Electrical Safety for London Laundrettes and Dry Cleaners

Laundrettes, dry cleaners and ironing services run heavy machines for long hours in warm, damp conditions. Commercial washers, tumble dryers, steam presses and boilers draw a lot of power, and lint and moisture add fire and shock risks that most shops never face. This guide covers the main electrical checks for owners in London. It is general information, not legal advice.

Who is responsible

The business owner is usually responsible for keeping the electrical installation and equipment safe for staff and customers. If you lease the unit, check which checks your landlord covers. Insurers often ask for a recent EICR and maintenance records for dryers and presses.

Fixed wiring: EICR

Damp, heat and vibration wear installations faster, so laundrettes and dry cleaners usually benefit from more frequent inspection than an ordinary shop. An EICR checks the distribution boards, isolators, sockets and lighting. Our guide to EICRs for commercial units explains the process.

Machines and isolation

• Commercial washers and dryers often need three-phase supplies and dedicated circuits.
• Each machine should have its own local isolator, clearly labelled.
• Cables and connections behind machines should be checked for heat damage and vibration wear.
• Coin or card payment units and controls need a reliable supply and protection.

Lint, heat and fire risk

Tumble dryer lint is highly flammable. Keep filters and ducts clean, keep the area behind dryers clear, and make sure electrical connections near dryers are not covered in lint. Steam presses and irons should be switched off and isolated at close of business.

Water and wet areas

Leaks from machines, floor cleaning and condensation bring water close to sockets and cables. RCD protection on circuits, sockets mounted well above the floor and suitable fittings for damp areas all reduce the risk. See our guide on why an RCD keeps tripping.

Emergency lighting, fire alarms and portable appliances

Premises open to the public usually need emergency lighting and a suitable fire alarm, set out in the fire risk assessment. Kettles, irons and other portable items benefit from regular PAT testing. See our guides to emergency lighting testing and PAT testing.

Book an inspection

Energy North Ltd inspects laundrettes and dry cleaners across North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians, and can work before opening or after closing. See our EICR service.