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Safety

Unsafe Conditions in Panelboard Projects — Part 2

Jan. 5, 2021

Eliminate dangers caused by clutter, litter, and stray objects

Clutter is not only the enemy of productivity, but also the enemy of safety.

Your first clutter concern is the path from where the panelboard enters the building to the place it will be installed. In most production plants, there is some other kind of marking denoting the foot traffic paths. Your lift truck driver will use these paths to get the panelboard to where it must be installed. Don’t assume that path hasn’t been encroached on or is kept at a standard, sufficient width. Walk it from start to finish and resolve any issues with clutter, litter, or even wastebaskets in the way.

Next, look at the work area. Is there room for the lift truck to maneuver? Picture how the panel will be set in place once there. Ask the lift truck driver to do the same, before time to transport the panel. This way, everyone has time to solve safety and productivity problems rather than let them interfere with the work.

Rope off the area before transporting the panel.

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.