Lawsuits, workplace shutdown, and penalties- sounds problematic, right?
Do you know these consequences are quite common after a safety audit in India if you do not have the right safety equipment in hand? And how can you pass the strict audit with IS 15652 certified insulating mats? Wondering how? Why only insulating mats?
Read this blog to know why IS 15652 certified mats are mandatory to pass the electrical safety audits in India.
Electrical Safety Audit Regulations in India
Electrical safety audits in India are carried on as per the CEA (Central Electricity Authority) regulations, Indian Electricity Rules (1956/2003), and Indian standards (IS 14489:1998, IS 30343-2018, IS 732-2019, and IS 5216).
Electrical safety audits ensure that the workers remain safe. They:
- Reduce the risks of electrical accidents.
- Increase uptime in the industries.
- Ensure that the industries remain compliant with the industrial safety standards.
- Lower the risk of burns, injuries, paralysis, and other injuries from electrical accidents.
The electrical safety audits in India ensure that there are fewer or no electrical accidents in the Indian industries with the best electrical safety practices. From earthing to protective equipment, such as IS 15652 certified insulating mats, the safety audit officers check them all.
Why Electrical Safety Audits are Mandatory for Industries
Electrical safety audits ensure that the workers remain safe. They:
- Reduce the risks of electrical accidents.
- Increase uptime in the industries.
- Ensure that the industries remain compliant with the industrial safety standards.
- Lower the risk of burns, injuries, paralysis, and other injuries from electrical accidents.
Key Areas Inspected During Electrical Safety Audits
Safety audit officers make sure to check the following areas during electrical safety audits in India.
Electrical Panels and Switchgear Rooms
Electrical panels and switchgear rooms have circuit breakers, busbars, and control panels of high-voltage motors. Thus, they check if there are IS 15652 certified insulating mats installed here.
Substation and Control Rooms
Transformers, SCADA control systems, and other high-voltage appliances in the power plants are at high risk of power hazards. Hence, the officers ensure that the plant safety managers have installed safety equipment for protection from electrical hazards.
Transmission and Distribution Areas
Electrical accidents are common in these areas due to the overhead transmission lines, cable networks, transformers, and distribution feeder lines. Hence, safety audit officers check if there are IS 15652 certified insulating mats for optimum electrical safety.
Maintenance Areas
They have high-voltage circuits and appliances that go for testing and repair. Any kind of frayed wires or working with a faulty electrical system can lead to burns and injuries due to power hazards. Thus, the officers make sure that there is certified protection.
Other Areas
Safety audit compliance officers check other high-voltage areas, including UPS and battery rooms, generator and lift rooms, and outdoor switchgears.
Why IS 15652 Certified Insulating Mats are Non-Negotiable During Safety Audits
You will not be able to pass the safety audits if you are not using IS 15652 certified insulating mats. Here are the consequences that you might face:
- Penalties for compromising the electrical safety of your workplace.
- Temporary or permanent shutdown of factories.
- Legal issues in case of medical emergencies or the death of workers due to electrical accidents.
- Denied insurance claims in case of any power hazards.
- Certification ensures that the mats are quality-assured, tested, and meet the industrial safety standard.
Common Audit Observations Related to Insulating Mats
Check out what the electrical safety audit checklist India has related to insulating mats:
1️. Missing insulating mats near panels: Safety audit officers check if there are insulating mats near the electrical panels.
2️. Damaged or worn mats: During the safety inspection, they check if the mats have any signs of damage, such as cracks, punctures, or are worn out.
3️. Incorrect voltage rating: They also check if the dielectric safety mats have the correct class and voltage rating compatible with the working voltage of the application.
4️. Non-standard rubber mats used as substitutes: The officers verify if the mats adhere to the industrial safety standards (IS 15652:2006 standard).
5. Markings: They check if the mats have markings as per the electrical safety compliance India. Each mat should have BIS markings to pass the electrical safety audits in India.
Best Practices for Maintaining Audit-Ready Electrical Safety Mats
You should make sure that you do the following things to keep your IS 15652 certified insulating mats ready for an electrical safety audit.
- The class and electrical insulation properties of the IS 15652 certified insulating mats should be appropriate for your high-voltage risk zone.
- You should monitor to check if there are any signs of damage. If there is, make sure to repair or replace it.
- Conduct periodic tests to ensure the electrical insulation specifications are the same.
- Keep the mats clean and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, oil, dust, grease, and sharp objects.
Conclusion
Thus, IS 15652 certified insulating mats are a must in industries dealing with high-voltage applications. You should make sure to use insulating mats with proper markings, labels, and test-certified from reputable sources. Not using IS 1565 certified insulating mats can lead to penalisation, insurance denial, and more.
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