Installation of temporary power distribution box in Finland

Temporary power distribution boxes in Finland must be installed by qualified personnel, comply with electrical safety regulations, and include proper grounding, protective devices, and documentation.

Regulatory Requirements

In Finland, all electrical works, including temporary installations, are regulated by law and overseen by the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency (Tukes). Only qualified personnel or companies with the appropriate certificate of qualification (S1, S2, or S3) may perform electrical work ( ). For temporary installations at public events or construction sites, the installation must comply with electrical safety standards, and a formal notification may need to be submitted to Tukes before work begins ( ).

Safety Considerations

Temporary electrical installations increase the risk of accidents and fire. Key safety measures include ( ):

• Cable protection: All wiring in walkways or escape routes must be protected using cable troughs, rubber mats, in-floor systems, or by suspending cables. Outdoor cables must be rated for outdoor use.
• Grounding: All temporary distribution boards must be externally grounded. Earth leads should be yellow and green, made of stranded copper or copper alloy, with a cross-section of at least 6 sq.mm ( ).
• Protective devices: Install RCDs or ELCBs on all final distribution boards and test them before use. Circuit breakers or fuses must be properly rated for the load.
• Equipment protection: Outdoor electrical equipment must be earthed, insulated, or over-voltage protected. Indoor-rated equipment may be used temporarily in dry outdoor conditions if insulated from the ground and protected from moisture.
• Fire safety: Place a portable fire extinguisher (minimum 34A183BC) near generators or distribution boxes, along with absorbent materials for fuel spills ( ).

Installation Guidelines

• Cable types: Use robust, pliable, wire-armoured cables with PVC sheathing for overhead supply. Underground cables should be armoured PVC and buried at a safe depth (0.2 m for temporary installations) with clear route markings ( ).
• Distribution cabling: Multi-strand, multi-core armoured or flexible PVC cables are recommended. Mineral insulated copper-clad cables may be used with PVC sheathing.
• Generator placement: Generators must be located at a safe distance from buildings, traffic routes, and audience areas. Ensure proper ventilation and fire precautions ( ).
• Minimizing obstruction: Cable routes should be arranged to avoid obstruction on site, and overhead cables should be suspended using cable stands ( ).

Documentation and Supervision

• An installation certificate must be prepared and available at the site or event venue ( ).
• A supervisor with sufficient professional skills must oversee the installation, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards ( ).
• For public events, contingency plans for power outages and safe evacuation must be in place, including backup lighting and guidance systems ( ).

Summary

Installing a temporary power distribution box in Finland requires qualified personnel, proper grounding, protective devices, and adherence to safety regulations. All cables and equipment must be suitable for the environment, and documentation must be maintained. Compliance with Tukes regulations and local safety standards ensures both legal conformity and the safety of personnel and the public.