Storm coming? get jobsite-ready with Leviton's Emergency Preparation Solution
Preparing well in advance makes you and those around you safer when anticipating storm season. Contractors should be proactive in preparing for high-impact weather events to maximize the chances of creating a safe environment and restoring services quickly.
Rick Melendez, Leviton Industrial Specialist II said, “Contractors will need to present lists of products needed for these power emergencies, prepare their trucks, present an overstock of products, and discuss a plan with distributors.” He added, “Contractors should also have meetings with power companies to coordinate working together, address the dangers of live wires, and plan for backfeeds while restoring electricity.”
Before Storm Season
Setting your customers up for storm success starts months before storm season. For example, hurricane season in Florida begins in June, so it is best be preparing now.
Tips to help evaluate the health of a building emergency preparation might include:
Assessment of Electrical Risks: Determine potential electrical problems and ways to lessen the impact of a storm on critical electrical equipment, identifying vulnerable areas within the facility.
Evaluation of Secondary Power Options: Ensure backup power sources including, generators and uninterruptable power devices (UPS), are working correctly.
Monitoring Power Grid: Regularly visit the power grid with pertinent utility companies, plan for contingencies and anticipate power outages.
Leviton has developed electrical solutions to help keep people safe in stormy situations, especially with generators and other emergency equipment.
- Portable Outlet Boxes: When temporary power is needed, OSHA and NEC-compliant temporary power solutions such as portable power pendants and construction stringers for manufacturing facilities are essential. Available in single-gang, and two-gang sizes either, with feed-thru or pendant style, these options are highly resistant to heat, harsh chemicals and challenging environments. Portable Outlet Boxes
- Single Pole Cam-type Devices: Leviton’s single pole cam-type devices, are compatible with competitive products, allowing easy retrofitting into existing locations and power distribution systems. Most plugs and receptacles feature shatter and crack-resistant designs with bodies and sleeves made from high-durometer thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV-Santoprene®) Single Pole Cam-Type Devices
- Plugs, Connectors, and Receptacles: Created to minimize water exposure to electrical equipment, Leviton’s National Emergency Management Association (NEMA) and IEC-approved connectors are the best solutions for demanding commercial and industrial environments. Plugs, Connectors and Receptacles
- Portable GFCI Cord Sets: Getting temporary power in emergencies, can be tricky and dangerous. Leviton’s rugged and OSHA-compliant, portable GFCI cord sets are a safe and easy solution for job sites, hard-to-reach areas and temporary power applications. Portable GFCI
During a storm
Contractors, building managers and other electrical professionals must have a complete understanding of the situation, a strong communication path, and the capability to launch effective responses. This is essential to protecting the safety of workers, and valuable electrical equipment. Leviton has curated response strategies for electrical emergencies. Providing your customers guidance in these areas is essential.
- Prioritize critical electrical equipment and shut down non-essential devices.
- Stay away from downed power lines.
- Monitor electrical systems closely for damage or malfunction.
- Make sure electrical panels and switches are protected against water intrusion.
- Avoid making electrical repairs during a storm, especially in wet conditions.
After the Storm
After a significant weather occurrence, it is wise for contractors to have needed products on hand to provide for rebuilding and reconstruction. Thorough water damage evaluation cannot be overlooked as the safety of construction teams and building occupants is paramount. This handy online guide, NEMA Steps to Evaluating Water Damaged Equipment as well as the NEMA PDF to aid in water damage evaluation Evaluating Water-Damaged Electrical Equipment PDF can assist you by providing ideas and guidelines to evaluate next steps.
Leviton is Here to Help
With products including load centers, lighting controls, switches, AFCIs, GFCIs, and the like, it is essential to get buildings up and running quickly. Leviton’s Emergency Preparedness link gives important, in-depth information. Emergency Preparedness Tips for Professionals.
Leviton has also created an Emergency Preparedness and Response Checklist PDF to help contractors select the proper supplies to have during storm season: Emergency Preparedness Order Form PDF
When rebuilding after a storm, having a reliable partner to assist can provide much needed comfort. Leviton has prepared a flyer to help get you started:
Disaster Recovery PDF
Leviton is committed to having the best resources available to contractors, building managers, and other electrical industry professionals. Contractors who help their customers be proactive are sure to build the trust and confidence that they need in trying and dangerous weather-related times.