Power Outage Tips for Businesses - Commercial Building Repairs

Power outages can significantly disrupt business operations, leading to lost productivity and revenue. Plus, they can potentially compromise everyone’s safety. So, the key here is to be well-prepared. Below are some of our power outage tips for business owners. You can use these tips to create a comprehensive business power outage checklist and ensure your business is ready for any electrical interruption.

1. Develop a Comprehensive Power Outage Plan

How to prepare for a power outage? Begin by assessing your business’s specific needs during an outage. This includes identifying essential equipment that needs power and assigning roles to staff members to ensure they know exactly what to do when the power is down. Your plan should specify safety protocols and steps to protect all employees and pieces of equipment that run on power. After creating the plan, train your staff regularly on those specified emergency safety procedures.  

2. Prepare an Emergency Kit 

Besides preparing a comprehensive plan, you should also prepare an emergency kit. Your emergency kit should include first aid supplies, bottled water, flashlights, batteries and basic tools. Store the kit in a known, easily accessible location. That way, anyone in your team can get their hands on this kit during an emergency. 

3. Perform Regular Backup Systems Checks

Backup power sources like generators are vital during power outages. They can be the difference between continuously operating and losing thousands of dollars in revenue in just a few minutes. So, be sure that they are always in good working condition. Test your safety systems regularly, too. These include checking the smoke alarms and emergency lighting all throughout your commercial building or space to ensure they function well during an outage.

4. Ensure Generator Safety

As mentioned, generators can be your company’s saviour during a power outage. However, make sure that using them is safe for your staff and the building. Position your generators in well-ventilated areas to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. It’s also important to educate your team on the safe operation of generators, emphasising the need for adequate ventilation and proper fuel handling.

Moreover, make sure your power generators are well-maintained. That’s where commercial electricians can step in. For instance, you can reach out to our team, and we can send our electrical experts to check your building generators for you.

5. Invest in Surge Protectors

Consider using surge protectors to safeguard sensitive electronic equipment from voltage spikes that often occur when power returns after an outage. That’s especially beneficial if you’re running a call centre operations, a printing business or any other business that uses many computers, gadgets and other equipment daily. 

6. Ensure Data Backup

In today’s digital age, every business must prioritise data backup to ensure it remains operational even during power outages. Consider utilising cloud storage solutions to ensure data is backed up and accessible from anywhere. You can also use personal wireless hotspots to maintain connectivity during an outage.

7. Report and Disconnect During Outages

Did the power go out even if there was no previous announcement from your utility provider? Promptly report outages to your utility provider. Let them know if downed power lines or other hazards are present in your area. That way, they can respond as quickly as possible or instruct you further to avoid potential dangers. After that, disconnect sensitive equipment to prevent damage from potential power surges.

8. Prioritise Safety During an Outage

In an outage, prioritise the safety of employees and customers. Instruct your employees and customers to avoid using elevators during outages and stay clear of any downed power lines. Ensure that all emergency exits are well-marked and easily accessible so that everyone can leave the building safely once the power is out. 

9. Don’t Forget About Your Refrigerators

During a power outage, safeguarding food safety is essential. Place a thermometer in each refrigerator to track the temperature; if it climbs above four degrees Celsius, perishables might become unsafe. Remember that keeping the refrigerator doors shut helps preserve the internal cold air. For prolonged outages, using coolers packed with dry ice can effectively maintain a safe temperature for food storage.

Once power is restored, check all equipment for damage before resuming normal operations. Consider a gradual restart, too. Turn on major equipment gradually to avoid overloading the restored power system.

Partner with Us for Expert Electrical Maintenance

In the face of power outages, preparation and expert support are your best defences. While the above tips provide a solid foundation for managing power disruptions, the importance of professional electrical maintenance cannot be overstated. This is where we step in to offer unparalleled expertise and service.

Why Choose Commercial Building Repairs?

Expertise at Your Doorstep: With a nationwide reach, our skilled electricians are equipped to handle your electrical maintenance needs wherever you are in Australia. Whether you need routine check-ups or emergency repairs, we’ve got you covered.

Preventive Maintenance: Regular electrical maintenance by our commercial electrical professionals can significantly reduce the risk of power outages and equipment damage. We focus on identifying and fixing potential issues before they escalate.

Customised Solutions: Understanding that each commercial space has unique needs, we tailor our services to match your specific requirements. That can help ensure the optimal functioning of your electrical systems.

Peace of Mind: With Commercial Building Repairs, you can rest assured that your electrical maintenance is in capable hands, allowing you to focus on running your business without the worry of unexpected power issues.

Take Action Now

Don’t wait for a power outage to disrupt your business. Be proactive, follow our power outage tips and ensure your electrical systems are in top condition. Contact us today for a consultation and see how we can make your business’s electrical maintenance effortless and reliable.