Electricity and fire
Statistics show that electrical faults are a leading cause of fires throughout the world. Fires are frequently caused by overloaded installations, defective fuses, defective wiring and motors, the use of improper equipment in hazardous areas and the misuse of electrical apparatus.
Cables and wiring
When the insulation on cables and wiring is damaged, a short circuit between conductors or to earth may develop, which can result in high temperature arcing at the point of damage, heating of the insulation and a possible fire. The main causes of insulation damage and recommended preventive action are summarised as follows:
Cause of insulation damage: mechanical damage
Occurs in high traffic areas through abrasion, flexible extension leads are greatly at risk.
Precautions
Wiring should be led through cable tunnels and ducts. Avoid the use of temporary wiring and flexible extension leads.
Cause of insulation damage: damage from the environment
Heat will break down PVC and rubber mineral insulation. Corrosive atmospheres may damage rubber insulation.
Precautions
Use cables resistant to heat, e.g insulated and fire resistant cables. In corrosive areas, use PVC.
People in Risk
Marcel Wood
Marcel Wood heads Etana’s risk management division. Before starting in insurance he worked for the fire department, rescuing people and (literally) putting out fires. He’s passed through Munich Re and Santam, and has designed the only risk management tool aimed specifically at the insurance industry – ARQ. Marcel is a mean guitarist, a brilliant vocalist and an accomplished soccer player with the personal motto: “Do your best all the time”.
