Electrical installations for the modern business

Today’s typical office electrical installation involves a complex web of mysterious acronyms like VoIP, UPS, Cat and LED, and if you don't get professional advice from the get-go, you could find yourself in a messy tangle.

Hiding electrical cables and leads

"With any electrical installation, you're trying to achieve an office that does everything you want it to do, but with wiring that's virtually invisible," says Malcolm Richards, CEO of Master Electricians Australia. "Extension leads and power boards hanging across the floor should be a thing of the past."

This means clearly working out where your workstations and equipment will go before any building begins, so engage an electrical contractor in the early stages of planning to help work out the optimal number and placement of power points.

Office communications

Telephone and data cabling is an increasingly complex area of electrical installation, with fast, reliable communication critical. A good electrician should be able to advise you on the best cabling options for your business.

For the ultimate in streamlined communications, consider combining phone and data systems into one. Known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), this two-in-one technology uses your internet connection to transmit and receive phone calls, often at a fraction of the cost of regular calls, and without the need for a separate phone line.

Office lighting designs

With all the cutting-edge technology now available, humble office lighting is often overlooked. But when you consider the effect poor lighting can have on staff productivity, it pays to get it right – even if it means sacrificing style.

"Sometimes the fancy lights, like downlights, aren't the best for working," says Malcolm.

"You're better off going for broad fluorescent or LED lights. A good electrician will have a light meter to determine the right amount of light a person needs for their particular task, according to Australian Standards."

UPS systems to save data

To avoid losing valuable data or damaging equipment during blackouts, Malcolm recommends all offices install an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). "With a UPS, if all the power goes off in the street, your computers keep working for a period of time that allows you to shut them down properly and save your data," he says.

Using safety switches  

Safety switches are another key consideration in an electrical installation – they'll not only save lives, but save you frustration as well. "If an appliance plays up, it will only shut off that particular part of the office, and won't interfere with your computers," says Malcolm.

Things to remember

• Work out your office layout before starting installation
• Consider lighting; your employees will be more productive if they can see what they're doing

• Explore new technologies like VoIP – they can save money and streamline communication
• Install a UPS to protect your computer systems from blackouts

Get started

For the best results from your electrical installation, consult an electrical contractor during the early stages of office planning: