As part of a recent fire risk assessment conducted at a premises, we undertook a comprehensive review that included both an audit of relevant documentation and a physical inspection of the site. One of the key components of this process was verifying whether routine inspections of the electrical installation were being carried out by a qualified and competent electrician.
During the audit, it was identified that the premises had not been conducting regular inspections of the electrical systems. This posed a significant safety concern, as unchecked electrical installations can become a major fire hazard over time.
Following our recommendation, the responsible person in charge of the premises arranged for a certified electrician to carry out a full inspection of the electrical installation.
The inspection covered all major components of the electrical system, including:
- Electrical distribution boards
- Circuit breakers and contactors
- Wiring and cable management
- Earthing and bonding systems
- Load balancing and system integrity
During the inspection, the electrician discovered a serious fault within one of the 4-pole contactors housed in the electrical distribution board. The component showed visible signs of scorching and overheating. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the wiring connections to the contactor had not been properly secured – specifically, the screws had not been fully tightened. This resulted in electrical arcing, which in turn caused excessive heat buildup.
Had this issue not been identified during the inspection, it could have led to a significant fire risk, potentially endangering both the premises and its occupants.
This incident highlights the critical importance of routine electrical inspections as part of a broader fire safety strategy.
Toolbox Talk Record
A Toolbox Talk is an informal safety meeting that focuses on safety topics related to the specific job, such as workplace hazards and safe work practices. Meetings are normally short in duration and are generally conducted at the location, prior to the commencement of a job or work shift. It is one of the very effective methods to refresh workers’ knowledge, cover last minute safety checks, and exchange information with the experienced workers. Toolbox Talks are also intended to facilitate health and safety discussions on the location and promote your organisation’s safety culture.
