Electrical safety in halls

How to avoid hazards and what to do in an emergency

Electrical safety is an important aspect of living and studying at university, as faulty electrics or improper use can cause serious harm to people, property, and the environment.

While living in halls you have a responsibility to use electrical appliances safely.

Using unsafe adaptors can cause electrical fires and overheating.

To help keep everyone safe in halls, you must:

• Only use approved adaptors or plugs — approved adaptors have built-in fuses and carry the British Standards Institution (BSI) or CE mark.
• Not overload extension leads or connect multiple extension leads.
• Not alter or change the plug on any electrical device.

To help limit electrical safety hazards, you should:

• Always use the right adaptor and avoid overloading sockets.
• Turn off the power at the wall before plugging in and unplugging your electrical appliances, devices, and extension leads.
• Always check for damage.
• Report any damaged or faulty electrical items to University of Southampton staff at your site reception or via the Planon app.

If you're unsure whether your electrical appliance is safe for use in University of Southampton halls of residence, you can get advice from our on-site electrical maintenance team Durabilis, by contacting your site reception.

In case of an emergency, please contact your site reception immediately on 02380 595777.

Halls Life Quality Check ✔ Updated August 2026 — Reviewed by TMW