Is Your Electrical Wiring Safe?

In a society where technology is ubiquitous, we often think little of electrical outlets or how we access electricity to power modern conveniences. However, to technicians and home builders, safe and high quality wiring devices remain top concerns.

Source: Dinaspemadamkebakaran danpenanggulanganbencana/Indonesia

An article in EHSToday states that each year electrical failures and malfunctions cause more than 50,000 home fires in the United States, damaging approximately US$1.5 billion worth of property. In ASEAN countries where electrical shortages are common and safety standard enforcement are not as rigid, the numbers are even higher. According to the Fire Services and Disaster Management of Indonesia, from 2009-2013, 59.6% of fires were caused by electrical accidents. While improper use of electrical devices may be an issue, the safety and quality of electrical wiring itself is crucial. Faulty electrical outlets and dated wiring technology are ranked the top five causes of electrical fires.

Historically, global electrification has been attributed to industrialisation and urbanisation. In the early days of electrification in Japan, appliances were connected to the electricity supply through light sockets. These light sockets were, however, often of a low grade, hindering the wide spread use electricity. Realising the need for higher quality electrical wiring, in 1918, Panasonic’s founder Konosuke Matsushita manufactured the first product of the company; an improved attachment plug for light sockets. Not only better in quality, the plug was 30-50% cheaper than its competitors. This and future fixture developments by the company not only helped improve the quality of wiring devices but also expanded electrification rate in the country and ultimately led to the diversification of Panasonic’s business in homes appliances. Fast forward almost a century; Panasonic continues to recognise the importance to quality in its wiring devices line-up.

Three distinct qualities of Panasonic’s wiring devices today include:

1. Flame retardant material with the use of urea resin to reduce heat abnormality,
2. Durable and smooth operation through a unique structural design as well a rigid in-house stroke test, allowing plugs to stay firmly in contact and prevent plug fall outs and;
3. Quick and secure connectivity, allowing wiring to be easily and simply installed.

By always ensuring safety and durability with convenience, home builders can get the reassurance needed for this often invisible but electrical device that is used on a daily basis.

According to the World Bank Group, enforcing safety standards of electrical wiring often fall under the responsibilities of utility companies and electrical contractors. To ensure proper safety measures are taken, the first step is to ensure the quality of products and materials used. While quality electrical fittings may add to the overall project spend, it will pay in the long run by ensuring safe operation without fire risks for homeowners.