How can you ensure electrical safety and security?

After 20+ years of electrical maintenance and construction, I have realized that part of design should highly consider the “how to” part of the design. “How to” maintain it in the physical sense? Designs that require special parts should consider the future ramifications if a special part is required for repairs. “How to” to test it? Make designs easy to access parts that require PM programs. Burdening the maintenance personnel means more money due to possible delays that could easily be preempted in the design phase.

Safety and security in each project must be considered from the initial phases. Planning and design are two of those initial phases. Safely planned and designed project may need more financial resources in compare to the other plans but regarding the potential risks it worth. Safety and security during construction and operation must be considered carefully by the design engineer. Every current carrying part and equipment must be chosen carefully in order to eliminate any chance of hot spot point occurring. The earthing and protection system must be planned for the worst scenarios in order to avoid any chance of electrical shock. The fire alarm system must be designed carefully and the location of every part must be selected wisely.

I always follow a few rules: 1. When not sure, always be on the safe side. 2. It’s not shameful to ask someone for advice. 3. Everything should be done in design phase and agreed upon.

Avoiding the "magic pen" is imperative to a successful design. Having consideration for the person that will be installing and operating the gear you configure will go a long way in successful implementation. If you're not sure, ask a wireman or an operator of your end devices or equipment lineups. Ergonomics are an important part of safety when it comes to following the intent of most electrical codes that have spatial impacts on final design.

Understanding the scope and requirements is vital part of design development. Basic concept should be clearly discussed and agreed upon with the client on what are the purpose and design considerations. Any provision in the contract scope of works that are not clear or might conflict with codes and standards, shall bring the attention of the client by any legal form of communication or technical queries as applicable. Codes, standards, and best practices should be in place as a guideline. As necessary, conduct a site survey to ensure any challenges in design requirements and execution have been properly addressed. Equipment and personnel safety shall be considered in every aspect of the design.

Ensuring electrical safety involves adhering to rigorous installation standards, conducting routine inspections, and maintaining equipment. Employ certified professionals for installations, implement circuit protection devices, and educate users on safe practices. For security, deploy surge protectors, restrict access to critical infrastructure, and stay abreast of emerging guidelines. Regularly update security protocols, leverage technological advancements, and conduct risk assessments to safeguard against potential threats, ensuring a comprehensive approach to electrical safety and security.

In my experience the testing and inspection of installations is carried out by appointed people in large contracting companies. I’m sorry to say that many electricians are still leaving training and apprenticeships without the ability to carry out the required testing and inspection processes. In my opinion every electrician should be able to test and inspect their own work and if they are unable to then maybe they need to be retrained. Large companies need to take responsibility for their contractors and ensure they are competent to carry out the correct testing procedures as per BS7671.

Testing and inspection play a vital role in ensuring electrical safety and security. Checking for proper grounding, insulation, RCD protection, and using tools like thermography can identify potential hazards. Regular maintenance and adherence to safety standards contribute to a secure electrical system.

To ensure electrical safety and security, one thing from my experience it's best to have regular inspections. Have qualified electrician to do installation and maintenance, ensure wiring is up to code, correctly sized and insulated to prevent fire and shocks. Properly ground electrical systems to redirect excess electricity safely into the earth, install surge protection to safeguard against voltage spikes and protect sensitive electronics. Regularly maintain electrical equipment and most importantly when doing so always logout/tagout to maintain safety and electrical security.

by ensuring the correct and regular maintenance of every machine according to the NETA MTS Standards. and When inspecting for energized equipment. You should wear the Correct PPE According to the voltage of the machine and follow the boundaries according to your experience. If it was for a de-energized machine 1- make sure you applied LOTO Procedures correctly. 2- to check if the person who will test is qualified or not. 3- always check the grounding if it has issues.

To ensure electricity safe and security is Base on 1, carry out inspection expecially on our DC supply for protection zone once DC fails the electricity is at big risk,2preventing maintenance mostly on isolators,ct links, bushing of transformer 3 Make sure they is a enough kan power on the plant.