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Safety

Unsafe Conditions in Panelboard Projects — Part 4

Feb. 2, 2021

Weather plays a role.

Project timing can be a major safety factor for panelboard projects. Suppose you’re the plant electrical engineer and schedule a panelboard project for mid-winter. Ice and snow may cause hazardous conditions when the truck arrives with the panels. How can the installation crew(s) safely get these inside the facility?

If the installation is outdoors, mid-winter also presents the possibility of frozen ground, which also could be under snow and ice. Driving ground rods may be dangerous and difficult, if not impossible. Water intrusion is always a threat no matter what time of year. Thus, time outdoor installations per the weather forecast to avoid rain, sleet, and snow.

If the installation is indoors, find out if any building envelope penetrations will be involved. Again, weather plays a role. Could outside weather affect indoor work in other ways? For example, big metal enclosures inside and lightning outside are not a good mix. Panelboard projects don’t require perfect weather, but always plan ahead to avoid extreme conditions.

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.