Top electrical safety measures for working from home

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From shared cubicles to open collaborative spaces to remote work, the definition of the workplace has evolved. The transition to the work-from-home model, which primarily began post-pandemic, has slowly morphed into a preferred option for many. However, this change has also altered the energy consumption pattern. According to recent research by Statista, net electricity consumption worldwide amounted to over 25,500 terawatt-hours in 2022, more than 30% higher than a decade earlier. Much of it can be attributed to the work-from-home model because the energy usage for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit also increased during the daytime.

Additionally, extreme weather events, such as droughts and heatwaves worldwide, have catapulted energy demands and led to peak power consumption. While everything is moving back on track now, many businesses are still operating remotely making our homes our workplaces, entertainment centers, and relaxation spaces.

These changes in how we live, work, play, and consume energy drive electricity demand and can lead to safety risks. That’s why you must stay informed about possible electrical dangers and ways to tackle them while working from home.

Tips to stay on top of electrical risks

Electrical accidents can occur at any time. As per the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, 31,000 home electrical fires happen every year. But with the right knowledge and information, you can secure your home from such risks. We’ve outlined a list of safety measures to mitigate electrical hazards.

1. Avoid overloading outlets: Electrical outlets are designed to carry a specific power load. An overloaded outlet draws more power than your circuit can support, leading to overheating and potentially causing a fire. That’s why it’s essential to use only one plug per outlet and avoid using extension cords or power strips that are not rated for your equipment. Proper usage can help with the safety and longevity of your electrical system.
   
   
2. Unplug appliances when not in use: Did you know that leaving devices plugged in uses energy even when not in use? And that’s not all. In addition to increasing your electrical bill, keeping devices plugged in can cause hazards due to overheating, which may eventually lead to worst-case scenarios such as fires. So, next time you step out of the house or are not charging your devices, make sure to unplug them.
   
   
3. Limit the use of extension cords: We understand that using an extension cord enables you to connect and charge multiple devices in one place easily. However, it is a temporary solution and is susceptible to damage from continuous use. So, always use extension cords briefly and unplug them when not in use.
   
   
4. Avoid cords under carpets, rugs, doors, or windows: Never run power cords under carpets or rugs or across doorways, as they can quickly overheat or become damaged. Also, a cord close to a doorway could be a tripping hazard. It could cause injury from slipping, tripping, or falling over the wiring.
   
   
5. Don’t charge your devices on bed: Electrical devices like laptops and smartphones shouldn’t be charged on beds. Always charge them on a hard, flat surface such as a table or desk in a well-ventilated room to avoid overheating. Additionally, check your extension cords and other appliances regularly.
   
   
6. Check your smoke detectors: It is important to check your smoke alarms monthly and replace their batteries yearly. To begin the exercise, press and hold the test button for a few seconds to trigger the loud siren. This will show that your gadget is functional. Having a functioning smoke alarm is critical to your safety as it can help provide early warning of a fire.

Importance of electrical panel safety products

By following the above tips, you can keep your home and expensive electrical appliances safe from damage and risks. However, there is another crucial element in this equation: electrical panel safety products. They offer enhanced protection for people and equipment by detecting the problem and immediately cutting the circuit before a potential fire starts. Here is how:

• Miniature circuit breakers (MCB): An MCB automatically switches off electrical circuits during overloads or short circuits to prevent damage and fire to your devices.
  
• Residual current circuit breakers (RCCB): An RCCB detects and disconnects electrical circuits during earth faults to prevent electric shocks. This product can analyze the difference between phase and neutral and act.
  
• Surge protection devices (SPD): An SPD protects electrical systems and devices from voltage spikes caused by lightning or power surges. Using surge protectors can increase the lifespan of your products, especially televisions, laptops, and PCs, which are your biggest companions when working from home.
  
• UV and OV protection: They safeguard your equipment by disconnecting the power supply during abnormal voltage levels, preventing damage from fluctuations.

• Arc fault detection devices (AFDD): One of the biggest risks of home electrical failures is fire. AFDD helps mitigate the risk of fires caused by electrical arcs resulting from faulty or worn appliances and circuits. When a potentially dangerous arc is detected, the AFDD immediately trips, preventing the risk of fire.

Product range from Schneider Electric

Now that you’re more familiar with the importance of electrical panel safety products for all-around electrical protection of homes, let’s look at some of our 9 series products. They can help deliver the final level of protection in your homes and buildings, enabling you to stay safe at every moment.

• Resi9 range: It contains circuit breakers, residual current devices, switches, and surge protection devices that can help prevent damage to your devices. Designed with style and new features, this range offers you peace of mind like never before.

• Easy 9 range: Much like Resi9, the Easy9 range provides protection devices like circuit breakers, residual current, and surge protection devices. However, this range comes with one more product: comb busbars, designed to increase electrical systems’ efficiency. Also, it features a user-friendly design for ultimate ease of use, offering more comfort and convenience.

Your safety is our priority

Remote work is the present and the future. While we can plan workcations sometimes, most of our time will still be spent in our homes. It’s where we feel safe, more relaxed, and comfortable. Keeping it protected against potential electrical risks is a must, and Schneider Electric is here to help you on this journey.

We strive to cultivate a safety-conscious culture and provide safe, sustainable, high-quality, reliable solutions. Using our products and following the safety measures can help you save energy, reduce emissions, and foster a safer and more comfortable work-from-home environment.