged.
• Falls and impacts: Electricians often work at height or in elevated positions, increasing the risk of falls and related injuries.
• Ergonomic and musculoskeletal strain: Repetitive motions, heavy tool use, and awkward postures can lead to strains, sprains, or longer-term MSDs.
• Confined spaces and restricted movements: Working in tight or cluttered areas can lead to injuries or restricted access to de-energize a circuit quickly.
• Exposure to hazardous materials and environments: Dust, fumes, solvents, and sometimes toxic substances may be present, along with extreme temperatures or wet conditions.
• Burns from tools and hot equipment: Contact with heated devices, soldering irons, or recently energized components can cause burns.
• Electrical fires and arc flash: Faulty wiring, short circuits, or improper procedures can lead to arc flash or fire hazards.

Key safety measures

• Training and licensing: Complete formal training, stay current with electrical codes, and follow local licensing requirements.
• Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and de-energization: Before servicing, ensure circuits are de-energized and properly isolated to prevent accidental energization.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE): Use appropriate gear such as insulated gloves, arc-rated clothing, face shields, and safety glasses as required.
• Hazard assessment and planning: Conduct site surveys to identify live circuits, confined spaces, and access hazards; plan work steps accordingly.
• Fall protection: Use harnesses, guardrails, and proper ladder/scaffold practices when working at height.
• Tool and equipment care: Inspect tools and cords for damage, use insulated tools where appropriate, and maintain good housekeeping to reduce trip hazards.
• Safe working practices: Follow established procedures, avoid working alone on high-risk tasks, and adhere to permit systems and inspections.
• Environmental controls: Manage exposure to dust, fumes, and heat with ventilation, respirators if needed, and breaks to prevent heat-related issues.

Considerations by context

• On construction sites: Hazards include contact with overhead lines, damaged tools, and wet conditions; proactive site safety plans and continuous training are crucial.
• In residential/commercial settings: Confined spaces and limited access can raise risks; careful planning and PPE selection are essential.
• For new or evolving technologies: Variable-frequency drives, solar, and battery systems introduce specialized risks that require updated training and procedures.

How to assess your personal risk

• Evaluate your training level and your familiarity with local electrical codes.
• Consider the specific environment: height, water presence, space constraints, and the presence of live circuits.
• Review your PPE adequacy and whether your tools are in good condition.
• Confirm that proper procedures (LOTO, permit-to-work, risk assessments) are in place before starting any task.

Bottom line
Yes, being an electrician can be dangerous, especially without proper safety controls. However, with comprehensive training, stringent safety practices, and appropriate protective equipment, many of these risks are significantly mitigated and manageable. If you’d like, share your location (country or region) and the type of electrical work you’re considering (industrial, commercial, residential, or solar), and a more tailored safety overview and relevant regulations can be outlined.