Features of Transportable Switchrooms

Transportable switchrooms aren’t an out of the box product. The client’s industry type, weather conditions, and switchboard will determine how the room will look and function. There are some features of a transportable switchroom that are standard while others are options a client may decide to take up.

Features

The following is a list of standard or custom features available for transportable switchrooms.

Modular Construction

As part of the design process, consideration needs to made of the transportation and fitout of the switchroom. The room may need to travel on some of the roughest roads in Australia to get to its final destination. Depending on the fit-out of the transportable, removable wall and roof panels may be used for easier and quicker equipment installation and removal. Otherwise, the room can be designed, manufactured and transported as one complete unit.

Fire Alarm System & Suppression

Transportable switchrooms can be wired with fire alarm systems and also suppression systems to minimise the potential damage caused by a fire. A popular option in the VESDA early warning system which regularly tests the air to detect any smoke in the air.

Air Conditioning

Depending on weather conditions of the area, air conditioning may be required to keep the equipment and workers safe in high temperatures. Keeping an ambient air temperature protects equipment from unnecessary wear and tear. Dust suppression may also be required in some areas. Keeping the room dust-free may extend equipment life and provide a healthy work environment for staff. Room pressurisation is also available in some transportables.

Cyclone Rated Construction

In a large part of northern Australia, buildings and accommodation need to be cyclone rated. The risk to lives and operations are not worth the savings in buying non-rated structures. The switchboard is an important piece of equipment on a mine site so it needs the best protection that a transportable room can offer. In some locations, transportable switchrooms need to be able to withstand high winds.

Blast Rated

If the transportable switchroom is due to be located near blast zones, it is important that it can withstand regular blasting or incident. A high quality modular structure can protect employees and equipment from the danger.

Switchgear Fit out and Cabling

Once a switchroom’s exterior has been designed to its transportation and environmental requirements, the fit out and cabling needs careful consideration. False or removable floors may be used in a switchroom for reduced onsite commissioning costs and time. Electrical and HV/LV switchgear fit-out can be completed in the final phase.

Support Stairs and Handrails

Occupation health and safety must extend to all areas on site including switchrooms. Where necessary, stairs, platforms and handrails are used to assist staff to move safely around the switchroom.

Communication Systems

Being able to communicate with staff on other areas of the site or in head office is important for some organisations. Allowances can be made during the design phase for a communication system. 

Does your business need a transportable switchroom, but you aren't sure of the specifics? Talk to an expert or an agency about the same, for more information on the features of transportable switchrooms.