Which of the following practices is essential for ensuring electrical safety in healthcare settings?

Regular inspection and maintenance of electrical equipment is essential for ensuring electrical safety in healthcare settings. This practice helps to identify potential hazards before they result in accidents, such as electrocution or equipment failure. Healthcare facilities rely heavily on electrical devices for patient care, and any malfunction can not only disrupt operations but also pose serious risks to both patients and staff. By conducting routine inspections, facilities can ensure that electrical systems and equipment are functioning properly, adhere to safety standards, and continue to support safe medical practices.

Furthermore, maintenance can include checking for frayed wires, malfunctioning circuits, or equipment that has not been properly grounded, all of which are critical factors in preventing electrical incidents. This proactive approach ultimately enhances the overall safety of the healthcare environment, making it a vital practice to adhere to.

The other options outlined could contribute to an unsafe electric environment. For example, ignoring minor electrical faults could lead to more significant problems down the line, and using extension cords as a permanent solution poses several risks, including tripping hazards and overload. Limiting access to electrical rooms, while important for safety, does not directly address the condition of the electrical systems themselves, which is why regular maintenance is the key practice for ensuring electrical safety.