THE PROMPT
Newsletter of the Canadian Association of Recycling Industries
Volume 7, No. 10, November 2015
SAFETY TIPS
ELECTRICAL FIRE SAFETY
Electrical fires occur much more frequently than is generally thought and account for 1 out of every 5 fires in Canada. More often than not, electrical fires result from poor electrical maintenance, but electrical components that are incorrectly installed create fire hazards as well. Electrical fires can cause a significant amount of property damage and serious injuries, and businesses should undertake regular inspection and maintenance of electrical systems. This becomes increasing important as systems age and begin to deteriorate.
Hazardous Locations
Some electrical components including motors, lights, and switches are required in locations that house flammable gases and explosive materials. In such areas, these components are likely to be referred to as explosion proof, dust ignition proof or fibre ignition proof. Consult a qualified electrical contractor to determine what type of electrical components can be safely installed based on the particular application.
Over Current Protection:
It is important to ensure circuit breakers and fuses provide the necessary amperage restriction required, based on the size of wire being used. If the amperage capacity is incorrect, excessive temperatures will break down wire insulation and may start a fire.
Components to Check Regularly:
- Electrical components damaged or subject to damage
- Electrical components subject to heat and moisture
- Temporary wiring used instead of permanent wiring
- Electrical components deteriorated due to age or conditions
- Electrical components poorly installed and maintained
General Fire Prevention and Safety Tips:
- Never use extension cords as permanent wiring. Use extension cords only to temporarily supply power to an area that does not have an outlet.
- Keep power cords away from heat, water, and oil.
- Do no allow vehicles to pass over unprotected power cords. Cords should be put in a conduit or protected by placing planks alongside them.
- Inspect tools, power cords, and electrical fittings for damage or wear prior to each use.
- Know where the breakers and boxes are located in case of an emergency.
- Label all circuit breakers and fuse boxes clearly and ensure access to them is not blocked in any way.
- Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets may indicate unsafe wiring conditions.
- Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical accident. Always disconnect the current first.
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SWITCH OUT REMINDER
The Switch Out program is now conducting a fall collection sweep of mercury-containing switches and ABS sensor modules from end-of-life vehicles. Please remember to return your collection container or any extra pails you won’t be using to a Switch Out recycling facility in your area. Please contact program coordinators at [email protected] or call (416) 922-2448 ext. 345, or contact CARI staff at [email protected] for more information.
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CARI EVENTS
Atlantic Chapter Fall Meeting
Thursday, November 19
Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
Cocktails from 5:30-6:15; dinner at 6:30; speakers at 7:45
ISRI EVENT
Empire Chapter Vendor Expo
November 18
Niagara Falls, NY
*Please note, there is no online registration for this event, and you must be registered to attend. Deadline for registration is November 6.*
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OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS
Canadian Waste & Recycling Expo
November 4-6
Montreal QC
Ontario Export Awards Gala Luncheon
November 24
Toronto ON
International Indian Metals Recycling Conference
January 22-23
Delhi India
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Canadian Association of Recycling Industries
130 Albert Street Suite 1906
Ottawa, On K1P 5G4
Canada
Telephone: 613-728-6946
Fax: 705-835-6196
French