Civil Standards – Summaries of Standards

ES54 B - Pull/Splice, Service, and Junction Boxes

ES54 Section B standard outlines specifications for the installation and use of underground pull, splice, service, and junction boxes within BC Hydro’s distribution network. This section is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient underground electrical infrastructure. Below is a concise 12-point summary:

Scope: The standard covers the installation of medium-voltage (primary) splice/junction boxes and low-voltage (secondary) service boxes, detailing their physical dimensions, load ratings, and installation requirements.
Purpose of Boxes:
- Splice Boxes: Used to divide long cable runs into shorter sections when pulling tensions or sidewall pressures exceed specified limits.
- Junction Boxes: Facilitate branching and sectionalizing of underground circuits, containing loadbreak separable insulated connectors (SICs) for operational flexibility.
- Service Boxes: Typically the final structure in the distribution system, enabling customer service connections.
Box Types and Applications: The document details various box types (e.g., 555, 832, 1232, 632, 332), each designed for specific applications such as non-traffic areas, sidewalks, lanes, or roadways, with corresponding load ratings and configurations.
Lifting and Handling: All boxes, risers, and collars must be lifted according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using equipment that complies with local safety codes and regulations.
Confined and Restricted Access Spaces: Certain boxes are classified as confined spaces due to their depth and access limitations. Specific safety procedures must be followed when working in these environments.
Finished Grade Adjustments: Boxes are installed flush with the finished grade. Adjustments for future grade changes are accommodated using removable risers, with specific guidelines on the number and height of risers permitted.
Secondary Service Boxes: These boxes contain insulated multi-connectors (triplex or quadruplex) to allow for branching and splicing of secondary cables, facilitating customer connections.
Design Load Ratings: Each box type has a designated load rating (e.g., non-traffic, sidewalk, access lane, roadway) to ensure structural integrity under expected service conditions.
Installation Details: The standard provides comprehensive installation details, including box dimensions, duct entry locations, and sealing requirements to maintain system reliability and safety.
Material Specifications: Boxes are constructed from materials suitable for their intended application, with considerations for durability, load-bearing capacity, and environmental conditions.

Type of Service Box & Rating

Type of JunctionBox & Rating

Lightweight Small Service Box - NON TRAFFIC ES54 B3-O1.02 R6

Lightweight Large Service Box - NON TRAFFIC ES54 B3-O2.02 R1

Lightweight Small Service Box - LANE DUTY ES54 B3-O3.02 R2

Lightweight Large Service Box - LANE DUTY ES54 B3-O4.02 R3

ES53F - Transformer Pads and Vaults

ES54 Section F – Transformer Pads and Vaults document provides comprehensive standards for the design, construction, and installation of transformer pads and vaults within BC Hydro’s underground distribution system. Here is a concise summary:

Design Standards: Specifies design criteria for various transformer installations, including dimensions, materials, and structural requirements.
Single-Phase Transformer Pads: Details the construction and installation standards for single-phase transformer pads, emphasizing load-bearing capacity and accessibility.
Three-Phase Transformer Pads: Provides guidelines for three-phase transformer pad installations, including size specifications and reinforcement requirements.
Submersible Transformer Vaults: Describes standards for submersible transformer vaults, focusing on waterproofing, drainage, and safety measures.
Fan Equipment Pedestals: Includes specifications for the installation of fan equipment pedestals associated with transformer installations.
Material Specifications: Lists approved materials for construction, ensuring durability and compliance with BC Hydro standards.
Installation Procedures: Outlines step-by-step procedures for the proper installation of transformer pads and vaults, including excavation, formwork, and concrete pouring.
Grounding Requirements: Specifies grounding methods to ensure electrical safety and system integrity.
Clearance and Accessibility: Defines minimum clearance requirements around transformer installations for maintenance and emergency access.
Inspection and Testing: Mandates inspection and testing protocols to verify compliance with design and safety standards before commissioning.
Maintenance Guidelines: Provides recommendations for the ongoing maintenance and inspection of transformer pads and vaults to ensure long-term reliability.