The root cause of electrical fires and safety significance

Addressing electrical fire causes and safety through regulation, quality, and innovation for a secure future, Apar Cables shares its efforts in minimising electrical fire safety hazards.

Electrical negligence is a major cause of accidents and loss of lives. Shockingly, over 40 percent of building fires are attributed to electrical issues, often stemming from improper connections, short circuits, overloading, faulty insulation in household appliances, and inadequate maintenance. These fires can start unexpectedly from seemingly harmless sources such as hair dryers or overused phone chargers. It is crucial to address the root causes of electrical fires to prevent such incidents from occurring and protect lives and property.

Balancing quality and price

The cable industry plays a vital role in ensuring electrical safety. However, the emergence of numerous local players has led to a price decline, often at the expense of compromised quality. This compromises the reliability of cable lines, leading to deteriorating climatic characteristics such as heat, cold, and moisture resistance. Similarly, prioritisation of cost over quality increases the risk of fire incidents. Cable manufacturers must raise awareness among end customers regarding the risks of installing low-quality wires and cables. While some customers prioritise safety over cost, the number remains relatively low.

A call for a stricter regulatory framework

To prevent electrical fires, there is a pressing need for a comprehensive and legally binding regulatory framework that emphasises electrical safety in both public and residential buildings. The current National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines cover fire safety requirements for public buildings but need clear guidelines for electrical safety. Through its recommendatory, the National Building Code (NBC) of India is expected to incorporate the mandatory recommendation into local building bylaws. State governments must work towards enforcing regulations that mandate the use of quality electrical equipment and require regular maintenance and updates by builders and contractors.

Recently, the Maharashtra state government passed a fire safety bill mandating the presence of fire safety officers and supervisors in high-rise buildings with 22 floors or more. Additionally, residential and industrial buildings engaged in hazardous activities must implement an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled fire safety mechanism. Such initiatives are steps in the right direction, highlighting the importance of fire prevention measures and the use of advanced technologies. Despite periodic reviews and safety measures, a significant gap exists between expectations and reality. The industry and the government must collaborate closely to bridge this gap. The industry can provide insights based on ground realities, while the government can leverage its authority to implement relevant suggestions. Stricter regulations and policies are necessary to standardise electrical and fire safety across India. For instance, the industry can work with the government to formalise and enforce legislation for using fire survival cables and wires in high-rise buildings, malls, hospitals, and schools—places with high population density. Such measures can significantly reduce the number of fire-related deaths.

APAR’s solution for electrical fire prevention

APAR ANUSHAKTI is our flagship and groundbreaking product. Keeping in mind “Tomorrow’s Solution Today”, this house wire meets international standards for the Indian Market by exceeding the IS: 694 basic requirements with the help of e-beam technology.  

APAR ANUSHAKTI wires can withstand temperatures up to 105 degrees C, carry 50 percent more current than conventional wires, last longer than 50 years, and save energy. High-rise buildings, residential buildings, hospitals, malls, airports, and railway stations can enjoy the safest and most reliable FR-PVC insulated wires. 

Some major characteristics are as follows: 

• Non-softening, infusible & non-dripping under overload and short-circuit conditions to prevent short-circuits, thus ensuring fire safety.
• Does not melt easily in contact with hot objects.
• High Oxygen and temperature Index for improved fire retardancy. 
• Self-extinguishing and does not spread the fire. 
• High Insulation Resistance avoids any electric shock.
• Rugged mechanical properties–superior abrasion, cut-through & crush resistance. Better ageing property, thus longer life of wires.

The tagline “Iss Taar Ki Shakti APAR” beautifully summarises the brand promise. 

Design and manufacturing standards at APAR

APAR Industries is a prominent Indian company engaged in the manufacturing & distribution of a diverse range of products. Established in 1958, APAR Industries Limited is gearing up to tackle the biggest challenges of the 21st century, catering to the needs of the global energy sector through sustainable means. The company believes that with an innovation-first mindset, solutions that make anything possible can be found. APAR’s mission is to design & manufacture building blocks for the Energy Infrastructure, Transportation and telecommunication sectors that contribute meaningfully to making this world more energy efficient, environmentally sustainable, and a safe place. With over six decades of legacy, a strong geographical presence in over 140 countries, and a group revenue of ₹ 14352 Cr, APAR truly defines “Tomorrow’s Solution Today”.

2008 APAR entered the cable business to expand its portfolio and forward integration by acquiring UNIFLEX Cables. In 2012, APAR introduced a new gen-tech to build the largest e-beam facility in India. Presently APAR has 50 + UL product approvals, which is by far the highest in India. We are the leading manufacturer in the domestic segment for renewable sector cables and no. 1 exporter of cables from India.

Preventing electrical fires requires a collective effort involving stricter regulations, industry-government collaboration, and the adoption of high-quality electrical equipment. The need for reliable and safe electrical infrastructure cannot be overstated, especially as we strive for a sustainable and secure future. By addressing the root causes of electrical fires and promoting advanced solutions like APAR ANUSHAKTI wires, we can significantly reduce the risks associated with electrical incidents, safeguarding lives and properties.

For more details, contact:

Email: info@apar.com

Website: www.apar.com