Ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical installations is crucial in any sector, whether it’s solar, residential, or commercial. As city regulations tighten and the demand for efficient third-party field labeling grows, Lewis Bass International Engineering Services (LBIES) has developed a comprehensive pre-visit checklist designed to make your switchgear evaluations seamless and successful.

The Switchgear Pre-Visit Checklist by Lewis Bass is a strategic tool aimed at helping clients pass third-party evaluations in just one visit. This checklist is crucial for compliance with national standards, including NFPA 791 and UL 508/508A, as well as specific local codes like the California Electrical Code. It encompasses all necessary preparations across documentation, equipment, and site readiness to ensure a smooth and efficient evaluation process.

1. Documentation Preparation: Before a site visit, it’s essential to gather all related documentation for the switchgear. This includes permit drawings, any correction notices received, approved submittal and shop drawings of the new switchgear, and photographs of existing arrangements.
2. Calibrated Torque Wrench Information: Accurate and calibrated tools are vital for any evaluation. The checklist requires details of the torque wrench including make/model, serial number, and a valid calibration certificate.
3. Utility Approval (Variance): It is important to verify whether a utility company’s approval or variance for the project is in place, ensuring that all modifications meet local standards and regulations.
4. Customer Facility Support: Identifying an on-site technician who is ready to assist the evaluator by opening panels and answering pertinent questions about the installation enhances the efficiency of the visit.
5. Site Visit Scheduling: Completing and initialing the checklist sections before our field evaluator’s arrival can significantly expedite the process, reducing the likelihood of repeat visits and additional costs.

1. Solar Industry: In the burgeoning solar market, ensuring that all electrical components meet safety standards is paramount. This checklist helps in identifying and rectifying potential issues before they can impact system performance or safety.
2. Residential: For homeowners, this checklist provides a clear framework for preparing their electrical systems for inspection. This is especially beneficial for ensuring compliance and safety in home renovations or upgrades.
3. Commercial: In commercial settings, where switchgear forms a critical part of the electrical infrastructure, the checklist ensures that all systems are up to code and can withstand rigorous usage demands.

With the Switchgear Pre-Visit Checklist, we are setting a new standard for preparedness in electrical safety evaluations. Whether you’re involved in a small residential project or a large-scale commercial venture, using this checklist can ensure your switchgear installations are compliant, safe, and capable of passing our third-party evaluations efficiently. Remember, being well-prepared can save both time and money while ensuring compliance with the latest safety standards.

You can download our Switchgear Pre-visit Checklist right here.

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