Electrical Safety
Why is electrical safety important?
Electricity is crucial for our daily lives, but if electrical systems and wiring are not properly maintained or used incorrectly, they can cause serious harm, injuries, or even death. Each year, over 1000 deaths and injuries are caused by electrical fires. Electric shocks can disrupt the heart's rhythm and breathing, and electrical burns can cause permanent damage.
What does Mansfield District Council do to keep you safe?
Mansfield District Council (MDC) has a legal duty to ensure that electrical wiring in its buildings is safe. Here's what they do:
- Regular Inspections: Every MDC property is tested at least once every 5 years, including the electric meter, fuse box, and all associated wiring.
- Vacant Property Checks: An electrical test is performed before a new occupant moves into a vacant property.
- Qualified Electricians: Only properly qualified electricians carry out electrical reports and repairs.
- Documentation: Occupants receive copies of electrical installation condition report certificates, with a copy kept by MDC.
- Emergency Repairs: MDC offers an out-of-hours repair service for urgent electrical issues.
What can you do to keep safe?
- Allow Access: Let MDC perform the electrical installation test in your home.
- Report Issues: Immediately report any electrical faults (including sockets) to MDC at 01623 463463.
- Seek Permission: Do not make electrical changes to your home without MDC's permission.
- Additional Safety Tips
- Limit Appliances: Avoid overloading plug sockets to prevent overheating.
- Inspect Cables: Ensure visible cables and leads are in good condition.
- Check Light Fittings: Make sure light fittings are not damaged.
- Avoid Clutter: Keep combustible materials away from fuse boxes, electric meters, heaters, or fires.
- Microwave Safety: Do not place items on top of microwaves to avoid blocking ventilation.
- Cable Management: Do not run cables under carpets or rugs.
- Bathroom Safety: Never use mains-powered items in the bathroom.
- Switch Off: Turn off electrical items when not in use.
- Safe Cleaning: Do not clean or repair appliances while they are plugged in.
- Avoid Double Adapters: They can add extra load to sockets, potentially causing fires.
- Keep Dry: Never use electrical equipment in wet conditions.
- Limit use of extension leads and never connect two or more extensions leads together
Electrical Installation Condition Report
MDC needs access to your home every five years to perform a "Fixed Wire" electrical installation condition report. This inspection checks for defects like cracked sockets, switches, light fittings, and wiring that could cause electric shocks or explosions.
Arranging Access to Your Home
You will receive an appointment letter from MDC when it’s time for your property’s test. The test takes 1-2 hours. If you can’t be available, contact MDC to reschedule. Failure to provide access may lead to legal action.
Preparing for the Test
To ensure the test is completed quickly and with minimal disruption:
- Electric Meter Credit: Ensure your electric meter has credit.
- Adult Presence: An adult (18+) must be present.
- Clear Access: Make sure the electric meter, consumer unit (fuse board), sockets, switches, and light fittings are accessible.
- Pet Safety: Keep pets secure in a room or outside.
- The electrician may need to access every room. If you foresee any issues or have specific requirements please contact MDC on 01623 463463
During the Test
Upon arrival, the electrician will:
- Visual Inspection: Check sockets, switches, light fittings, and detectors.
- Consumer Unit Test: Identify faults in the electrical circuits.
- Socket and Switch Testing: Test at least 20% of the sockets, switches, and light fittings. If faults are found, more will be tested.
- Further Work: If issues are found, further repairs may be necessary. You will be informed during the visit.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact MDC on 01623 463463 or email electricalsafety@mansfield.gov.uk