Preventing Commercial Electrical Fires

Electrical fires can happen anywhere, especially in colder weather, due to the increased use of heating and electric systems. While electrical fires rank the highest as the leading cause of commercial fires, organizations consistently don’t do as much as they could to prevent them. While many factors can expose an organization to risk, check out some of the most common causes listed below.

Circuit Overload
One of the most common causes of an electrical fire is an overloaded circuit. When various energy sources all share the same outlet, including microwaves, refrigerators, computers and heaters, the amount of energy it takes for all of them to run can exceed the capacity of what the circuit can handle.

Preventative Tip #1: Reduce the amount of systems using the same circuit. From refrigerators and microwaves, to printers, TV’s and computers, these common office appliances have the potential to exceed the maximum wattage amount. Avoid using the microwave at the same time someone is trying to print or turn off the tv before starting to vacuum. These small steps can help to avoid a detrimental situation.

Defective Wiring
Depending upon where the wiring is, it can be damaged much quicker in exposed areas. Weather factors, animals and temperature changes are all forces that can destroy it. All wiring is at risk of deteriorating and should be watched both in and outside of commercial buildings.

Outdated wiring is also a cause for concern. Due to an increase in electrical use as compared to years ago, the wiring that once fared well for certain buildings, might be unable to handle the larger amounts that are used today.

Preventative Tip #2: Pay special attention to wiring that is exposed to outdoor elements. These should be checked periodically for any signs of wear and tear. Wiring that appears frayed or broken down should immediately be looked at before risk of it turning dangerous.  

Wires and systems should be kept in a clean, dry, temperature-controlled area to prevent elements from ruining these materials.

Hot Spots
What are these exactly? Trouble.

When faulty wires, overloaded circuits, or an imbalance in the electrical system come into play, too much heat can be produced in certain spots on a panel. These hot spots can lead to dangerous electrical fires that can destroy buildings in minutes.

Preventative Tip #3: How to prevent these? Cooling methods such as fans or air conditioners can be an effective method to lower the air temperature. Air deflectors help with the flow of air and can be redirected to hotter points to lower the chance of hot spots.  You can locate these easily through techniques such as infrared testing, thermal imaging and even flashlights.  

How Access Security Can Help
Fire safety should be one of the main priorities of any organization and with a properly installed fire alarm and detection system, you are on the right track. With a team of highly trained professionals, Access Security can meet those needs and install a comprehensive fire alarm system that complies with the requirements of the National Fire Protection code. We offer a full line of fire alarm systems consisting of initiating devices, notification appliances, control panels and annunciators.

We strive to create an outstanding and lasting partnership with each one of our customers. By providing the best technical support, we can ensure we efficiently meet your most pressing needs.

Interested in learning more about how we can help your organization? Head on over to www.AccessSecurity.com or call 1-(800) 886-5625.