Category Archives: Featured Archives

Featured Archives

Electrical safety in residential units

Electrical safety in residential units

Check RCD or ELCB is it workingThe Housing Development Board (HDB) and the Energy Market Authority released a statement emphasizing the importance of electrical safety in residential units. Effective July 1 this year, it is now mandatory for all residential units constructed before 1985, including government HDB flats, private landed houses, and apartments, to install Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs). These RCCBs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of household appliances.

In our modern society, electrical appliances have become integral to our daily lives, ranging from air conditioners, water heaters, and washing machines to mobile phones. However, it is crucial to prioritize the safe use of electricity. Improper handling of electrical appliances or ageing wiring within homes can lead to electric shock injuries. Here are some important electrical safety tips to consider:

1. Regularly check the operation of the leakage circuit breaker:

An earth leakage circuit breaker is a safety device that automatically cuts off the power supply when it detects electrical leakage in the home, preventing the risk of electrocution and injuries. To ensure your and your family’s safety, secure your home. Has an earth leakage circuit breaker installed and test it once a month. Locate the leakage circuit breaker in the distribution box, press the “TEST” button, and verify if the power supply at home has been successfully cut off.

Example Electrical Lic

2. Engage licensed electricians for electrical work:

When it comes to any electrical installation, maintenance, or repair work, hiring only licensed electricians authorized by the Energy Market Authority is crucial. Ensure they are licensed before allowing anyone into your home for electrical work. You can verify their license visiting https://www.ema.gov.sg/Electrical_Safety.aspx for inquiries.

3. Ensure separation of water and electricity:

Avoid using electrical appliances near water or with wet hands. Additionally, refrain from touching open electrical outlets or switches with wet hands, as it can lead to electrical leakage and potentially fatal electric shocks.

4. Avoid overloading electrical outlets:
Overloading electrical outlets pose significant risks, including overheating and fire hazards. Avoid plugging multiple devices into the same socket, and refrain from using damaged electrical outlets or extension cords.

5. Check the ground wire (Earth wire):
An ungrounded plug can result in electric shocks in the event of equipment malfunction or a short circuit. Follow these safety precautions related to electric wires:

– Replace broken wires: Do not attempt to mend them with insulating tape, as it may eventually peel off and expose the wires. Contact a licensed electrician to replace the damaged wire.
– Avoid pulling wires around sharp corners: Pulling wires around sharp corners can cause damage to the insulation, exposing the inner layer and creating hazards.
– Properly store cords: Turn off appliances when not in use and store cords carefully to prevent damage.

Adhering to these electrical safety guidelines can create a safer environment for you and your family while utilizing electrical appliances.

Featured Archives

Free RCD Test for July and Aug 2023

Free RCD Test for July and Aug 2023

We are Interview in CNA

Interview By Zao Bao

https://www.zaobao.com.sg/news/singapore/story20220828-1307214

https://www.zaobao.com.sg/news/singapore/story20220828-1307214#:~:text=%3Ciframe%20src%3D%27//players.brightcove.net/4802324430001/default_default/index.html%3FvideoId%3D6311467968112%27%20allowfullscreen%20frameborder%3D0%3E%3C/iframe%3E

Call 9680 7211 to book your appointment Today Limited appointment only

 

Featured Archives

Potential danger in Electrical Installation

Potential danger in Electrical Installation

Ring circuits, commonly used in electrical installations, can pose potential dangers if not properly designed, installed, or maintained. Here are some potential risks associated with ring circuits:

Overloading:

Ring circuits are designed to handle a specific maximum load. If the total power demand exceeds the capacity of the circuit, it can lead to overloading. Overloading can cause overheating of wires, leading to fire hazards and damage to electrical equipment.

 

Incorrect Wiring:

Incorrect wiring connections or loose connections in a ring circuit can result in poor electrical conductivity, increased resistance, and voltage drops. This can cause appliances and equipment to operate inefficiently and pose a risk of overheating and electrical faults.

Faulty Equipment or Appliances:

If defective or malfunctioning equipment or appliances are connected to a ring circuit, they can disrupt the electrical flow within the circuit. This can lead to electrical faults, short circuits, and potential fire hazards.

40 Years Old Distribution Box

Lack of Circuit Protection:

Inadequate circuit protection measures, such as the absence or malfunctioning of circuit breakers, fuses, or residual current devices (RCDs), can leave the ring circuit vulnerable to electrical faults, shocks, and fire hazards.

Poor Maintenance:

Neglecting regular maintenance and inspections of the ring circuit can increase the risk of electrical faults going unnoticed. This can lead to deteriorating wiring, loose connections, or damaged components, increasing the chances of electrical hazards.

DIY Modifications: Unauthorized modifications or alterations to the ring circuit by individuals without proper electrical knowledge or qualifications can introduce safety risks. Incorrectly added or extended circuits, inadequate wire sizes, or improper connections can compromise the integrity and safety of the circuit.

 

Lack of Grounding: Inadequate or faulty grounding within the ring circuit can accumulate electrical potential, resulting in electric shocks and other safety hazards.

 

To mitigate these potential dangers, it is vital to ensure that ring circuits are installed and maintained by qualified electricians following local electrical regulations and standards. Regular inspections, proper load distribution, appropriate circuit protection, and prompt identification and repair of faults or abnormalities are essential for maintaining a safe and reliable ring circuit installation.

Featured Archives

illegal household appliances

Illegal household appliances

The utilization of unregulated household appliances lacking safety signs can pose significant fire and explosion hazards. According to recent data disclosed by the Consumer Product Safety Office (CPSO) in response to Lianhe Zaobao’s inquiries, the sales of illegal household appliances have seen a staggering increase of over fourfold in the past five years. In 2018, approximately 460 cases reported; in 2022, the number surged to nearly 2,500. Alarmingly, around 85% of these illegal appliances are traced back to e-commerce platforms.

The term “illegal household appliances” pertains to electrical devices without registration with the CPSO or lacking effective safety indicators. Using such appliances carries a high potential risk, primarily due to the increased likelihood of fire hazards.

 

The burned remains of a portable socket outlet
Causes of

Residential fires are:
The most prevalent type in our country.
Accounting for 52% of the total incidents in 2022.
Amounting to 935 cases.
Among these, fires caused by power sources have climbed an alarming 18.8% increase, resulting in 228 incidents. Many of these fires can be attributed to electrical malfunctions in wiring or appliances and overloaded electrical outlets.

Over the past month, there have been numerous reports in the media regarding fires in HDB flats, with at least four suspected to be linked to the malfunction or improper usage of household appliances. This concerning trend has raised alarm bells.

The Consumer Product Safety Office (CPSO) has acknowledged that the surge in illegal electrical appliances is primarily attributed to the growing prevalence of e-commerce platforms and the authorities’ efforts to enforce stricter regulations. In response to this situation, the authorities are actively collaborating with major e-commerce platforms to implement countermeasures to reduce the influx of illegal electrical appliances into the market.

Offence to knowingly Engage Unlicensed Electrician

In response to inquiries from Lianhe Zaobao, a spokesperson from the e-commerce platform Qoo10 it was stated that sellers must familiarize themselves with the list of illegal products and the consequences of violating regulations before listing their products for sale. Additionally, to alert buyers and promote cautious purchasing, a dedicated section for reminders will be included in the description of electrical appliances, prompting the public to pay attention to safety signs on individual products.

Similarly, a representative from Shopee emphasized the platform’s commitment to ensuring compliance with regulations. Sellers must provide detailed product information and enter the safety mark verification number before listing regulated goods. Consumers also retain the right to report non-compliant sellers through the platform’s application.

A spokesperson highlighted the platform’s provision of return and exchange services regarding Amazon. If consumers receive goods of unsatisfactory quality, they can initiate a return or exchange through Amazon’s system. If necessary, offending products will be removed from the platform’s listings. Buyers with concerns regarding their purchased electrical appliances can directly contact customer service, triggering an investigation into the matter.

Thirty-three categories of local household products, including kitchen utensils, appliances, plugs, sockets, and other electrical items, are classified as “controlled goods.” These products must be tested and affixed with safety signs to be legally sold in the local market. Products without the required safety marks are prohibited from being sold.

Prepare and Prevent don’t repair and repent.

Authorities are urging consumers to prioritize products bearing the safety logo, indicating that they have undergone testing and certification to ensure their safety. Consumers are advised against purchasing electrical appliances lacking this logo, as such items may not effectively prevent fires and electrical accidents.

The CPSO and e-commerce platforms will continue their collaboration to remove illegal products and strengthen control measures concerning non-compliant sellers. Sellers selling unregistered controlled goods may face penalties, including fines of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both, upon conviction.

Featured Archives

Elderly couple and son electrocuted to death after cables in plug for water heater fused together

Water Heater CABLES FUSED IN a THREE-PIN PLUG electrocuted an Elderly couple and their son 

Talking Point Episode 33-Can-My-Water-Heater-Kill-Me

Episode 33-Can-My-Water-Heater-Kill-Me

In December 2020, a family lost three people in an electrical accident. The electrical cable connected to the water heater had fused at Block 120, Ho Ching Road, since the 1970s.

 

 

 

 

The son and daughter saw that the elderly parent slumped on the bathroom floor. The couple’s son shouted “mak” and ran toward his parent. The son collapsed and fell on his mother’s body.

 

 

 

 

 

The investigation found that the CABLES FUSED IN a THREE-PIN PLUG that powered the water heater. In the construction of a three pin plug

 

 

 

Watch the full Talking Point Episode 33-Can-My-Water-Heater-Kill-Me

Featured Archives

Comprehensive Water Heater Electrical Test

Comprehensive Water Heater Electrical Test

Insulation starts to age as soon as the wires are manufactured. As the wire ages, it is insulation deteriorates. Any harsh environments accelerate this process, especially those with temperature extremes or chemical contamination.
For example, stresses due to different factors like Electrical, Mechanical and Chemical stresses. 

 

Mr Basir also finds that the competent electrician’s business concept is based on the safety aspect and cares about the livelihood of the user. Mr Basir says: “there have been many cases of electrocution recently.”

Mr Basir, the homeowner, says: “Competent Electrician Pte. Ltd. work is very different. They didn’t try to patch the problem, but they investigated the root cause of the problem with the proper equipment”. The Competent Electrician also explains to Basir the specific issue of the electrical installation. “One small detail could mean a life and death issue”. Say, Mr Basir. The Competent Electrician also affirmed, “Yes, Electrical installation at 230 Voltage is dangerous”.

The Competent Electrician also explains to Basir the specific issue of the electrical installation. “One small detail could mean a life and death issue”. Say, Mr Basir. The Competent Electrician also affirmed, “Yes, Electrical installation at 230 Voltage is dangerous”.

Mr Basir used to think this would not happen to him. But when the Competent Electrician shows Mr Basir the burned wires in the master bedroom bathroom, that is already burned. He realised that this could happen to him or anyone. He is pleased to meet the Competent Electrician.

The Owner takes up his responsibility by engaging a professional to do a detailed check on the heater.

1) 2 undersize cable is found
2) 1 Burn and damage from the three core cable join
3) Water heater switch’s incoming cable started to melt due to a loose connection
4) The electrical distribution box circuit breaker terminal is rusty and in extremely bad condition.

Watch Full youtube Interview here : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUjtvUoyYfE

Please consider the test today. Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Just in six years, Electrocution has taken five lives in Singapore. CASE 1 2015 18-year-old who died after getting electrocuted during shower: Police investigating unlicensed technician. He said he had picked a branded heater based on the shop’s recommendations. He was heard saying: “I spent more than $300 on the water heater and it killed my grandson.” The victim’s grandfather had spent $300 on the new water heater at a shop near his house. The shop owner then recommended a Mr. Bai Jin Yi to help install it. Mr. Bai is a taxi driver, and started to be a part-time technician in 2000. He has helped other customers of the store to install their electrical appliances. However, he does not possess a licence from the Energy Market Authority (EMA). The public is advised to check a list of authorised technicians from the EMA website for their own safety.(Read More….)

Featured Archives

Comprehensive Water Heater Electrical Test

Comprehensive Water Heater Electrical Test

The market in Singapore does not have electrical installation license requirements for most residential homes. In other words, Residential Home does not need an annual electrical inspection by a LEW and then submit to EMA for Electrical installations license Renewal.

(You are required to obtain an electrical installation licence when you use or operate an electrical installation of approved load exceeding 45 kVA for non-domestic purposes.)

Electrical installations in premises used for ‘hazardous trades’, irrespective of their approved loads, are also required to be licensed.) Read more on requirement in EMA


In less than six years, electrocution has taken five lives. 

CASE 1 2015
18-year-old who died after getting electrocuted during shower: Police investigating unlicensed technician. He said he had picked a branded heater based on the shop’s recommendations. He was heard saying: “I spent more than $300 on the water heater and it killed my grandson.”

The victim’s grandfather had spent $300 on the new water heater at a shop near his house. The shop owner then recommended a Mr. Bai Jin Yi to help install it.

Mr. Bai is a taxi driver, and started to be a part-time technician in 2000. He has helped other customers of the store to install their electrical appliances.

However, he does not possess a licence from the Energy Market Authority (EMA).

The public is advised to check a list of authorised technicians from the EMA website for their own safety.(Read More….)

Case 2 2015 
Twin faults led to boy’s fatal electrocution while showering

Faulty electrical installations done during a Housing Board upgrading programme led to the fatal electrocution of a 15-year-old boy who was showering, a coroner’s inquiry has found.

Yao Bin’s mother, Madam Zhang Aiyan, had decided in 2015 to get a new water heater installed after renovation works at their Bukit Batok flat under the HIP were completed.


She asked a worker from JL Engineering Construction, the electrical sub-contractor for the project, to install the heater using the existing wiring and a three-pin plug.

“As the cable connection to both the neutral and earth terminals were loose, the current could have flowed back to the heating tank of the water heater instead.”(Read more….)

Case 3 2020 3 live was taken by electrocution
Elderly couple, son electrocuted to death in Jurong flat due to damaged plug for water heater

SINGAPORE — A coroner’s court heard on Wednesday (March 9) that wires fusing together in a three-pin plug used to power a water heater was the main factor behind the deaths of an 80-year-old man, who was taking a shower in his bathroom, and his 66-year-old wife.

Omar Manan and Asmah Bujang, who had gone to help her husband when he collapsed, were fatally electrocuted in their Ho Ching Road flat in the Jurong Lakeside district on Dec 10, 2020.

Their 45-year-old son, Muhamad Ashikin Omar, also tragically died after going to the flat with his teenage daughter and trying to help his parents. (Read More…..)

The service includes, 18 Cable test Cable terminal service Equipment

A) Continuity test on the 18 cable
B) Insulation Resistance test on the 18 cable
C) Electrical polarity test two sets of cable
D) Loop Impedance Test at two final circuit
E) Water pipe to earth bonding Test

A test report from the sign by the Licensed electrician

Watch the full video at Youtube explanation on the testing requirement

Like our Facebook here:

Featured Archives

How To Avoid Potential Fire Hazards With a Professional Inspection

You own a multi-family, and that makes you responsible for many lives. This responsibility needs to be taken seriously, especially regarding fire code and fire safety. It is time to rely on the experts. The Singapore Civil Defence Force analyzes fire events for trends and patterns, allowing professionals to try to prevent future similar incidents from happening.

Scenario

Roderico lives in a three-story terrace apartment house. One day he went to work following his usual routine. At the end of his shift, he returned home, planning to make his and his fiance’s dinner. While cooking, the power went off (tripped) due to the number of appliances he used in the kitchen.

After resetting the power, he dined with his lady, and they sat down to enjoy a quiet evening at home. Suddenly, he noticed smoke coming out of the second-story level of the three-story apartment, and it quickly became apparent that there was a fire!

Fire damage was severe in the master bedroom
The burned remains of a portable socket outlet
Causes of

Fire Origination

Fire damage was most severe in the master bedroom, while other areas of the second-story apartment sustained heat, smoke, and water damage. Upon inspection of the master bedroom, the burn patterns near the windows, where the computer table had been, were consistent with a first starting near a portable socket outlet recovered from the suspected area of origin.

After speaking with Roderico, it was ascertained that the portable socket outlet had been purchased from an overseas vendor. The result was a determination of accidental fire, of electrical origin, specifically at the location of the portable socket outlet.

Lessons Learned

When tragic events like this occur, there is an analysis of trends that lead to change. A professional fire inspection can help you ensure that your apartment building is as safe as can be given their analysis at that time.

Never overload electrical outlets and circuits

Overloading an outlet or circuit can cause overheating and damage your wiring, leading to a fire. If you have more appliances plugged into one outlet than it’s rated for, get an electrician to install an outlet with a higher capacity.

Don’t use extension cords as permanent wiring solutions

Extension cords are meant as temporary solutions — they should never be used as permanent wiring solutions because they can overheat, leading to fires. Use only UL-listed extension cords and ensure adequate insulation, so they don’t overheat when used for too long or in high-traffic areas.

Check the condition of the wiring regularly

Ensure that any wires that aren’t in use are tightly wrapped and protected from heat sources. Check for exposed wires, loose connections, and faulty wiring to avoid potential electrical fires.

Avoid running wires under carpets or mats

This is one of the most common causes of fires in homes. If you have a cord plugged into an outlet, make sure it isn’t running under rugs or mats where it could be damaged or exposed to moisture.

Use plugs only with Singapore Safety Mark

Many people don’t realize that many of the plugs in their homes aren’t safe for use with Singapore electricity. If you plug one of these into an outlet, you risk getting an electric shock or starting a fire — not something anyone wants! In Singapore, you should only use plugs with the Singapore Safety Mark.

Main Webpage
Blog Page
Youtube: No My Problem meet Competent Electrician
Facebook Fan Page
Facebook Post

Featured Archives

The Importance of a Competent Electrician vs. Handyman

Competent ElectricianIf you are in the market for an electrician to do electrical work on your home, you may be wondering whether to hire a handyperson or an electrician to do the work. Your decision can result in chaos, frustration, and even unsafe living conditions. As a homeowner with no knowledge of electricity, there is a vast difference between what one considers “handy” and legal electrical work. Responsibility

What Is A Handyman?

Handypersons are skilled workers who can perform a variety of household repairs, including:

Handyman

  • minor installation and repair of lighting fixtures
  • minor installation and repair of plumbing fixtures
  • painting and wallpapering
  • laying floor tile
  • building shelves and cabinets
  • installing curtain rods and blinds
  • hanging pictures and mirrors on walls
  • repairing doors and windows
  • moving furniture
  • assembly of furniture, etc.

Handypersons may also be able to do minor repairs on vehicles (such as oil changes), lawnmowers, bicycles, or motorcycles. Some handymen specialize in specific areas such as remodeling kitchens or bathrooms, and others may specialize in general home repair work on structures such as houses or apartment buildings.

What Is An Electrician?

Competent Electrician Group Photo

An electrician is a professional trained to install and maintain the electrical system in your home or office building. They can install various lighting fixtures and outlets and troubleshoot problems with current systems. Electricians also can update existing wiring systems for safety reasons. Electricians should be licensed by their state government before working on any electricity projects.

Why a Handyman Should Not Do Electrical Work?

Example Electrical Lic

A handyman does general maintenance around the home or office building but does not necessarily have training in electrical work or other types of construction work like plumbing or carpentry. A handyperson may be able to perform some basic electrical repairs. Still, they may not have experience or licensing to work on complicated issues that require a licensed professional such as installing new wiring or updating old circuits with more efficient ones.

Lack of Knowledge of Building Codes

Handypersons may not be as familiar with local building codes as licensed electricians, leading to mistakes when installing new equipment or repairing older ones. If something goes wrong during the installation process, it could result in fire or injury due to improper wiring connections or other issues related to faulty wiring installation.

Potentially Cut Corners

Another reason why hiring a licensed electrician is essential is because they have been trained in installing electrical systems safely and properly according to building codes. An untrained person will likely cut corners, resulting in unsafe situations with potentially catastrophic results.

Illegal For a Handyman To Do Electrical Work

Offence to knowingly Engage Unlicensed Electrician

A handyperson can do essential electrical work in many cases, but he’s not legally allowed to do so. Electrical work is a complex field that requires years of training and education. It is illegal for a handyperson to do electrical work, and it is also illegal for someone who has not been appropriately trained to work on your home’s electrical system. Handypersons are trained to fix simple things like broken door hinges or leaky pipes, and they are not certified to handle anything more major than this type of repair.

Possible Shoddy Work

The most common injuries from contracting with a non-licensed person are electrical shock (causing burns) or electrocution (causing cardiac arrest). In addition, faulty wiring can lead to fire damage or even an explosion. You must use only qualified licensed professionals to handle all electrical work, so you don’t risk injury or property damage.

Will Insurance Cover a Claim

Insurance companies will not cover claims if the homeowner did the electrical work themselves or hired someone who was not qualified. Many homeowner’s policies will expressly exclude coverage for any damage caused by an unlicensed person working on their home’s electrical system.

Hire a Professional Electrician

It’s always better to hire a professional electrician, and there is too much potential for injury and electrocution to go around. If a handyperson insists that he can do the work involved, always get in writing that he will follow all safety guidelines and code regulations. If anything happens during or after the work is complete, you have a record of his promises.

Website: https://electriciansingapore.online
Youtube Video : https://youtu.be/p1HxuctNzpk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/competentelectrician

Featured Archives

Electrical Fan might cause fire hazards

Electrical Fan might cause fire hazards

Small electrical work also need LEW

All electrical work must be undertaken or carried out by a licensed electrical worker. Such work has to be tested before the supply is turned on. These include:
New wiring
Rewiring
Extensions

Do not Engage Unlicensed Electrician

Unlicensed electrician

It is not advisable to employ an electrician who is not licensed and not under any license as they have experience but are not competent for electrical work. There have been too many cases that surfaced in less than a decade. More than five lives have been lost to electrocution on the mainstream news. We have no idea the total amount of life loss.

We have thought about the question below.

Why do consumers purchase or use the service of an unlicensed electrician?
1) Price because most of them are experienced electricians but charge way lower, like 50-80% lower than the Market Rate. Example: Majority of the consumer is price caution they just want some one to prescribe medicine or do surgeries. They Do Not Care about are they Doctor or Butcher. As long they do the work.

DIY Electrical Work is Good but Remember the Risk and Danger it could cause

The Fear of losing out

2) Social DIY Group influences everyone. Peer pressure to want to feel good with friends, exhibit the strength they overcome, and enjoy the cheers and wow the second of fame. But if it comes to electrical, there is danger and higher risk involved, and they are unaware of it. We have meet owners who put loved ones in danger just because of feeling good on social media. That is not wrong, but it is the way human is.

3) Lack of document support. Singapore is all law by law. Yes, it is very rigid for electrical work belonging to the dangerous trade that can cause harm to humans and livestock or better loss of property. Recently the news has surfaced that three lives have been lost, and the person who does the electrical work is not to be found.

The YouTube Video click here to watch

The Video above show that the house have it electrical installation done is a wrong method. The previous electrical work have no consideration on the wire protection on the smaller size cable from the can as you can see from the video. The Fan is directly connected to the ceiling rose. The circuit protector is over size for the small electrical wire. click the video on the left picture to know more…….

Main Webpage
Blog Page
Youtube: No My Problem meet Competent Electrician
Facebook Fan Page
Facebook Post: Ceiling Fan Connected to Ceiling rose is over rated Protection