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Safety

Unsafe Conditions in Panelboard Projects — Part 1

Dec. 15, 2020

Avoid these potentially dangerous job-site circumstances.

If you’re working for an electrical contractor that was hired to install a panelboard, consider how safe the job site is. Resolve these unsafe conditions before beginning work:

Poor access for equipment delivery. Confirm there is an adequate route from the back of the delivery truck to the building entry, through the plant, and to the installation site. For example, eliminate the possibility of unloading a big panel from the truck onto a muddy surface.
Insufficient equipment for transport and setup. Don’t try to “make do” with whatever is available. Determine what you need and guarantee you have it on delivery day.
No operations window. It’s likely that part of the delivery route will need to be shut down and/or a shutdown will be needed around the installation area. Make sure this is scheduled.
Poor lighting. To lessen the risk of crushed fingers or other injuries, take the time to ensure the area is properly illuminated.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.