ST. LOUIS — IBEW/NECA electrical contractors are working with government officials, residents and businesses to ensure electrical systems damaged by the recent flooding are made safe. Residents and business owners need to be aware some electrical systems compromised by the flood may have to be inspected and repaired. Residents and business owners should always use licensed electrical contractors for new electrical installations and electrical repairs. IBEW/NECA contractors are dedicated to strict adherence to the National Electrical Code to ensure safe electrical systems. The Electrical Connection offers the largest data base of licensed electrical contractors at its web site: www.electricalconnection.org.

The Electrical Connection offers the following tips to homeowners and businesses:

• Always ask for credentials to ensure the repair service is fully licensed.
• Never enter a basement with standing water that is in contact with electrical systems.
• With the immense volume of rain, water has been able enter homes from faulty rooftop flashing to basements and in many cases the water trickles down electrical cables into fixtures. These fixtures, while they may look dry, should be inspected.
• The nonmetallic-sheathed cable (Romex) wiring used in most all dwellings has a paper-type material on the inside that will absorb water. Even though the appliance or outlet may look dry, the wiring may be completely wet.
• Any flickering lights may be a sign of hidden water damage and not be used until inspected and repair.
• Flooded sockets will have to be replaced as the waters could corrode the device and insulation.
• All dishwashers, laundry machines must be on ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) circuits.

On Jan. 4, 2016, the St. Louis County Department of Public Works sent the following to IBEW/NECA contractors…

St. Louis County Flood Damage/Contamination - Update

The St. Louis County area has endured yet another flood. Inspectors have been in the flood areas over the weekend and letters will be mailed to owners of property that have been inspected informing them of the required repairs due to the flood water that has entered the electrical equipment and wiring.

Please know that in some areas the electrical power is still on in some buildings where electrical equipment is submerged. We are in the process of identifying which buildings must be disconnected and which buildings need significant repairs/replacement before power will be restored.

Electrical equipment and wiring that has been submerged must be replaced. No one knows exactly what contaminates was in the flood water but we know it will have a deteriorating effect on the components. There is no approved method of restoring flood submerged equipment or wiring so replacement is required. Electrical safety would be compromised to allow the continued use of flood damaged electrical wiring and equipment.

NEMA recognizes that specific manufacturers might be able to re-certify their equipment and I recognize that as well. I have yet to find a manufacturer willing to take this chance and it would be cost prohibitive if they would consider re-certification.

At this time permit fees are not being waived.

I hope this gives some direction as the area begins the repair phase of the recent flood.

Rick J. Hill, Chief Electrical Inspector
Saint Louis County
Department of Public Works
41 S. Central Ave.
Clayton, MO 63105