Below is our recent interview with Brianne Deerwester, Communications coordinator at the Electrical Safety Foundation International:
Q: Could you provide our readers with a brief introduction to your company?
A: The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is the premier non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to promoting electrical safety at home and in the workplace. Since 1994, ESFI has led the way in promoting electrical safety across North America. Over the years, ESFI has become highly regarded by industry, media, and consumer safety partners alike by constantly reinvigorating the way electrical safety is addressed. ESFI creates unique awareness and educational resources designed to meet the diverse needs of a variety of at-risk groups.
Q: Any highlights on your recent announcement?
A: ESFI and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association’s (NEMA) Low Voltage Surge Protective Devices Section (BI-VS) recently surveyed commercial and industrial facility professionals, including managers, owners, building engineers, heads of maintenance, and related occupations. These professionals provided insights regarding power surge incidences, misconceptions, and the usage of surge protective devices in their facilities. Surge protective devices were viewed as a success by most respondents, as 79% estimated that downtime and equipment failure was significantly reduced.
Q: Can you give us more insights into your offering?
A: ESFI partners with corporations, industry organizations, community leaders, and the media to develop key resources and consistent electrical safety messages. These resources are used to promote electrical safety education and awareness in schools, communities, and workplace environments. ESFI proudly sponsors National Electrical Safety Month each May and engages in public education campaigns throughout the year to prevent electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities. ESFI helps educate consumers and the public about how to recognize warning signs of electrical hazards, providing information about new, advanced safety technology that offers enhanced protection in the home and raising consumer awareness about dangerous counterfeit electrical products. ESFI serves as a national resource and the leading authority for electrical safety information. We are often called upon by media outlets to serve as experts on electrical safety issues.
Q: What can we expect from your company in the next 6 months? What are your plans?
A: ESFI’s will be launching a campaign for Fire Prevention Week from October 3rd through 9th as well as our annual holiday safety campaign throughout November and December.
Q: What is the best thing about your company that people might not know about?
A: ESFI provides free-to-share videos and infographics online that you can share throughout your workplace, community, and home to help promote electrical safety and decrease the number of electrical injuries and fatalities happening in homes and workplaces.