The recent high-profile Heathrow Airport fire has once again highlighted the devastating impact electrical fires can have on properties and business operations.
According to media reports, the fire started in a substation a couple of miles from Heathrow disrupting the power supply to the airport and more than 60,000 properties. On the day of the blaze, more than 1,300 flights were cancelled by airlines leaving around 200,000 passengers stranded. One of the world’s busiest airports, 83.9 million passengers passed through Heathrow in 2024.
Ask yourself: how would a power outage affect your home or business?
Here at Evolution Electrical, we understand how critical it is to identify and prevent the risks of electrical fires. We recommend regular inspections and maintenance to safeguard lives and domestic and commercial properties.
Here are some of the most common causes of electrical fires and how you can mitigate them.
Faulty wiring and outdated systems
Old or poorly maintained wiring is a leading cause of electrical fires. Over time, cable insulation can degrade, leading to exposed or frayed wires that can ignite when they come into contact with flammable materials. In commercial buildings, extensive wiring systems increase the risk of a major fire.
Solution: schedule regular electrical inspections to identify and replace outdated or damaged wiring. Ensure all electrical work complies with UK electrical standards (BS 7671).
Overloaded circuits and sockets
Plugging too many devices into one socket or circuit can cause overheating, increasing the likelihood of a fire occurring. This is particularly common in older properties with outdated and insufficient electrical infrastructure. This is increasingly becoming a problem as new technology is putting more load on systems (e.g. electric car chargers).
Solution: avoid overloading sockets and use circuit breakers to prevent overheating. Consider upgrading your electrical system to accommodate modern power demands.
Faulty electrical appliances and equipment
Defective appliances, including malfunctioning heaters, toasters, or industrial machinery, can quickly overheat and catch fire. Commercial premises often have large electrical equipment and stored goods that can cause a serious hazard.
Solution: regularly inspect and test electrical appliances using Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) to ensure they are safe to use.
Improper electrical installations
Poorly executed installations, often fitted by poorly qualified or amateur electricians, can lead to major electrical fires. Incorrect wiring or improper grounding significantly increases the risk of fires from starting.
Solution: always hire certified and experienced, professional electricians, like those at Evolution Electrical, for all your installations and repairs.
Lack of maintenance
In commercial settings, neglecting routine maintenance can result in unnoticed electrical issues that may escalate. Some commercial premises can be more than 50 or 100 years old, and don’t assume that the landlord has conducted the necessary checks. Whether you are at work or at home, don’t ignore flickering lights or buzzing sounds until it’s too late.
Solution: establish a regular maintenance schedule with a trusted electrical contractor to detect and resolve issues promptly.
Electrical surges and short circuits
Electrical surges, that can be caused by faulty wiring or even lightning strikes, can overheat electrical systems and start fires. Similarly, short circuits occur when exposed wires touch, leading to sparks that can ignite flammable materials.
Solution: install surge protectors and ensure that electrical panels and circuits are inspected regularly.
Take action to prevent electrical fires
Electrical fires put lives at risk, while serious property damage can lead to a business failing. Preventative measures include regular inspections and prompt repairs when issues arise. At Evolution Electrical, we provide comprehensive electrical maintenance and inspection services to keep your homes and businesses across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
Stay safe and compliant by contacting the team at Evolution Electrical today.
