In solving the problem of too few outlets, you may create another — an overloaded circuit. If too many pieces of equipment are plugged into the same outlet and they’re all on at the same time, more current may be running through the outlet than it can handle. When that happens, the wiring or the outlet will overheat and this could potentially create an electrical fire. Overloading is even more of a problem with extension cords.

To prevent other electrical hazards, review this list and then take steps to remedy the situation.

Potential Hazard: Overloaded circuits can cause an electrical fire. What To look for: Outlet or wall is warm to the touch; outlet is discolored; circuit breakers frequently trip, or  fuses frequently blow; a burnt smell of insulation is noticeable.

Remedy: Have an electrician run a dedicated circuit and install additional outlets.

Potential Hazard: Overloaded extension cord can cause an electrical fire.

What To Look For: Extension cord is warm to the touch.

Remedy: (1)Use an extension cord with the same or larger wire size as the cord being extended. (2)Since extension cords are designed for temporary use, have an electrician install additional outlets and you don’t need to use extension cords.

Potential Hazard: Ungrounded outlets that will not protect you from an electrical shock in the event of a short circuit. What To Look For: Equipment cord has a three-prong plug, but the nearest outlet has only two slots for the plug.

Remedy: (1) Inspect wiring at the out-let to see if there is a ground wire. If there is a ground wire, replace the existing outlet with one that accepts a three-prong plug, and connect the ground wire to the outlet. (2) If there is no grounding wire, have an electrician run a new circuit with ground and install new outlets.

Potential Hazard: Improper placement of extension cords can cause a fire or cause someone to trip. What To Look For: Extensions cords running through walls, under carpet or furniture, across doorways, or draped over heaters or equipment.

Remedy: Try rearranging office furniture; or better yet, add more outlets in the room.

What types of hazards are caused by power surges?

Temporary power surges can damage equipment and cause computer programs to lock up and become corrupted. Many people assume that power surges are caused mainly by lightning strikes, but 80 percent of them are generated from within the structure.

Common sources of power surges include appliances such as air conditioners, washing machines, clothes dryers and refrigerators. Office equipment, including laser printers, photocopiers and fluorescent lights also generate temporary power surges.

How can I protect my office from power surges? There are several devices that can provide protection from power surges. The first line of defense is an inexpensive power strip that incorporates surge protection. These devices often cost between $20 and $80. You may want to purchase power-strips with the maximum amount of surge protection, including protection for telephone and data lines.

Another option is to install surge-protected wall receptacles. “Quad receptacles” that have four outlets with built-in surge protection can replace standard electrical outlets.

For more robust protection, check into two other devices: a panel-mounted surge protector installed next to the circuit breaker panel, and a meter socket surge arrestor installed at the electric meter. These devices can provide greater surge protection and should be installed by a licensed electrician.

Blackouts and brownouts, now a more frequent occurrence in certain parts of the country, can also damage office equipment and cause the loss of important data.

The best solution for preventing this is to purchase an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Not only does a UPS device allow time for an orderly shutdown of a computer when the power goes out, it also regulates the flow of electricity, smoothing out the current before it goes to equipment. Some UPS devices also incorporate surge protection.

Will surge protectors protect me from overloaded circuits? Surge protectors and UPS devices protect equipment, but they do not protect from the potential hazards of an overloaded circuit. Make sure the electrical load is not too great for the circuit. A licensed electrician can check your electrical system and provide guidance on the capacity of electrical  circuits in your office.

Telltale signs of overloading include:

• Outlets warm to the touch;

• Outlets that are discolored;

• Circuit breakers that frequently trip;

• Fuses that frequently blow;

• Burned insulation odors; and

• Extension cord that is warm to the touch.

To prevent these electrical hazards, contact a licensed electrician to install dedicated circuits where needed. It is also smart to install outlets to eliminate the use of extension cords.

Nearly one third of American households now have a home office. If you have converted an older building, home or room into an office, it is important that the electrical system can handle the load. Make sure new office equipment will not overload your circuits. Contact a licensed electrician to inspect your electrical system. FSM

Source: The Elecrical Safety Foundation International and The Leviton Institute, the educational arm of the Leviton Manufacturing Company.