In pubs, bars, nightclubs and restaurants, electrical fire risk isn’t usually “one big fault”; it’s the accumulation of minor issues: overloaded extension blocks, damaged leads, heaters appearing in winter, chargers left on overnight, and temporary setups for events.
This guide highlights the top 10 electrical fire risks in hospitality and the practical controls that prevent incidents, reduce downtime, and support compliance. If you’d like a fast, low-disruption solution for inspection, labelling and certification, see our hospitality service page: PAT testing for pubs, bars and nightclubs.
Many hospitality fires start with heat buildup from overload. Use this table to sanity-check which devices are sharing a socket or power strip.
| Item | Typical power (W) | Approx. current at 230V (A) | Safer setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prefer a dedicated socket; avoid sharing with high loads | 2,800–3,000 | 12.2–13.0 | Wall socket only; avoid extension blocks |
| Portable heater | 1,500–3,000 | 6.5–13.0 | Wall socket only; never on reels/blocks |
| Microwave | 1,000–1,500 | 4.3–6.5 | Prefer dedicated socket; avoid sharing with high loads |
| Back-bar fridge | 100–300 | 0.4–1.3 | Dedicated socket preferred; keep ventilation clear |
| Glasswasher (plug-in) | 2,000–3,000 | 8.7–13.0 | Dedicated socket; avoid multiways |
| Phone/laptop chargers | 5–100 | 0.02–0.43 | OK on quality power strip; don’t cover chargers |
What it looks like: multiway blocks plugged into multiways, or a bar setup running several high-load items from one strip.
Why it causes fires: excess current generates heat at plugs, sockets, and internal strip wiring, leading to melted plastic, arcing, and ignition.
What it looks like: fan heaters under desks, heaters near curtains, or heaters plugged into extension leads.
Why it causes fires: heaters draw high current and generate significant heat; they can overheat extension leads and ignite nearby combustibles.
What it looks like: taped cables, crushed leads under kegs/doors, loose plugs, exposed copper, scorch marks.
Why it causes fires: arcing and resistive heating at poor connections can ignite plastic and nearby combustibles.
What it looks like: “whatever fuse was available”, or low-quality plug tops fitted during quick fixes.
Why it causes fires: an oversized fuse may not clear a fault quickly enough, increasing overheating risk.
What it looks like: unbranded chargers behind the bar, chargers covered by paperwork, batteries charging on soft furnishings and overnight charging in cupboards.
Why it causes fires: poor-quality power supplies and damaged lithium-ion packs can overheat; charging in confined/flammable areas increases consequences.
What it looks like: grease buildup around plugs, extension blocks near prep zones, cables routed near hot surfaces.
Why it causes fires: grease is combustible; heat degrades insulation; contaminated connections can overheat.
What it looks like: trailing leads in damp cellars, plug-in equipment used where liquids are routinely present and water ingress into sockets.
Why it causes fires: moisture can cause tracking, corrosion and short circuits; repeated tripping can mask a developing fault.
What it looks like: ad-hoc extensions for a DJ booth, festoon lighting plugged into indoor strips, reels left coiled under load.
Why it causes fires: overheating at connections, mechanical damage to leads and unsuitable equipment used outdoors.
What it looks like: cables under mats, behind fridges with no airflow, piled adaptors in a cupboard, dust/grease buildup.
Why it causes fires: trapped heat and abrasion damage insulation; poor access delays fault discovery.
What it looks like: no equipment list, no test labels/certificates, unknown history of extensions/heaters, inconsistent site standards.
Why it causes fires: defects remain in service; high-risk items (extensions/heaters) aren’t prioritised; repeated near-misses go untracked.
WEEKLY ELECTRICAL FIRE RISK CHECK
Overloading and overheating of extension blocks and poor connections (damaged plugs/leads) are among the most common contributors, especially in bar and kitchen back-of-house areas.
You must maintain electrical equipment so it is safe. PAT testing is a widely used way to manage and evidence the safety of portable and plug-in appliances (especially extension leads, heaters and event equipment). It works alongside fixed wiring inspections (EICR).
Standardise approved power strips, control heaters, add weekly visual checks, and schedule PAT testing around quieter hours (before opening or after service).
For hospitality-focused PAT testing, certificates and a practical compliance plan, see: https://allinonepropat.co.uk/pat-testing-pubs-bars-nightclubs/