What safety hazard is associated with poorly maintained transformers?

Poorly maintained transformers can lead to overheating, which is a significant safety hazard. Over time, transformers can accumulate dirt, dust, and moisture, affecting their ability to dissipate heat effectively. If the cooling systems, such as fans or oil, are not functioning properly due to neglect, the temperature within the transformer can rise to dangerous levels.

Overheating poses multiple risks: it can damage the transformer itself, potentially leading to insulation failure, which may result in short circuits or equipment failure. More critically, it can lead to fires if the transformer malfunctions severely enough. Therefore, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure that all components are in good working condition, thereby reducing the risk of overheating and enhancing operational safety.

Other options such as noise pollution, electrical shock, and corrosion, although related to transformer issues, do not directly stem from poor maintenance in the same critical way as overheating does.