Ensure electrical wiring is up to code

THE Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM), views the fire in a housing area in Bangsar, Kuala Lump ur, on monday to be a serious matter despite, thankfully, no fatalities being recorded (“Fire in Bangsar housing area”, The Star, March 25; online at tinyurl.com/5n845553).

The cause of the fire is suspected to be electrical wiring faults. IEM would like to strongly remind anyone involved in the design of domestic electrical installations to comply strictly with MS 1979 and MS IEC 60364.

MS IEC 60364 is a national adoption of the IEC 60364 which is an international standard that specifies the rules for the design, erection, and verification of electrical installations including domestic installations.

MS 1979 is a homegrown code of practice which stipulates the guides to design electrical installations in domestic buildings. The IEM is currently actively involved in spearheading the project of revising and updating MS 1979 to maintain its relevancy, taking into consideration the latest developments in the electrical installation sector.

The IEM also advocates for homeowners to arrange for a periodic inspection of the wiring in their residences to minimise the risk of hazards which may arise due to faulty wiring.

In addition, the public is strongly encouraged to only purchase electrical equipment that is approved by the Energy Commission at its website (tinyurl. com/a2pnarfs). It is important to only purchase and use electrical equipment that complies with the specified minimum requirements to lessen the risk of accidents such as fire and electric shock that could result in injuries or even death as well as damage to property.

The IEM will continue to work closely with various other stakeholders, such as the Energy Commission, the Fire and Rescue Department, the Electrical and Electronics Association of Malaysia and the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia, to ensure that public safety is always prioritised.

The IEM wishes to reiterate that it is the duty of an engineer to always hold paramount the safety, health and interest of the public at all times.

PROF DR NORLIDA BUNIYAMIN President The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia