I have often come across abandoned buildings in various states of disrepair. While urban exploration can be fascinating, these buildings can also pose serious electrical hazards that need to be addressed. As someone who values safety, I wanted to learn more about improving electrical safety in these spaces.
Understanding the Electrical Risks
Before improving electrical safety, it's important to understand the potential risks these abandoned buildings present:
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Exposed wires - Abandoned buildings often have damaged walls, ceiling panels and conduit exposing dangerous live wires. Coming into contact with these can result in electrical shock or electrocution.
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Faulty wiring - Outdated and deteriorated wiring can increase chances of short circuits, fires and other dangerous situations.
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Water damage - Leaky roofs and pipes can cause water to infiltrate electrical systems, increasing risk of shock, fire and equipment failure.
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Rodents - Rodents may chew through wiring insulation, exposing live conductors and creating fire risks.
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Electrical system damage - Vandalism, weathering, or neglect can damage electrical boxes, conduits, and other system components.
Proper safety procedures are crucial when encountering these hazards.
Conducting a Electrical Safety Assessment
Before entering an abandoned building, I take prudent steps to evaluate and address electrical hazards:
Visual Inspection
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Look for downed power lines, exposed wiring, and damaged electrical equipment both inside and outside the building.
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Check for warning signs like burn marks or discolored outlets indicating electrical faults.
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Inspect the electrical panel for flipped breakers, corrosion, or missing components.
Use Testing Equipment
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Use a non-contact voltage tester to check for live wires.
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Employ a multimeter to check for appropriate voltage levels.
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Verify grounding and polarity using a receptacle tester.
Consult Utility Company
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Contact the electric utility to terminate power to the building if possible.
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Request information on past electrical issues at the site.
Hire an Electrician
- For large or higher risk buildings, hire a licensed electrician to conduct a professional hazard assessment.
Isolating Hazards Before Entry
Once I've identified electrical risks, it's essential to isolate and control hazards before entry. This involves steps like:
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Flip the main breaker off if power is still connected.
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Cordon off areas with exposed or damaged wiring using warning tape and cones.
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Post electrical hazard warning signs on entry points.
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For damp areas, examine wiring with an insulation tester for damage before entering.
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Cover up exposed wires and openings in electrical boxes/conduit to avoid accidental contact.
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Use proper PPE like insulated gloves and boots when isolating hazards.
Using Electrical Safety Equipment
When exploring abandoned buildings, I equip myself with electrical safety gear:
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Insulated gloves - Protect hands from accidental contact with live parts.
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Insulated mats - Provide an extra layer of insulation when working near electrical systems.
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Arc flash clothing - Flame resistant clothing that provides protection in case of an arc flash incident.
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Voltage detector - Help identify live wires before contact occurs.
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Safety glasses - Prevent eye injuries from electrical flash and sparks.
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Hard hat - Insulated hard hats protect the head from electrical shock.
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Flashlight - For navigating dark electrical rooms and closets.
Proper use of PPE greatly improves safety around electrical hazards.
Practicing Safe Electrical Habits
Along with protective equipment, I adhere to safe electrical work practices:
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De-energize circuits - Shut off power to a section before inspecting or working on it.
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Do not touch - Avoid direct contact with any electrical components.
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One hand rule - Keep one hand in your pocket if handling electrical parts.
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No metal jewelry - Remove all conductive jewelry when working around electricity.
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Mind excess wires - Coil up and tape down loose wires to avoid tripping.
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No shortcuts - Take time to do the job safely; no rushed mistakes.
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Regular inspection - Routinely check electrical systems for faults or deterioration.
Making these safe electrical practices second nature is key for anyone exploring abandoned buildings.
Hiring Professional Electrical Contractors
For hazardous buildings or large-scale electrical remediation, it's wise to hire professional electrical contractors. Licensed electricians have the expertise to:
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Fully evaluate electrical hazards and required fixes.
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Rewire buildings up to modern electrical code.
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Weatherproof outdoor electrical equipment and wiring.
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Install new panels, breakers, outlets and switches as needed.
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Remove old abandoned wiring no longer in use.
Though pricier, contractors provide the safest path to rehabilitating hazardous electrical systems in abandoned buildings. I consult services like the International Association of Electrical Inspectors to find reputable local contractors.
By better understanding electrical risks, taking proper precautions, and using qualified professionals, we can greatly improve safety when exploring or redeveloping abandoned buildings. While electricity always demands respect, following sound safety practices helps ensure these spaces can be navigated without undue hazard.