Why compliance matters in temporary power? For temporary power boards (TPBs) on construction sites, compliance with safety standards is not just a legal obligation – it’s a matter of ensuring the safety of everyone on your job site.
One of the key standards to consider is AS/NZS 61439.4, which relates to low-voltage switchgear and control gear assemblies, specifically for power distribution. If your power boards aren’t compliant with this standard, you could be exposing your site to unnecessary electrical risks
AS/NZS 61439.4 is a critical standard that ensures power boards meet strict requirements for the safety, reliability, and durability of electrical assemblies. This standard outlines the necessary specifications for switchgear and control gear assemblies, including construction, testing, and installation guidelines.
The goal of AS/NZS 61439.4 is to guarantee that electrical equipment on construction sites can handle the environmental challenges and potential hazards typically found in these settings.
Temporary power boards on construction sites face exposure to rough conditions such as moisture, impact, and extreme temperatures. Non-compliant power boards can be less effective in these conditions, potentially leading to electrical faults, safety incidents, or even fires. When your power boards are compliant, it’s not just ticking a box, it’s investing in the safety of your workers and the quality of your project.
When reviewing AS/NZS 61439.4, it’s important to consider the following factors:
Durability and strength: AS/NZS 61439.4 specifies that power boards need to be strong enough to withstand environmental factors such as physical impact and exposure to moisture. This includes using materials that offer long-term protection against wear and tear. For example, power boards should have an IP (Ingress Protection) rating to protect against solid objects and water, reducing the risk of electrical faults.
Accurate wiring and connections: Compliance with AS/NZS 61439.4 ensures that the wiring and connections in your temporary power boards are properly designed and installed to handle the expected load. This helps prevent overloading, overheating, and potential electrical fires. Properly designed boards will also have clearly marked connection points and easily accessible components, making installation and maintenance safer.
Safety features: A power board must have essential safety mechanisms like Residual Current Devices (RCDs) and circuit breakers. AS/NZS 61439.4 requires them to be correctly integrated into the system to ensure they can immediately disconnect the power supply in the event of a fault. This reduces the likelihood of electrical accidents, including electrocution and electrical fires.
Testing and certification: This standard also specifies that power boards should undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are fit for purpose. This includes testing for electrical performance, thermal stability, and resistance to mechanical stress. Certified laboratories should carry out these tests, and only boards that pass all tests should be used on construction sites.
At Design Switchboards and Distribution (D.S.D.), our temporary power boards are designed and manufactured with AS/NZS 61439.4 in mind, making them safe and reliable.
Our temporary switchboards are equipped with high-quality components, like lockable covers and properly rated RCDs, and are built to endure both the physical and environmental challenges of the job site.
We supply power boards that not only comply with the latest standards but also enhance safety and reduce the risk of electrical hazards.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about how our compliant temporary power boards can help you meet AS/NZS 61439.4 standards and ensure the safety of your site.
At Design Switchboards and Distribution, we offer high-quality, compliant, and reliable temporary power boards for construction sites. With fast delivery, easy installation, and customer support you can rely upon, we’ll ensure your project stays powered and on track. Contact our team for more information. Contact Us Today!
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