Article 590 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) 2023 covers the installation, operation, and maintenance of temporary electrical installations. Temporary installations are those that are intended for short-term use and are typically installed for events such as concerts, festivals, and construction sites.
The first section of Article 590 covers general requirements for temporary installations. It requires that all electrical equipment used in these installations be suitable for the specific application and the potential hazards present. Electrical equipment must be designed, tested, and labeled for use in these systems in accordance with the NEC and other applicable codes and standards.
The article also requires that all electrical equipment be installed in compliance with all applicable codes and regulations, including the NEC and local building codes. Electrical equipment must be protected from physical damage and must be installed in a manner that prevents the release of electrical energy that could cause injury or property damage.
The second section of Article 590 covers installation requirements for temporary installations. It requires that all electrical equipment be properly grounded and bonded to prevent electrical shock and to ensure that fault currents are properly dispersed.
The article also requires that electrical equipment be installed in a manner that prevents the release of electrical energy that could cause injury or property damage. Electrical equipment must be protected from physical damage and must be installed in a manner that ensures the proper cooling and ventilation of the equipment.
The third section of Article 590 covers maintenance and testing requirements for temporary installations. It requires that all electrical equipment be regularly inspected and tested to ensure that it is in good condition and is functioning properly.
The frequency of maintenance and testing depends on the type of equipment and the application. For example, emergency stop systems and safety interlocks in these systems may require more frequent inspections than other equipment in the system.
The article also requires that all maintenance and testing be performed by qualified personnel who have received proper training. Personnel who work with electrical equipment in these installations must be trained in safe work practices, including lockout/tagout procedures, and must be familiar with the specific equipment they are working with.
The fourth section of Article 590 covers protective equipment requirements for personnel who work with electrical equipment in temporary installations. It requires that personnel wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working in these areas, including gloves, eye protection, and other protective gear.
The article also requires that all PPE be properly maintained and inspected to ensure that it is in good condition and is providing adequate protection. PPE must be selected based on the specific hazards associated with the location and the type of work being performed.
The fifth section of Article 590 covers emergency procedures for electrical systems in temporary installations. It requires that all personnel who work with this equipment receive proper training in emergency procedures, including the use of emergency stop devices and the proper use of PPE.
The article also requires that all emergency procedures be documented and posted in a visible location. In the event of an emergency, personnel must be able to quickly and safely shut down the equipment and evacuate the area.
Compliance with Article 590 is essential for ensuring that temporary electrical installations are installed and maintained safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of personnel and property. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in legal liabilities, fines, and other penalties.
Temporary installations present unique challenges for electrical systems, as they are typically installed for short periods of time and may be subject to extreme environmental conditions. Electrical systems must be designed and installed to withstand these conditions and provide reliable operation in these environments.
One of the key considerations for electrical systems in temporary installations is the use of GFCIs and other protective devices to prevent electrical shock. GFCIs are required for all 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles located within 20 feet of the work area, as well as for all equipment that is in contact with the ground or conductive materials, such as metal scaffolding or concrete floors.
Another important consideration for temporary electrical installations is the proper use of wiring and cabling. Wiring must be protected from physical damage and must be rated for the specific application and the potential hazards present. Cables and cords must be properly sized for the load and must be protected from damage.
Electrical systems in temporary installations must also be designed to handle the specific loads associated with the event or application. This may require the use of larger conductors, larger electrical service equipment, and additional distribution equipment to handle the demands of these systems.
Proper installation, operation, and maintenance practices, as well as appropriate PPE and training of personnel, are critical for safe and reliable operation of electrical equipment in temporary installations. Compliance with Article 590 of the NEC 2020 is essential for ensuring that electrical systems in temporary installations are installed and maintained safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of personnel and property.
In conclusion, Article 590 of the NEC 2023 outlines specific requirements for the installation, operation, and maintenance of temporary electrical installations. These installations have unique electrical requirements due to their short-term use and potential hazards present. Proper installation, operation, and maintenance practices, as well as appropriate PPE and training of personnel, are critical for safe and reliable operation of electrical equipment in temporary installations. Compliance with Article 590 of the NEC 2023 is essential for ensuring that electrical systems in temporary installations are installed and maintained safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of personnel and property.