ESTA E1.58 PDF

Reaffirmed in 2022

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.

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.