As seasoned commercial electricians with over thirty years of experience, we have seen firsthand the consequences of electrical installation mistakes. These errors can result in increased costs, missed deadlines, operational disruptions, failed inspections, and even serious accidents or injuries.
We have the expertise to help you avoid these pitfalls, and here we share the most common commercial electrical installation mistakes and tips for avoiding them.
With over thirty years of experience in the commercial electrical industry we know the most common mistakes and how to avoid them and we thought we would share the most common ones with you here.
1) Incorrect Wire Gauge: Prevent Overheating and Fire Hazards
Using cable that is too small for the load it will be carrying can lead to overheating and causes a potential fire hazard. It is essential that the wire gauge is calculated properly based on anticipated load and that your electrical contractor follows the NIC EIC guidelines.
2) Inadequate Grounding: Avoid Electric Shocks and Equipment Damage
Not using adequate grounding can result in electric shocks and damage to equipment, plus downtime from outages. Ensure that your electrical contractor is using the appropriate codes to ground all electrical systems.
3) Insufficient Sockets: Prevent Overloaded Circuits and Fire Risks
Not having enough sockets can lead to overloaded circuits and people using extension leads, which can pose a fire risk. It is essential that the number and placement of sockets is strategically planned to ensure all users have adequate access throughout your organisation’s commercial space.
4) Disorganized Cables: Eliminate Access Issues and Trip Hazards
Disorganised cables can cause access issues, trip hazards and increase the risk of injury to users and damage to equipment. Ensure that the best cable management technique for the space, such as trays or conduits is used and that all cables are clearly labelled for easy identification and trouble shooting in the future.
5) Lack of GFCI Protection: Ensure Safety in Wet Areas
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters are essential in areas where water is present such as kitchens, bathrooms, laboratories, operating theatres, wards etc. GFCI must be installed in these areas to prevent electric shocks.
6) Poor Lighting Design: Enhance Productivity and Safety
Insufficient lighting can lead to reduced productivity and accidents. Lighting should be professionally planned to meet the needs of the commercial space. Different levels of lighting will be required in work areas, stairwells, hallways and emergency routes.
7) Neglecting Inspections: Maintain Safe and Efficient Electrical Systems
Inspections are not just a box ticking exercise, regular inspections and maintenance, carried out by experienced and qualified professionals are essential to ensure the safe and proper operation of your commercial electrical systems.
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Do you have questions about potential mistakes in commercial electrical installations or need advice on avoiding or resolving them?
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