Disaster recovery - Restoration of electrical supply in workplaces after a disaster
In the case of power outages following a disaster, when electricity is restored and premises are being entered for the first time, businesses and their employees need to be aware that significant damage to electrical systems and plant may have been caused.
Before making any attempt to enter premises, the first priority is to ensure the building itself is safe to enter. If there are concerns about building safety, consult a structural engineer.
If the building is safe to enter, check whether mains power has been restored to the building. Before switching the power back on:
- Turn all electrically powered equipment to OFF as machinery starting unexpectedly can create hazards
- Inspect machinery that has moved but does not appear to be damaged (testing may be required before it is switched back on)
- Make a visual check of the premises for:
- Exposed cabling
- Cabling in water
- The stability of machinery to ensure when it starts it does not create any other hazard
- Check any alarm systems for the premises or machinery which may activate when power is restored (particularly if the premises’ alarm is hard-wired to emergency services or security providers, and pre-warn them that alarms may trigger).
Switch on electricity and:
- Listen for alarms and deactivate
- Switch on machinery piece by piece
- Listen for motors starting and make a visual check to ensure there is no sparking or other potential danger
- Make a visual check of all electrically-powered equipment to ensure it is operating correctly.
If switching on raises any issues that cannot be dealt with immediately or there are any other concerns, switch the power off and call an electrical specialist.
