All the machinery, electronics, and appliances found in commercial buildings, in addition to the vast amounts of lighting, require electricity to function properly. Not only that, but the combined electricity consumption of all of this machinery exceeds that of home wiring. It is not the amount of consumption that causes concern; rather, it is the level of safety, which is why commercial wiring is of such critical significance. 

Any deviations in the electrical wiring that commercial buildings have can present significant dangers, including temporary shutdown of business operations, the potential for accidents, and even electrical fires. This is of utmost significance because commercial properties typically employ a large number of people.  

When it comes to the electrical wiring that commercial buildings require, there are special considerations that must be taken because the majority of them do not have the wooden frame that is typically used to run wire through. This is one of the reasons why alternative methods of wiring need to be utilized. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 126 people died in 2020 due to exposure to electricity. From that statistic, three in five injuries occurred from direct electrical contact such as being struck by an electrical arc or direct contact with a live electrical wire. When it comes to the safety of commercial wiring, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recommendations and guidelines that can be followed. Here are a few tips to ensure you are using safe practices when maintaining the electrical wiring in your commercial or industrial building. 

Put a Safety Plan in Place as a First Course of Action 

The most effective strategy to prevent injury is to create a project plan beforehand. During the planning phase, personnel are able to evaluate the equipment and surrounding environment for potential dangers. Planning can guarantee that workers utilize the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and interprofessional education (IPE) during the course of their work and that they are aware of the correct power-switching circuit. 

Wear Appropriate Protective Clothing and Gear 

According to OSHA regulations, workers must always wear rubber gloves, insulating sleeves, and safety glasses. Because the fibers are not very conductive or are treated with a flame-retardant, fire-resistant clothing can also assist prevent injury. Employers and employees can determine whether additional PPE is required during the planning phase. Additionally, workers should avoid wearing any metal, including watches and jewelry. 

Ensure Equipment is Used and Maintained Properly  

Electricity is a daily necessity for employees working in commercial buildings. Because of this, they have a responsibility to educate themselves on how to correctly use and maintain their electrical equipment, as well as what actions to take in the event of an unexpected emergency. This can significantly lower the likelihood of an electrical fire occurring. 

The following are some additional measures that can be taken to ensure the safety of commercial buildings: 

  • It is the responsibility of the employer to instruct each employee on the proper way to unplug electrical appliances. 
  • Electrical plugs and cords of any kind need to be inspected on a regular basis and maintained in the appropriate manner by qualified personnel. 
  • Prohibit securing extension cords by nailing or stapling them. 
  • Electrical equipment such as computers and other similar devices ought to be serviced on a routine basis by trained professionals. 
  • The use of extension cords should only be done on a temporary basis if absolutely necessary. 

Commercial employees use devices and equipment regularly and frequently. Electricity use is higher, so personnel must use equipment properly. Equipment maintenance reduces the danger of faults, accidents, and fire. 

Invest in a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) 

GFCIs are portable devices that workers can put into an outlet or circuit to protect themselves against electrical hazards. The GFCI will detect a power surge due to if someone is being electrocuted and will switch off the electricity automatically. Utilizing these tools might serve as a backup plan if something else goes awry during the process.

Contact Schaffhouser Electric for All Your Electrical Needs 

Industrial and commercial facilities are extremely reliant on electrical power. Everything from lights and heavy machinery to computers and servers all require electric power in order to function properly. However, despite its many uses and benefits, the wiring behind the electricity can be extremely hazardous.  

Workers who are subjected to dangerous electric sources run the risk of suffering life-threatening injuries or even fatal injuries. Because of the severity of the risks involved, it is of the utmost importance to be aware of how to maintain the safety of workers at all times. The best way to do that is to trust all your electrical wiring and maintenance needs to Schaffhouser Electric.  

Our team of industrial electricians is licensed and ready to provide electrical expertise when you need it most. Simply contact us for an estimate. We also provide 24-hour services as well.