As a business owner based in Nottingham, it can be stressful juggling your business and considering safety at the workplace. Injuries caused by electrical hazards are more common than you think, there are some simple strategies you can put into place to make sure your employees and your business are protected when it comes to electricity. Stator Electrical Solutions pride ourselves on being commercial specialists, with many years of experience and electrical accreditation, your business is safe with us.
Back to top1) Electrical hazards at the workplace
As most businesses rely on some form of electricity, whether you use office equipment such as scanners and printers or use more complex machinery, there are always hazards you should be aware of when working with electricity.
Some of the most common hazards are:
- Fires from overloaded multi plugs.
- Fires from faulty electrical equipment.
- Electric shock or burns.
- Static electricity igniting flammable materials.
2) Testing and Maintenance
As NICEIC approved electricians, we are up to date with ever evolving industry standards and regulations. We encourage businesses to be responsible and ensure that a qualified electrician regularly tests electrical appliances and equipment on site.
PAT testing- Portable appliance testing involves testing appliances or any moveable electrical appliances to ensure they are not hazardous. We recommend a PAT test annually but sooner if there are any changes to the appliances or equipment you use. If for example a business increases its opening hours, the appliances are used for a longer period so would need to be tested sooner.
EICR- Electrical installation condition reports are usually conducted every 5 years. The inspection is thorough and tests all electrical systems from lighting, sockets, underfloor heating and even additional features such as solar panels. If any hazards are identified, you usually have 28 days to remedy the faults.
Back to top3) How to keep your employees and your business safe
We’ve put together a guide to help your employees if they are faced with electrical dangers.
- Ensure all appliances are switched off if clearing or maintenance checks are taking place.
- If any appliances or equipment appear to be faulty, immediately stop using them.
- Avoid overloading multi plugs or the use of extension cables. Make sure there are sufficient sockets to use at your premises.
- Any trailing cables must be secured or covered to avoid tripping injuries.
- Appliances brought onto the premises by employees must be PAT tested, this includes appliances like toasters and coffee machines.
4) Security and Safety:
CCTV- Businesses in general are targets for burglaries and crime, closed circuit television systems provide security to your business and can deter intruders. We install security systems which include CCTV, additional sensor lighting at entry and exit points at your premises. There are a whole range of CCTV systems on the market so we are more than happy to discuss your options with you to suit your business needs.
Alarms- The presences of fire, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms can make all the difference during an emergency. Alarms are a legal requirement to enable a fast response and evacuation if there is a fire or a leak.
Emergency Lighting- Emergency lighting and alarm systems almost go hand in hand. A well-lit stairwell, corridor and exit points are essential during a blackout, a power outage or in scenarios where there might be a fire.
Stator Electrical Solutions have a good working relationship with a number of businesses in Nottingham and have in-depth knowledge of the electrical requirements required in a business as well as the associated risks and hazards.
As NICEIC approved commercial electricians, our experience in the field and use of state of the art electrical testing equipment ensures most electrical faults are identified as soon as possible, keeping your employees and business safe.
Give us a call today.
