A Day in Clifton, Bristol: Promoting Electrical Safety and Honesty
As your local electrician in Bristol, I take immense pride in providing not just reliable electrical services but also honest advice to my valued customers. Today, I want to share an experience I had in the beautiful neighbourhood of Clifton, Bristol, where my commitment to electrical safety and integrity was put to the test.
The Customer's Request
It was a typical day, and I received a call from a homeowner in Clifton who needed additional sockets installed in their home. This request, on the surface, seemed like a straightforward job. However, as I arrived at the customer's house, I realised that there was a potential safety concern that needed to be addressed. This property was a underground flat with not may options for cable routing.
The Previous Electrician's Solution
The customer informed me that a previous electrician had suggested installing the additional sockets behind the skirting around the room. At first glance, this might seem like a convenient solution to add more outlets without disrupting the existing decor. However, I knew that this approach didn't comply with the electrical safety standards set forth in BS7671.
Understanding Cable Zones
One of the fundamental principles of electrical safety, as outlined in BS7671, is the concept of cable zones. Cable zones define specific areas, where electrical cables can be safely installed to minimise the risk of damage and ensure the safety of both occupants and property. It's a critical aspect of electrical installations that every professional electrician must adhere to.
The Problem
In this particular case, the previous electrician's plan was to install the cable for sockets behind the skirting violated the cable zoning regulations. Cables hidden behind skirting are not installed within a designated zone, and this can lead to electric shock due to being in a non standardised place, running horizontally and hidden. For example, if someone drilled through the skirting not knowing the cable was there, they would get a nasty shock damaging the cable, thus causing a fault and an issue. Access to the wiring would be challenging, potentially causing delays
in troubleshooting and further damage to your home to rectify it. Moreover, it could compromise the integrity of the electrical system, leading to safety hazards.
Educating the Customer
I explained the importance of cable zones and how the previous electrician's approach posed a potential safety risk. It was evident that the customer had not been informed about these regulations before, and they genuinely appreciated the honesty and transparency I offered.
The Safe and Compliant Solution
To ensure the customer's electrical installation complied with safety standards, I proposed a safer alternative. We discussed relocating the sockets to a location that adhered to the cable zoning regulations. While this required some adjustments and minor aesthetic changes, it guaranteed the safety of their electrical system.
My experience in Clifton, Bristol, highlights the significance of being an honest and knowledgeable electrician. Promoting electrical safety and compliance with regulations is not just a professional responsibility but also a moral one. As a local electrician in Bristol, my commitment to delivering reliable services with integrity remains unwavering. Every day, I strive to educate my customers about the importance of electrical safety, ensuring that their homes are not only well-lit but also secure and safe.
If you're in need of electrical services in Bristol, remember that choosing an electrician who prioritises electrical safety and honesty is essential. Your peace of mind and the safety of your home depend on it.
Contact Jason at Fairway Electrical Bristol on 0117 2394701
