Power Cabling
*************

This SOP defines the standards and procedures for inspecting, handling, deploying, protecting, and
resetting **power cabling** used by Maryland Productions (MP) and Event Revolution (RV). Power
cabling includes all non-feeder electrical distribution cabling and is critical to both safety and
system reliability.

Improper power cabling practices create shock, fire, and equipment damage risks.


Purpose
=======

- Ensure safe and reliable power delivery to all systems.
- Standardize power cable selection, handling, and routing.
- Prevent damage to cables, connectors, and connected equipment.
- Reduce tripped breakers and intermittent power issues.
- Extend the service life of MP/RV power cabling assets.


Who This SOP Is For
===================

- Power technicians  
- Lighting, audio, and video technicians using power cabling  
- Warehouse staff prepping power cable  
- Project Managers overseeing power layouts  
- Authorized freelancers working with power systems  

Anyone deploying or handling power cabling must follow this SOP.


Scope
=====

This SOP applies to:

- Edison power cables
- L21-30 cables
- 14-50 cables
- PowerCON cables
- True1 cables
- Extension cords and jumpers
- Power strips and breakout cables

Feeder and Camlock systems are covered in `power_feeder_camlock`.


Power Cable Safety Rules
========================

- Never use damaged or modified cables.
- Never overload cables or connectors.
- Keep power cabling dry and protected.
- Avoid tension on connectors.
- Disconnect power before modifying layouts.

If a cable looks unsafe, it is unsafe.


Warehouse Prep & Inspection
===========================

Before deployment:

- Inspect cables for:
  - Jacket cuts or abrasion  
  - Exposed conductors  
  - Loose or cracked connectors  
- Verify:
  - Correct connector type  
  - Voltage and amperage rating  
  - Clear length and ownership labeling  
- Test cables where applicable.
- Coil cables neatly using approved methods.
- Remove damaged cables from service immediately.

Inspection prevents on-site failures.


Cable Selection Standards
=========================

- Match cable type to connector and load requirements.
- Use rated locking connectors where required.
- Avoid chaining power strips unless explicitly approved.
- Use outdoor-rated cable where environmental exposure exists.

Correct cable selection prevents overheating.


Cable Routing & Protection
==========================

Routing
-------

- Route power cabling away from water and heat.
- Separate power and data where possible.
- Avoid sharp bends and pinch points.
- Maintain clean, logical cable paths.

Clean routing improves safety and troubleshooting.


Protection
----------

- Use cable ramps or mats in traffic areas.
- Secure cables to structures where appropriate.
- Protect connectors from strain and impact.

Protection prevents damage and injuries.


On-Site Use & Monitoring
========================

During operation:

- Monitor for:
  - Warm connectors  
  - Tripped breakers  
  - Intermittent power  
- Address issues immediately.
- Do not reconfigure live systems unless authorized.

Power issues escalate quickly.


Common Power Cabling Issues
===========================

- Overloaded extension cords
- Daisy-chained power strips
- Damaged connectors
- Incorrect cable type for load
- Poor strain relief

Most issues are preventable with proper planning.


Strike & Reset
==============

- De-energize systems before disconnecting.
- Disconnect cables by connector bodies.
- Inspect cables during strike.
- Coil neatly and consistently.
- Separate damaged cables immediately.

Strike is the final inspection opportunity.


Handling & Storage
==================

- Do not drag power cables.
- Avoid tight or improper coiling.
- Store cables by type and length.
- Keep connectors protected.
- Maintain organized storage locations.

Good handling extends cable lifespan.


Roles & Responsibilities
========================

Power Technicians
-----------------

- Approve power cable layouts.
- Verify safety and load compliance.
- Respond to power-related issues.

Technicians
-----------

- Deploy and handle power cables properly.
- Report cable damage or concerns immediately.

Warehouse Staff
---------------

- Inspect, test, and reset power cables.
- Maintain labeling and organization.

Project Managers
----------------

- Support safe and compliant power layouts.


Quality Control
===============

- No damaged cables in use.
- Correct cable types deployed.
- Routing is clean and protected.
- Issues documented post-show.

Safe power cabling protects people and equipment.