In conducting a site survey for an electrical installation, the type of building—whether permanent or
semi-permanent—can influence the design, materials, and approach for the installation. Here’s how
these types differ in terms of electrical requirements
1. **Permanent Buildings**
- **Structure**: Made with durable materials like concrete, steel, or bricks, designed for long-term
use.
- **Electrical Installation**: Permanent buildings require long-lasting and fully compliant electrical
systems with safe grounding, conduit protection, and often advanced features such as automated
controls.
- **Compliance**: Must meet full building and electrical codes as they are intended for indefinite use.
This includes proper cable management, distribution boards, circuit protection, and potentially more
extensive control systems.
- **Safety Features**: Fire protection, lightning arrestors, grounding, and surge protection systems are
generally required.
- **Examples**: Residential buildings, office complexes, hospitals, schools, etc.
2. **Semi-Permanent Buildings**
- **Structure**: Often made with lighter materials like prefabricated panels, wood, or temporary steel
frames. Intended for mid-term use, typically 5-10 years.
- **Electrical Installation**: Semi-permanent installations may use flexible wiring methods and
lighter-grade materials, but must still adhere to electrical standards, particularly for safety and durability
over time.
- **Compliance**: Codes may allow for simplified wiring systems, such as modular wiring or surface-
mounted systems, to facilitate easier removal or adjustments.
- **Safety Features**: Basic safety provisions are required, including grounding and overcurrent
protection, though fewer features may be needed compared to permanent structures.
- **Examples**: Modular buildings, temporary offices, storage buildings, and construction site offices.
A site survey for each type should focus on understanding the intended use, safety requirements,
potential environmental factors (like moisture or heat exposure), and the longevity of the electrical
system expected for the structure.
Utilities Available
When conducting a site survey for an electrical installation, it’s essential to assess the available utilities
and other environmental factors that could affect the design, safety, and implementation of the
electrical system. Here are the key utilities and considerations:
1. **Power Supply Source**
- **Main Power Supply**: Check the location and specifications of the main power source or
connection point, whether it's from the grid, a generator, or another alternative source.
- **Voltage and Phase**: Identify the voltage level (e.g., 120V, 240V) and phase (single-phase or three-
phase), as it will determine the type of equipment and wiring required.
- **Capacity and Load Requirements**: Evaluate the existing capacity of the power source and
compare it with the anticipated load demands for the building or project.
2. **Transformer and Substation Access**
- **Location of Transformers**: Identify the distance and accessibility to any transformers or
substations, which may affect voltage regulation, protection needs, and cable sizing.
- **Capacity and Condition**: Check whether existing transformers have sufficient capacity and are in
proper working condition to handle the load.
3. **Earthing/Grounding Facilities**
- **Grounding Availability**: Assess the availability and adequacy of grounding/earthing systems, as
proper grounding is critical for safety.
- **Soil Conductivity**: The survey may include soil testing to determine conductivity, especially if
installing a new grounding system, as soil conditions can influence grounding performance.
4. **Utility Poles and Cable Routing Paths**
- **Utility Poles and Distribution Paths**: Check the location of utility poles, underground cable
routes, or potential cable paths that can impact how power will be delivered and distributed within the
site.
- **Clearance and Safety**: Ensure proper clearances from buildings, roads, and vegetation to comply
with safety codes and accessibility for maintenance.
5. **Water and Sewer Lines**
- **Water Supply Lines**: Identify the location of water lines, as electrical installations must be kept at
safe distances to avoid hazards.
- **Drainage and Sewer Systems**: Mapping drainage and sewer lines helps prevent interference and
avoid potential hazards related to electrical system installation near water sources.
6. **Communication and Data Infrastructure**
- **Telephone and Data Lines**: Survey for existing communication lines, as these need to be carefully
routed to avoid electromagnetic interference from power cables.
- **Internet/Fiber Optic Lines**: Consider the existing data infrastructure and plan for any required
installations to support the building’s communication needs.
7. **Environmental Factors**
- **Lighting and Air Conditioning**: Verify whether there’s existing lighting and HVAC equipment that
may need to be connected to the electrical system.
- **Climate Considerations**: Account for environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, or
exposure to elements, which may influence the selection of materials and the need for protective
enclosures.
8. **Backup Power Options**
- **Generators or Battery Systems**: If there’s a need for backup power, assess the location and
specifications for installing standby generators or battery storage systems.
- **Integration with Main Power**: Plan for seamless integration with the main power system to
support critical loads during power outages.
9. **Safety and Accessibility Provisions**
- **Fire Safety Systems**: Determine if there are existing fire alarms, sprinkler systems, or other safety
provisions that require power connections.
- **Accessibility for Maintenance**: Ensure there is enough space and access for maintenance and
inspection of electrical equipment and utilities.
Evaluating these utilities helps design an efficient, safe, and code-compliant electrical system that fits
the specific needs and constraints of the site.
During a site survey for an electrical installation, taking accurate measurements and assessing
environmental conditions are crucial. Here are some of the specific measurements and assessments to
consider:
1. **Physical Dimensions**
- **Building Dimensions**: Measure the length, width, and height of each room or area where
electrical installations will occur. This helps determine cable lengths, conduit requirements, and
placement of fixtures.
- **Total Area**: Calculate the total area (in square meters or square feet) of each space, especially
for load calculations, lighting layouts, and HVAC considerations.
- **Wall and Ceiling Heights**: Knowing wall heights and ceiling types aids in placing lighting fixtures,
outlets, and conduit runs.
2. **Cable Routing and Conduit Pathways**
- **Distance to Power Source**: Measure the distance between the main power source and
distribution points to determine voltage drop and cable sizing.
- **Cable Trays and Conduit Lengths**: Map out and measure the paths where cables and conduits
will run. Include vertical and horizontal measurements to ensure proper coverage.
- **Clearances**: Measure clearances for safety, particularly around electrical panels, conduits, and
near combustible materials.
3. **Equipment and Panel Locations**
- **Panel Dimensions and Clearances**: Measure areas where electrical panels, transformers, and
other equipment will be installed. Allow for maintenance access by ensuring required clearances.
- **Mounting Heights**: Measure heights for installing outlets, switches, and other wall-mounted
devices to comply with local code requirements.
4. **Environmental Conditions**
- **Temperature**: Record ambient temperature readings to determine if specialized materials,
insulation, or cooling will be required, particularly in areas prone to high temperatures.
- **Humidity Levels**: Measure humidity levels, especially if the site is in a high-humidity area or near
water sources. High humidity may necessitate corrosion-resistant materials or additional protection for
electrical components.
- **Ventilation**: Check for existing ventilation and air circulation to avoid overheating of equipment
and to plan for any additional cooling or ventilation needs.
5. **Light Levels and Noise Levels**
- **Lighting Levels**: Measure existing light levels to determine if additional lighting is needed, and
calculate the number and placement of fixtures.
- **Noise Levels**: Take note of any equipment that generates noise, which could affect the
placement of sensitive electrical equipment or communication systems.
6. **Load and Power Measurements**
- **Current Load Demands**: Use a clamp meter or similar tool to measure current loads on existing
circuits if available. This helps assess whether existing infrastructure can handle additional loads.
- **Voltage Levels**: Measure voltage levels at main power points to ensure they match design
requirements and help with choosing appropriate equipment ratings.
7. **Soil and Grounding Measurements**
- **Soil Resistivity**: If grounding is required, soil resistivity testing may be necessary to ensure
effective grounding.
- **Grounding Points**: Measure distances to grounding rods or grounding plates if they need to be
installed at specific locations for optimal performance.
These measurements and observations form the basis of designing an electrical installation that is
efficient, safe, and in compliance with standards.
