At Design Switchboards and Distribution, we’re ready to shine a light on the costs of using non-compliant temporary power boards and explain why choosing a fully compliant, tested solution isn’t just safer, but more cost-effective in the long run.
In Australia, temporary power boards used on construction worksites must meet strict standards to ensure the safety of workers and the reliability of the site’s electrical systems.
Key standards include:
A non-compliant board has not been tested and certified to meet these standards. This could include older designs, missing safety features like RCD protection, poor-quality enclosures, or DIY modifications that bypass proper controls.
The D.S.D design has been subjected to a series of tests by an independent third-party laboratory to verify that it meets the required standards. This testing process is more extensive than routine production checks and confirms the fundamental safety and performance of the product’s design. Our Temporary Powerboards are fully compliant and we can supply Declaration of Conformity for our full range.
Let’s talk about the real risks and costs associated with using non-compliant temporary switchboards.
One of the most obvious and immediate consequences of using non-compliant equipment on a worksite is downtime. If a temporary switchboard fails, trips repeatedly, or causes safety concerns, it can bring the entire site to a standstill. Fixing electrical faults, waiting for replacement equipment, or being forced to undergo emergency inspections can add days, or even weeks to your project timeline.
For builders and contractors, every hour your project is delayed costs money. Labour, machinery hire, project penalties, and lost productivity quickly add up.
Non-compliant temporary powerboards pose a real risk to workers on your site. Without proper RCD protection, for example, a single electrical fault could lead to electrocution. Loose fittings, exposed terminals, or poor ingress protection can all create danger that violates WHS regulations.
A compliant temporary powerboard must be installed and used according to strict guidelines outlined in AS/NZS 3012: Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites. This standard specifies requirements for everything from the board’s construction to its placement on site.
Site managers and employers have a legal and moral obligation to ensure that all electrical equipment, including temporary power boards, are compliant with Australian Standards and are regularly inspected and maintained. Don’t wait for an incident to happen. Invest in quality, compliant equipment and implement rigorous safety procedures.
Demand a Declaration of Conformity: Ensure all temporary power boards supplied are certified as compliant with relevant Australian Standards.
Check the IP Rating: Verify the board has an appropriate IP rating for the site conditions (ideally IP44 or higher).
Inspect Regularly: Implement a system for daily pre-start checks and regular formal inspections by competent persons.
Test RCDs: Ensure RCDs are present and functioning correctly. Test them regularly (as per the manufacturer’s instructions, but at least every three months).
Educate Workers: Provide clear guidance on the correct use of power boards and the dangers of overloading or misuse.
Maintain and Repair Properly: Damaged power boards should be taken out of service immediately and repaired by a qualified electrician or replaced.
At Design Switchboards and Distribution, we know compliance is a serious issue. Our temporary site power boards are:
Our feature-packed temporary power boards are built for performance, safety and convenience.
Our temporary site boards are built with real-world use in mind:
Every feature on our temporary power boards is designed to reduce risk, support compliance, and make life easier for contractors and site managers. And with Australia-wide distribution and service, we’re here to support your next project.
Contact us today to order a compliant temporary powerboard for your construction site.
Site By: Thrive
