Temporary Commercial Power Distribution
Steve Maurer, IME
When working as an electrician in a processing plant, I was often called in to work on renovations, new area construction, and emergency repair scenarios. Often there wasn’t permanent power available, so temporary power using extension cords was necessary to power up tools and equipment for the job.
While extension cords could sometimes be run from receptacles in adjacent rooms, that wasn’t always the case so some form of temporary power distribution was often necessary.
Temporary commercial power is often needed in emergency operations sites, fairs and festivals, and other temporary locations.
Construction sites need a reliable source of power to run tools and equipment, as well as provide lighting for the workers.
Some ways that temporary commercial power is generated
Temporary commercial power can be supplied through overhead metered systems, portable generators, or even solar panels. Overhead metered systems are typically used in construction sites and RV parks due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Portable generators are great for providing temporary power in remote locations where access to an electrical grid is not available.
While extension cords could sometimes be run from receptacles in adjacent rooms, that wasn’t always the case so some form of temporary power distribution was often necessary.
Temporary commercial power is often needed in emergency operations sites, fairs and festivals, and other temporary locations.
Construction sites need a reliable source of power to run tools and equipment, as well as provide lighting for the workers.
Some ways that temporary commercial power is generated
Temporary commercial power can be supplied through overhead metered systems, portable generators, or even solar panels. Overhead metered systems are typically used in construction sites and RV parks due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Portable generators are great for providing temporary power in remote locations where access to an electrical grid is not available.
Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and ability to provide clean energy without the need for an electrical grid connection. Often those are more permanent than temporary, but professional “travelers” often use them on the fly.
A few considerations for commercial temporary power distribution
When setting up a temporary commercial power system, it is important to consider the size of the area that needs to be powered, the type of equipment that will be used, and any safety regulations that must be followed.
It is also important to ensure that all necessary permits have been obtained before beginning work on the project. By taking these steps into consideration, businesses can ensure that they have a safe and reliable source of power when they need it most.
Temporary power is a common need for construction sites, remodeling projects, and other temporary applications. It's important to understand the regulations that govern its use in order to ensure safety and compliance.
It is also important to ensure that all necessary permits have been obtained before beginning work on the project. By taking these steps into consideration, businesses can ensure that they have a safe and reliable source of power when they need it most.
Temporary power is a common need for construction sites, remodeling projects, and other temporary applications. It's important to understand the regulations that govern its use in order to ensure safety and compliance.
According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), temporary wiring systems must meet certain requirements in order to be safe. These include using wiring methods that are appropriate for the job, suspending lights with cords designed for this purpose, and ensuring that all electrical components are properly installed and maintained.
Additionally, OSHA requires that all temporary power sources be inspected regularly and disconnected when not in use. By following these guidelines, construction sites can ensure that their temporary power systems are safe and compliant with OSHA regulations.
Additionally, OSHA requires that all temporary power sources be inspected regularly and disconnected when not in use. By following these guidelines, construction sites can ensure that their temporary power systems are safe and compliant with OSHA regulations.
The National Electrical Code (NEC) outlines the requirements for temporary power installations in Article 527. This includes ensuring that all equipment is properly rated and grounded, and that extension cords are used only when necessary. OSHA also has specific requirements for temporary power on construction sites, including approval of the equipment being used and proper guarding of any live electrical equipment operating at 50 volts or more.
Temporary power is definitely an important part of many construction sites, but it must be done safely to prevent accidents and fatalities.
Temporary power is definitely an important part of many construction sites, but it must be done safely to prevent accidents and fatalities.
Choosing temporary commercial power distribution equipment
I don’t know about you, but I’ve seen some pretty, well, “creative” contraptions used for temporary power distribution. Some of these “homemade” devices were downright dangerous, honestly.
And the guys who made them were proud of what they created!
Not good.
When considering power distribution options for temporary commercial applications, it’s important to remember that “homemade” systems are never an option. These rigged systems often lack the necessary safety certifications and key features such as surge protection and over-current protection, making them potentially unsafe and unreliable.
As a result, using homemade power distribution in a commercial setting may lead to failures or hazards that could cause irreparable damage to expensive equipment and people.
Not to mention fines and potential jail time.
For these reasons and more, it’s always recommended to use certified power distribution systems from a reliable manufacturer when dealing with commercial applications.
There are plenty available, and they’re worth the investment.
Professionally designed commercial power distribution products will have the necessary regulatory approvals required for use on the jobsite.
Multiple receptacles, some with both locking and regular outlets, ensure you have enough power sources to at least cut down on the inevitable spider web of extension cords snaking through your jobsite. GFCI protection will be a given, as well as circuit breakers located on the device itself.
Most will allow connection to either a generator or jobsite power pole. If powered by a 50-amp, 120/240 volt source, you should have plenty of power to get the job done.
Some will provide options to “daisy chain” units to increase the reach of the temporary power. However, be sure not to overextend them.
Finally, as you’re well aware, jobsites can be damp and wet locations. Choose a temporary commercial power solution that’s rated at least NEMA 3R.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve seen some pretty, well, “creative” contraptions used for temporary power distribution. Some of these “homemade” devices were downright dangerous, honestly.
And the guys who made them were proud of what they created!
Not good.
When considering power distribution options for temporary commercial applications, it’s important to remember that “homemade” systems are never an option. These rigged systems often lack the necessary safety certifications and key features such as surge protection and over-current protection, making them potentially unsafe and unreliable.
As a result, using homemade power distribution in a commercial setting may lead to failures or hazards that could cause irreparable damage to expensive equipment and people.
Not to mention fines and potential jail time.
For these reasons and more, it’s always recommended to use certified power distribution systems from a reliable manufacturer when dealing with commercial applications.
There are plenty available, and they’re worth the investment.
Professionally designed commercial power distribution products will have the necessary regulatory approvals required for use on the jobsite.
Multiple receptacles, some with both locking and regular outlets, ensure you have enough power sources to at least cut down on the inevitable spider web of extension cords snaking through your jobsite. GFCI protection will be a given, as well as circuit breakers located on the device itself.
Most will allow connection to either a generator or jobsite power pole. If powered by a 50-amp, 120/240 volt source, you should have plenty of power to get the job done.
Some will provide options to “daisy chain” units to increase the reach of the temporary power. However, be sure not to overextend them.
Finally, as you’re well aware, jobsites can be damp and wet locations. Choose a temporary commercial power solution that’s rated at least NEMA 3R.
Photo courtesy of Voltec Power & Lighting
