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ELECTRICAL SAFETY: LET’S WORK TOGETHER FOR ELECTRICAL SAFE INDIA

05 Feb 2025

 

LET’S WORK TOGETHER FOR ELECTRICAL SAFE INDIA

Abstract: Nowadays, modern society is highly dependent on electrical power supply. To live & make our life comfortable, we use number of appliances/gadgets at our residence/office. Every day we get up with the news of electrocution or electrical fires in residential or commercial buildings or public location or distribution transformer or substation. This forces us to ponder over the reasons/ causes of such accidents which lead to loss of lives as well as assets/properties. This paper provides insight of different causes of electrocution or fire hazards for all locations.

Key Words:  Electrocution, Electrical Fire, Insulation Failure, Short Circuit, Heating Effect, Arcing (Loose Connection), Grounding System

              Fig. 1 ELECTROCUTION AND ELECTRICAL FIRE ACCIDENTS

  • INTRODUCTION

The news of electric shock or electric fire killing people gives pain and forces everyone to find the solution but in a day or two we again forget and wait for another accident to happen. (Refer figure 1)

There are too many tales that different parts of the country have to tell each day without fail (many cases are even not reported or recorded). 

 

Electrocution, Electrical fire and Lightning kill 15,000 a year. Also 75000 (approx.) suffer because of these deaths, there is loss of property and assets, dreams of many people associated with deceased shatter.

 

Around 1 lakh people died due to electrocution in the last decade, as per NCRB data (please refer table 1).

 

TABLE 1 NCRB DATA OF DEATHS DUE TO LIGHTNING ELECTROCUTION AND SC FIRE 2020-222

 

According to the National Crime Records Bureau, around one lakh people lost their lives because of electrocution in the last decade alone. The annual average of fatalities rose to 12,500 per year or 30 fatalities every day.

Calling the 30 electrocution deaths per day in India “accidents” is something which is not justified as it tends to insulate all stake holder from accountabilities.

  • CAUSES OF ELECTROCUTION & ELECTRICAL FIRE HAZARD

Electrocution & Electrical Fires in Electrical Installation may be broadly caused by

  1. Over currents (overloads and short circuits)
  2. Harmonics
  3. Earth fault
  4. Electric arcs in cables and loose Connections
  5. Failure of protection device or Wrong selection of protection device
  6. Wrong selection of cables or wires
  7. Mismatch of illumination fittings rating and lamps used
  8. Use of extension cord for heaters or any other heavy loads
  9. Use of outlived (outdated) or damaged equipments
  10. Over voltages (Lightning ) & arcing ground
  11. Consumer has become prosumer
  12. Inadequate design for earthing / grounding
  13. Improper or No verification and testing (commissioning or periodical)

 

2.1 ROLE OF ADEQUATE EARTHING/GROUNDING

Grounding/Earthing means making a connection to the general mass of earth. The use of grounding is so widespread in an electric system that at practically every point in the system, from the generators to the consumers’ equipment, earth connections are made.

There are two types grounding (Refer figure 2):

  1. Neutral Grounding
  2. General (Equipment) Grounding

 

Fig.2 EQUIPMENT AND NEUTRAL EARTHING

The objectives of General Groundingsystem include:

  1. To provide a low resistance return path for fault current which further protects both working staff and equipment installed in the premises (Refer figure 3).
  2. To prevent dangerous GPR with respect to remote ground during fault condition.
  3. To provide a low resistance path for power system transients such as lightning and over voltages in the system.
  4. To provide uniform potential bonding /zone of conductive objects within substation to the grounding system to avoid development of any dangerous potential between objects (and earth).
  5. To prevent building up of electrostatic charge and discharge within the substation, which may results in sparks.
  6. To allow sufficient current to flow safely for satisfactory operation of protection system.

 

Fig.3 UNEARTH SYSTEM AND SHOCK HAZARD

The main objective of grounding electrical systems is to provide a suitably low resistance path for the discharge of fault current which ultimately provides safety to working personnel and costly installed equipment by providing sufficient current to safety devices.

2.2 BASIC OF SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Electrical fires very often take place in residential sector. This is because most of the people do not account for the rating of the appliances while placing or connecting them. Being an individual, most of us are not aware about the parameters we need to consider while purchasing the product. The only thing that people look for is the cost effectiveness which in turn leads to extreme situation resulting in electrical fires. Major reason for electrical fire in LV system is Short Circuiting i.e. flowing of current through unintended path.

A short circuit is an abnormal connection between two nodes of an electric circuit intended to be at different voltages. This results in an electric current limited only by the equivalent resistance of the rest of the network which can cause circuit damage, overheatingfire or explosion(please refer figure 4).

 

                           Fig.4 CONCEPT OF SHORT CIRCUIT

 

This high current generates high heat and presence of fuel or any other flammable materials may result in the fire hazard as governed by fire triangle in figure 5.

 

 

                                          Fig.5 FIRE TRIANGLE

 

Short circuit happens mainly due to degradation of insulation. As the wire gets old, the insulation gets degraded, due to which there is a chance of short circuiting (figure 6) & this may lead to fire.

 

 Fig.6 FIRE DUE TO INSULATON FAILURE

Several factors contribute to the risk of electrocution and fire in residential as well as commercial places) are given the table 2 below:

TABLE 2 SUMMARY OF MAIN CAUSES OF ELECTROCUTION AND FIRE

 

3.0 ELECTRICAL SAFETY AT PUBLIC PLACES

Public places, such as schools, hospitals, shopping malls, and recreational facilities, accommodate large numbers of people, making electrical safety paramount (refer figure 7).Electrocution in public places is also evidence of power companies and governments cutting corners. Safety requires discoms to take all high-tension cables underground. But power companies resist this for the costs entailed and direct impact on electricity tariff.

 

Fig.7 FIRE IN HIGH RISE COMMERCIAL BUILDING

Causes of electrocution and fire in public places include (apart from above causes in table 2) are discussed below:

a. Aging Infrastructure: Older public buildings may have outdated electrical systems that are more prone to faults and failures, increasing the risk of electrical incidents.

b. Lack of Maintenance: Inadequate maintenance of electrical systems and equipment in public facilities can lead to deteriorating conditions and potential hazards.

c. Overcrowding: Events or facilities that experience overcrowding may put strain on electrical systems, increasing the likelihood of overloads and electrical fires.

d. Improper Installation: Faulty installation of electrical systems or equipment in public places can create hazardous conditions that endanger occupants and visitors. (Refer figure 8)

e. Vandalism or Sabotage: Deliberate acts of vandalism or sabotage targeting electrical infrastructure in public places can result in electrocution hazards and fires.

 

Fig.8 ELECTROCUTION HAZARD DUE TO POOR UPKEEPING

  • ELECTRICAL SAFETY AT PUBLIC GATHERING & PROCESSIONS 

Public processions and gatherings hold significant cultural, religious, and social importance in India, often involving large crowds congregating on streets. However, amidst the fervor and celebration, safety concerns often take a backseat, leading to tragic incidents like electrocution & fire.

Causes of Electrocution

1.   Improper Wiring: Inadequate or faulty wiring setups are common during public events due to hasty installations or lack of expertise. These setups may include temporary electrical connections that are not insulated properly, increasing the likelihood of electrocution if they come into contact with water or damp surfaces.

2.Overloaded Circuits: The demand for electricity surges during festivals and processions due to extensive lighting arrangements, sound systems, and other electrical paraphernalia. Overloading circuits beyond their capacity raises the risk of short circuits and subsequent electrocution hazards.

3.Poor Maintenance: Existing electrical infrastructure often receives minimal maintenance, exacerbating risks during public gatherings. Aging cables, corroded connections, and neglected equipment pose significant threats when subjected to the additional strain of large-scale events.

4.   Unauthorized Installations: In the rush to set up for festivities, unauthorized installations by unqualified personnel are common. These makeshift arrangements bypass safety protocols, heightening the probability of accidents such as electrocution.

5. High-Tension Wires : High-tension wires, also known as high-voltage power lines, carry electricity over long distances at high voltages. These wires are typically installed on tall transmission towers or poles to ensure clearance from the ground and surrounding structures. However, during public processions, temporary structures such as stages, pandals (decorative tents), or banners may inadvertently come into contact with these wires, leading to catastrophic consequences. (Refer figure 9)

 

Fig.9 ELECTROCUTION & FIRE DUE TO PUBLIC PROCESSION

4.1 Causes of Electrocution Due to High-Tension Wires

1.Inadequate Clearance: Temporary structures erected for public processions often lack proper planning and supervision, resulting in insufficient clearance between the structures and overhead high-tension wires. Failure to maintain adequate distance increases the risk of accidental contact, especially when structures sway due to wind or crowd movement. (Refer figure 10)

2.   Ignorance and Negligence: Organizers and participants may lack awareness about the dangers posed by high-tension wires or fail to recognize the potential hazards associated with erecting structures near them. Ignorance coupled with negligence in adhering to safety guidelines exacerbates the risk of electrocution incidents.

3.   Lack of Coordination: Coordination between event organizers, local authorities, and power distribution companies is often inadequate, leading to haphazard planning and implementation of safety measures. Failure to coordinate activities such as route planning, structure placement, and crowd management increases the likelihood of accidents involving high-tension wires.

4.   Encroachment and Unauthorized Construction: Encroachment on public spaces and unauthorized construction near high-tension wire corridors is a common phenomenon in many Indian cities and towns. Informal settlements, temporary shelters, and makeshift structures often encroach upon the safety buffer zones around high-tension wires, heightening the risk of electrocution during public processions.

 Fig.10 ELECTROCUTION & FIRE DUE TO VEHICLES CONTACT WITH HT WIRES

5.0ELECTRICAL SAFETY AT INDUSTRIAL LOCATION, GENERATING STATION & SUBSTATIONS

Industries, generating station and substations are critical components of electrical networks, but they also pose significant risks if safety measures are not strictly enforced (Refer figure 10). Causes of electrocution and fire in substations include:

a. High Voltage Exposure: Industries & substations contain high-voltage equipment that poses a severe risk of electrocution to untrained personnel or trespassers who come into contact with live components.

b. Equipment Failure: Malfunctions or breakdowns of transformers, circuit breakers, and other substation equipment can result in electrical arcs, sparks, and fires.

c. Lack of Proper Enclosure: Unprotected or poorly enclosed panels or substations may expose electrical components to environmental factors such as moisture, debris, and wildlife, increasing the risk of failures and fires.

d. Inadequate Security Measures: Substations that lack sufficient security measures are vulnerable to unauthorized access, which can lead to tampering, theft, or vandalism that compromises safety.

e. Insufficient Training: Workers at factories or substations must receive comprehensive training on electrical safety protocols and emergency procedures to mitigate risks effectively.

 

Fig.10 FIRE IN GENERATING STATION AND EHV SUBSTATION

Seven Golden Rules to Ensure Safety for Industrial locations and Substation or Generating Station are given below in the table 3.

TABLE 3 SEVEN GOLDEN RULES TO ENSURE SAFETY FOR INDUSTRIAL LOCATION, GEN STATION & SUBSTATION

Sr. No.

Descriptions

1

Evaluate the work to be performed. Do an on-site Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA).

2

Ensure that you clearly identify the work location and equipment where the maintenance work is to be carried out.

 

3

Always apply permit to work and discuss the work to be carried out in detail with team who is going to perform the work.

4

Always disconnect electrical sources and secure against reconnection in any condition. (LOTO-Lockout-Tagout)

5

Verify the absence of operating voltages. Test before touching/ starting any activity

6

Ensure to carry out Earthing of the part where the work is to be carried out by team.

7

Protect adjacent live parts and take special precautions when working close to the bare conductors.

 

NOTE: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO USE THE REQUIRED & RECOMMENED PPE  BEFORE STARTING ANY MAINTENANCE ACTITY

 

5.0 CONCLUSION (RECOMMENDATIONS & SAFETY TIPS)

1. Regular Maintenance & Condition Monitoring testing of all the equipment in the system must be done periodically to avoid any hazards. The list of test to be conducted are summarized in the table 4 below.

                   TABLE 4 TEST TO BE CONDUCTED AS PER IS 732

  1. Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of electrical systems, wires, outlets, and appliances to identify any signs of wear, damage, or overloading. Engage qualified electricians for these inspections.
  2. Proper Wiring and Installation: Ensure all wiring and electrical installations comply with building codes and standards. Avoid calling unskilled persons electrical work and hire licensed professionals for installations and repairs.
  3. Overload Protection: Use circuit breakers, fuses, and surge protectors to prevent overloading circuits. Distribute electrical loads evenly across circuits and avoid daisy-chaining power strips or extension cords.
  4. Fire Extinguishers and Smoke Alarms: Install smoke alarms in strategic locations and maintain them regularly. Additionally, equip buildings with appropriate fire extinguishers and ensure occupants are trained in their usage.
  5. Clearance and Ventilation: Keep electrical panels, equipment, and outlets clear of obstructions. Adequate ventilation should be maintained around electrical appliances to prevent overheating.
  6. Education and Awareness: Educate residents, employees, and the public about electrical safety practices, including avoiding water contact with electrical appliances, using appliances according to manufacturer instructions, and reporting any electrical issues promptly.
  7. Emergency Preparedness:Develop and communicate emergency procedures for dealing with electrical incidents, including evacuation plans and emergency contact information.
  8. Lightning Protection:All buildings and locations must be assessed for lightning strike and protection devices must be installed.
  9. During Public Processions, prioritize safety by using insulated electrical equipment, securing cables to prevent tripping hazards, and avoiding water contact. Regularly inspect all electrical setups and provide adequate supervision. Instruct participants to steer clear of electrical installations and report any hazards immediately. Ensure emergency response plans are in place, including the availability of trained personnel and extinguishing equipment. Conduct thorough risk assessments before each event and communicate safety guidelines effectively to all involved.
  10. Extra precaution to be taken during rainy season or places with water logging as these create lethal environment and pose potential threat to people in the vicinity.

By implementing these recommendations, individuals and organizations can significantly reduce the risk of electrocution and fire hazards in various locations. LET US WORK TOGETHER TO MAKE INDIA ELECTRICAL SAFE- LET US GIVE OUR CONTRIBUTION FOR THIS NOBLE CAUSE.

REFERENCES

[1]

Manual on," Grounding of A C Power Systems,” Publication No 339, C.B.I.P. New Delhi.

 

[2]

 

IS 3043-2018,Indian Standard Code of Practice for Grounding.

 

[3]

CEA regulation ‘Measures relating to Safety and Electric Supply’and‘Technical Standards forConstruction of Electrical Plants and Electrical Lines .

 

[4]

IS 732: Code of Practice for Electrical Wiring Installations

 

[5]

 

IS/IEC 62305 – Protection Against Lightning

 

[6]

 

National Building Code 2016

 

[7]

 

National Electrical Code (NEC) 2023

 

AUTHOR DETAILS:

 

 

Dr. RAJESH KUMAR ARORA obtained the B. Tech. & Master of Engineering (ME) degrees in Electrical Engineering from Delhi College of Engineering, University of Delhi, India in 1999 and 2003 respectively. He completed his PhD in grounding system design from UPES, Dehradun. He is also certified Energy Manager and Auditor and has worked in 400kV and 220kV Substation for more than 14 years in Delhi Transco Limited (DTL). He has also worked as Deputy Director (Transmission and Distribution) in Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) for 03 years and 06 months. He has also given his contribution in the OS department of DTL for more than 2 years and rendered his services in the SLDC of Delhi Transco Limited (DTL) also. Presently he is working in D&E (Design and Engineering) department of DTL. His research interests include high voltage technology, grounding system, protection system, computer application and power distribution automation.

 

LET’S WORK TOGETHER FOR ELECTRICAL SAFE INDIA

Abstract: Nowadays, modern society is highly dependent on electrical power supply. To live & make our life comfortable, we use number of appliances/gadgets at our residence/office. Every day we get up with the news of electrocution or electrical fires in residential or commercial buildings or public location or distribution transformer or substation. This forces us to ponder over the reasons/ causes of such accidents which lead to loss of lives as well as assets/properties. This paper provides insight of different causes of electrocution or fire hazards for all locations.

Key Words:  Electrocution, Electrical Fire, Insulation Failure, Short Circuit, Heating Effect, Arcing (Loose Connection), Grounding System

              Fig. 1 ELECTROCUTION AND ELECTRICAL FIRE ACCIDENTS

  • INTRODUCTION

The news of electric shock or electric fire killing people gives pain and forces everyone to find the solution but in a day or two we again forget and wait for another accident to happen. (Refer figure 1)

There are too many tales that different parts of the country have to tell each day without fail (many cases are even not reported or recorded). 

 

Electrocution, Electrical fire and Lightning kill 15,000 a year. Also 75000 (approx.) suffer because of these deaths, there is loss of property and assets, dreams of many people associated with deceased shatter.

 

Around 1 lakh people died due to electrocution in the last decade, as per NCRB data (please refer table 1).

 

TABLE 1 NCRB DATA OF DEATHS DUE TO LIGHTNING ELECTROCUTION AND SC FIRE 2020-222

 According to the National Crime Records Bureau, around one lakh people lost their lives because of electrocution in the last decade alone. The annual average of fatalities rose to 12,500 per year or 30 fatalities every day.

Calling the 30 electrocution deaths per day in India “accidents” is something which is not justified as it tends to insulate all stake holder from accountabilities.

  • CAUSES OF ELECTROCUTION & ELECTRICAL FIRE HAZARD

Electrocution & Electrical Fires in Electrical Installation may be broadly caused by

  1. Over currents (overloads and short circuits)
  2. Harmonics
  3. Earth fault
  4. Electric arcs in cables and loose Connections
  5. Failure of protection device or Wrong selection of protection device
  6. Wrong selection of cables or wires
  7. Mismatch of illumination fittings rating and lamps used
  8. Use of extension cord for heaters or any other heavy loads
  9. Use of outlived (outdated) or damaged equipments
  10. Over voltages (Lightning ) & arcing ground
  11. Consumer has become prosumer
  12. Inadequate design for earthing / grounding
  13. Improper or No verification and testing (commissioning or periodical)

 

2.1 ROLE OF ADEQUATE EARTHING/GROUNDING

Grounding/Earthing means making a connection to the general mass of earth. The use of grounding is so widespread in an electric system that at practically every point in the system, from the generators to the consumers’ equipment, earth connections are made.

There are two types grounding (Refer figure 2):

  1. Neutral Grounding
  2. General (Equipment) Grounding

Fig.2 EQUIPMENT AND NEUTRAL EARTHING

The objectives of General Groundingsystem include:

  1. To provide a low resistance return path for fault current which further protects both working staff and equipment installed in the premises (Refer figure 3).
  2. To prevent dangerous GPR with respect to remote ground during fault condition.
  3. To provide a low resistance path for power system transients such as lightning and over voltages in the system.
  4. To provide uniform potential bonding /zone of conductive objects within substation to the grounding system to avoid development of any dangerous potential between objects (and earth).
  5. To prevent building up of electrostatic charge and discharge within the substation, which may results in sparks.
  6. To allow sufficient current to flow safely for satisfactory operation of protection system.

Fig.3 UNEARTH SYSTEM AND SHOCK HAZARD

The main objective of grounding electrical systems is to provide a suitably low resistance path for the discharge of fault current which ultimately provides safety to working personnel and costly installed equipment by providing sufficient current to safety devices.

2.2 BASIC OF SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Electrical fires very often take place in residential sector. This is because most of the people do not account for the rating of the appliances while placing or connecting them. Being an individual, most of us are not aware about the parameters we need to consider while purchasing the product. The only thing that people look for is the cost effectiveness which in turn leads to extreme situation resulting in electrical fires. Major reason for electrical fire in LV system is Short Circuiting i.e. flowing of current through unintended path.

A short circuit is an abnormal connection between two nodes of an electric circuit intended to be at different voltages. This results in an electric current limited only by the equivalent resistance of the rest of the network which can cause circuit damage, overheatingfire or explosion(please refer figure 4).

                           Fig.4 CONCEPT OF SHORT CIRCUIT

 

This high current generates high heat and presence of fuel or any other flammable materials may result in the fire hazard as governed by fire triangle in figure 5.

 

                                          Fig.5 FIRE TRIANGLE

 

Short circuit happens mainly due to degradation of insulation. As the wire gets old, the insulation gets degraded, due to which there is a chance of short circuiting (figure 6) & this may lead to fire.

 Fig.6 FIRE DUE TO INSULATON FAILURE

Several factors contribute to the risk of electrocution and fire in residential as well as commercial places) are given the table 2 below:

TABLE 2 SUMMARY OF MAIN CAUSES OF ELECTROCUTION AND FIRE

3.0 ELECTRICAL SAFETY AT PUBLIC PLACES

Public places, such as schools, hospitals, shopping malls, and recreational facilities, accommodate large numbers of people, making electrical safety paramount (refer figure 7).Electrocution in public places is also evidence of power companies and governments cutting corners. Safety requires discoms to take all high-tension cables underground. But power companies resist this for the costs entailed and direct impact on electricity tariff.

Fig.7 FIRE IN HIGH RISE COMMERCIAL BUILDING

Causes of electrocution and fire in public places include (apart from above causes in table 2) are discussed below:

a. Aging Infrastructure: Older public buildings may have outdated electrical systems that are more prone to faults and failures, increasing the risk of electrical incidents.

b. Lack of Maintenance: Inadequate maintenance of electrical systems and equipment in public facilities can lead to deteriorating conditions and potential hazards.

c. Overcrowding: Events or facilities that experience overcrowding may put strain on electrical systems, increasing the likelihood of overloads and electrical fires.

d. Improper Installation: Faulty installation of electrical systems or equipment in public places can create hazardous conditions that endanger occupants and visitors. (Refer figure 8)

e. Vandalism or Sabotage: Deliberate acts of vandalism or sabotage targeting electrical infrastructure in public places can result in electrocution hazards and fires.

Fig.8 ELECTROCUTION HAZARD DUE TO POOR UPKEEPING

  • ELECTRICAL SAFETY AT PUBLIC GATHERING & PROCESSIONS 

Public processions and gatherings hold significant cultural, religious, and social importance in India, often involving large crowds congregating on streets. However, amidst the fervor and celebration, safety concerns often take a backseat, leading to tragic incidents like electrocution & fire.

Causes of Electrocution

1.   Improper Wiring: Inadequate or faulty wiring setups are common during public events due to hasty installations or lack of expertise. These setups may include temporary electrical connections that are not insulated properly, increasing the likelihood of electrocution if they come into contact with water or damp surfaces.

2.Overloaded Circuits: The demand for electricity surges during festivals and processions due to extensive lighting arrangements, sound systems, and other electrical paraphernalia. Overloading circuits beyond their capacity raises the risk of short circuits and subsequent electrocution hazards.

3.Poor Maintenance: Existing electrical infrastructure often receives minimal maintenance, exacerbating risks during public gatherings. Aging cables, corroded connections, and neglected equipment pose significant threats when subjected to the additional strain of large-scale events.

4.   Unauthorized Installations: In the rush to set up for festivities, unauthorized installations by unqualified personnel are common. These makeshift arrangements bypass safety protocols, heightening the probability of accidents such as electrocution.

5. High-Tension Wires : High-tension wires, also known as high-voltage power lines, carry electricity over long distances at high voltages. These wires are typically installed on tall transmission towers or poles to ensure clearance from the ground and surrounding structures. However, during public processions, temporary structures such as stages, pandals (decorative tents), or banners may inadvertently come into contact with these wires, leading to catastrophic consequences. (Refer figure 9)

Fig.9 ELECTROCUTION & FIRE DUE TO PUBLIC PROCESSION

4.1 Causes of Electrocution Due to High-Tension Wires

1.Inadequate Clearance: Temporary structures erected for public processions often lack proper planning and supervision, resulting in insufficient clearance between the structures and overhead high-tension wires. Failure to maintain adequate distance increases the risk of accidental contact, especially when structures sway due to wind or crowd movement. (Refer figure 10)

2.   Ignorance and Negligence: Organizers and participants may lack awareness about the dangers posed by high-tension wires or fail to recognize the potential hazards associated with erecting structures near them. Ignorance coupled with negligence in adhering to safety guidelines exacerbates the risk of electrocution incidents.

3.   Lack of Coordination: Coordination between event organizers, local authorities, and power distribution companies is often inadequate, leading to haphazard planning and implementation of safety measures. Failure to coordinate activities such as route planning, structure placement, and crowd management increases the likelihood of accidents involving high-tension wires.

4.   Encroachment and Unauthorized Construction: Encroachment on public spaces and unauthorized construction near high-tension wire corridors is a common phenomenon in many Indian cities and towns. Informal settlements, temporary shelters, and makeshift structures often encroach upon the safety buffer zones around high-tension wires, heightening the risk of electrocution during public processions.

 Fig.10 ELECTROCUTION & FIRE DUE TO VEHICLES CONTACT WITH HT WIRES

5.0ELECTRICAL SAFETY AT INDUSTRIAL LOCATION, GENERATING STATION & SUBSTATIONS

Industries, generating station and substations are critical components of electrical networks, but they also pose significant risks if safety measures are not strictly enforced (Refer figure 10). Causes of electrocution and fire in substations include:

a. High Voltage Exposure: Industries & substations contain high-voltage equipment that poses a severe risk of electrocution to untrained personnel or trespassers who come into contact with live components.

b. Equipment Failure: Malfunctions or breakdowns of transformers, circuit breakers, and other substation equipment can result in electrical arcs, sparks, and fires.

c. Lack of Proper Enclosure: Unprotected or poorly enclosed panels or substations may expose electrical components to environmental factors such as moisture, debris, and wildlife, increasing the risk of failures and fires.

d. Inadequate Security Measures: Substations that lack sufficient security measures are vulnerable to unauthorized access, which can lead to tampering, theft, or vandalism that compromises safety.

e. Insufficient Training: Workers at factories or substations must receive comprehensive training on electrical safety protocols and emergency procedures to mitigate risks effectively.

Fig.10 FIRE IN GENERATING STATION AND EHV SUBSTATION

Seven Golden Rules to Ensure Safety for Industrial locations and Substation or Generating Station are given below in the table 3.

TABLE 3 SEVEN GOLDEN RULES TO ENSURE SAFETY FOR INDUSTRIAL LOCATION, GEN STATION & SUBSTATION

Sr. No.

Descriptions

1

Evaluate the work to be performed. Do an on-site Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA).

2

Ensure that you clearly identify the work location and equipment where the maintenance work is to be carried out.

 

3

Always apply permit to work and discuss the work to be carried out in detail with team who is going to perform the work.

4

Always disconnect electrical sources and secure against reconnection in any condition. (LOTO-Lockout-Tagout)

5

Verify the absence of operating voltages. Test before touching/ starting any activity

6

Ensure to carry out Earthing of the part where the work is to be carried out by team.

7

Protect adjacent live parts and take special precautions when working close to the bare conductors.

 

NOTE: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO USE THE REQUIRED & RECOMMENED PPE  BEFORE STARTING ANY MAINTENANCE ACTITY

 

5.0 CONCLUSION (RECOMMENDATIONS & SAFETY TIPS)

1. Regular Maintenance & Condition Monitoring testing of all the equipment in the system must be done periodically to avoid any hazards. The list of test to be conducted are summarized in the table 4 below.

                   TABLE 4 TEST TO BE CONDUCTED AS PER IS 732

  1. Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of electrical systems, wires, outlets, and appliances to identify any signs of wear, damage, or overloading. Engage qualified electricians for these inspections.
  2. Proper Wiring and Installation: Ensure all wiring and electrical installations comply with building codes and standards. Avoid calling unskilled persons electrical work and hire licensed professionals for installations and repairs.
  3. Overload Protection: Use circuit breakers, fuses, and surge protectors to prevent overloading circuits. Distribute electrical loads evenly across circuits and avoid daisy-chaining power strips or extension cords.
  4. Fire Extinguishers and Smoke Alarms: Install smoke alarms in strategic locations and maintain them regularly. Additionally, equip buildings with appropriate fire extinguishers and ensure occupants are trained in their usage.
  5. Clearance and Ventilation: Keep electrical panels, equipment, and outlets clear of obstructions. Adequate ventilation should be maintained around electrical appliances to prevent overheating.
  6. Education and Awareness: Educate residents, employees, and the public about electrical safety practices, including avoiding water contact with electrical appliances, using appliances according to manufacturer instructions, and reporting any electrical issues promptly.
  7. Emergency Preparedness:Develop and communicate emergency procedures for dealing with electrical incidents, including evacuation plans and emergency contact information.
  8. Lightning Protection:All buildings and locations must be assessed for lightning strike and protection devices must be installed.
  9. During Public Processions, prioritize safety by using insulated electrical equipment, securing cables to prevent tripping hazards, and avoiding water contact. Regularly inspect all electrical setups and provide adequate supervision. Instruct participants to steer clear of electrical installations and report any hazards immediately. Ensure emergency response plans are in place, including the availability of trained personnel and extinguishing equipment. Conduct thorough risk assessments before each event and communicate safety guidelines effectively to all involved.
  10. Extra precaution to be taken during rainy season or places with water logging as these create lethal environment and pose potential threat to people in the vicinity.

By implementing these recommendations, individuals and organizations can significantly reduce the risk of electrocution and fire hazards in various locations. LET US WORK TOGETHER TO MAKE INDIA ELECTRICAL SAFE- LET US GIVE OUR CONTRIBUTION FOR THIS NOBLE CAUSE.

REFERENCES

[1]

Manual on," Grounding of A C Power Systems,” Publication No 339, C.B.I.P. New Delhi.

 

[2]

 

IS 3043-2018,Indian Standard Code of Practice for Grounding.

 

[3]

CEA regulation ‘Measures relating to Safety and Electric Supply’and‘Technical Standards forConstruction of Electrical Plants and Electrical Lines .

 

[4]

IS 732: Code of Practice for Electrical Wiring Installations

 

[5]

 

IS/IEC 62305 – Protection Against Lightning

 

[6]

 

National Building Code 2016

 

[7]

 

National Electrical Code (NEC) 2023

 

AUTHOR DETAILS:

 

 

Dr. RAJESH KUMAR ARORA obtained the B. Tech. & Master of Engineering (ME) degrees in Electrical Engineering from Delhi College of Engineering, University of Delhi, India in 1999 and 2003 respectively. He completed his PhD in grounding system design from UPES, Dehradun. He is also certified Energy Manager and Auditor and has worked in 400kV and 220kV Substation for more than 14 years in Delhi Transco Limited (DTL). He has also worked as Deputy Director (Transmission and Distribution) in Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) for 03 years and 06 months. He has also given his contribution in the OS department of DTL for more than 2 years and rendered his services in the SLDC of Delhi Transco Limited (DTL) also. Presently he is working in D&E (Design and Engineering) department of DTL. His research interests include high voltage technology, grounding system, protection system, computer application and power distribution automation.

 

 




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