Electrical Safety Reminder – Extension Leads and Trailing Cables

Dear Practice Manager,

We would like to remind all practices of the importance of maintaining safe electrical working environments and the need to ensure that electrical equipment is used safely within practice premises.

Recent observations have identified instances where multiple extension leads, and trailing sockets are being used to increase the number of available power outlets.

In some cases, extension leads are being connected to other extension leads (often referred to as “daisy chaining”).

This practice presents a significant fire risk and can lead to electrical overload, overheating, equipment failure, injury to staff or patients, and disruption to clinical services.

To help reduce these risks, practices are asked to ensure that:

• Electrical circuits and sockets are not overloaded.
• Extension leads are never connected to other extension leads or trailing sockets.
• Multi-way adaptors are avoided wherever possible.
• Trailing leads do not create trip hazards or obstruct access routes.
• Damaged plugs, sockets, extension leads, or power cables are removed from service immediately.
• All electrical equipment is used in accordance with manufacturer guidance.
• Appropriate electrical safety checks and PAT testing arrangements are maintained where applicable.

Where extension leads are required, practices should only purchase and use products from reputable suppliers that incorporate built-in surge protection and conform to relevant UK safety standards.

If additional power outlets are required in clinical or administrative areas, practices should seek advice from their building management provider or a suitably qualified electrician rather than relying on additional extension leads.

Maintaining safe electrical practices is essential to protect staff, patients, visitors, and critical IT equipment from avoidable incidents.

Thank you for your support in ensuring a safe working environment.

Kind regards,

NEL IT Team

Reminder: Extension leads should be regarded as a temporary solution and not a substitute for permanent electrical installations. Any concerns regarding electrical safety should be reported and addressed promptly in line with local health and safety procedures.