Here at Walker Electrical, we are Preston’s leading electrical professionals, and we work across a range of sectors, from commercial to residential, to provide high quality, effective, electrical solutions. As a result, we have produced this guide to the most common electrical hazards in student accommodation.
What are the most common electrical hazards in student accommodation?
With multiple students living under one roof, there can often be a number of health and safety hazards occurring. But electrics hazards, that are the caused by faulty wiring and electrical design failures can be the most dangerous. And any Landlord has an important, legal obligation to provide safe electrical provision. So, what are the key electrical hazards in student accommodation? Well, there are several, including:
- overloading sockets
- faulty wiring
Socket shortage
Even in the most up to date and modern student accommodation, electrical risks are still present. This is usually because of a shortage of sockets. In fact, most home in the UK have too few sockets to meet our needs, so it’s not just student accommodation that is effected. But a shortage of socket space leads to an increase in the use of extension leads. And these are often overloaded, or not used correctly. As a result, the socket can easily overheat, leading to an electrical fire.
Faulty wiring
In older properties, faulty wiring can be a real nightmare. Old wiring simply becomes more dangerous with age, which means that electrical charge can escape the rubber. As a result, electrical fires can occur.
The quality of your wiring can be tested as part of an Electrical Installation Condition Report, In addition, here at Walker Electrical, we offer thermal image testing, which can help to find heat spots, a potential indicator of faulty wiring.
Landlord Responsibilities
Make sure you take precautions as a landlord and have a full electrical safety check taken each year. You should also have the electrical appliances regularly PAT tested.
If you need support to keep your property and tenants safe, contact us today at Walker Electrical.