Installing Switchboards – A Quick Reference Guide

May 31
10:41

2017

Jose Rodriguez

Jose Rodriguez

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Appropriate installation of the electric switchboards is crucial to make sure the electrical system at home functions efficiently. Check out this quick guide for homeowners.

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An electric switchboard is a device through which electricity is directed from one or more sources of supply to various smaller regions of usage. In other words,Installing Switchboards – A Quick Reference Guide Articles it is an assembly of one or more panels, each of which contains switches that permit electricity to be redirected. For the installation of switchboards, only a licensed electrical contractor Menlo Park should be hired.

Switchboards

Before main switchboards are provided authorization to be energized by they must:

  • have all penetrations filled for fire sealing and avoid vermin entry;
  • be installed in a suitable well-ventilated place;
  • have all labels in place as prescribed by the Wiring Rules for safety services;
  • have all doors installed;
  • be fixed permanently in position and installed to meet the standards of Wiring Rules;
  • be labeled and main earth and bond locations marked;
  • have clear access without being obstructed by the contents of the building or by fittings and fixtures within the building;
  • be safeguarded against the effects of dust and moisture; and
  • be 100% complete.

Additional requirements include:

  • All fire doors and smoke detectors are to be fitted.
  • Where necessary, stop switch room doors being blocked.
  • Where necessary, mechanical protection of the switchboard is in place.
  • No cables are to be drawn into cabinets after the switchboard is energized.
  • All sub-mains shall be terminated, danger tagged and locked off.
  • Prescribed clearance around the switchboard on all sides where people are to pass to permit for servicing and maintenance.

Switch Room Environment

  • Advise construction safety officers installation cables emanating from the main switch room are live as from the date of authorization.
  • The signage for emergency lighting and emergency exit must be functioning and tested.
  • In case a switchboard is installed in a car park or installed lower than parking bays, all barriers shall be in place to avoid spillages reaching the main switch room.
  • Permanent lighting is the main switch room shall be completed and maintained from the temporary supply before connection of the network supply.
  • Signage must be in place for the location of the main switchboard on the fire indicator panel or at each entry to the building.

Hire a licensed electrical contractor in Menlo Park to ensure everything functions the right way!