The Key Components of an Electrical Safety Check
An effective electrical safety checklist includes several components that will help maintain the integrity of your electrical systems and equipment. You should address each of the following areas:
Start With Visual Inspections
A strong first step in electrical safety is training your team to perform regular visual inspections. Encourage your team to look out for:
- Exposed or frayed wiring where insulation has worn away, which poses a serious shock hazard.
- Damaged outlets with visible cracks, loose connections or burn marks, as these can lead to overheating and increase fire risk.
- Loose switches or fittings that may not be securely connected which can lead to arcing or malfunction.
- Discoloured or scorched areas around outlets that could signal overheating or an impending electrical fault.
Regular visual checks allow your team to identify early warning signs and address minor issues before they escalate into safety risks.
Grounding & Bonding Systems
Proper electrical grounding and bonding are key parts of a safe electrical system. A well-grounded system reduces the risks of electrical shock and helps keep both people and equipment safe. It’s very important to verify that grounding connections are secure and that any new equipment installations follow the correct procedures.
Check for Overloaded Sockets and Outlets
Just because an outlet or plug socket can physically accommodate one more plug and power cable does not mean it’s safe to add one. Every outlet has a limit to how much electricity it can safely supply, known as its current rating. When this limit is exceeded, the outlet can start to overheat, which poses a potential fire hazard.
To keep things safe, try to avoid plugging too many devices into a single outlet. If you notice an outlet feels warm or hot, or if you frequently use extension leads, it may be time to upgrade your setup.
For a safe and professional solution, consider our Electrical Installation Services. Our team will assess your current electrical setup and recommend the right installations to suit your needs.
Check the Labelling of Electrical Panels and Equipment
Verify that all electrical panels and circuit breakers are clearly and accurately labelled. The notation should also be standardised across your entire premises to make sure everyone who needs to read the labels can instantly get the information they need.
Test Electrical Appliances
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is an essential part of a comprehensive approach to workplace electrical safety. All employers are obliged to do it as part of their ongoing HSE commitment.
When you book a PAT test with our experts you are making sure that every portable appliance (laptops, computers, photocopiers, desk fans, etc.) are safe to be used on your premises. A qualified electrician will visually inspect the device and then perform more in-depth checks, such as earth continuity and lead polarity. A dated sticker is placed on every appliance that passes. Find out more in our PAT testing guide.
Checks on Emergency Systems
Regular checks on the functionality of your emergency systems are fundamental. Here is what to cover:
- Emergency lighting: All commercial buildings are legally required to have emergency lighting systems in place. It is imperative to confirm all emergency lighting is in good working condition and illuminates properly during power outages or emergency situations. Test that the lights activate automatically when needed and provide sufficient light to guide people towards the nearest exit.
- Fire alarms: Test each fire alarm regularly to confirm it’s fully responsive and loud enough to be heard clearly throughout the building.
- Smoke alarms: Check that all smoke alarms respond properly to smoke or other triggers. Ensure they’re positioned effectively, especially in key areas, and that batteries of backup power sources are in place.
- Shut-off switches: Verify that shut-off switches work as expected and can disconnect power to specific circuits or equipment if needed.
Record-keeping of Inspections and Maintenance
Keep good records of inspections and maintenance to track the health of your electrical systems. Detailed records make it easier to see when checks were last done, what issues were found and any outstanding tasks. This way you can stay on-top of any recurring problems and plan future maintenance.
Regular System Upgrades
New equipment and increased usage can put extra demand on your electrical system. Periodically reviewing your electrical infrastructure helps ensure its capability of meeting current demands safely. A professional assessment can identify any necessary upgrades, which can help to prevent power interruptions or safety risks.
Our NICEIC accredited electricians specialise in the design and electrical installation across a range of commercial premises. Please get in touch to organise a quote.
