ᐅ Requirements for Temporary Power Distribution Boxes / Construction Site Power Panels

Unfortunately, I couldn’t find anything suitable in the search…

Since May 2021, there is a new VDE regulation regarding temporary site power distribution boxes. They must be equipped with Type B RCDs and a main switch. The box must also be lockable. Before that, between 2018 and 2021, there was a transitional period. So far, so good.

I’m now looking for a used site power distribution box on eBay Kleinanzeigen. Unfortunately, it seems that all of them still have the older Type A installed. I’d rather not upgrade, as an RCD typically costs between 100-200€ (about $110-$220) depending on the brand, plus installation.

Now I have a good offer through classified ads. According to the seller, the box was connected by an electrician as late as July 2021, i.e., after the transitional period. I looked up the RCDs and both seem to be older models, not Type B. At least the box has a main switch.

The seller said, based on his electrician, that for private building projects it is not relevant whether Type B is installed; this requirement only applies to commercial construction. I’m unfortunately not an expert and feel doubly uncertain. I’d preferably not buy a box that I can’t have connected later. Does anyone have advice? I haven’t engaged an electrician yet.

Oberhäslich schrieb:

The seller said, according to his electrician, that for private construction projects it doesn’t matter whether a Type B RCD is installed; this is only required in commercial construction. Unfortunately, I’m not an expert and feel even more uncertain. I’d rather not buy a panel that I can’t connect properly. Does anyone have advice? I don’t have an electrician lined up yet.

As far as I know, the regulations apply to “construction sites.” There is no distinction between private or commercial work – a developer with multiple houses is also a commercial construction site, right? So it depends on what types of sockets need to be protected (see screenshot).

They are the standard 2x 16A and 1x 32A outlets commonly found in a typical distribution board. Therefore, it is not permitted and, in fact, the electrician should not approve it, correct?

Here is the translation:

Oberhäslich schrieb:

These are the usual 2x 16A and 1x 32A circuits, as you would find in a standard distribution board. Therefore, this is not compliant and should actually not be approved by the electrician, correct?

If a device with a frequency converter is connected, then no approval. If not, then it is acceptable. The simple Schuko sockets for the Hilti would be fine in that case.

I read somewhere that construction cranes use these types of frequency converters. And since there is one for the bricks/beams, it is likely.

And why not just buy the temporary construction power box, install the RCD, and then sell it again after the construction is done? Honestly, I don’t understand your question. In the end, you’re only losing about 20€ in value. What’s the problem? Just do it and don’t haggle over the last 20€ 😉 It will definitely be cheaper than renting from the electrician.