Distribution Equipment

• Insufficient space or inadequate access for proper operation and maintenance.
• Warning notice / label – not provided, peeled off or not visible.
• Insulation is damaged (crack, blister, warping) by overheating, physical impact or from spillage of cleaning chemicals.
• Moisture ingress in the metal closet or ot is unsuitable for exposure condition.
• Shock hazard
• Swichboard, panelboard: burnt mark or smell
• Rust, dirt causing high resistance and heating at cable contacts.
• Burnt or charred insulation by exposure to external heat source or constant arc produced inside. Inner components should be checked with special means.

• Comply with the requirements of electrical installations as per BS 7671:2008+A3:2015, SS CP 5:1998, NFPA 70 [5]; including the location and number of power points.
• Ensure switchboards have adequate space and access for operation and maintenance.
• Specify suitable switch closets with regard to moisture exposure conditions.
• Refer to the definition of types and functionality of RCCBs and specifications for RCBOs as per SS 480:2016 (IEC 61009-1:2010+AMD1:2012+AMD2:2013 CSV BS EN 61009-2-1:1995).
• Provide sub-metering system with remote measurement capability and link to BMS/EMS to track energy consumption data trends [6].

Construction

• Conform to the guidelines for construction and compliance inspection of electrical connections and earthing thereof (BS 1363-4:2016, SS 403:2013).
• Refer to BS 8512:2008 for storage, handling and installation of power cables on wooden drums.
• Install sub-metering system with remote measurement capability and link to BMS/EMS to track energy consumption data trends [6].
• All accessible metal parts of connection units should be in electrical contact with the earthing terminal(s) (BS 1363-4:2016, SS 403:2013).

Maintenance

• Conform to the maintenance of electrical installations as per BS 6423:2014, BS 6626:2010, SS 538: 2008, [3;7].
• Check for insulation damages (e.g. cracks, blisters, warping) caused by overheating, physical impact or by spillage of cleaning chemicals.
• Check for potential short circuits or ground faults. Ensure that switchboards are not exposed to direct sunlight or alternative heat sources.
• Conduct annual shutdown to eradicate hot spots along the distribution network as witnessed by the owner and certified by a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW).
• Provide necessary warning notices/labels at switchboards (e.g. shock hazard warnings).

Overloaded plug point, & difficult to access switch

• Adapter catering to many devices – poor planning to accommodate future extension.
• Poor design or furniture layout, stacking makes it inaccessible.

• Resonant to the magnetic field generated by higher-frequency harmonic current. Use of k-rated transformer is one of the solutions.

• Internal contacts burnt or worn out from constant sparking.
• Careless usage. E.g. forceful insertion of flat pins in round slots.

• Rough use or vandalism (esp. switches in outlet box).
• Irregular cleaning and lubrication.
• May require replacement after certain time.
• Corrosion from poor make or water seepage in electrical closet.

• Faulty device needs resetting.
• Broken wires, dirt or dust impeding the movement.