Temporary Electrical Systems at Events to BS 7909

Inspection and testing of temporary electrical systems at events to BS 7909

Specialist Electrical Inspections for Events and Festivals: Adhering to BS 7909 and BS 7671 Standards

At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, we provide specialist electrical inspections for temporary installations at events and festivals, ensuring safety and compliance with the relevant British Standards – BS 7909 and BS 7671.

Understanding BS 7909 and BS 7671 for Temporary Event Installations

BS 7909:2011 covers the requirements for temporary electrical installations for entertainment and similar purposes.

It provides guidelines to ensure safety where temporary power is essential, like events and festivals. BS 7671, known as the Wiring Regulations, complements these by setting the standard for the safety of electrical installations in the UK.

The Dynamics of Event and Festival Electrical Installations

Events and festivals present unique challenges in electrical installations due to their temporary nature and outdoor settings.

These include:

• Generators: Often the primary power source, generators must be correctly specified, positioned, and protected.
• 230V and 400V Electrical Distribution Equipment: This equipment distributes power throughout the site, requiring robust management to handle the varied power demands of an event.
• Rugged Connectors and Commando Plugs and Couplers to EN 60309-2: Given the outdoor and often rugged environment of festivals, using connectors and plugs compliant with EN 60309-2 is crucial for safety and reliability.
• Diverse Power Requirements: From lighting and sound systems to catering and security, the diverse range of electrical needs demands careful planning and execution.

The Importance of Earthing and Bonding

In line with BS 7671, proper earthing and bonding are critical in temporary event installations. They ensure that in the event of a fault, the electrical system is safe and does not present a hazard to the public or event staff. This involves creating a network that safely dissipates any fault currents.

Addressing Environmental and Physical Risks

Electrical installations at events and festivals face various environmental and physical challenges:

• Weather Conditions: Equipment must be weatherproof and capable of operating safely under adverse weather conditions.
• Physical Impact: The likelihood of physical impacts, whether from crowds or equipment movement, necessitates robust and secure installations.
• Ground Conditions: Varying ground conditions can affect earthing arrangements and the stability of equipment.

Compliance and Safety in Temporary Event Installations

Compliance with BS 7909 and BS 7671 is not just a legal necessity; it’s a commitment to safety. Our inspections encompass:

• Thorough Checks: From generators to the final distribution points, every component is inspected for compliance and safety.
• Dynamic Risk Assessment: We assess potential risks dynamically, considering the unique aspects of each event.
• Regular Updates and Maintenance: Given the temporary nature of these installations, regular checks and maintenance are vital for continued safety.

ESI: Your Partner in Event Electrical Safety

At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, our expertise in the field of temporary event electrical installations is unmatched. We understand the complexities and unique requirements of events and festivals and are dedicated to ensuring that every aspect of your electrical setup is safe, compliant, and reliable.

Planning an event or festival and need expert electrical inspection services?

Look no further than ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections.

Our team is ready to ensure that your event’s electrical installations meet the stringent standards of BS 7909 and BS 7671, keeping attendees and staff safe.

Contact us today for specialist help in managing your event’s electrical needs – because safety and compliance are paramount for a successful event.