User: Alwayslearningelec, Location: NJ
Asked on: Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 2:47 pm EDT
Answered on: Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 2:48 pm EDT
Question: 10 ceiling.8'x4'x2' pull box hung from trapeze. Could 3 guys install that in one 8 hour day? Without knockouts?
Let's break this down and see if it's feasible for three guys to install an 8'x4'x2' pull box hung from a trapeze in one 8-hour day, without knockouts already punched
Factors Affecting the Installation Time:
Material Handling
An 8'x4'x2' pull box is BIG. It's also likely HEAVY. Moving it from delivery to the installation point will be a significant part of the work. Consider weight - a steel box that size could easily weigh several hundred pounds. Aluminum would be lighter, but still substantial.
Trapeze Assembly & Hanging
The complexity of the trapeze is key. Is it pre-fabricated, or does it need to be assembled on-site? Hanging it involves attaching it to the ceiling, which requires assessing the ceiling structure, choosing appropriate hardware (anchors, unistrut, etc.), and potentially drilling through concrete.
Ceiling Access
A 10-foot ceiling means working at height. Are they using ladders, scaffolding, or a scissor lift? Each has setup and maneuvering time implications.
Jobsite Conditions
Is the area clear and easily accessible? Or are there obstructions, other trades working, or tight spaces?
Tools and Equipment
Having the right tools (drills, impact wrenches, unistrut cutters, levels, come-alongs, slings, etc.) is crucial.
Experience
Experienced electricians who have done similar installations will be much faster than those who haven't.
Teamwork
Good communication and coordination between the three workers is essential for efficiency.
Safety
Safe work practices (wearing proper PPE, following lifting procedures) are paramount, but can add time.
No Knockouts
While not having to punch knockouts saves time, the fact that they're not there at all might mean more custom work later for conduit entry. This might mean needing to cut precise holes on site.
A Realistic Timeline (Optimistic Scenario)
Let's assume a relatively straightforward scenario:
Material Handling (1-2 hours)
Unloading, moving the box to the installation area. This is a two-person job at least, and potentially requires specialized equipment like a forklift or pallet jack.
Trapeze Assembly (if needed) (1 hour)
If it's pre-fab, this will take less time.
Ceiling Assessment and Hardware Installation (1-2 hours)
Finding suitable attachment points, drilling holes, installing anchors/unistrut.
Hanging the Trapeze (1-2 hours)
Lifting and securing the trapeze to the ceiling. This likely requires two people and a safe lifting method (come-alongs, etc.)
Positioning and Securing the Box to the Trapeze (1-2 hours)
This is the most delicate part. Lifting the box onto the trapeze and securing it properly. This is definitely a three-person job. This is more difficult without knockouts, as you have to be extremely precise.
Cleanup (0.5 hours)
Total: 6.5 - 9.5 hoursConclusion
It's possible but tight. Three experienced electricians working efficiently under good conditions might be able to complete the installation in one 8-hour day. However, any significant delays (material delays, unexpected ceiling issues, equipment breakdowns) will push them over the time limit.
Factors that could make it impossible
Extremely Heavy Box
If the box is exceptionally heavy, it might require more specialized lifting equipment and more time.
Complex Trapeze Design
If the trapeze requires significant on-site fabrication, it will take longer.
Difficult Ceiling Conditions
If the ceiling is difficult to drill into (very hard concrete, asbestos, etc.) or if there are obstructions, it will slow them down.
Inexperience
If the crew is not familiar with this type of installation, it will take longer.
Cutting holes instead of using knockouts
The lack of knockouts will likely add time to this process, as you'll need to measure more precisely and potentially need specialty cutting tools.
Recommendations
Pre-Planning
Thorough planning is essential. Assess the ceiling structure, ensure all materials are on hand, and have a clear plan for lifting and securing the box.
Consider a Lift
If possible, using a scissor lift or boom lift will significantly improve efficiency and safety.
Pre-fabrication
If the trapeze isn't pre-fabricated, consider doing as much assembly as possible on the ground before lifting it.
Accurate Hole Cutting
Be sure to have the correct tools and measurements for hole cutting, or find a way to create knockouts yourself.*
Clear Communication: Ensure the team has clear communication and knows their roles.In summary, it's a tight timeline. If any potential issues are present, plan for more time. Flag for review