IN THIS ISSUE:

Electrical Safety for Self-Storage Operations

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), there were 136 workplace fatalities and over 2,200 non-fatal workplace injuries related to electricity in 2017. To increase electrical safety awareness and prevent electrical fires and electrocutions, the ESFI offers the following tips.

Don't Overtax Wiring: Avoid overloading power strips, extension cords, or surge protectors and dispose of adapters that allow three or four plugs in one socket.

Use Extension Cords Safely: Extension cords are designed for temporary use and should not be left plugged in all the time. They should not be used in high-traffic areas, hidden under carpets or furniture, or attached to walls. Read the warning information on extension cords to avoid using a low-voltage cord with high-voltage equipment. Also, extension cords designed for indoor use should not be used outside.

Install Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters: Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are an important component of electrical safety. Once required only for temporary wiring at construction sites and residential bathrooms, GFCI are now required in many more workplace and residential applications per National Electric Code (NEC) standards.

Replace Older Electrical Equipment: Older electrical equipment, particularly items not certified by Underwriters Laboratories or another independent testing organization, should be replaced with current versions.

Inspect Older Buildings: Whether in a commercial building or residential structure, electrical systems installed prior to 1970 are insufficient for the electrical demands of today's world. Electrical systems in older buildings should be inspected and updated by a licensed and insured electrician.