Electrical installations in the leisure industry

When it comes to electrical installations, the leisure industry presents its own individual challenges. Not only is it client service-focused, it can involve being ‘open all hours’.

With our experience over the years in supplying the leisure industry with electrical solutions, here at DRF we have identified a unique set of requirements for the task.

Challenges of electrical installations in the leisure industry

• A need to manage variable room occupancy in hotels (parties, meetings and conferences)
• Maintenance and repairs performed with minimum disruption to hotel guests
• The unique requirements for each amenity on the premises (bar, gym etc.)
• Separate provisioning for each room demands more flexibility
• A requirement for guaranteed uptime of services and Service Level Agreements (SLAs) that ensure a year-round clean, hygienic and optimum requirement

Leisure facilities have the same statutory responsibilities as any other non-domestic premises when it comes to electrical safety, and employers have a duty of care and legal obligation to keep the public and employees safe.

Overloading of electrical points and faulty electrical equipment present a common fire hazard, therefore regular maintenance is crucial. Control measures can minimise the risk of fire from electrical faults and employers should have a formal programme of electrical testing and inspection in place conducted by a qualified and competent person.

An electrical contractor can advise on a suitable testing programme and control measures may include Residual Current Devices (RCDs) and thermal imaging surveys (in addition to normal electrical condition reporting).

The required frequency of testing varies by sector. Within the leisure sector, more frequent testing is required. Electrical installations in ‘dry’ areas such as gyms should be tested every three years and ‘wet’ areas – for example swimming pools, saunas and changing rooms – every 12 months. Testing in wet areas poses other challenges, and specific regulations require the engineer to check that installed fixtures and fittings comply with national safety standards

Careful planning and communication is key to minimising disruption to services. For businesses with multiple sites, clear communication is vital to the successful delivery of the testing programme. Dynamic scheduling relies on accurate forecasting of the number of items to be tested, which can be achieved through site surveys. Furthermore, flexibility of testing enables last-minute programme changes and the ability to test at times that suit the client’s business needs.

Powering down of electrical systems can also disrupt operations and some clients opt for ‘out of hours’ electrical work to ensure that they remain operational with no risk of injury.

Early diagnosis and rectification of electrical faults can ensure that operations continue to run smoothly and safely. The streamlining of processes maximises efficiencies and improves performance, whilst providing the confidence that electrical systems remain safe and compliant.

Leisure sector projects have a strong focus on customer experience. We understand that electrical upgrades and refurbishment work often demands a sensitive approach and careful planning to minimise operational impact. We are also mindful of the importance of adhering to strict budgets and timescales.

Contact us to discuss your project with one of our friendly team on 0113 257 8212.