
Recently, we were called to a commercial property in Southampton after the fire brigade had isolated power due to smoke coming from one of the distribution boards. The business needed a quick investigation to determine what had gone wrong and how to prevent future risks.
Upon inspection, we discovered that the cause was a loose connection within a sub-circuit. It wasn’t the main supply, but rather part of the internal distribution system that had been subject to vibration and heavy equipment use. Over time, this loosened the terminal, creating resistance and heat buildup — a common issue in environments where machinery and constant activity are present.
In domestic properties, a loose connection might take decades to become problematic. But in commercial settings, especially those with ongoing vibration and higher load demands, it can develop much faster. As the connection overheats, the insulation around the conductor can release fumes or even ignite under strain.
Thanks to early detection and quick action, the fire brigade and the property’s safety systems prevented further damage. Once the fault was confirmed, replacement components were ordered, and the system was safely restored within a few days.
To help prevent similar situations, we recommended that the business include the following in their electrical maintenance plan:
- Regular tightening checks on connections across all distribution boards, sub-boards, and control circuits.
- Thermal imaging inspections, which can identify overheating or loose connections before they become critical.
These measures not only improve electrical safety but also reduce downtime and extend the lifespan of equipment — protecting both people and property.
If your commercial site relies on heavy-use equipment or operates in a high-vibration environment, consider adding these steps to your maintenance routine. They’re small actions that make a big difference in fire prevention and electrical reliability.