ANSI ESTA E1.58-2017 pdf free download – Electrical Safety Standard for Portable Stage and Studio Equipment Used Outdoors.
1.1 Scope
The scope of this Standard is the planning and execution of temporary outdoor portable electrical installations in compliance with the intent of NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, Sections 520.10 and 530.6 which state that “Portable stage and studio lighting equipment and portable power distribution equipment not identified for outdoor use shall be permitted for temporary use outdoors, provided the equipment is supervised by qualified personnel while energized and barriered from the general public.” (This quote is from 520.10; 530.6 is similar.) Safety is the primary concern. Conditions that degrade the operational performance or life of the electrical equipment are secondary. FPN: While this scope focuses on outdoor installations, it can be noted that the same principles would apply to an indoor facility that is also identified as a damp or wet location.
1.2 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to provide guidance for qualified persons tasked with supervising portable stage and studio lighting equipment and portable power distribution equipment not identified for outdoor use when used outdoors where weather such as damp or wet conditions and temperature extremes exist; recognizing the hazards involved and identifying ways to mitigate the hazards to reduce the risk of either injury to persons or damage to property. 2 Identify Outdoor Conditions The qualified person responsible for the outdoor electrical installation shall check the forecast weather conditions to determine what can be expected during the installation, use, and removal of all electrical equipment. This includes the forecast for precipitation, flood potential, the range of ambient temperatures, and wind conditions. FPN: Professional weather services may be the best source for accurate forecasts.
2.1 The National Electrical Code (NFPA 70, Article 100 Definitions) includes definitions for damp and wet locations. It also provides descriptions of various weather and rain conditions. These definitions shall be used in evaluating the electrical equipment as related to outdoor conditions. (See Annex B for list of defined terms.)
2.2 Other sources of water exposure shall be evaluated as well. These may include irrigation systems (sprinklers); streams, pools, fountains or other bodies of water; fogs (including oceanic salt bearing); and wind borne spray or mist.
2.3 Arid locations that have the potential for blowing sand or dust should be evaluated as well since these elements can also compromise the safe performance of electrical equipment. FPN: Organic dusts are flammable and potentially explosive. If these are present, the rules for hazardous locations apply. (Reference NFPA 70, Article 506)
2.4 The potential for lightning strikes shall also be evaluated.
3 Identify Electrical Hazards
3.1 Electrical Shock The qualified person shall evaluate all electrical equipment to identify where damp or wet conditions may increase the potential for electrical currents to flow in unintended paths that can expose persons to an electrical shock hazard. Equipment not listed for outdoor use may have multiple paths where moisture or dust can enter and create a hazard.
3.2 Overheating The qualified person shall evaluate all electrical equipment to identify where electrical components can be compromised by overheating due to increased circuit resistance and/or reduced ventilation. FPN: Moisture and dust contaminants can result in corrosion and/or pitting of electrical contacts which increase resistance and component heating. FPN: Electrical equipment is manufactured with a specified operating temperature range. If the equipment is being utilized in an extremely hot or cold environment that exceeds the range, precautions will be necessary to avoid damage and hazardous results. FPN: Overheating can lead to the failure of insulation leading to an electrical shock hazard. Also, the exposure of hot components (such as glass lenses) to sudden cooling, can result in physical failures that can result in injuries from falling debris.
3.3 Inspection
3.3.1 The qualified person shall visually inspect all electrical equipment prior to use for water intrusion potential including: housings, electrical connectors, electrical insulation, and operating components. (See Annex C for sample inspection recommendations.)ANSI ESTA E1.58 pdf download