Hospitality venues urged to arrange checks for outdoor installations ahead of busy Summer

Hospitality venues are being pushed to ensure electrical installations and equipment for use in outdoor spaces are safe as we approach the Summer season.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is working with enforcement officers and relevant personnel from the hospitality industry to improve safety standards and increase awareness.

HSE are suggesting that venues should schedule for a competent person to carry out electrical installation work, only using lights and heaters specifically designed for outdoor use, and regularly checking equipment for damage or water infiltration. The fixed installations and electrical appliances should be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

HSE’s Head of Operational Strategy John Rowe, said; “The hospitality sector will be looking forward to an exciting and busy period, as it prepares for the Spring and Summer seasons, which will include major events. Those responsible for outdoor spaces will be planning to make use of them. It is important to make sure electrical equipment is in good condition, particularly as it may have been unused and in storage for a long period of time.”

The below information is for the installation and use of plug-in electrical equipment. Anyone using or maintaining such equipment should be competent to do so.

Before installing outdoor equipment:

• Consider using low voltage or solar equipment to provide a safer installation

• Ensure equipment is suitable for outdoor use

• Check equipment is not damaged after being stored away

• Ensure that the existing electrical installation is in good condition and compatible with the equipment to be installed

• Avoid overloading sockets

• Ensure that equipment is only connected to a socket protected by a suitable RCD

• Ensure sockets are in good condition, suitable for use outside and located where they won’t be accessed or damaged by customers

• Switch off the electrical supply before connecting

During installation and whilst using the equipment:

• Read and follow instructions from the manufacturer

• Ensure that equipment is installed in areas where it will not be damaged, and away from any flammable materials

• Check frequently for any damage to equipment

• Always switch off before replacing lamps and use the correct replacement

• Keep equipment packaging for any future storage. When storing equipment, ensure that it is not in damp or excessively hot conditions.

Would you like to know more about how Protest ES Ltd can help protect your business, staff, and visitors, thus keeping you safe and legally compliant with the latest regulations?

Please do not hesitate to contact us, by calling this number: 01604 696113 today. Or contact us via email: enquiries@protestesltd.co.uk