Fire prevention officers of Warwickshire Fire and Rescue services have identified risks in the region involving faulty electrical signage.
Fire prevention and protection work is a major part of firefighting for the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service. A key role of the officers is identifying potential issues regarding fire safety in businesses. While this area of their work is often at a local level, it can also impact enterprises on a national and even global scale.
A recent investigation by officer in Warwickshire has uncovered faulty fluorescent signs that promote MoneyGram. The electrical ballast signs are used across the UK in multiple business premises.
The investigation was sparked by Chief Fire Officer for Warwickshire, Kieron Amos identifying scorch marks to an electrical MoneyGram sign in a post office window. The burn marks led him to believe the sign was suffering an electrical fault. In the knowledge that faulty electric products can lead to fire risks, Amos raised his concerns with the post office’s management. Further investigation found a similar fault in other businesses using the signage, making the matter not just a local concern but a national and international issue as well.
Businesses using electrical signage should always ensure equipment is tested and fitted by a qualified contractor. To minimise health and safety risks, firms requiring electrical installations in Chester, Warwickshire and other parts of the UK should always use professional services.
Made aware of the issue, MoneyGram has taken steps to replace all faulty signs employed across the UK with new LED light made to British Safety Standard BS-CE.
