TOPIC 2: CONDUCT SITE SURVEY

A site survey is essential in electrical installations to assess the existing conditions and gather
information that ensures a safe, efficient, and compliant design. Here’s an overview of the
key steps and considerations involved:

 Pre-Survey Preparation

 Define Objectives: Clarify what the survey should accomplish. Are you planning a
new installation, an upgrade, or a maintenance check?
 Gather Documentation: Collect existing electrical schematics, building layouts, and
equipment specs to understand what’s already installed and identify points of
improvement or change.
 Safety Measures: Establish safety protocols for personnel during the survey,
including lockout/tagout procedures, and ensure the team has personal protective
equipment (PPE).

 Conducting the Site Survey

 Assess Power Requirements: Identify the power needs of equipment and systems
that will be installed or are already present. This includes calculating loads and
understanding demand, especially for high-power equipment.
 Check Existing Electrical Infrastructure:
o Main Distribution Board (MDB): Examine its capacity, breaker sizes, and
any signs of overloading.
o Sub-distribution Panels: Assess conditions and note if they can handle
additional loads if necessary.
o Cabling: Measure the condition, routing, and gauge of existing cables and
wiring. Look for wear and tear or any potential hazards like exposed wires.
 Grounding System: Verify the effectiveness of the grounding system to prevent
electrical shock hazards. Measure resistance levels to ensure compliance with safety
standards.
 Identify Potential Hazard Zones: Note areas where additional protective devices
like GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) might be necessary, especially in wet or
outdoor locations.
 Emergency Power Systems: If generators or UPS systems are present, assess their
operational readiness, capacity, and test schedule.
 Lighting Assessment: Determine if lighting (both emergency and general) complies
with safety and efficiency requirements.

 Mapping and Documentation

 Site Sketches and Photos: Take photos and create sketches of key components and
areas. Use these visuals to mark circuit routes, panel locations, and equipment that
requires attention.
 Voltage and Current Readings: Measure voltage, current, and power quality at
various points in the system to ensure they meet design criteria and safety standards.
 Data Logging for Demand Analysis: For large installations, use data loggers to
monitor power demand over time. This helps identify peak usage and potential points
of inefficiency.
 Report Findings and Recommendations

 Identify Issues and Non-Compliance: Document any code violations or areas

needing repair or upgrade. Prioritize these based on safety risks and criticality.
 Provide Solutions: Recommend upgrades, replacements, or new installations, such as
surge protectors, better grounding, or updated wiring, based on survey findings.
 Cost and Time Estimates: Provide a rough estimate of costs and timelines for
necessary changes. Highlight areas where improvements could reduce long-term
maintenance or energy costs.

 Regulatory and Standards Compliance

 Ensure that all recommendations meet the relevant electrical codes and standards
(e.g., NEC, IEC, or local regulations). Compliance is crucial for both safety and legal
assurance.

 Follow-Up

 Action Plan: Develop a clear action plan based on the survey report. Assign tasks to
responsible parties and establish deadlines.
 Re-Survey (if necessary): Schedule follow-up inspections, especially if significant
changes or repairs are made.

Types of installations

1. Domestic installation

Domestic installation generally refers to the setup and installation of systems, equipment, or
fixtures within a residential home. This can involve a wide range of items, from utility
systems to everyday household devices. Here are some common types:

 Utility Systems:
o Electrical Systems: Installing wiring, lighting, outlets, switches, and
sometimes even solar panels.
o Plumbing Systems: Installing water lines, faucets, sinks, showers, toilets,
water heaters, and filtration systems.
o Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC): Setting up central
heating systems, air conditioning units, ventilation ducts, and thermostats.
 Appliances:
o Installation of large home appliances like washing machines, dishwashers,
refrigerators, ovens, and dryers.
 Home Security Systems:
o Installing alarm systems, security cameras, motion sensors, doorbell cameras,
and other security equipment.
 Smart Home Devices:
o Installation of home automation devices, like smart thermostats, lighting
systems, speakers, and voice assistants that help automate various tasks.
 Interior Fixtures and Furniture:
o Setting up built-in furniture, like cabinets, shelves, and wardrobes, or
installing light fixtures and ceiling fans.
  Entertainment Systems:
o Installing home theater setups, speaker systems, and projectors.

2. Industrial installation

Industrial installation refers to the process of setting up complex systems, equipment, or

machinery within an industrial or commercial setting, such as factories, manufacturing plants,
power stations, or large commercial facilities. These installations are generally large-scale,
more robust, and often tailored to specific operational needs. Here are the primary types of
industrial installations:

 Mechanical Systems

 Machinery: Installation of heavy-duty machinery like presses, conveyor belts, robotic

arms, and assembly line equipment for manufacturing processes.
 Pipelines: Setting up pipelines to transport gases, liquids, or other materials across the
facility.
 HVAC Systems: Industrial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, which
are typically larger and more complex than residential setups.

 Electrical Systems

 Power Distribution Systems: High-voltage electrical systems, transformers, circuit

breakers, and switchgear to distribute power across the facility.
 Industrial Lighting: Installing lighting systems tailored to meet the facility’s
requirements, including task lighting, floodlights, and emergency lighting.
 Backup Generators and UPS: Installing generators and uninterruptible power
supplies (UPS) to ensure continuous operation in case of power outages.

 Automation and Control Systems

 PLC (Programmable Logic Controllers): Installation of systems that automate

machinery, production processes, and other equipment through programming.
 SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition): A system for monitoring and
controlling large, complex industrial processes.
 Sensors and Actuators: Devices that monitor variables like temperature, pressure,
and flow, and respond by controlling other systems.

 Industrial Safety Systems

 Fire Suppression Systems: Industrial-grade fire alarms, sprinklers, and chemical

suppression systems.
 Safety Alarms and Emergency Systems: Alarms for hazardous conditions,
evacuation systems, and emergency lighting.
 Environmental Controls: Systems for air filtration, ventilation, and containment to
ensure worker safety and compliance with environmental regulations.
  Process and Production Systems

 Material Handling Systems: Equipment like forklifts, cranes, and automated guided
vehicles (AGVs) for moving materials and products around the facility.
 Production Lines

3. Commercial installation

Commercial installation refers to the setup and integration of systems, equipment, or

infrastructure within commercial environments such as offices, retail stores, restaurants,
hospitals, and hotels.

Types of Commercial Installations

 HVAC and Ventilation Systems:

o Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning: Systems designed to provide
consistent climate control in large commercial spaces.
o Ventilation: Especially important in restaurants, hospitals, and labs, where air
quality and temperature regulation are essential.
 Lighting Systems:
o General Lighting: Efficient, well-designed lighting systems for retail
displays, offices, and common areas.
o Specialty Lighting: Mood or accent lighting, such as in restaurants or stores,
to create a specific ambiance.
 Electrical and Power Distribution:
o Power Systems: Distribution panels, circuit breakers, and surge protectors
designed to handle higher power loads.
o Backup Generators and UPS: For commercial spaces that require reliable,
continuous power, such as data centers and hospitals.
 Security and Surveillance:
o Access Control Systems: Keycard systems, biometric access, and other
secure entry methods.
o Surveillance Systems: Security cameras, alarms, and monitoring systems for
safety and loss prevention.
 Fire Safety Systems:
o Fire Alarms and Sprinklers: Essential fire suppression and alarm systems,
often tailored to commercial safety codes.
o Smoke Detectors and Extinguishers: Strategically placed devices throughout
the property.
 Networking and IT Infrastructure:
o Internet and Telecom Installations: High-speed internet, fiber-optic cabling,
and telephone systems.
o Server Rooms and Data Centers: Cooling systems, backup power, and
secure setups for server and data management.
 Audio-Visual and Digital Signage:
o Digital Displays: Screens or signage in retail or public spaces for promotions,
announcements, and information.
o Audio Systems: Speaker systems for announcements, background music, or
paging systems.
  Furniture and Fixtures:
o Custom Installations: Reception desks, office furniture, shelving, and other
fixtures for commercial needs.
o Retail Display Fixtures: For product display and shelving in stores.
 Water and Plumbing Systems:

o Commercial-Grade Plumbing: High-capacity plumbing installations,

especially in restaurants, hotels, and hospitals.
o Specialized Systems: Such as grease traps for kitchens, drinking water
stations, and restrooms.

Types of buildings

1. Permanent building.

A permanent building refers to a structure that is constructed to be long-lasting and

typically built with durable materials and methods. These buildings are designed for extended
use and are not intended to be moved or relocated. They are often constructed with features
that enable them to withstand environmental factors and provide stability and safety for
occupants.

Characteristics of Permanent Buildings

 Durability: Made from long-lasting materials such as concrete, steel, brick, or stone,
which provide strength and resistance to wear and tear.
 Foundation: Built on a solid foundation (e.g., concrete slab, basement) that anchors
the building and ensures stability over time.
 Building Codes and Regulations: Constructed in compliance with local building
codes, zoning laws, and safety regulations to ensure structural integrity and safety.
 Utilities: Permanent buildings are often equipped with essential utilities like
plumbing, electrical systems, heating, and air conditioning.
 Design and Architecture: Designed to accommodate specific functions or purposes,
often with considerations for aesthetics, comfort, and usability.
 Permanent Fixtures: May include features such as built-in cabinetry, walls, roofing,
and permanent installations that cannot be easily removed or relocated.

2. Semi-permanent building.

A semi-permanent building is a structure designed for longer-term use than temporary

buildings but is not as permanent as traditional buildings. These structures often combine
aspects of both permanent and temporary constructions, making them versatile for various
applications. Here are the key features, types, advantages, and considerations of semi-
permanent buildings:

Characteristics of Semi-Permanent Buildings

 Materials: Semi-permanent buildings are typically constructed from durable

materials such as wood, metal, or prefabricated panels, which provide strength but
may not have the same longevity as concrete or masonry.
  Foundation: They may have a simpler foundation compared to permanent buildings,
such as concrete footings or piers, rather than a full foundation system.
 Design Flexibility: Semi-permanent buildings often allow for easier modification,
expansion, or relocation compared to fully permanent structures.
 Utility Installation: These buildings can be equipped with essential utilities (like
plumbing and electricity) but may have simpler systems than permanent buildings.
 Life Span: While they are built to last for several years (often 5 to 20 years), they are
not intended for indefinite use.

Types of Semi-Permanent Buildings

 Modular Buildings: Prefabricated units that can be assembled on-site and are often
used as classrooms, offices, or healthcare facilities.
 Temporary Structures with Longer Life: Buildings like portable classrooms,
military barracks, or medical facilities designed for extended use but can be moved if
necessary.
 Container Buildings: Structures made from shipping containers that can be
repurposed into homes, offices, or retail spaces.
 Tents and Fabric Structures: Durable tents designed for longer-term use, such as
event spaces or temporary housing after disasters.
 Seasonal Structures: Buildings used for specific seasons or events, such as ski
lodges or summer camps, that can be deconstructed or relocated when not in use.

Advantages of Semi-Permanent Buildings

 Cost-Effective: Often cheaper and faster to construct than fully permanent buildings,
making them an attractive option for short to medium-term needs.
 Flexibility: Their design and materials allow for easy modification, expansion, or
relocation to meet changing needs.
 Quick Setup: Semi-permanent buildings can typically be assembled or disassembled
more quickly than traditional buildings.
 Environmental Considerations: Some semi-permanent structures can be more
environmentally friendly, using sustainable materials and practices.

Utilities available

In a domestic installation, various utilities are provided to ensure a comfortable, functional,

and safe living environment. These utilities are essential for daily living and often include:

1. Electrical Utilities

 Power Supply: The main electrical supply for lighting, appliances, and electronics,
typically delivered via a network of wires and outlets.
  Lighting: Indoor and outdoor lighting fixtures, including ceiling lights, lamps, and
landscape lighting.
 Appliance Circuits: Dedicated circuits for high-energy appliances like refrigerators,
washing machines, and ovens.

2. Water Supply

 Potable Water: Supply of clean, drinkable water through pipes from a municipal
source or private well.
 Hot Water: Generated through water heaters (tank or tankless) for bathing, cooking,
and cleaning.
 Plumbing Fixtures: Sinks, faucets, showers, bathtubs, and toilets connected to the
water supply.

3. Drainage and Waste Management

 Sewage System: A network of pipes that transports wastewater from the home to the
municipal sewage system or a septic tank.
 Stormwater Drainage: Systems designed to manage rainwater runoff and prevent
flooding, often including gutters and downspouts.

4. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

 Heating Systems: Furnaces, boilers, or heat pumps that provide warmth during cold
weather.
 Air Conditioning: Systems to cool indoor spaces during hot weather, which may
include central air conditioning or window units.
 Ventilation: Systems to circulate fresh air, including exhaust fans in kitchens and
bathrooms to remove moisture and odors.

5. Gas Supply

 Natural Gas: Piped gas used for heating, cooking, and hot water systems, requiring
proper installation and safety measures.
 Propane: Used in areas not served by natural gas pipelines, typically stored in tanks
and used similarly to natural gas.

6. Telecommunications

 Internet Service: Broadband connections, such as fiber optics, DSL, or cable, for
internet access.
 Telephone Lines: Landline phone services or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
systems.
 Cable/Satellite TV: Systems for delivering television services, either through cable
providers or satellite dishes.
7. Security Systems

 Alarm Systems: Burglar alarms, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors for
safety and security.
 Surveillance Cameras: CCTV systems for monitoring the property and enhancing
security.

8. Renewable Energy Options

 Solar Panels: Photovoltaic systems for generating electricity from sunlight,

potentially reducing utility costs.
 Wind Turbines: In some areas, small-scale wind turbines can be used to generate
energy.

9. Waste Management

 Trash Collection: Regular pickup services for household waste, recycling, and
composting.
 Home Composting Systems: For managing organic waste, which can be beneficial
for gardens.

Taking measurements on site

Taking measurements on a construction or architectural site is a critical step in the planning

and execution of a project. Accurate measurements help ensure that the design is correctly
implemented and that all components fit together as intended

Tools Needed

1. Tape Measure: A flexible measuring tape, typically 25 to 100 feet long, is essential
for measuring lengths and widths.
2. Laser Distance Measurer: For quick and accurate distance measurements, especially
in larger areas.
3. Surveying Equipment: Such as a total station or theodolite for more complex
measurements, including angles and elevations.
4. Level: To ensure surfaces are flat and to check vertical and horizontal alignments.
5. Plumb Bob: For vertical measurements and ensuring structures are plumb.
6. Smartphone or Tablet: For taking notes, photos, and possibly using measurement
apps.
7. Graph Paper or Drawing Software: For sketching the site layout and recording
measurements.

Steps to Take Measurements

1. Prepare for Measurement:

o Review Plans: Familiarize yourself with the project plans and specifications
before arriving on-site.
o Identify Key Points: Determine the specific areas or features you need to
measure.
 2. Establish a Reference Point:
o Use a fixed point on the site (like a corner of the building) to start your
measurements. This point will help ensure consistency.
3. Take Measurements:
o Lengths and Widths: Use a tape measure or laser measurer to record the
length and width of walls, rooms, and open spaces.
o Heights: Measure the height of walls, ceilings, and any vertical elements (like
windows or doors) using a tape measure or level.
o Distances: Measure distances between features (like walls, windows, and
doors) to ensure they conform to design specifications.
o Angles: If necessary, use a protractor or a theodolite to measure angles,
especially in irregular spaces.
4. Check for Accuracy:
o Double-check all measurements by measuring each distance at least twice to
confirm accuracy.
o Compare measurements against the project plans to ensure they match.
5. Document Measurements:
o Write down all measurements clearly, including units (feet, inches, meters,
etc.), on a notepad or digital device.
o Consider sketching a rough layout of the area with noted measurements for
reference.
6. Record Conditions:
o Note any site conditions that may affect the measurements, such as obstacles,
slopes, or surrounding structures.
7. Use Technology (if available):
o Consider using apps or software designed for site measurement to streamline
the documentation process and reduce the chance of error.

 Length measurement:

Methods to Measure Conduit Size and length

When it comes to measuring conduit size, there are several methods you can use. Each

method has its own advantages and is suited for different scenarios. Let’s explore the three

primary methods of measuring conduit size:

1. Measuring Conduit Size Using a Tape Measure: The most straightforward method is to use a

tape measure to determine the external diameter of the conduit. This method is useful when

you need to measure the conduit’s physical dimensions to find the appropriate trade size.

Simply wrap the tape measure around the perimeter of the conduit and record the

measurement. Remember to subtract the wall thickness of the conduit to get the internal

diameter.
2. Measuring Conduit Size Using a Conduit Fill Chart: Another common method is to consult a

conduit fill chart. These charts provide information on the maximum number and size of

wires or cables that can be safely installed in a specific conduit size. Simply match the

conduit size with the corresponding wire gauge and type to determine the maximum fill

capacity. Conduit fill charts are widely available online or can be found in electrical code

books or manufacturer specifications.

3. Measuring Conduit Size Using a Conduit Fitting: In some cases, you can determine the

conduit size by using a fitting that matches the opening of the conduit. Insert the fitting into

the conduit until it fits snugly, and then identify the fitting size as the conduit size. This

method is particularly useful when the conduit is already installed, and you need to determine

its size for replacement or modification purposes.

  Total area measurement:

Measuring the total area of a space or a site is essential in various fields, including
construction, architecture, landscaping, and real estate. The total area is often expressed in
square units (such as square feet, square meters, etc.). Here’s how to measure the total area
effectively:

Steps to Measure Total Area

 Determine the Shape of the Area

 The method of measurement depends on the shape of the area you are measuring.
Common shapes include:
o Rectangles and Squares
o Triangles
o Circles
o Irregular Shapes

 Measure Dimensions

 Use appropriate tools (tape measure, laser distance measurer) to measure the
dimensions of the area.
 For irregular shapes, measure the lengths of all sides and relevant dimensions.

 Calculate Area by Shape

  Temperature measuring:

Measuring temperature is essential in various fields, including cooking, HVAC (heating,

ventilation, and air conditioning), scientific research, and more. Here's a comprehensive
guide on how to measure temperature, including methods, tools, and considerations.

Methods of Measuring Temperature

1. Thermometers
o Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers: These use liquid (typically mercury or
colored alcohol) that expands and contracts with temperature changes.
They are commonly used in labs and for cooking.
o Digital Thermometers: These provide a digital readout and are often
used in medical settings, cooking, and industrial applications. They can
be instant-read or probe thermometers.
o Infrared Thermometers: These measure temperature from a distance
by detecting infrared radiation emitted by objects. They are useful for
measuring the temperature of surfaces without direct contact, like in
HVAC applications or for food safety.
o Bimetallic Thermometers: These use two different metals that expand
at different rates when heated, often used in ovens and HVAC systems.

2. Thermocouples
o These are sensors made of two different metals joined at one end.
When heated, they produce a voltage that can be correlated to
temperature. They are widely used in industrial applications and for
measuring high temperatures.
 3. Thermistors
o These are temperature-sensitive resistors whose resistance changes
with temperature. They are often used in digital thermometers and
HVAC systems for precise temperature control.

4. Temperature Data Loggers

o Devices that continuously measure and record temperature over time,
often used in environmental monitoring, food safety, and industrial
processes.

Steps to Measure Temperature

1. Choose the Right Tool: Select the appropriate thermometer or sensor based on the
application (e.g., cooking, scientific research, HVAC).
2. Calibrate the Instrument (if necessary): Some devices, like thermocouples and
digital thermometers, may require calibration before use to ensure accurate readings.
3. Prepare the Sample or Environment:
o For cooking, ensure the food item is at room temperature for a more
accurate reading.
o For HVAC systems, ensure that air or surface conditions are stable
before measuring.
4. Take the Measurement:
 o Direct Measurement: Insert the thermometer or sensor into the item
(like food) or environment (like air).
o Infrared Measurement: Aim the infrared thermometer at the surface
without making contact, ensuring that the distance to the surface is
appropriate for the device.
o Wait for Stabilization: Allow the device to stabilize (if required) to
ensure an accurate reading.
5. Read and Record the Temperature:
o Take note of the reading on the device. For digital thermometers, the
reading will be displayed. For liquid thermometers, read the level of the
liquid against the scale.
6. Store the Data (if necessary): For scientific and industrial applications, data loggers
can be used to store temperature readings for later analysis.

Important Considerations

 Accuracy and Precision: Choose devices that meet the required accuracy
and precision for your application.
 Calibration: Regular calibration is essential for scientific measurements to
ensure reliability.
 Environmental Factors: Be aware that ambient temperature, humidity, and
airflow can affect temperature readings, particularly for sensitive instruments.
 Safety: When measuring high temperatures (e.g., in ovens or industrial
settings), use appropriate protective gear and handle devices safely.

 Humidity measuring:

Measuring humidity is essential in various fields, including meteorology, agriculture, HVAC

(heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and indoor air quality management. Humidity is
the amount of moisture in the air, typically expressed as a percentage. Here’s a
comprehensive guide on how to measure humidity, including methods, tools, and
considerations.

Methods of Measuring Humidity

1. Hygrometers
o Mechanical Hygrometers: These use materials that absorb moisture,
causing a change in size or shape. Common types include:
 Hair Hygrometers: Utilize human or animal hair, which
stretches and contracts with humidity changes.
 Wet and Dry Bulb Hygrometers: Consist of two
thermometers—one with a wet bulb and one with a dry bulb.
The difference in their readings helps calculate humidity using a
psychrometric chart.
o Digital Hygrometers: These provide digital readings and are
commonly used in homes and offices. They may use capacitive or
resistive sensors to measure humidity.
 o Psychrometers: A type of hygrometer that measures relative humidity
using two thermometers (wet bulb and dry bulb) to derive humidity
readings from the temperature difference.

2. Dew Point Meters

o These devices measure the temperature at which air becomes
saturated with moisture (dew point). This is a useful indicator of
humidity levels.
3. Data Loggers
o These are electronic devices that measure and record humidity (and
often temperature) over time, useful for monitoring environments like
greenhouses, museums, and HVAC systems.
4. Hydrometers
o Primarily used for measuring the humidity of liquids, hydrometers can
also give a relative measure of humidity in specific applications.

Steps to Measure Humidity

1. Choose the Right Tool: Select an appropriate hygrometer or humidity measuring

device based on your specific needs (indoor use, industrial applications, etc.).
2. Calibrate the Instrument (if necessary): Ensure the device is calibrated for accurate
readings, especially if it's used for scientific or sensitive applications.
3. Prepare the Environment:
o Ensure that the area where you will be measuring humidity is
representative of the space you want to monitor. Avoid placing devices
near sources of heat, direct sunlight, or drafts that could affect
readings.
4. Take the Measurement:
o Mechanical Hygrometers: Allow the hygrometer to stabilize in the
environment for accurate readings.
o Digital Hygrometers: Simply turn on the device and wait for the
reading to stabilize.
 o Wet and Dry Bulb Hygrometers: Measure the temperature with both
thermometers. The wet bulb is moistened, and the dry bulb is left
exposed to the air. Calculate humidity using the temperature readings.
5. Read and Record the Humidity:
o Note the relative humidity percentage displayed on the device. For
mechanical hygrometers, read the scale or dial.
6. Store the Data (if necessary): For long-term monitoring, data loggers can store
humidity readings for later analysis.

Important Considerations

 Accuracy and Precision: Choose devices that meet the accuracy and
precision requirements for your specific application.
 Calibration: Regular calibration is essential, especially for scientific
applications where precise measurements are necessary.
 Environmental Factors: Be aware that temperature fluctuations and airflow
can influence humidity readings. Avoid placing measuring devices in areas
with extreme conditions.
 Time of Measurement: Humidity can fluctuate throughout the day; consistent
measurement times can help establish reliable patterns.