Electrical wiring is a crucial aspect in workplaces and homes. When it's not done right, the wiring may lead to electrocution and injuries, and this is something you want to avoid at all costs. Having knowledge of wrong wiring practices will help you spot any anomalies in your environment. If you've moved to a new workplace or have bought a new home, then you should take a look at the electrical wiring to ensure that it doesn't put anyone at risk of injury. Some wiring practices may even be illegal and violate building codes. Here are some common mistakes to look out for.

Wires stuffed into a switch box

One of the most common mistakes made is crowding wires into an outlet or switch box. With ever-growing electrical needs, more and more wires are needed, and this gradually becomes an electrical hazard. If you spot an overcrowded outlet box in your workplace, then you need to inform the administrators. Too many crowded wires may lead to overheating, which eventually melts the wire insulation. The overheating may eventually lead to a fire.

Using a larger outlet box can help prevent the overheating. You can also have electrical contractors install plaster or mud rings that manage the wires.

Electrical connections outside boxes

Another electrical wiring mistake to watch out for is connections outside electrical boxes. These are small boxes that normally have a lid to obscure the electrical connections. Splice or electrical boxes are designed to offer protection in case of sparks or loose connections. All connections are supposed to be within the box. Additionally, these electrical boxes guard connections against heat and mishandling.

Any connections outside these boxes can easily become hazardous. Anyone may accidentally touch them and get electrocuted.

Recessed splice boxes

If you've recently moved into a new home, then look for your splice box. This is also called the control or junction box, and it's where all the wires in a room converge. These boxes send power from the mains to the other parts of the room and are very important when it comes to troubleshooting electrical problems. However, they may be buried in drywalls or underneath the floor.

You need to contact qualified contractors if you can't find the splice box. Having these boxes recessed in walls makes it harder to detect or stop any short circuits. Additionally, if the wires start melting and overheating, a fire can easily start.

For more information, contact commercial electrical contractors in your area.