The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has rolled out enhanced safety measures under the CEA (Measures Related to Safety and Electrical Supply) Regulation, 2023, aimed at reducing electrical accidents and promoting safer electrical practices in residential, commercial, and industrial settings across India.
The regulations introduce comprehensive obligations for electricity suppliers, distribution networks, and consumers to ensure all electrical installations and operations meet stricter safety standards. The move comes in response to rising concerns around fire hazards and electrocution incidents, particularly in urban and semi-urban regions.
Key Provisions Under the 2023 Regulations
The updated regulation mandates that:
- All suppliers of electricity, including generation and transmission companies, must appoint a qualified Electrical Safety Officer (ESO) to oversee safety compliance.
- Only certified and trained professionals can operate or maintain electrical lines and apparatus.
- Consumer installations must be tested and verified for insulation resistance and leakage-free operation before receiving electricity supply.
- All installations must be equipped with Residual Current Devices (RCDs) that disconnect supply during unsafe residual current surges.
- Electrical works—including installations and repairs—must be executed exclusively by licensed contractors or certified electricians holding valid state permits.
By strengthening technical and operational standards, the regulation aims to improve public safety, especially in high-risk installations.
Focus on Household Safety: Public Awareness Push
Alongside regulatory enforcement, a parallel public campaign has been launched to educate households on preventing electrical fires and accidents. The awareness initiative outlines simple but essential steps for residential users, including:
- Hiring only qualified electricians for all electrical work.
- Avoiding the use of extension cords in high-traffic areas.
- Maintaining a safe distance from poles, transformers, and electric meters.
- Periodically servicing appliances, wiring, and earthing systems.
- Using ISI-certified wires and sockets for heavy-duty appliances.
- Ensuring gas lines are turned off before leaving home or sleeping.
The campaign also urges families to keep keys to terrace access doors, maintain emergency ropes, and avoid tampering with electric panels or networks under any circumstances.
Emergency Preparedness
The advisory emphasizes that in the event of an electrical fire, especially those caused by oil-based equipment, sand—not water—should be used to extinguish flames. Citizens are urged to maintain a minimum 3-foot clearance around electrical panels to allow quick access during emergencies.
Authorities reiterated that electrical safety is not just the responsibility of suppliers but a shared duty between utility companies, engineers, and consumers. The Department of Power has directed states to ensure widespread awareness and strict compliance with the new measures.
Consumers are encouraged to report safety violations, faulty installations, or dangerous wiring to their local electricity department and ensure their homes comply with the latest safety norms.