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Safety

Unsafe Conditions in Panelboard Projects — Part 5

Feb. 15, 2021

The importance of equipment stabilization

Don’t assume equipment for lifting and/or moving will function safely and is safely positioned. The equipment must be not only in safe condition, but it must also be on a stable surface and kept from being put into unstable positions.

An unstable surface could be gravel, for example. If you are using a lift indoors, check to see if the floor has chips or other deformities that can cause equipment to tilt. How close is the equipment to a ramp or other incline? Are the roller feet fully locked (or locked at all) once the equipment is in lifting position?

Failing to use stabilizer bars or stabilizer legs as recommended for the particular application can also render equipment unstable and likely to tip over.

Load instability can present a significant hazard. Always check the load to ensure the geometry of how it is supported will have it in a state of balance when lifted. Then look at the support and lifting devices; ensure any straps are undamaged and all clips and brackets are properly engaged.

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.