Managing the electrical system in industrial factories is a crucial part of production and operations at every stage. Electricity is not only the primary energy source for machinery but also directly impacts employee safety and production stability. Improper installation or management of the electrical system can lead to accidents, short circuits, or damage to machines. Therefore, standard-compliant electrical installation with a strong focus on safety is something business owners and engineers must not overlook.
Before any factory electrical installation begins, understanding the standards and safety regulations is an essential step. All factories should comply with international IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) standards and local Thai standards, including requirements from the Provincial Electricity Authority and Metropolitan Electricity Authority.
These standards regulate the selection of wires, transformers, breakers, fuses, short-circuit protection devices, and proper grounding systems. Choosing standard-compliant equipment reduces risks of electric leakage, short circuits, and electrical accidents effectively. Moreover, installation should correspond with the actual power load and allow for future expansion. A properly planned electrical system for each zone ensures continuous production and avoids overload issues.
Installing a factory electrical system is not just about wiring and device setup — it requires structured planning and system design, including load calculation per zone, choosing the right transformer, and organizing cables neatly.
Load calculation involves analyzing the amount of electrical power required for each machine and equipment. Understanding the load helps in selecting appropriate transformers and wires, reducing overloads and power outages.
Dividing the factory into electrical zones is a vital technique, especially for large factories. Zoning allows easier control and isolation of electrical systems — such as production areas, storage, and offices — minimizing impact when problems arise in a specific area.
Wiring in factories should be organized, insulated to standard, and routed through conduits to prevent damage. Whether installed under the floor or on ceilings, accessibility for inspection and maintenance must be considered.
Safety is at the heart of electrical system installation. Key protective equipment includes:
- Circuit Breakers – Prevent overcurrent and automatically shut down circuits during faults
- Fuses – Simple yet effective protection against short circuits
- Grounding System – Reduces electric shock risk and protects machines
- RCCB/RCD – Detects electric leakage and cuts power immediately
Additionally, installing warning signals and safety signage in high-risk areas helps employees stay alert and prevent accidents.
Even with proper electrical system installation, regular inspection and maintenance must not be overlooked. Factories should have a scheduled electrical inspection plan, such as checking wires, transformers, breakers, and protective equipment every 6–12 months. Routine checks help detect issues early, prevent short circuits, and ensure system reliability. Proper maintenance extends equipment lifespan, reduces repair costs, and boosts production efficiency.
Safe factory electrical systems must go hand-in-hand with employee knowledge and awareness. Training programs should be provided to ensure employees understand and follow safety practices. These include:
- Safe electrical operation procedures
- Equipment inspection before use
- Emergency handling and troubleshooting
Modern electrical technologies such as Smart Factory, IoT, and automation systems allow operators to monitor electricity usage and machine status in real time. Installing electrical systems that support these technologies increases productivity and reduces risks from human error.
- Do not overlook standard-certified equipment – Electrical equipment must meet TIS (Thai Industrial Standards) or international standards like IEC to ensure safety and durability.
- Do not install wires or equipment near chemicals or high heat – In factories using flammable chemicals or high temperatures, wiring and devices must be placed at a safe distance to avoid fire hazards.
- Balance electrical load in each zone – Carefully plan to ensure load is balanced across phases. This prolongs equipment life and improves system stability.
- Establish an emergency plan for electrical failures – Accidents can happen at any time. An emergency plan helps handle unexpected situations efficiently, including cutting main power, alerting staff, using proper fire extinguishers (Type C), and contacting external help. Regular emergency drills significantly reduce damage and danger.
Installing a factory electrical system according to standards is not just a technical task but a combination of engineering expertise and safety measures. Properly installed systems ensure continuous, safe, and efficient operations. Professional system planning, standard-compliant equipment, regular inspections, and employee training are all critical for confident and safe electrical usage in factories.
For maximum safety and performance of your factory's electrical system, N.Y.T. Intergroup has a team of expert engineers and technicians ready to provide full-service support — from planning and design to installation and maintenance for factories and industrial buildings.
Contact N.Y.T. Intergroup today for a free consultation and lay a solid, safe electrical foundation for your business.