Electrical power to be off this week in Henrion Hall
This power service interruption will allow Physical Plant electricians to replace a small, outdated, patchwork main power service with a larger central main distribution panel, enabling restart of electric kilns previously disabled by the kiln replacement project this past winter.
The main Westar building transformer must be shut down to allow for a Physical Plant crew to safely replace the primary electric feeders into the building from that transformer, and the late scheduling is partly due to Westar Energy's final confirmation Friday morning of their availability to support this shutdown next week along with other Westar work.
As a safety precaution, Henrion Hall will be closed to all use by faculty, staff, students and the public throughout this power shutdown. If work goes well, there is a chance that power can be restored sooner than expected and the building can be reopened for use. Air-conditioning systems, lighting, convenience power outlets, computers and office appliances and equipment will be out of service. Building occupants are advised to safely save computer files and shut down computers, attached computer devices and other sensitive equipment prior to 9 a.m. today (Monday). Any refrigerator contents should be removed ahead of this shutdown, as well.
We apologize for the inconveniences presented by this power shutdown and the short notice, but the opportunity for Westar support for this work and the installation of new power service equipment should improve the reliability of existing electrical systems and help with existing building services and improvements that may come in the future.