Our daily lives are powered by our electrical systems. But did you know that one of the leading causes of house fires is electrical problems?
To reduce the risk of fires, it is critical to be aware of the dangers of unsafe and untested electrics and to take steps to ensure the safety of our electrical systems.
The risk of electrical shocks and burns is one of the most obvious dangers of unsafe electrics. These injuries can be minor or severe, even fatal. Aside from the risk of injury, unsafe electrics can also cause fires. A house fire can be started by faulty wiring or overloaded circuits.
Untested electrics can also cause fires. Over time, outdated or faulty wiring can deteriorate, increasing the risk of a fire. Similarly, overloading circuits by plugging in too many devices or using extension cords as a long-term fix can cause a fire. To reduce the risk of fires, you should inspect your electrical system on a regular basis and address any issues that arise.
So, what can you do to keep your electrics in good working order? First and foremost, it is critical to inspect your wiring and outlets on a regular basis. Look for frayed or damaged cords and replace them right away. Surge protectors are also a good idea for protecting your electronics from power surges. Consider having a professional electrician inspect your electrical system on a regular basis to ensure it is up to code and working properly.
Overview of Electrical Safety and Dangers
It is essential that everyone living in a property understands the potential dangers of electricity and knows how to reduce the risk of fire or electric shock.
Children should be educated about electrical safety from a young age, and it is important that all family members know not to touch any exposed wires, plug sockets or power points.
That said, regular EICR checks are necessary for landlords and homeowners alike to ensure their electrics are safe.
Knowing what to do and when EICR tests need to be done can help protect you and your loved ones from electrical fires and shocks. Electricians will also be able to spot any problems with wiring before they become hazardous and make sure that everything meets current standards.
By making sure that all electrics are regularly checked and maintained, you can rest assured that your home is safe from the risk of fires caused by poorly maintained or untested electrics.
With regular EICR tests and electrical safety tips, everyone in the home can enjoy a safe environment without the worry of any potential risks.
Statistics 2022 for fires caused by electrics in the UK
state that:
– EICR tests identify potential risks to the electrical system
– 79% of fires caused by electrics in homes were due to faults or poor maintenance
– 14% of fires related to electrics in homes were caused by overloading sockets
– 7% of fires related to electrics in homes where due to wrong wiring.
This information outlines the importance of EICR checks and maintaining electrical safety in your home. By ensuring regular EICR testing is done, you can reduce the risk of fire and electric shock, as well as decrease the number of deaths and injuries from such incidents. It is important for landlords too, as EICR tests help protect tenants’ health and
What is an EICR and why it is important
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is an inspection and testing of an electrical installation in a building. It is designed to check that the installation meets safety standards, and to identify any potential hazards which could lead to electric shocks or fires.
EICRs are usually carried out by qualified electricians who will carry out detailed tests, visual inspections and provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades.
EICRs are an essential part of keeping your electrics safe, and can help to prevent fires caused by unsafe or untested electrics.
EICR testing is important for landlords and homeowners alike in order to ensure that their electrics are safe and up to date with current standards, and thereby reducing the risk of fires due to unsafe or untested electrics.
Regular EICR checks can provide peace of mind that you and your family are living in a safe home environment.
Overall, EICR testing is an important part of keeping your electrics safe and reducing the risk of fires due to unsafe or untested electrics. By making sure that all electrics are regularly checked and maintained, you can rest assured that your home is a safe environment for everyone living in it. Regular EICR tests provide peace of mind and help prevent potential risks associated with electrically related fires.
How unsafe electrics can cause fires
Unsafe electrics are one of the leading causes of electrical fires. If an installation is not maintained or checked, it can result in faulty wiring or incorrect connections which can lead to overheating and a potentially fatal fire hazard.
It is essential that EICRs are carried out regularly as they will help to identify any faults or damage which could lead to a fire, electric shock or other safety issues.
EICRs should be an essential part of any landlord’s property maintenance routine, as well as for homeowners who want peace of mind that their home and family are safe from the dangers of unsafe electrics.
EICR testing also helps to reduce the risk of fires caused by poorly maintained or untested electrics.
Electricity is a powerful tool that can be both beneficial and dangerous. EICR tests are an essential part of keeping your electrics safe, as they can help to identify any potential hazards which could lead to electric shocks or fires.
EICRs should be carried out at least every 10 years for residential homes and at least every 5 years for rental properties by qualified electricians, and more often if advised by your local authority or insurance company.
Regular EICR checks provide peace of mind that you, your family or your tenant are living in a safe home environment and will reduce the risk of electrically related fires due to unsafe or untested electrics.
Visual Checks to Carry Out in Your Property
It is important to carry out regular visual checks on your electrics as well as EICR tests. This can help you identify any potential problems or hazards which could lead to fires or electric shocks.
- Check that you have no damage to the fusebox or consumer unit
- Make sure that your plug sockets are not overloaded. Electrical Safety First has developed an online “socket calculator” to help you to check that yours are safe
- Ensure that plugs and sockets or any other fittings are not damaged
- Check that visible cables and leads are in good condition
- Check that your light fittings are not visibly damaged and that downlighters are in good working condition
- Check that you are not storing combustible materials around your fusebox,
Responsibilities as a Tenant
Tenants have a responsibility to ensure that they report any visible signs of damage or wear and tear to their landlord, who then has a responsibility to carry out repairs. If there is an EICR in place, landlords should also be carrying this out at least every 5 years.
All landlords need to make sure that their property is safe for tenants, including ensuring electrical installations are regularly tested and maintained. This includes making sure all wiring is safe and fit for purpose and that any damaged plugs or sockets are replaced promptly. It is also important for landlords to provide documentation about EICRs and other safety checks for tenants
Importance of Portable Appliance Testing
EICRs are not the only tests that need to be carried out, as Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is also important for landlords and tenants. PAT testing is a process where all portable appliances in your home or business premises, such as kettles, lamps and other electrical items, are tested for safety.
This includes checking for any visible signs of damage which could lead to electric shocks or fires and ensuring that everything meets current standards. If a problem is identified then it should be reported to the landlord who will arrange for repairs or replacement.
Faulty equipment and appliances can be causes of major accidents and fires, just as unsafe electrical installations.
Simple Checks Can Save Lives
Regular EICR and PAT tests are essential for landlords, tenants and homeowners alike in order to ensure safety in the home. Taking these simple steps could save lives by preventing electrical fires and ensuring that your electrics remain safe for you, your family or tenants.
Conclusion: Electrical Safety
Electrical safety is paramount in any property. EICRs, visual checks and PAT testing should be part of your regular property maintenance schedule.
By taking these simple steps you can help to protect the occupants from the dangers of unsafe electrics which could lead to fires or electric shocks.
With proper care and maintenance, you can ensure that your electrics remain safe for many years to come. Contact us for any help or advice on any of these checks or simply if you have any safety concerns