Preventing Electrical Fires
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Faulty electrical systems are one of the leading causes of home and workplace fires. Not surprising, since all electrical systems and devices are potential sources of ignition.
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Logo and text: TRAVELERS. Prevent Electrical Fires. Graphic: multiple cords plugged into a power strip.
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Electricity causes fire when excessive heat is produced, due to overloading, loose connections, damaged cables and equipment, or adverse environmental conditions.
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You can help prevent some of these problems by taking some simple precautions.
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Damaged cables and exposed wiring should be repaired or replaced.
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Only use extension cords for temporary purposes. And don't overload sockets with multi-adapters.
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Keep dust and dirt away from electrical motors.
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Ensure phone and laptop chargers and other transformers have enough space around them to allow heat to escape.
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However, you should also get specialist advice and ensure that your electrical installation and portable electrical equipment is subject to regular maintenance and inspection. To find out more, visit the website below or speak to your broker.
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The information provided in this video is intended for use as a guideline and is not intended as, nor does it constitute, legal, technical or professional advice. Travelers does not warrant that adherence to any recommendations, best practices, or guidelines will result in a particular outcome. In no event will Travelers or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates be liable to anyone who has access to or uses the information provided in this video. Copyright 2016 Travelers Management Limited. Travelers and the Travelers Umbrella logo are registered trademarks of The Travelers Indemnity Company in the US and other countries.
Risk control guidance for electrical systems and equipment
Electrical systems and equipment provide power to nearly all the commercial and industrial buildings around us. Each electrical system has the potential to be the source of ignition causing a fire or explosion. Fire and explosion hazards can be minimised through a combination of proper installation techniques, installation of proper protection devices, and adequate maintenance of electrical systems and equipment.
It’s critical to install and maintain electrical systems properly in order to control fire losses, by taking the following precautions:
- Installing mechanical protection devices to shut off the flow of electricity in the event of a ground fault.
- Using proper guarding and clearance around electrical equipment so it is accessible only to qualified personnel.
- Good housekeeping to ensure combustible materials are kept away from electrical equipment should faults occur.
- Grounding equipment to provide a path to facilitate the operation of over-current devices, prevent excessive voltages, and stabilise voltages.
- Following fire safety rules when using temporary wiring (often via temporary extension cords) and not relying on such wiring as a substitute for permanent wiring.
- Installing motors in well-ventilated areas where there is minimal dust, dirt or other materials present.
- Controlling dangerous static electricity by maintaining proper humidity levels, strategically placing static combs connected to the ground, maintaining proper bonding/grounding of flammable liquid containers, and providing specialised clothing and shoes for workers in areas containing flammable vapours.
- Using fire detection systems to detect fire early and facilitate a rapid response, as well as automatic fixed fire protection systems to suppress fires once detected.
How management can reduce risks
Management can reduce the potential and severity of an electrical system malfunction or failure by implementing an Electrical Preventive Maintenance (EPM) programme. The programmes have a number of benefits. They help ensure electrical equipment is repaired before it fails and requires expensive modifications, damages other parts of the system, or even leads to a catastrophic event like a fire or explosion. They can also help a business save money by improving equipment efficiency and reducing electrical consumption.
For more information, sign up to our Risk Academy, log in to the Risk Control Customer Portal, or email contactriskcontrol@travelers.com
