The popularity of electric vehicles is increasing. First, the carbon footprint on Earth is getting heavier. Second, the fossil fuel levels are depleting fast. With the UK government’s 2035 ban deadline on petrol and diesel-run cars fast approaching, people are replacing their old cars with EVs. Nevertheless, EVs are faster, stylish, and have advanced features, too.
We are walking on the lane of sustainability, but are we safe, too? EVs run on high-voltage electricity. From residential charging facilities in London to commercial DC fast-charging networks in Manchester and Birmingham, dealing with such high power is becoming common. Still, one critical area remains neglected- electrical hazards and adequate safety measures.
This article will talk about these essential areas. What are the risks near 240V residential Level 2 chargers and 480V+ commercial DC fast charging systems? How can you keep yourself safe with one of the most under-appreciated safety tools: safety matting?
Key areas that will be highlighted:
- Why are EV charging stations electrically unsafe?
- What is electrical safety matting, and how does it protect?
- How to select the right safety matting for your EV charging station?
- Creating a comprehensive safety system for your EV charging station
Why are EV charging stations electrically unsafe?
EV batteries typically operate within 300 volts to 800 volts. Therefore, it goes without saying that EV charging stations are powered by high-voltage electricity, as well. The residential installations require 32-80 amps, and commercial DC fast chargers need up to 400 amps of electricity on average.
When minor negligence becomes deadly
A minor current leakage or careless handling of this much power will take seconds to turn into devastation. Electric faults can cause electric shocks, arc flashes, equipment damage, and trauma. Sometimes, short circuits lead to fire.
The most troubling fact is that damaged electric cables or current leakage is not visible to the naked eye. Concealed danger does not come to the surface until it’s too late!
What is electrical safety matting, and how does it protect?
An electrical safety matting is made of a dielectric compound of rubber known as Elastomer. Unlike traditional industrial flooring mats, electrical safety matting has a non-conductive surface.
Electrical mats prevent complete circuit formation
Electric shocks are life-threatening only when the circuit is completed. Human bodies are naturally conductive. Thus, when a human body comes in contact with electricity, the circuit gets completed fast and the damages follow. But when a person stands on elastomer-made electrical mats, this specialized compound prevents the formation of an electrical circuit. Instead, the safety mat passes static electricity to the electricity-neutral Earth, minimizing the unforeseen risks.
What decides the effectiveness of electrical insulating rubber mats?
The efficiency of an electrical mat depends on how they are made. Electrical insulating rubber mats is manufactured following the guidelines of any of these three standards- IS 15652, ASTM D178, and IEC 61111:2009. These guidelines mainly highlight the working voltages, withstand voltages, ideal thicknesses for respective voltage levels, and how to test them. The IEC 61111:2009 standard is accepted globally; Hence, it is one of the most popular electrical rubber matting types.
Electrical safety matting is an essential safety equipment, as per many workplace safety regulations like OSHA, HSE, etc. Therefore, it must promise unmatched security. Different tests validate the quality and reliability of the electrical safety matting. For IEC 61111:2009 electrical matting, these are applicable:
- Dielectric test voltage: 20,000 VAC
- Proof test over entire surface at: 10,000 VAC
- Recommended maximum use voltage test: 7,500 VAC
How to select the right safety matting for your EV charging station?
The IEC 61111:2009 electrical safety matting comes in different classes. Therefore, when you are selecting this safety equipment, you have to make the right choice for foolproof protection. If you are in the UK and want to buy electrical safety matting for your EV charging station, consider these:
Environmental resistance:
EV charging stations are often placed outdoors where oil, chemicals, and other sharp objects may be present. Therefore, the electrical safety matting you choose should be resistant to oils, chemicals, and abrasion. They should be capable of tolerating temperature extremes and UV-resistant for outdoor use.
Correct voltage:
IEC 61111 electrical mats are available in class 0, class 1, class 2, class 3, and class 4. The voltage resistance of these mats is 1 kV, 7.5 kV, 17 kV, 26.5 kV, and 36 kV. Selecting the right mat for the right voltage is critical. A low-resistance mat may break down in high-voltage exposure, and a high-voltage mat for a low-voltage condition is an unnecessary expenditure.
Correct dimension:
Dimension means the length, width, and thickness of the electrical mats. Thicker mats provide higher protection. Nevertheless, thicker mats are heavier and may not fit well in narrow spaces. Typically, the length of IEC mats is 10 m, and the width is 1 m. electrical insulating rubber mats variants of the right size are easy to handle, install, and maintain.
Surface texture:
Every year, almost 684000 people die from falls, as per the WHO.
If your EV charging station has high traffic, then mats with added durability provide relief. What are electrical mats with added durability? An electrical mat with an anti-slip surface and an anti-fatigue feature.
Creating a comprehensive safety system for your EV charging station
Electrical safety matting secures the base or floor of your EV charging station. But for complete protection, you need to create a comprehensive safety system.
The broader system should include:
- Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures: Mandatory UK health and safety regulations
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) set: The complete PPE set should include rubber gloves, dielectric boots, etc.
- Warning signs: Installed to notify about wet floor, slippery surface, fire-prone areas, etc.
In Conclusion: Safety and sustainability for win
Electric vehicles are the next big thing; electrical accidents are not. Therefore, taking precautions against electrical hazards at your EV charging station will make you profitable in the end of the day. Electrical mats play an important role in minimizing electrical accidents and offering safety. Some workplace safety guidelines, like the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and Health and Safety at Work, etc. The 1974 Act has made it necessary to take precautions near high-voltage electricity.
Here are some FAQs about electrical rubber mats:
1. Are electrical mats fire-resistant?
Yes, electrical mats are fire-resistant with an extinguishing property within 5 seconds.
2. What are some other types of electrical mats?
Apart from IEC 61111:2009 electrical mats, there are mats complying with IS 15652 and ASTM D178 standards.
3. What is the maximum voltage protection an electrical mat offers?
IEC 61111:2009 and ASTM D178 electrical mats offer 36 kV voltage protection. IS 15652 electrical mats provide 33 kV maximum voltage protection.
Want to know more about electrical rubber mats or want to share your own experiences with safety protocols in EV charging installations? Join the conversation in the comments below. You can reach out to us directly for more information on selecting the right safety equipment for your specific needs.
