For businesses, a safe and compliant electrical system offers many benefits. As well as fulfilling their legal obligations, electrical maintenance protects employees, customers, visitors and business assets from electrical accidents and fires. The primary responsibility for electrical safety lies with the owners of commercial properties, who must ensure that infrastructure is up to standard and meets all current regulations.
So, what steps can you take to ensure that your building’s electrical systems are safe and compliant?
The first step in maintaining an electrical system is to ensure that planned and preventative maintenance is carried out by a fully qualified professional with extensive experience in electrical inspections and maintenance. Electrical systems are complex and potentially dangerous, so it is crucial that the appointed contractor has comprehensive training, experience, and qualifications. As well as optimising safety, this will ensure compliance with current safety standards and electrical regulations.
It is essential for building owners to have their properties’ electrical systems regularly surveyed by registered electricians. An Electrical Condition Report (EICR) is a critical document that assesses the safety of your electrical infrastructure and identifies potential hazards so that prompt remedial action can be taken. After the initial survey, the property should be inspected at least once every five years. These inspections help to pinpoint emerging safety issues before they develop into serious, more costly problems and ensure the ongoing safety and efficiency of the electrical systems.
Failing to arrange an EICR can have severe ramifications. For example, business or property owners could be held liable for any damage or harm caused by faulty electrical installations, including injuries to staff members or customers as a result of electrical accidents. This could result in heavy fines, imprisonment, and reputational damage. Therefore, staying up-to-date with EICR is an effective way to protect your business from the legal repercussions
Property owners or managers are not solely responsible for electrical safety. Staff members also have an important role to play, as they are responsible for the safety and maintenance of their electrical appliances. In some cases, they might also be tasked with maintaining all electrical equipment on the premises. This includes organising regular safety inspections by a qualified electrical engineer. Encouraging a culture of safety and responsibility among staff members can significantly enhance the overall safety of your electrical systems.
At Orion Technical Services, our commercial electrical installation services can help you maintain a safe and compliant electrical infrastructure, minimising the risk of accidents and fires. To find out more about how we can help you, please get in touch with our experts today.
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