National Electrical Safety Month: Fire Hazards to Watch For
The month of May is observed as National Electrical Safety Month. It reminds us that it’s important to take electricity seriously. This is applicable even for commercial and industrial environments where electrical systems are used for long hours. Let’s understand what some of the top electrical fire hazards in commercial spaces are that you must look out for and how you can prevent them.
Overloaded Circuits and Power Strips
Commercial buildings typically have high power demands with the requirement for more lighting and continuous usage of HVAC systems and computers for hours. This puts extra pressure on circuits, overloading them and turning them into a major fire hazard in office buildings and industrial facilities.
Oftentimes, extension cords and power strips are misused in commercial environments, with too many devices plugged into them, which results in overheating and causes sparks that start a fire. So it’s always a good idea to work with a licensed electrician to assess your power needs and upgrade your system to meet your requirements.
Poorly Maintained Electrical Systems
Many old commercial properties have outdated wiring that isn’t designed to handle today’s electrical needs and loads. Old loose connections, corroded wires and faulty panels can create the ideal situation for an electrical fire to start.
Some common signs of electrical issues are flickering lights, buzzing sounds near outlets, frequent breaker trips and overheating electrical panels. Scheduling regular inspections of your electrical systems is vital to ensure they are functioning properly and there are no fire risks.
Faulty Equipment and Machinery
In manufacturing and industrial facilities, daily operations depend entirely on machines and equipment. If the machinery and equipment are poorly maintained and not used properly, they can become a serious fire risk.
Corroded or frayed cords, exposed wires and motors that overheat can cause a fire to start, especially if there are inflammable materials placed in close proximity. You must create a routine maintenance plan for all machinery and train your staff to immediately report in case they notice any unusual sounds, smells, or performance issues.
Temporary Setups During Renovations
When there’s a need for temporary lighting and pop-up workstations, or renovation is underway, a need for temporary electrical setups arises. However, if those who aren’t professionally qualified to handle these tasks make such temporary fixes, it can lead to serious fire hazards. This is why it’s best to contact a trained professional to handle temporary wiring and setups.
DIY Electrical Work
Saving money is good, but it shouldn’t be done at the cost of your business’s safety. Doing electrical work by yourself to save money can result in dangerous situations. Incorrectly installing outlets, breakers, or wiring can cause short circuits and lead to fires. Thus, you must always hire licensed professionals to handle electrical work.
Contact FireMaster
Reach out to FireMaster today for installation of industrial and special hazard fire systems. Our team specializes in fire protection for commercial and industrial properties. Check out our website to learn more about our products, like fire suppression systems for kitchen hood and how they can keep your business protected throughout the year.