Promoters of carnival-related events are now required to be issued an inspection certificate from the Electrical Inspectorate Division.
Lonzel Jones, deputy chief electrical inspector, said that the increasing number of private events has prompted the inspection of electrical installations.
He said at the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) press briefing on Wednesday that what had been seen over the last three years was “alarming”, prompting the change.
He said that the team of inspectors visited events and saw installations with exposed cables in water and other instances where compromised equipment was used in electrical installations.
“One of our issues is that people keep saying that nothing happened over the years, so why are you guys popping up now? And that is exactly what we are trying to prevent — something from happening,” Jones said.
“The electrical inspectorate wants to tell you guys we are not here to be party poopers; we are just here to make sure that the populace of St. Vincent and the Grenadines continues to be safe,” he said.
He explained that the electrical installations for most events occur overnight.
“And what we want you to understand is that since it is being done under pressure, a lot of things can be missed.”
In addition, during the event, a number of electrical items can be added.
Therefore, in an effort to keep the public safe, Jones said the Electrical Inspectorate would ensure that work is done correctly.
He explained how the process would work, saying that event promoters must first submit an application for a “Notification of Intent”.
This will provide the relevant information to the Electrical Inspectorate Division about what the installation will entail and details of the number of lights, etc., will be used at the event.
They would then be issued a temporary pass to present to the police for permission to stage the event.
Jones said that promoters are required to use certified electricians for electrical installations and that a team of inspectors will visit the site to confirm that the installation is done correctly.
And during the event, a team of inspectors will be on site to conduct live monitoring.
“Because we realise over the years that shows may have started with one thing, but other things are added,” Jones said.
If any defects are found, they will have to be rectified before certification is granted to move forward, he added.