Emergency shut-off locations are the clearly identified points where power to an EV charging installation can be quickly disconnected in a hazardous situation. They typically include the main electrical isolation for the charger circuit(s) and, where applicable, an emergency stop (E-stop) device that stops charging immediately. Correct placement and signage are essential so responders and site staff can act fast without searching.
What Are Emergency Shut-Off Locations?
Emergency shut-off locations are the physical locations on site where an authorized person can isolate charging equipment from its energy source.
– Electrical isolator/disconnect switch for the EVSE circuit (often near the distribution board or local to the charger)
– Emergency stop (E-stop) button for rapid shutdown of charging output (common for some public, depot, or high-risk sites)
– Main building switchgear or service disconnect that can cut power to the entire charging area (used when required by site procedures)
Depending on the site and local rules, emergency shut-off may mean stopping charging (at the control level) and/or fully isolating power (electrical disconnection).
Why Emergency Shut-Off Locations Matter
Emergency shut-off locations support fast and safer response during abnormal events.
– Enables immediate action during fire, smoke, flooding, collision damage, or electrical faults
– Reduces risk to users, maintenance staff, and first responders
– Helps limit equipment damage and prevent escalation
– Often required for commissioning approval, insurer expectations, and site safety policies
– Improves operational readiness for sites with many drivers or public access
Typical Emergency Shut-Off Location Options
The correct “where” depends on accessibility, visibility, and the need to prevent misuse.
– Near the charger: allows quick shutdown when the incident occurs at the unit
– At the entrance/exit of the charging area: accessible without entering a hazard zone
– In/near the electrical room or distribution board: preferred for secure isolation hardware
– At a staffed point (reception, security, depot office): when site procedures rely on trained personnel
– Multiple points for large depots or multi-bay car parks where reaching a single point could take too long
Placement Principles for EV Charging Sites
Good emergency shut-off planning balances rapid access with controlled use.
– Place shut-offs where they are clearly visible, unobstructed, and reachable at all times
– Avoid placing the only shut-off inside a locked room unless a secondary accessible point exists
– Ensure the operator can act without approaching the hazard (smoke, fire, damaged cable, standing water)
– Use clear signage and labeling identifying which chargers/circuits are isolated
– Consider public misuse: E-stops in public areas may need protective covers or supervised positioning
– Match locations to the site’s risk assessment and local electrical/fire guidance
Signage and Identification Requirements
Emergency shut-off locations must be easy to find under stress.
– Consistent safety signage with high contrast and directional arrows where needed
– Labels such as “EV Charger Emergency Shut-Off” and identification of affected charger IDs/bays
– A site map or instruction panel for larger locations
– Clear instructions for what the device does: “Stops charging” vs “Isolates power”
Operational Use Cases
Emergency shut-off locations are typically used in situations like:
– Vehicle collision with charger or cable
– Overheating, burning smell, smoke, or visible arcing
– Flooding or water ingress around the charger base
– Damaged connector/cable presenting a shock risk
– Emergency services response requiring isolation before intervention
– Maintenance work requiring safe electrical isolation and lockout/tagout
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Shut-off placed behind parked cars, gates, or stored materials
– Only one shut-off for a large site with long walking distance
– Unlabeled isolator that looks identical to other building switches
– E-stop installed but not connected/configured correctly
– Confusing “stop charging” with full electrical isolation during emergency response
– No documented procedure or staff training for what to do and who is responsible
Related Glossary Terms
Electrical Isolation
Emergency Stop (E-stop)
Lockout / Tagout (LOTO)
Electrical Safety Compliance
Distribution Board (DB)
Site Risk Assessment
Electrical Commissioning