How to Ensure Electrical Safety in Commercial Buildings

Have you ever wondered why the outdated wiring in your commercial property is driving up maintenance costs and energy bills? Nope? Now you may because it is highly possible.

If you own a commercial property in California, you need to be aware of the consequences of outdated or poorly maintained electrical systems. These can increase operational expenses and pose serious safety risks.

We all know that California is famous for its strict safety regulations and vulnerability to natural disasters like wildfires and earthquakes. Considering this, it is important to ensure electrical safety in your commercial building.

Let’s say you fail to address these concerns; what happens next?

It can lead to costly repairs, non-compliance with California’s building codes, and even higher insurance premiums. So, it is better to handle all of this smartly and strategically by following these electrical safety tips in this blog.

Most Recommended Electrical Safety Tips

Following are some of the most recommended electrical safety tips for you. These tips take into account the state’s specific regulatory requirements, environmental factors and the unique needs of commercial buildings.

Conduct Regular Electrical Inspections

If you wish to maintain electrical safety in your Californian commercial property, you need to conduct regular electrical inspections.

In California, strict building codes and safety regulations are already in place. This is why it will be better to get annual or semi-annual inspections to ensure compliance and avoid potential hazards. Most of all, these inspections will identify damaged or exposed electrical wires that accounts for 20% of electrocution every year in California.

Not only this, but the licensed electricians (the ones familiar with the Californian Electrical Code) will also identify hidden electrical issues like:

• Faulty wiring
• Overloaded circuits
• Deteriorating components

Once you make regular inspections a major part of your business operation (just like the profits), you will be able to prevent problems like electrical fires, power outages, and even system failures. All of this can lead to costly repairs or even regulatory fines.

Upgrade Outdated Wiring and Electrical Panels

Do you own an older commercial building in California? Then, you must upgrade the outdated wiring and electrical panels.

Like yours, many commercial buildings in California still use outdated or aluminum wiring. This poses a significant fire hazard and fails to meet the modern safety standards. So, it is best to replace these wiring with updated ones (high-quality copper wiring). This will help in enhancing safety and reducing the risk of electrical fires.

Similarly, upgrading to a modern electrical panel can handle increased electrical loads more effectively. In fact, it will also reduce the likelihood of overheating and system failures. With modern systems you will be able to get the advanced features like smart technology for monitoring and managing electrical use. This will further enhance the safety and efficiency.

Once you invest in these upgrades, you will not only comply with California’s stringent electrical codes but will also improve the overall reliability of the electrical systems. In the end, this will lead to lower maintenance costs and enhanced protection for your building.

Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

One of the most critical electrical safety measures is installing Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). This is particularly important in areas where electrical and moisture are very close.

These interrupters work by cutting off electrical power when they detect a ground fault. This can occur when electricity flows through an unintended path like water or a person’s body.

But why is it so important?

It prevents electric chocks and reduces the risk of electrical fires. This makes GFCIs an essential part of modern electrical safety.

These are also mandated by Californian law. According to the California Electric Code (CEC), specifically § 210.8, these are required in different locations within your building. The code specifies that all 125-volt through 250-volt receptacles are installed in certain areas, like:

• Bathrooms
• Kitchens (for countertop receptacles)
• Garages and accessory buildings
• Outdoor locations
• Crawl spaces and basements
• Areas near sinks and bathtubs

However, your responsibility doesn’t end with just installing GFCIs, you may also regularly test these to ensure they are functioning properly and offers maximum safety.

Ensure Proper Circuit Labeling

You might be wondering, “is it really an electrical safety measure?” Yes! It might seem like a very simple step but it holds equal importance.

Once you clearly label each circuit in the electrical panel, it will be easier to identify which circuits control specific areas or equipment within the building. These steps become specifically important during maintenance or in an emergency situation when power needs to be quickly shut off to a specific section.

If you will have the circuits properly labeled, you will not be confused between switches and it will reduce the risk of errors. In fact, it will also ensure that repairs or inspections are carried out safely and efficiently.

Implement Surge Protection Systems

This is a great way to protect your property from unexpected electrical surges. These surges can cause major damage to electrical systems and equipment – resulting from external sources like:

• Lightning strikes
• Issues with the power grid
• Internal causes like sudden cycling of large equipment

These surges can damage sensitive electronics, HVAC systems, and other essential devices. All of this leads to costly repairs or replacements.

So, once you install surge protectors at critical points in the building’s electrical system, it will help absorb excess voltage and prevent it from reaching connected equipment. Also, in California, power outages and fluctuations are very common. With surge protection in place, you can ensure uninterrupted business operations and enhance the safety and reliability of your building’s overall electrical infrastructure.

Conclusion

Remember, at the end of the day, you need to ensure that the electrical safety in your Californian commercial property is not just about compliance with the state’s regulations. In fact, it should be about protecting your business, employees, and assets from serious risk.

It will be best to follow all the electrical safety tips above. But one thing you shall never miss is scheduling regular electrical safety inspections (it would be much better if you just conducted commercial inspections). All of this can significantly help reduce the chances of electrical hazards and costly repairs. It will also improve your building’s operational efficiency and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Ensure the safety of your commercial property with Elite Commercial Inspections. Our expert team provides comprehensive electrical inspections, identifies potential hazards, and ensures compliance with California’s strict safety regulations. Don’t wait for problems to arise—schedule your inspection today to protect your property, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance operational reliability.