Power outages can interfere with the operations of your business. They also come with a lot of safety concerns. That’s why you should understand how to deal with power outages. For safety reasons, know how to handle powered outages. Use the following tips and tricks to handle power outages in your business.
Switch To a Better Energy Supplier
Don’t stick with an unreliable energy supplier. A good energy supplier should respond immediately in case of power outages. If your supplier takes ages to respond, switch to a new supplier.
There are several energy suppliers on the market. The deregulated energy sector means that you have the privilege of choosing a supplier who suits your needs. Select a supplier who offers better rates. Use business electricity comparison sites to get the best rates.
Choose a supplier who listens to you. The supplier should have a responsive customer care desk. A live chat will also help troubleshoot problems concerning your energy. Conduct research for better rates. You can also get recommendations from other business owners.
Safety Of Your Employees, Customers
Make sure that no one uses the elevators or escalators. And if there are any powerlines nearby, ensure that nobody approaches them. Don’t forget to carry a safe water kit along.
Accessible Emergency Kit
Provide your employees with flashlights, ropes, emergency water, and first aid supplies. These items should be kept in an accessible place. It’s also imperative to train your employees on how to use those items.
Backup Systems
Install a backup system. Smoke alarms and exit signs should remain powered during an outage. So, be sure to invest in safety systems that feature a battery-powered option. This will go a long way in ensuring that your employees can safely exit the workspace without getting hurt.
Understand How to Operate the Generator
Purchase a generator. You can find diesel generators for sale to suit your specific needs. This will enable you to continue running important errands during a power outage. However, these devices should be operated safely. Don’t plug them directly into power outlets. Plus, they shouldn’t be operated under wet conditions. Before refueling, make sure that the generator has fully cooled off.
Surge Protection
Surge protectors are uniquely designed to safeguard your equipment against failure. During a power outage, your equipment stands a high risk of getting damaged. But with surge protectors, this risk can be significantly reduced.
Blackout Versus Brownout
Try to understand the difference between a blackout and a brownout. A blackout typically occurs when the entire system goes out. A brownout, on the other hand, refers to a temporary reduction in the power system’s capacity.
During Working Hours
Contact your utility provider or call 911. Let them know of the power outage or any other hazards. Alerting your energy provider about the outage will allow them to respond as swiftly as possible to any potential dangers.
Turn off and disconnect your small business’s equipment to prevent damage. Surges can be extremely dangerous. And this is particularly true if there’s a power outage. If you aren’t careful enough, they can damage equipment or even create a fire risk. So, be sure to switch off large appliances and assembly lines immediately after an outage. Use MiFi devices to complete critical operations for your small business
Minimize paperwork. Prepare ahead. Don’t wait until it’s too late before safeguarding your documents in a cloud server. Take time to create a network of personal wireless hotspots. In case of a power outage, this system will allow you to complete important tasks, such as responding to emails. Keep doors closed on refrigeration equipment until power is restored
Place a thermometer inside your refrigerators. When temperatures are too high, your food can get damaged. In case of a power outage, keep the refrigerator doors closed. This will ensure that no cool air escapes. You may also want to consider loading your coolers with dry ice cream to keep your food safe.
After A Workplace
Make sure that power has been restored. Don’t just start executing your business operations without checking if there’s power. Even after power is restored, your equipment still may be unsafe for use. Ideally, you should wait for about ten to fifteen minutes before operating your equipment.
Check the equipment and appliances in your small business for damage. Perform a quick check. Inspect the plugs, as well as, other electronic inputs for any damage. Be watchful of exposed or loose wiring. Turn off your generator in a safe way
Safely turn off your generator. There’s a specific procedure for turning off generators. If aren’t keep following the process, you might end up causing electrocution or equipment damage. Tally your losses and recover your small business
Evaluate your business losses. This will help you to devise practical ways to manage your business- even in places where power failures are frequent. Don’t forget to review your insurance coverage. In case you suffer any damages after an outage, be sure to follow the right procedure for initiating a claim. Know the power outage at work laws in your state
Different states have different laws regarding power outages. But most states require employers to pay their staff even when there’s an outage. So, be sure to acquaint yourself with your local laws to avoid unnecessary confrontations with your employees.
Key Takeaway
As an energy manager, you should put the safety of your employees and customers first. In case of a power outage, you should have the right protocols that optimize the safety of everybody in your business. Remember, accidents can be fatal. They can lead to injuries and lead huge losses. Liaise with your energy supplier for the right safety protocols.
The Bottom-Line
Safety is a top concern for any business. Enacting the right safety measures will eliminate injuries, lawsuits, and huge medical bills. In particular, power outages come with safety concerns. As an energy manager, it’s important to understand how to deal with outages. Follow all safety rules, and Educate your employees. The above safety tips and tricks will help you during power outages.
