Stay safe while at the “Ole’ Ball game”

Playing baseball at the park sounds like a great idea.  You child will get some exercise, learn good sportsmanship, make new friends . . . these are all great reasons for a good ballgame.  Before playing at the ballpark though, make sure you or your child can spot electrical hazards that could put an end to the fun and are all too common at ball fields.

One potential concern is the conduit carrying power in lighting standards.  In some older construction electrical metallic tubing (EMT) was used.  This conduit can become rusted and break apart, especially where it exits concrete.  When conduit deteriorates it can pose a shock hazard by exposing wires and or energizing the lighting structure.  Even conduit made of PVC can expose wires if it has been damaged from weathering or by things like lawn care equipment.

Another place for a potential shock hazard is electrical panels.  These panels are exposed to the elements 24/7 and may have deteriorated over the years.  This degradation can allow water to infiltrate the electrical equipment inside.  Some panels are not locked even though they have the capability of being locked.  This allows easy of access to the equipment and panels.  Rusting enclosures with holes or missing panels and knock-outs can make live connections accessible.

Older or un-improved ball fields may not be equipped with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protected outlets.  This poses a risk especially when children can have unsupervised access to the receptacles.  In addition to this, there is no way in ensure that equipment plugged into these outlets (radios, extension cords etc.) are in good working condition or being properly used to prevent a shock.

To safeguard yourself and family from possible electric shock at the ball field, do a quick inspection of the electrical equipment before the game or practice starts –

• Check the condition of conduits to ensure there are no breaks or cracks.


• Look for conduit that has sheared off at ground level


• Look to see that connection boxes are not damaged or have missing covers.


• If GFCI outlets are not installed, be very careful plugging in cords and equipment.

As the owner or caretaker of a ball field make sure to develop a maintenance program to protect visitors to the ball field and repair all deficiencies immediately.  If you are not sure what to look for, a Licensed Electrical Contractor can help with the assessment and repairs to damaged or deteriorated electrical equipment.

Now “Play Ball” safely!