Free checklist

Data Center Energization Readiness Checklist

What to confirm before energizing medium- and low-voltage equipment. Use it at the pre-energization meeting and keep a signed copy with the turnover record.

1. Documentation

• Current issued-for-construction one-line diagram on site and matching the field
• Energization sequence written, reviewed and approved by the GC, CxA and owner
• Short-circuit, coordination and arc flash studies complete, with settings issued
• Approved submittals and OEM installation instructions on file for each piece of equipment
• Authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) inspections passed where required

2. Installation complete

• Equipment set, anchored and leveled per drawings and OEM requirements
• Terminations complete and torqued to specification, with torque marks applied
• Grounding and bonding installed and verified
• Covers, barriers and doors installed; equipment cleaned and free of debris and tools
• Arc flash and equipment labels installed
• Open construction issues affecting this equipment closed or formally accepted

3. Testing complete

• Acceptance testing complete (for example, NETA ATS) with results reviewed
• Insulation resistance, contact resistance and phasing checks passed
• Protective relay settings applied and functionally tested
• OEM startup prerequisites met and the OEM field engineer scheduled if required
• Upstream source energized, tested and stable

4. Safety

• Pre-startup safety review completed and signed
• Lockout/tagout procedure written for the energization boundary, with locks and tags placed
• Energized electrical work permits issued where required
• Qualified persons identified, with PPE suitable for the arc flash rating
• Fire alarm and life safety systems operational in the affected area
• Area barricaded and signage posted

5. Communication

• Energization notice issued to all trades with date, time and boundary
• One person named with authority to give the final GO
• Roles assigned for switching, verification and monitoring
• Stop-work and emergency procedures briefed to everyone involved

6. After energization

• Voltage and phase rotation verified at the equipment
• Infrared scan scheduled once the equipment is under load
• Energized status communicated and drawings, signage and LOTO boundaries updated
• Results and sign-offs filed in the project record

This checklist is a general guide. Always follow the approved project documents, OEM requirements, NFPA 70E, applicable codes and your site safety program. Also see the free Commissioning Checklist: L1 FAT to L5 IST.