We are the Electrical Safety Foundation
The future is electric. With electrification comes the potential for greater hazards. To meet the needs of society, safety is imperative. Together, we can prevent over 6 injuries a day caused by electricity. The Electrical Safety Foundation meets its goals through worker outreach, consumer outreach, the safe use of emerging technology, thought leadership, and partnership […]
Smoke Alarm Safety Tips
Do: Test monthly, replace batteries yearly, and buy a new device every 10 years Do: Install on every level, outside every sleeping area, and 10 feet away from cooking areas When a smoke alarm sounds, go outside and stay outside Never turn off or disable smoke alarms
Fire Safety in the Kitchen
Do: Stay in the kitchen when cooking Do: Unplug appliances when not in use Do: Double-check and make sure all appliances are turned off Do: Keep things away from cooktop Do: Plug appliances directly into the wall Never disable smoke alarms Avoid cooking when drinking, sleepy, or taking meds Don’t use extension cords for appliances […]
Electrical Safety Dos
Do: Ensure AFCIs are installed where needed Do: Install carbon monoxide and smoke alarms Do: Plug appliances directly into the wall Never use damaged cords Extension cords are temporary solutions and shouldn’t be used on large appliances Be Aware of Warning Signs of An Overload or Wiring Problem If you see lights that flicker or […]
Electrification Charges Forward
ESFI and Wesco’s article, Electrification Charges Forward, was recently published on Environmental Protection’s website. Read the article here. Electrification Charges Forward By Brett Brenner, Nelson Squires The introduction of the incandescent light bulb in the 1880s was the first spark that set humanity on the course of electrification. Although by 1925, only half of American […]
Surge Protection Highlights – Video Short
From 2017 to 2023, surge protective devices (SPD) have undergone major changes in the requirements set by the National Electrical Code. These changes are designed to better protect people and equipment from power surges. In 2017, surge protection was required for emergency elevators, dumb waiters, escalators, moving walks, platform lifts, stairway chairlifts, and fire pump […]
Prevent Facility Downtime with Surge Protective Devices – Video Short
A recent survey by ESFI and NEMA found that power surges are responsible for over 1/3 of unplanned outages and downtime in facilities across the country. Nearly ¾ of facilities experience unexpected downtime multiple times a year because of power surges. And we all know that downtime can have a significant impact on your bottom […]
Magnetic and Inductive Coupling Surges – Video Short
Power surges can happen anywhere. But 60 to 80% of them originate from equipment inside our buildings and facilities. Power surges can be caused by magnetic and inductive coupling from elevators, HVAC systems, variable frequency drives, computers, and more. Be aware that magnetic and inductive coupling can cause power surges and take steps to protect […]
Healthcare Surge Protection – Video Short
Surge protective devices (SPD) are required for emergency systems and for areas of nursing homes and limited care facilities used exclusively as patients’ sleeping rooms. SPDs protect critical infrastructure that help patients and also prevent the 3 D’s of power surges: destruction, disruption, and degradation. It’s important to be aware of the causes of […]
Common Surge Internal Causes – Video Short
Power surges can happen anywhere. But 60 to 80% of them originate from equipment inside our buildings and facilities. These damaging surges are typically caused by large electrical loads switching off and on like HVAC systems and elevators. Power surges can be caused by switching electrical loads from contactors, relays, and breakers, as well as […]
Common Surge External Causes – Video Short
Power surges can happen anywhere. But 60 to 80% of them originate from equipment inside our buildings and facilities. However, external sources are also known to cause havoc. Indirect lightning events, power grid switching, and damage to power lines or transformers are all capable of causing power surges in your facility. It’s important to be […]
Benefits of Surge Protective Devices – Video Short
Voltage surges can damage equipment and lead to unexpected downtime. While GFCIs, fuses and breakers, and consumer UPSs help meet your facility’s safety requirements, only surge protective devices (SPD) can prevent the three D’s of power surges: destruction, disruptions, and degradation. A power surge can happen so fast that a typical circuit breaker cannot detect […]