IEEE PES Karachi Chapter Hosts panel discussion Ensuring Electrical Safety Compliances amid Monsoon Threats

The IEEE PES Karachi Chapter successfully organized a panel talk on “Electrical Safety Compliances in Utilities” at the Sunset Club DHA. This event was part of the chapter’s Monthly Technical Seminar Series, aiming to bring together professionals and experts in the field of electrical engineering to discuss critical safety compliance issues in utilities.
The panel comprised esteemed speakers including Engr. Syed Rifat Ali, Engr. Syed Abrar Ali, Engr. Tahir Saleem, and Engr. Azhar Hussain. Moderating the session, Chair – IEEE PES Karachi Chapter, Engr. Ishtiaqul Haque welcomed all participants and panelists and the event formally started with recitation of Holy Quran.
Engr. Tahir Saleem Shaikh who started the discussion explained the importance of earthing system as to why it is necessary and how significant they are for the safety of compliances in the utilities. He also explained, the various protection systems like leakage current and arc flash protection as per electricity rules and various codes for the safety of individual consumers or user. Engr. Shaikh raised a serious concern towards the audience that, during monsoon rains, the majority of electrocution deaths occurred due to leakage current. The earthing and protection system provided by the utilities in their distribution network on poles are either inadequate or not at all providing protection to humans showing shear negligence of safety compliances.
Adding to the talk, Engr Riffat Ali gave a brief of various federal and provincial laws about the Electricity Act-1910, Electricity Control Ordinance 1965, and NEPRA codes, rules, and regulations on safety. He mentioned that there are various provisions available in codes and rules concerning Earthing, Protection, and Safety. He insisted that the prime objective of safety is to make all efforts to protect people and equipment.
Engr. Azhar Hussain also emphasized the importance of implementing safety rules, highlighting the challenges faced by utilities in this regard. He also underscored the necessity of continuous monitoring of code implementation and the need to provide training to electricians, and electrical supervisors on various safety codes, rules, and regulations.
Sharing his extensive experience working in utilities, Syed Abrar Ali reiterated the critical importance of occupational, functional, and process safety. He underlined the responsibility of consumers and electricity users to ensure safety by using proper earthing systems, installing protective breakers, and utilizing quality products. He stressed that all installation work should be carried out by certified and trained electricians and supervisors and that wiring and related tasks must adhere to correct procedures.
Concluding the talk, Chair – IEEE PES Karachi Chapter, Engr. Ishtiaqul haq thanked all panelists for sharing the insightful information regarding Electrical Safety Compliances in Utilities. He mentioned that this panel talk was need of the moment amid ongoing monsoon rainy season to raise awareness for safety of people and protecting our system equipment.
The event saw a significant turnout of industry professionals, students, and academics. Participants also had the opportunity to engage with the panelists during the Q&A session. This interaction provided a platform for attendees to seek clarifications, share their perspectives, and discuss potential solutions to common safety compliance issues.
At the conclusion of the panel discussion, Chair, IEEE Karachi Section Dr. Tariq Rahim Soomro presented mementos of appreciation to each of the panelists. This gesture acknowledged their valuable contributions and dedication to enhancing electrical safety in utilities. The event concluded with a high tea, allowing attendees to network and discuss the topics further in an informal setting.
The panel talk on “Electrical Safety Compliances in Utilities” was essential considering current monsoon season, which provided valuable knowledge and developed a community of professionals dedicated to improving electrical safety standards. The IEEE PES Karachi Chapter always looks forward to organizing more such informative sessions in the future considering local needs and trending topics for betterment of society and broader PES community. n