Preparation and active recovery are the most important aspects to a business thriving after a natural disaster. And after the chaos passes, see use rebuilding as an opportunity to upgrade the electrical infrastructure with a more energy-efficient and sustainable approach.
While we can’t prevent natural disasters from impacting our communities, we can ensure our businesses are electrically safe before and after a storm.
In the event of a natural disaster it’s important for businesses to create emergency shutdown and start-up procedures for the electrical systems, equipment and HVAC.
Before the storm arrives, be sure to charge all phones and electronic communication systems.
Once fully charged, disconnect all power to effected areas.
To minimize flood damage, raise equipment and furniture above expected flood level heights, and relocate critical records, computers and equipment to an alternate site, if possible.
After the storm blows through, and you begin to evaluate the aftermath, it’s important to avoid flooded areas.
If any electrical equipment has been exposed to water, be sure to review ESFI’s guide to Water-Damaged Electrical Equipment to verify what can be reconditioned and what must be replaced.
If you need to use a portable generator, make to use a listed and approved transfer switch and GFCI protection.
Business should also consider upgrading to alternative power sources such as micro-grids, energy storage systems or other decentralized generations. This allows the power source to break off from the main grid and operate on its own using local energy when necessary in a storm.
Energy efficient smart grids are a great way to upgrade electricity supply networks. By using digital communications technology, smart grids detect and react to changes in usage.
And one of the most basic preventative measures may be relocating main energy sources and major equipment to higher floors of a building to help defend against water damage.
While we can't prevent natural disasters, we can ensure our businesses are electrically safe before and after the storm. Practicing electrical safety and being prepared can lead to a smooth recovery and an opportunity to renovate the electrical efficiency of your business.
In the Event of a Natural Disaster:
After the Storm:
Prepare for Future Storms:
Water and electricity do not mix. Follow this guide to quickly see what equipment must be replaced and which electronics may be reconditioned. Any water-damaged equipment even if thoroughly dried will pose serious long-term safety and fire risk if not properly reconditioned.
ESFI recommends that the evaluation of water damaged electrical equipment be conducted by qualified electricians. Floodwaters contaminated with chemicals, sewage, oil, and other debris can affect the integrity and performance of electrical equipment. Ocean water and salt spray can be particularly damaging due to the corrosive and conductive nature of the saltwater residue. Returning power to water damaged electrical devices or equipment without a proper evaluation could result in an electrical fire, shock, electrocution, or further damage to your device.
ESFI has teamed with the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (www.nema.org) to provide a detailed explanation on what electrical components can be reconditioned and which need to be replaced.
