Garage & workshop wiring

Three-phase for machinery

Lathes, welders, 3+ kW compressors — a 380V three-phase line with its own panel. Requires a three-phase connection request and a project. Balance loads across phases to avoid skew.

Moisture & dust

A garage is damp and dusty: IP44+ outlets, IP54 fixtures, cable in conduit or trunking. 30 mA RCD on everything, 10 mA on extension feeds.

Work-zone lighting

General 150–200 lx + local 500 lx over the bench. Impact-protected fixtures. 4000–5000K daylight — better detail visibility.

Inrush currents

Motors draw 5–7× at start: use C or D curve breakers or they'll trip. A 200A welder needs a dedicated 4–6 mm² line.

Safety

Petrol, solvents, gas — vapors are heavier than air and pool low. Ventilation is mandatory. Fireproof panel, a master switch near the exit.