How To Prepare Your Business for Planned Power Cuts

Gas supplies in the UK are at risk of running out this winter, and there are reports Government has already put together emergency power outage plans.

Therefore, planned power cuts are a risk all businesses should start preparing for.

What do you need to think about as a duty holder?

If planned power cuts go ahead in the winter, there are a few things you need to consider to keep your premises safe for all building users.

> Emergency Lighting Systems
The purpose of an emergency lighting system is to aid in evacuation if there is a power cut.The batteries within the system must be fully charged to provide enough time for the building to be safely evacuated.

In the event of planned power outages, you are responsible for making sure the system operates correctly prior to them occurring.

> Fire Alarm Systems
Fire alarm systems ensure everybody in the building is notified of the need to evacuate the premises. In these systems, a battery ensures the alarms can operate in the event of power failure.

If a power outage is planned., it would be best practice to check all fire alarm systems are ok for continued use, with fully-charged batteries.

> Re-energisation
When the power comes back on in a building (re-energisation), a number of issues can occur. This could be from circuit breakers not activating, circuit breakers tripping out, or RCDs and RCBO’s not resetting.

These issues would result in major disruption to your premises. So, it is important to ensure all electrical systems are compliant and in proper working order.

How to mitigate risks and keep building users safe

• Ensure emergency lighting and fire alarm systems are tested and compliant.
• Rectify any issues relating to the operating system to prepare for power loss.
• Have a plan for re-energisation to mitigate any nuisance tripping of protective devices
• Don’t wait for anniversary dates for compliance if power outages are planned.
  

Are you afraid of the dark? phs Compliance are here to help.

phs Compliance has a reactive team of electrical engineers ready to assist in the event of power failure. Ensuring your premises are back up and running quickly, with minimum disruption to business operations.

phs Compliance is the UK’s leading provider of statutory electrical and fire safety testing and remedial services, keeping businesses and public sector organisations of all sizes safe and compliant.

Services provided include:

• Statutory Inspections and Testing
• Electrical Maintenance Services
• Mechanical Maintenance Services
• Fire and Security Maintenance
• Commercial Project Services

To book a service, get in touch on 02920 9809 098 or fill out a contact form.

To learn more about our what Compliance offers, to get a quote, or simply to ask a query, please feel free to contact us now!