When it comes to the safety of your commercial building, there's no room for cutting corners. Electrical accidents are among the leading causes of fires in commercial buildings, with statistics from the National Fire Protection Association showing that electrical fires accounted for 20% of all reported non-residential building fires from 2017 to 2019. Commercial electrical contractors are helpful in implementing the latest safety technologies and keeping your building safe and secure. Here are some safety technologies they can install in your building today:
1. Arc-fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)
An AFCI is a device that detects and interrupts an electrical arc, which is a dangerous electrical current that can cause fires. These arcs are caused by faulty wiring or by items such as frayed cords or damaged plugs. An AFCI will detect these arcs and cut off the power to prevent any damage to property or harm to people.
A commercial electrical contractor can help you install AFCIs in your building's electrical systems, which can help prevent electrical fires and keep your building safe.
2. Ground-fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
A GFCI is a device that detects and interrupts ground faults, which are dangerous electrical currents that can cause electric shock. A GCFI works by detecting when the electricity is not flowing properly and then cutting off power to prevent an electric shock.
Commercial electrical contractors can install these devices in areas where people make contact with water such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms to help keep you and your employees safe.
3. Smoke and Fire Alarms
Smoke detectors are a simple but effective way to detect fires and provide an early warning, which can help save lives and reduce property damage. A fire alarm system is the backbone of your building's fire safety plan.
It's essential to have a fire alarm system that is up-to-date, reliable, and properly maintained to ensure safety in an emergency. A commercial electrical contractor can help you install, upgrade, or maintain your fire and smoke alarm systems throughout your building so you can quickly detect and respond to fires.
4. Emergency Lighting
Emergency lighting is essential for safely evacuating a building during a power outage or emergency. This lighting is autonomous from the main system to ensure it continues functioning. A commercial electrical contractor can help you install emergency lighting in your building, which will ensure that your employees and customers can safely evacuate in case of an emergency.
Electrical accidents can be serious and costly, and it's crucial to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of your commercial building. Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs), ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), smoke detectors, emergency lighting, and fire alarm systems can help prevent electrical fires and keep your building safe and secure. You also avoid the legal and financial consequences of such accidents.
Consult professional electrical contractors for more information.