Electrical Equipment
Reducing the risk of fire – electrical equipment
A spark from faulty electrical items and wiring can lead to a fire.
Most electrical faults can be detected just by a visual inspection – so take a look at the electrical equipment in your home and your childcare centre, to see whether you can spot any of the problems listed in the checklist below.
IMPORTANT: If you notice any of the faults listed, contact a qualified electrician. DO NOT try to repair the damage yourself.
ACTION: Click the icon below and check your equipment against the list of potential problems:
Checklist:
- Are the cables and wires frayed or worn?
- Is the cable fastened securely to the plug?
- Are there signs that the plug has overheated?
- Can you see melted or deformed plastic or burn marks?
- Are there scorch marks around the socket?
Simple things you can do:
- Unplug appliances when not in use unless they are designed to be left on, like fridges and freezers
- Keep electrical appliances clean and in good working order
Look out for fuses that blow, circuit-breakers that trip for no obvious reason and flickering lights to prevent them triggering a fire - Check electrical equipment for a British or European safety mark
- Always check that you use the right fuse to prevent overloading
When you’re fitting or replacing a fuse, it’s important to use the right fuse for the appliance to make sure the cable doesn’t overheat and that the appliance is protected in the event of a fault.
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