The majority of fires and fatal electric shock accidents are caused by faults in the electrical wiring systems. In addition to 1000 major injury accidents, approximately 25 people are killed by electricity at work every year. (Check it out – HSE 2006). The main source of all electrical injury accidents (around 25%) is portable electrical equipment (PPE). Damaged electrical leads cause nearly 2000 fires a year. Get the fact, that overall safety of the electrical installation is a direct responsibility of property owners. Quality of workmanship, standards of performance, and possible hazards are some of the more important issues in electrical installation. Work carried out by unqualified installers can lead to the faults as described.
It is highly important that electrical works should be done by competent certified electricians who have appropriate electronics knowledge and trouble-shooting skills to provide correct maintenance services in accordance with the Canadian Electrical Code. Moreover, the electrical installation must be performed in accordance with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Wiring Regulations 17th edition.
Electrical installations should be tested at least every 5 years or after any repair works. All electrical works are regulated. They must:
- be conducted by appropriately licensed contractors
- comply with current Standards and safety requirements
- have certified safety compliant components under state certification regulations
Besides, simple visual inspections should take place more frequently. Here is the list of common issues to react immediately:
– Water around electrical fittings: very serious problem, as it can tremendously and very quickly damage near live power sources. Water damaged areas around electrical fittings should be repaired, because they are no longer water resistant.
– Anything flickering or any overheating appliance: it can be unsafe appliance or the power issue.
– Odd noises or behavior in machinery: electrical installations can be damaged by operating machinery that can cause hazards by damaging wiring. The system should be taken offline instantly and checked.
– Scorch marks: the electrical board may be damaged and unsafe, even if there is no sign of a fire.
– Smells of ozone or burnt plastic: wiring issues.
It is recommended to get your electrical contractor, such as House Renovations company, to do a general system audit regularly. An audit is a further stage of quality control, and can be used as a planning tool for future installation needs.
