It is necessary to use robust electrical distribution equipment capable of withstanding arduous conditions
Film & TV Services owns and operates a modern fl eet of vehicle-mounted generator
a full set of checks and tests are carried out that are documented and presented to the production manager as a record of compliance. Asked whether this makes a real difference to their operation, Chris Pratt replies: ‘We dislike excessive form fi lling as much as anyone else; however, it provides us with a uniform process that protects us, as much as anything else, and demonstrates that correct procedures have been adhered to.’
Fit for purpose For outside broadcasts, it is necessary to use robust electrical distribution equipment capable of withstanding the arduous conditions that touring puts it through, while facilitating
42 ECA Today May 2012
The companies have now put measures in place to ensure that all elements of their combined operation are fully tested, inspected and certifi ed
rapid set up in a ‘plug-and-play’ fashion. To enable this level of functionality, equipment must be regularly tested in order to eliminate the risk of shock and fi re. While RCDs and other circuit protection devices have a valuable role to play, an incorrectly designed or deployed system may lead to nuisance tripping. Another area widely misunderstood is that of earthing temporary systems – it is often not known when it is necessary to put a spike down or when to join the earths of different supplies together, such as when operating generator-fed equipment inside a building. Film & TV Services and Arena perform regular periodic inspections of all their equipment, which is carried out in workshop conditions. This ensures that once the kit arrives on site it is in perfect working order, and that only the necessary tests are required once the system is set up. Laddams explains: ‘This is simply best practice. We work in an industry where there are all sorts of potential hazards and no two jobs are exactly the same. Having these processes in place ensures the necessary combination of speed and safety.’
Final word About the author
Rob Shepherd Rob Shepherd is a freelance journalist and regular contributor to ECA Today. He has worked in the electrical contracting industry for more than 12 years.
Both companies are more determined than ever to raise the profi le of outside broadcasting within the electrical contracting sector. Laddams has even gone as far as to become vice chairman of the ECA’s Surrey branch and concludes: ‘Both Chris and I have found that there is a defi nite need to be able to demonstrate clear and unambiguous technical competence when it comes to the power needs of outside broadcasts, and would encourage any other companies in this sector to follow our lead.’
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