When a major cable failure occurs, it's tough to locate a supplier at midnight while tending to all of the other pressing details in this pressure cooker situation. You need to identify sources now, so that you are prepared.
- Inventory your large cable bundles. Note the sizes, insulation types, length, and number of cables in each one.
- Identify at least two cable replacement sources. Your local electric utility may even have the cables you need; talk with someone there about contingency planning.
- Make a list of connectors and connector tools for this job. You don't want to pull the cable only to find out nobody can make connections. During the emergency, your in-house staff will already be overloaded even if they are qualified — so this is typically the contractor's work. Make contingency arrangements with an electrical contractor now, ensuring that firm has the tools and expertise for this particular work.
- Set up your CMMS to prompt an annual review of these sources; keep the information current.
