Between 2011 and 2015, commercial properties experienced a staggering 37,910 fires annually. This results in a whopping $1.2 billion in property damage each year. The primary reason is the electrical distribution and lighting equipment (24%).
According to the NFPA, fires caused by electrical distribution and lighting equipment comprised 24% of all industrial fires, 55% of direct property damage, and 9% of injuries in structure fires.
This highlights the urgent need to follow the preventive measures by commercial electricians near me for a secure and safe work environment.
Importance of Electrical Maintenance in Commercial Settings
Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for preventing safety hazards, inefficiencies, and high maintenance costs resulting from equipment failure. Without an Electrical Preventive Maintenance (EPM) program, the average failure rate of electric equipment can skyrocket by 300%.
Poorly maintained machinery can lead to electrical failure when components are left ungreased, misaligned, or worn. There is a more effective strategy akin to regular checkups for automobiles. You can prevent over two-thirds of equipment failures by implementing regularly scheduled checkups and maintenance.
Here are the other benefits of employing electrical maintenance:
Financial Benefits
Electrical failures, fires, and equipment outages come with hefty price tags, costing businesses millions annually. A proactive EPM plan reduces major problems, reducing expensive reactive maintenance. The benefits extend beyond immediate costs, including payouts for injuries, higher electricity bills, and pricey equipment replacements.
Operational Benefits
With regular maintenance, there are fewer unplanned downtimes; when they occur, they are shorter and more predictable. Without EPM, operational efficiency takes a hit, and malfunctioning equipment may remain hidden until a detailed inspection or shutdown is performed. Compromised systems can lead to cascading issues, which can be avoided with regular proactive EPM routines.
Safety Benefits
Electrical machinery poses inherent dangers, and safety codes must be strictly followed. When machinery malfunctions, the risks increase. A tragic example is the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino incident, where thorough EPM could have prevented deadly electrical hazards by detecting them early.
EPM also protects critical safety equipment like fire alarm systems, generators, UPS systems, and emergency and egress lighting. Proactive maintenance ensures that front-line safety defenses in commercial facilities remain in working order, contributing to a safer environment for everyone involved.
Safeguards Your Equipment
Regular maintenance and examination of your electrical system can extend the lifespan of your equipment. Keeping the system well-maintained ensures it operates smoothly, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
Uncompromised Power Quality
Power quality issues can negatively impact your electrical distribution system’s capacity and functioning. Regular power quality tests are a part of effective preventive maintenance plans, preventing faults in machinery, equipment, and computer systems.
Electrical Efficiency
Using electrical equipment to its fullest extent increases energy efficiency. Preventive maintenance scheduled during less busy periods can minimize downtime, enhancing overall performance.
More Effective Asset Management
A contemporary electrical distribution system typically has a lifespan of around 17 years with regular maintenance. Implementing preventive care can extend this lifespan, potentially reaching up to 35 years.
This is nearly twice the average lifespan, showcasing the effectiveness of proper electrical maintenance in asset management.
Preventive Electrical Maintenance
Maintaining a proactive electrical preventive maintenance routine involves three key elements: inspection, testing, and servicing.
Inventory
- Catalogue and rank every piece of electrical equipment in your facility based on potential harm if it fails.
- Use this inventory as your inspection checklist.
Inspection
- Establish regular inspection periods for each item in your inventory.
- Some items may require annual inspections, while critical equipment or those prone to faster wear might need more frequent checks.
Regular Observation & Testing
- Observe equipment for unusual sounds, smells, or visual cues like vibrations.
- Conduct extensive testing on the power distribution system to ensure reliability and identify potential failures.
Record-Keeping
- Maintain detailed records for each piece of electrical equipment.
- Log every operational issue, correction, replacement, maintenance date, and contact.
- Thorough record-keeping aids quick troubleshooting by technicians.
Repair & Replacement
- Adjust, repair, or replace any faulty or underperforming equipment based on its specific needs.
- Build a parts list for each machine and document manufacturer information for correct part identification, ordering, and troubleshooting.
Analytics
- Keep records about your electrical equipment to build a detailed dataset over time.
- Use accumulated data to predict equipment behaviour and durability.
- Refine your Electrical Preventive Maintenance (EPM) procedures for increased cost-effectiveness.
Equipment Testing and Calibration
Ensuring the proper functioning of electrical equipment is vital for preventing failures. Here are key aspects of equipment testing and calibration:
Testing Circuit Breakers and Switchgear
- Conduct regular testing of circuit breakers to ensure they can interrupt fault currents.
- Inspect switchgear for signs of wear, corrosion, or loose connections.
Calibration of Monitoring and Control Systems
- Regularly calibrate sensors and monitoring devices to maintain accuracy.
- Check control systems for optimal performance and responsiveness.
Electrical System Upgrades and Retrofitting
As technology evolves, so should your electrical infrastructure. Upgrading and retrofitting are essential to keep pace with advancements and maintain efficiency. Here are key considerations:
| Assessing the Lifespan of Electrical Components | Identifying Obsolete or Outdated Equipment | Upgrading Lighting Systems |
| Identify components such as transformers, capacitors, and wiring that may end their lifespan.Plan for timely replacements to avoid unexpected failures. | Regularly review equipment specifications to identify obsolete or discontinued components.Consider upgrading to modern, energy-efficient alternatives. | Retrofit outdated lighting systems with energy-efficient LED fixtures.Implement smart lighting controls for better energy management. |
Emergency Response and Reactive Maintenance
Despite meticulous preventive measures, emergencies can still occur. So, establish protocols for emergency response and reactive maintenance.
Establishing Emergency Protocols
Emergency Shut-off Procedures
- Clearly define procedures for quickly shutting off power in case of emergencies.
- Train personnel on emergency evacuation routes and protocols.
24/7 Emergency Contact
- Maintain a list of 24/7 emergency contacts for immediate assistance.
- Ensure all employees are aware of how to report electrical emergencies.
Troubleshooting and Diagnosing Electrical Issues
| Tripped Circuit Breakers | Investigate the cause and address overloads or faulty equipment. |
| Power Surges | Install surge protectors and investigate the source of surges. |
| Flickering Lights | Check for loose connections, faulty wiring, or issues with the electrical panel. |
Documentation and Record-Keeping
Maintaining detailed records of maintenance activities is essential for tracking performance and planning future maintenance. Here are key aspects of documentation:
| Regularly Update Logs | Software Solutions for Maintenance Tracking |
| Document all maintenance activities, including inspections, repairs, and upgrades.Include details such as date, time, and personnel involved. | Implement specialized maintenance tracking software for streamlined record-keeping.Leverage cloud-based solutions for accessibility and data security. |
Training and Skill Development
Investing in training and skill development is crucial for staying ahead. Here’s how:
- Provide training on the latest electrical diagnostic tools and equipment.
- Ensure electricians are well-versed in emerging technologies, such as smart building systems.
- Conduct regular training sessions to inform them of potential hazards, proper equipment usage, and emergency protocols.
Hire Reliable Commercial Electricians Near You
Ensuring the continuous operation of your commercial electrical system is important for smooth business functions. Proactive maintenance is the key to avoiding unexpected shutdowns and enhancing overall safety.
Effective maintenance practices are the foundation for a powered-up and protected business. Collaborate with qualified commercial electricians near me to tailor these essential strategies to your electrical needs. With Mountain Point Electrical’s proactive maintenance, you can keep the lights on and avoid disruptive outages.
Call us now for all your commercial needs today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should Electrical Inspections Be Conducted in a Commercial Setting?
First, understand the three main types of scheduling:
| Calendar-Based | Regularly scheduled inspections, detections, and corrections based on dates or intervals between previous maintenance. |
| Predictive | Inspections and maintenance triggered by suspicions of an imminent breakdown. |
| Prescriptive | Inspections and maintenance in response to a breakdown. |
For system-wide EPM inspection, most electrical manufacturers recommend every two to three years as the longest interval. Some equipment needs more frequent checks, including important pieces in harsh environments and those with manufacturer-recommended frequent maintenance.
What Are Common Signs of Electrical Issues in a Commercial Establishment?
Recognize signs of potential electrical problems in a commercial space for a safe and efficient work environment. Here’s a breakdown of common indicators:
Flickering Lights
Dimming or flickering lights may signal issues like loose wiring or overloaded circuits. Consistent illumination is necessary for a functional workspace, so investigate persistent flickering promptly to prevent potential hazards.
Tripped Circuit Breakers
A tripped circuit breaker indicates an electrical overload or a short circuit. If breakers trip frequently, it suggests too much current or faulty wiring. Addressing the root cause is necessary to prevent fires and equipment damage.
Unexplained Power Surges
Sudden increases in electrical voltage, known as power surges, can damage electronic devices. External factors or internal electrical system issues may cause these surges. Monitor unexpected surges to protect equipment, prevent data loss, and maintain a stable electrical environment.
How Can I Ensure the Safety of My Electrical System During Emergencies?
Establish emergency shut-off procedures, provide 24/7 emergency contacts, and train personnel on evacuation protocols.
