A Spike in Voltage Means a Spike in Costs
Power surges, those sudden spikes in electrical voltage, may seem like minor inconveniences, but they can wreak havoc on small businesses.
Understanding Power Surges
A power surge occurs when there's a sudden increase in electrical voltage within a building's electrical system or the grid. These spikes can be caused by various factors, including lightning strikes, electrical grid fluctuations, or internal issues such as faulty wiring or malfunctioning appliances. Regardless of the source, power surges have the potential to damage connected devices and equipment, which leads to operational disruptions and financial losses.
Business Operations
The consequences of power surges on business operations can be significant. Financially, they can result in extensive costs, such as equipment damage repair or replacement expenses, as well as downtime leading to lost productivity and revenue. Frequent disruptions and equipment failures due to power surges can also affect customer trust and damage a business's reputation. So, it's crucial for businesses to address the risks posed by power surges effectively.
Strategies to Protect Against Power Surges
Businesses can implement several strategies to mitigate the risks associated with power surges:
Surge Protection Devices (SPDs): Install SPDs at critical points in the electrical system to divert excess voltage away from sensitive equipment. This includes service entrance SPDs, distribution panel SPDs, and point-of-use SPDs.
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Implement UPS devices to provide temporary power during surges or outages. This safeguards equipment from damage and allows for safe shutdown procedures.
Grounding and Bonding: Ensure proper grounding and bonding of the electrical system to reduce the risk of surges caused by electrical faults.
Regular Electrical Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to identify and address potential issues before they lead to surges.
Employee Training and Awareness: Educate employees about power surge risks and establish protocols for immediate response to minimise damage and downtime.
The Role of Business Insurance
While preventive measures are essential, power surges can still occur unexpectedly, leading to damage and financial losses. However, dotsure.co.za’s business insurance policies can provide coverage for losses caused by weather-related power surges, such as lightning. Cover for stock, equipment, and business interruption are some of the benefits offered.
Remember, business insurance policies do not cover power surges, unless appropriate preventive measures have been taken.
