Caution when charging electric vehicles
Electric vehicles are increasingly conquering private transport. The requirements for their charging infrastructure are diverse. The Fire Prevention Advisory Council provides a few safety tips.
The Fire Prevention Advisory Board (BfB) emphasizes that first and foremost the recommendations of the respective vehicle specialist dealers must be observed. In addition, the BfB points out that under no circumstances should important protective measures be circumvented to minimize the risk of fire.
There are numerous power outlets in and around buildings. However, very few of them are suitable for charging the batteries of electric vehicles. The household sockets commonly used in Switzerland are not designed for charging for several hours at nominal load. Such continuous operation at nominal load leads to overheating of the socket. Unsuitable charging infrastructures for electric vehicles can thus cause fires.
Safety tips
Below are the most important safety tips from the Fire Prevention Advisory Board (BfB):
- Before purchasing an electric vehicle, a review of the building's infrastructure should be conducted by an electrical contractor.
- Household socket outlets are not dimensioned for continuous load at rated current. The installation of CEE industrial sockets is recommended.
- Provide one suitable socket per vehicle including associated protective device.
- Only use adapter cables for connection to household sockets in exceptional situations and limit the charging current to 8 amperes.
- Do not use extension cords due to risk of heating.
- Work on electrical installations may only be carried out by qualified personnel.
