Fire Safety and Electrical Systems: Essential Guidance for Business Owners
Electrical systems are at the heart of every commercial building—but they also represent one of the most common causes of workplace fires. As a business owner, understanding the connection between fire safety and your electrical systems is essential for protecting people, property, and profits.
In this guide, we’ll explore the main fire safety risks from electrical systems in commercial buildings, how to identify them, and what steps you can take to minimise the danger and remain compliant with UK regulations.
Why Fire Safety Matters in Commercial Properties
In the UK, fire services attend thousands of workplace fires every year, in 2023/2024 there were a total of 7,000 workplace fires across the UK. A significant number of these are linked to faulty or poorly maintained electrical systems. The consequences can be devastating—resulting in injury, business downtime, and even legal action.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places a legal duty on employers, landlords, and building managers to reduce fire risks and maintain safe premises.
Common Fire Safety Risks from Electrical Systems in Commercial Buildings
Understanding the causes of electrical fires is the first step toward prevention. The most common risks include:
Overloaded circuits: Connecting too many devices to a single outlet can cause the wiring to overheat—particularly in older buildings with outdated electrical systems. In commercial settings, it's best to avoid the use of extension leads altogether, as they allow uncontrolled use and increase the risk of overloading.
Faulty wiring: Dated, damaged, or non-compliant wiring increases the risk of arcing, sparks, and overheating.
Lack of RCD protection: Residual Current Devices (RCDs) disconnect power quickly when a fault is detected. Without them, shock and fire risks increase dramatically.
Poor maintenance: Loose connections, overheating distribution boards, and untested equipment are often overlooked during regular operations.
Misuse of portable appliances: Inadequately tested appliances can malfunction, especially when used with extension leads or in unsuitable environments.
How to Prevent Electrical Fires in Commercial Properties
To minimise fire risk and maintain compliance, follow these key safety measures:
✔️ Schedule Regular Electrical Inspections
Have a qualified electrical contractor carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) at least every 5 years—or more frequently for high-risk environments.
✔️ Implement a PAT Testing Programme
Regular Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) ensures all plug-in devices are safe to use, especially in busy offices, retail spaces, and warehouses.
✔️ Maintain Emergency Systems
Keep fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, and backup power supplies tested and functional as part of your fire safety strategy.
✔️ Install and Test RCD Protection
Ensure all circuits that require RCD protection are fitted with properly functioning devices. RCDs can prevent fires caused by ground faults or faulty equipment.
✔️ Train Your Staff
Educate employees on how to safely use electrical systems and respond in the event of a fault or fire.
Combine Fire Safety and Electrical Maintenance
Combining fire safety with your routine electrical system maintenance makes your business safer and more compliant. This can include:
Integrating emergency lighting into your fire risk assessment
Ensuring fire alarms are powered by a reliable and tested circuit
Logging electrical inspections alongside fire safety checks
By aligning these responsibilities, you can streamline maintenance and reduce the chance of anything being missed.
Work With a Trusted Contractor
At Carter’s Electrical Services, we help businesses across Oxfordshire and beyond identify fire risks, test electrical systems, and stay fully compliant with UK regulations.
Our services include:
Commercial EICRs
Emergency lighting testing
Fire alarm installation and servicing
Full fire risk assessment support
PAT testing and remedial work
📞 Contact us today to schedule a safety audit or electrical inspection tailored to your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Electrical fires are often caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, untested appliances, or a lack of regular maintenance and RCD protection.
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Schedule regular EICRs, implement PAT testing, maintain emergency systems, and educate staff on proper equipment use.
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Yes. Under the Fire Safety Order 2005, all employers and building managers must reduce fire risks and maintain safe premises, including proper electrical safety.
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Electrical installations should be tested at least every 5 years for commercial properties—or more often in high-risk or industrial settings.
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Fire alarms rely on properly wired, tested circuits. Regular maintenance ensures they are powered correctly and integrated with emergency lighting and backup systems.