Common Electrical Hazards in Commercial Buildings

Hazard knowledge and avoidance are important topics in any kind of commercial building, and electrical hazards are some of the simplest and most common examples. What are some common electrical hazards found in commercial buildings, why are they risks that should be looked for, and how can you ensure you’re steering clear of them safely?

At Redi, we’re here to offer a huge range of industrial electrical services to clients around Wyoming, Nevada, Colorado, Idaho and nearby parts of the Western United States, plus various other industrial construction and facility solutions. Here are some examples of the most common electrical hazards in commercial buildings, why they’re problematic, and how to inspect for and deal with them.

Common Electrical Hazards in Commercial Buildings

Here are some of the most common electrical hazards in commercial buildings today:

Overloaded Circuits

Some of the most common electrical hazards in commercial buildings are overloaded circuits. This occurs when the power demand on a circuit exceeds its capacity, causing it to overheat and potentially spark a fire. Overloaded circuits can be caused by a variety of factors, such as using too many appliances or equipment on one circuit, outdated wiring that cannot handle modern demands, or faulty installations.

To inspect for overloaded circuits, look for signs such as flickering lights, tripped breakers, warm outlets or switches, and burning smells. To prevent overloaded circuits, ensure that your building’s electrical system is up to code and have regular inspections by a licensed electrician.

Damaged Wiring

Damaged wiring is another common electrical hazard in commercial buildings. This can be caused by various factors such as rodent damage, wear and tear over time, and moisture exposure. Damaged wiring can lead to short circuits, power outages, and even fires.

Damaged wiring often gives off some key indicators, such as flickering lights, burning smells, and visible damage to wiring or outlets. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to address the issue immediately.

To prevent damaged wiring in your building, regular inspections by a licensed electrician are crucial. They can identify any potential issues and make necessary repairs before they become major hazards. Additionally, ensuring that all wiring is properly installed and protected from external factors like rodents or moisture can help prevent damage.

Exposed Wires

Another wire-related issue that’s a common electrical hazard in commercial buildings is exposed wires. Wires can become exposed due to wear and tear, improper installation, or accidental damage. Exposed wires not only pose a risk of electrocution but can also lead to fires if left unattended.

To avoid this hazard, it’s important to regularly check for any exposed wires and have them repaired immediately by a licensed electrician. It’s also crucial to properly train employees on how to handle electrical equipment and what to do in case they come across exposed wires.

Improper Grounding

In other cases, the issue may not be with exposed wires but rather with improper grounding. Grounding is essential in electrical systems as it provides a safe path for electricity to flow through in case of a fault or surge.

If an electrical system is not properly grounded, excess electricity can build up and cause damage to equipment or lead to shocks and electrocution. This can occur due to faulty wiring, outdated equipment, or poor installation.

To prevent this hazard, it’s important to have a professional electrician inspect and update the grounding system regularly. They should also be consulted when adding new equipment or making changes to the system.

Wet Conditions Near Electrical Systems

Because water is a conductor of electricity, it’s important to be careful when using electrical equipment in wet conditions. This includes working near pools, hot tubs, or other sources of water.

If electrical equipment must be used in wet conditions, make sure it is specifically designed for that purpose and follow all safety precautions. Additionally, outdoor receptacles should have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to protect against electric shocks.

It’s also important to keep electrical cords and outlets away from any standing water or damp areas. If an appliance or power tool falls into water, do not attempt to retrieve it until the power has been shut off by a professional electrician.

General Prevention

While we’ve gone over specific tips for preventing each of the electrical hazards we just went over above, here are some broader proactive and protective measures to ensure no such hazards ever become issues:

• Regular inspections: Regularly inspect any electrical cords, outlets, and appliances for signs of damage or wear and tear. Replace any damaged or frayed cords immediately.
• Use protective equipment: When dealing with potential electrical hazards, always use proper protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and insulating mats.
• Knowledge is power: Make sure all employees are properly trained on how to handle electrical equipment and what to do in case of an emergency. This can include fire extinguisher training and basic first aid knowledge.
• Stay up to date on codes and regulations: Keep yourself informed about any updates or changes in electrical safety codes and regulations to ensure your workplace is compliant.
• Have a plan in place: In the event of an emergency, have a clear plan in place for how to handle the situation. This can include procedures for shutting off power, evacuating employees, and contacting emergency services.

At Redi, we offer the best industrial electrical services you’ll find across Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming and the Western US. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help ensure the electrical safety of your workplace and keep your business running smoothly.